Off-Topic/Minor MMA News and Notes

[dallaskd]

I think Soku could tear up alot of the UFC LHWs right now, but i do agree he needs IMO 2-4 fights until he comes over. Soku>Arona. :toast

[Evan]

He needs a ground game. He can develop one and that needs time.

[Evan]

Checkout this nasty guillotine in IFL...it was on the last episode of IFL Battleground...

http://www.cdn.sherdog.com/_images/pictures/48/47720.jpg

http://www.dailymotion.com/video/x306kj_the-most-brutal-guillotine-choke-in_sport

:dizzy

OH......MY..............GAWD

Everyone must watch that video...

I need to get a copy of that to keep on my new hard drive....

[LEONARD]

Ricco Rodriguez controversy from IFL Finals last Thurs (these fights air on IFL Battleground tonight)
http://fiveouncesofpain.com/2007/09/23/highlights-of-ricco-rodriguez-back-in-action/

Dan Lauzon got a win over the weekend...in 14 seconds...
http://www.sprawl-n-brawl.com/2007/09/dan-lauzon-wins-at-wcf-event.html

Cage Rage 23 Recap
http://www.mmaontap.com/mma/entry/turner-belfort-victorious-at-cage-rage-23/

[LEONARD]

Nick Diaz hospitalized with staph infection...might explain his lazy looking fight with Aina...
http://www.mmanews.com/other/Nick-Diaz-Hospitalized-With-Staph-Infection.html

[oligarchy]

Silva calls out Forrest, disappointed by the Chuck fight. This was on his website, but his site is down right now.
http://www.mmanews.com/ufc/Wanderlei-Silva-Calls-Out-Forrest-Griffin-For-UFC-Fight.html

[LEONARD]

and Chuck wants Shogun...not retiring...
http://www.mmanews.com/ufc/Liddell-Not-Retiring-Looking-At-Possible-Shogun-Fight.html

[oligarchy]

I don't get why he wants Shogun. If he wants to fight in Dec, he should be fighting Wandy.

[Rip-Hamilton32]

I don't get why he wants Shogun. If he wants to fight in Dec, he should be fighting Wandy. i agree they talked about fighting each other and now they are gonna fight other guys :drunk

[HOOKED ON PHONICS]

UFC is for flamers.

[oligarchy]

LEONARD: Don't want to post the white trash article here? I saw it on SD and thought it was funny, especially people thinking you wrote it.

[LEONARD]

lol...I just hadn't got around to it yet...here it is...pure genius :lol

"MMA is all washed up"

http://www.moynihaninstitute.com/

This is an officially recognized week of mourning for white trash sports fans. All Confederate flags will be flow at half staff at trailer parks around the country. Chuck Liddell is officially washed up. Yeah that’s right the Ice Man got dropped again by…by…let’s see…some other hillbilly…what’s his name…does it really matter? No it doesn’t matter unless of course you’re white trash.

For years white trash sports fans had little to be proud of. Sure there were “athletes” a plenty in “sports” that involved the combustion engine and of course there were always the fishing champions. Those “sports” are pretty much all locked up by white trash. But it’s been years since a member of the white trash demographic was a champion of any sport that required you stamp out your cigarette before the actual competition. Trailer park people are not exactly known for staying in shape. So Chuck Liddell was their man. Now that he’s done it’s back to NASCAR and Bass fishing.

I’m glad he got his ass kicked. Maybe now we can finally relegate MMA to where it belongs. In the gutter. Let’s face it, Liddell was the star attraction in MMA. I couldn’t name but one or two other guys in the sport. And why was the Iceman so popular? Because he knocked guys out with punches. You know, like they’ve been doing in boxing for like 2,000 years. Punches not gay leg locks. No one but a kweer wants to see some guy tap out with his face up against some dudes nads. No one cares about obscure martial arts like Brazilian Jew-Shitsu or whatever they call it. It’s boring and extremely gay. No cares about wrestling or Muay Thai. What got people jazzed up about Liddell was that he was aggressive and beat the crap out of guys with punches.

Boxing is the only manly combat sport out there. That’s just the way it is. And please spare me this business about who would win a street fight. You know who wins the street fights these days? The guy with the bigger gun. That’s who. So shut the fuck up about street fights already. I’m tired of hearing about MMA taking over boxing. That’s bullshit. The biggest gate ever in MMA was Liddell vs. Ortiz at around $5.5 million. Not too shabby but not even in the top 20 gates of boxing. DeLahoya vs. Mayweather gated over $19 million. MMA is bush league filled with no class bums. Liddell is a bum, a drug addict and a drunk who couldn’t cut it in boxing or wrestling at a second rate college. Keep in mind he’s the cream of the crop.

MMA is for trash. In the porn world it would be a step below bestiality. I don’t care how many people watch it. It will never rise above the ranks of WWF or NASCAR. I don’t like it and am not impressed with the athletes. The only time its interesting is when you have a puncher and I already get that in boxing. Every wash out I know with a crooked nose is talking about MMA. When you can’t cut it in a real sport start pumping up obscure sports. I remember all the pussies that wilted during doubles in football. Two months later you’d see them in a bar wearing a rugby club jersey talking shit about rugby being the superior sport. Yeah right. MMA is no different. It’s for guys that couldn’t cut it in boxing and really, really enjoy the aroma of some dudes nut sack. MMA? No fucking thank you.

[email protected]

[LEONARD]

Set the TIVO for Springer tomorrow. Arlovski to appear on Jerry Springer as a bouncer (I didn't know Springer was still on?)
http://ufcmania.com/2007/09/25/andrei-arlovski-to-appear-as-celebrity-guest-bouncer-on-jerry-springer-show

[oligarchy]

Was that article by 2cents?

[cornbread]

UFC is for flamers.
Hooked on Phonics jokes, the ultimate crutch of an unfunny people during the mid-90s. Way to bring it back! You should also consider adding "Alrighty then" and "I've fallen and I can't get up" to your sig.

[cornbread]

Was that article by 2cents?
I would have guessed Pussyface due to the fixation on homosexuality.

[dallaskd]

Even the YotU isn't enough to get Franklin by Hendo...

but it can get forrest by shogun, jardine by liddell, kongo by cro cop?

[LEONARD]

Nevada Boxer Dies After Fight In Southern California
http://www.mmanews.com/boxing/Nevada-Boxer-Dies-After-Fight-In-Southern-California.html

September 24, 2007

LOS ANGELES (AP) -- Boxer Jackson Bussell of Reno, Nev., died a day after collapsing at the end of a six-round bout. He was 28.

Bussell died Friday, the Los Angeles Police Department said Monday. Police are investigating and an autopsy is planned.

Bussell was admitted to a hospital Thursday in grave condition after a fight in Calabasas sanctioned by the California State Athletic Commission. He collapsed in the ring immediately after the bout, which ended in a draw with Javier Garcia.


but it can get forrest by shogun, jardine by liddell, kongo by cro cop?

Nope...can't see it happening...Rich can't knock him out or submit him. He'd have to hope for a decision...

[LEONARD]

Hamill's knee injury not as bad as expected...wants a rematch with Bisping on Dec 29th...
http://mmajunkie.com/2007/09/25/matt-hamill-campaigns-for-dec-29-rematch-with-michael-bisping/

[LEONARD]

Hendo has one fight left on his UFC contract, wants to stay at LHW despite the UFC wanting him to move to MW. I'm surprised he was only signed for 2 fights...
http://www.thefightnetwork.com/news_detail.php?nid=4945

HENDERSON: ONE FIGHT LEFT ON UFC CONTRACT

Former PRIDE Middleweight (under 205 lbs) Champion Dan Henderson confirmed today that has one fight remaining on his current contract with the UFC.

Henderson, who lost a title unification bout with UFC Light Heavyweight Champion Quinton Jackson earlier this month, indicated he could be ready for a return to the Octagon by November. Though UFC officials are said to be encouraging the former Olympian to move down to the promotion’s 185-pound division, Henderson indicated he would like to remain at light heavyweight.

Henderson (22-6) defeated Wanderlei Silva for the PRIDE middleweight crown in February, becoming the first mixed martial artist in history to hold titles in two weight classes simultaneously. He still holds the PRIDE welterweight (under 185 lbs) title and could conceivably square off with UFC Middleweight Champion Anderson Silva in a pay-per-view main event in the near future, provided Silva defeats Rich Franklin at UFC 77 in October.

[LEONARD]

but it can get forrest by shogun, jardine by liddell, kongo by cro cop?

http://sinisterbrand.com/images/stories/wallpaper/silvasmall.jpg

:lol

http://www.sinisterbrand.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=13&Itemid=19

[LEONARD]

Forrest vs Wanderlei not likely for UFC 79 because of the cut on Forrest's forehead...
http://fiveouncesofpain.com/2007/09/26/forrest-griffin-vs-wanderlei-silva-not-likely-in-this-year/

[dallaskd]

Nope...can't see it happening...Rich can't knock him out or submit him. He'd have to hope for a decision...

Are you talking about Hendo or Silva?

[2centsworth]

that article was hilarious. "It’s for guys that couldn’t cut it in boxing and really, really enjoy the aroma of some dudes nut sack." Classic smack right there.

Nevertheless, I'm disappointed that Shogun lost. It makes me think MMA is about whoever lands the lucky punch or lucky choke.

Still, I can't help but watch in anticipation of someone losing their teeth or having their arm twisted off. As soon as they allow broken bottles and chains we'll really see the sport take off.







j/k

[LEONARD]

When you consider the FACT that most of the guys in the UFC have never attempted a boxing career, it's an ignorant point on his part actually. It's the same point that Floyd Mayweather tried to make...it's failed. As are the homo-type jokes...

Shogun lost because he wasn't in shape...he never had a chance with his cardio at that level. There's definitely no such thing as a "lucky choke"...certainly not Forrest choking Shogun. He got that choke due to total exhaustion...


Are you talking about Hendo or Silva?

Hendo

[LEONARD]

Chuck's manager says he'll fight Shogun or Wanderlei at UFC 79...
http://mrsunshinevegas.wordpress.com/2007/09/27/john-hackleman/

Rampage and Hackleman (Chuck's manager) on SDS...
http://www.sherdog.com/news/radio.asp?id=330

Nakamura is the only failed drug test...weed, which makes sense if you saw him at the weigh-in...
http://www.sherdog.com/news/news.asp?n_id=9234

[LEONARD]

Shogun is apparently having knee surgery and will be out a while...
http://mmamovement.com/mauricio-%e2%80%9cshogun%e2%80%9d-rua-going-under-the-knife-talks-ufc-76-loss/

That leaves:

Wand
Chuck
Alexander
Jardine

as potential LHW's for Dec 29th...

Wand vs Chuck...why not?
Jardine vs Alexander 2...Jardine says it was a fluke loss...let him prove it. Lose again to Alexander, and he's close to a title shot instead of Keith...

[LEONARD]

NCAA champ Johny Hendricks making his MMA debut tomorrow in Oklahoma City...Jake Rosholt, Shane Roller, and Eric Bradley also on the card...
http://fiveouncesofpain.com/2007/09/27/ncaa-champ-hendricks-making-mma-debut-for-team-takedown/

[Evan]

that article was hilarious. "It’s for guys that couldn’t cut it in boxing and really, really enjoy the aroma of some dudes nut sack." Classic smack right there.

Nevertheless, I'm disappointed that Shogun lost. It makes me think MMA is about whoever lands the lucky punch or lucky choke.

Still, I can't help but watch in anticipation of someone losing their teeth or having their arm twisted off. As soon as they allow broken bottles and chains we'll really see the sport take off.







j/k


Your talking about a very short time frame where these crazy upsets have been going on. Less than a year. Granted I think we have another year of this ahead but thats just part of the evolution of this thing. People are cross training in every discipline and calp they can. Thats never been done before.

The dust will settle.

[Evan]

Wand vs Chuck...why not?
Jardine vs Alexander 2...Jardine says it was a fluke loss...let him prove it. Lose again to Alexander, and he's close to a title shot instead of Keith...

It will happen.... Dana White knows what he is doing here.

He is simply letting suspense build. Best way to do it since they are both 0-2.Very smart on his part.

I guarentee this will happen.

[LEONARD]

Masters of the Cage XVI tonight at 9 p.m. ET via Internet PPV at www.WatchThisFight.com. The card is $14.95 and apparently offers a money back guarantee. Scheduled to fight are all four members of Team Takedown, Jake Rosholt, Eric Bradley, Johny Hendricks, and Shane Roller. Another former college wrestling standout, Paul Bradley is on the card as well as IFL veteran Wayne Cole.

Ben Askren vs Johny Hendricks in 2002 (wrestling)...Askren is also training MMA now.
http://bloodyelbow.com/story/2007/9/27/93045/2156

----------

Also tonight...

New episode of “Inside MMA” on HDNet (if you get it) tonight at 8:30 p.m. CT with hosts Kenny Rice and Bas Rutten. John McCarthy, Kimbo Slice, and Chris Bruno are scheduled to appear as guests.

New episode of “Human Weapon” on the History Channel tonight at 9:00 pm CT. MMA will be featured this week with appearances by Randy Couture, Bas Rutten, and Cung Le, among others. I've been waiting for this episode all season.

[cornbread]

Rumors are starting about Hendo replacing Rashad in the match with Tito at UFC 78. This would be a huge improvement in my book.

[Evan]

How can they do that? Is Rashad hurt?

[cornbread]

I wondered the same thing.

http://www.sherdog.net/forums/showthread.php?threadid=651558

[LEONARD]

Interesting...would MUCH rather see that. I have ZERO interest in Tito vs Rashad 2...ESPECIALLY as a main event on a PPV...

[Rip-Hamilton32]

Interesting...would MUCH rather see that. I have ZERO interest in Tito vs Rashad 2...ESPECIALLY as a main event on a PPV...
agreed, tito vs rashad 1 was just 2 overrated guys fighting against the cage

[cornbread]

Jacare signs with UFC!!! Hell yeah!


Looking to bolster its middleweight division, the UFC perhaps signed the most dynamic Brazilian jiu-jitsu phenom on the planet, Ronaldo ‘Jacare’ Souza.

That’s the latest news from the Porto do Vale Tudo forums, which explains that an announcement was made at an Amazon Challenge event. In fact, Brazilian television even picked up the story, demonstrating just how highly regarded the talented grappler is in his country.

Jacare has a solid mixed martial arts record (5-1), but has never made it past the first round in any of those six fights. He has five submission wins to his credit during those contests.

The “Alligator” (Jacare translated) is a two-time Brazilian jiu-jitsu world champion who placed second in the absolute division of the 2005 Abu Dhabi Combat Club (ADCC) world championships, losing to Roger Gracie by submission (rear naked choke).

He also competed against UFC Heavyweight Champion Randy Couture in a Professional Submission League grappling match last year, taking “The Natural” to a scoreless draw.

http://ufcmania.com/2007/09/30/ronaldo-jacare-souza/

[LEONARD]

I'm fired up about Jacare...he lost his first MMA fight, but is 5-0 since then...
http://bloodyelbow.com/story/2007/9/30/105449/476

Jacare Highlight
http://bloodyelbow.com/story/2007/9/30/123729/594
http://youtube.com/watch?v=gXM9J10IfSw

[LEONARD]

Dave Melzer has the next 6 months of LHW's lined up...

Chuck Liddell vs Wanderlei Silva
Alexander vs XXX?? (he doesn't say who they're considering, but it's not Jardine right now)
Hendo vs Machida
Rampage vs Forrest in March
Alexander vs Jardine 2
Ortiz/Evans winner vs Shogun

http://bloodyelbow.com/story/2007/10/1/91641/9919

Kimbo on "Inside MMA" last week...he presents himself VERY well...I'm a fan. Sweet Bas shirt he's wearing :lol
http://bloodyelbow.com/story/2007/10/1/9505/86789
http://www.dailymotion.com/video/x33lhg_insidemma092807-part-2hdtvxvidkyr_events

Episode 2 if you missed it...I like that they show highlights from fights at smaller org's all over the country...
http://www.dailymotion.com/video/x318y3_inside-mma-21_sport
http://www.dailymotion.com/video/x3190t_inside-mma-22_sport

Chute Boxe camp report
http://www.mmaweekly.com/absolutenm/templates/dailynews.asp?articleid=4807

Marines and sailors incorporating MMA into training...pretty cool. MMA will forever change what a "fight" is IMO...from schoolyard scuffles to bar fights to hand-to-hand combat in battle...
http://www.mmaweekly.com/absolutenm/templates/dailynews.asp?articleid=4806

[Evan]

Marines and sailors incorporating MMA into training...pretty cool.
http://www.mmaweekly.com/absolutenm/templates/dailynews.asp?articleid=4806

Ah but do they allow knees to the head and soccer kicks? What about elbows?

[LEONARD]

Tap the brakes on Jacare...for now... :madrun
http://www.sherdog.com/news/articles.asp?n_id=9303

[LEONARD]

Johny Hendricks won his MMA debut last Friday. Jake Rosholt won also, but Shane Roller lost his debut (to a current OSU student). Big John McCarthy was the ref (surprising) and Guy Mezger was in Hendricks corner.
http://www.ocolly.com/2007/10/01/three-former-wrestlers-have-mma-debut/

[LEONARD]

Dave Melzer has the next 6 months of LHW's lined up...

Chuck Liddell vs Wanderlei Silva
Alexander vs XXX?? (he doesn't say who they're considering, but it's not Jardine right now)
Hendo vs Machida
Rampage vs Forrest in March
Alexander vs Jardine 2
Ortiz/Evans winner vs Shogun

http://bloodyelbow.com/story/2007/10/1/91641/9919

Looks like the rumor'd opponent for Alexander is Chute Boxe fighter Thiago Silva...from the pay portion of Melzer's site. Melzer is as solid of a source as there is right now...
http://ufcmania.com/2007/10/02/ufcmania-early-october-quick-hits/

I like the matchup, given the options right now. Alexander likes to fight often, so line them up.

[LEONARD]

Fedor update, according to Josh Gross...

Oct 20th - Fedor's people coming to US to meet with UFC again
Several issues with last contract
Waiting on UFC to review revisions right now
Also an org in Europe trying to sign him

[LEONARD]

Shaq incorporated MMA training into his off-season...
http://sport.guardian.co.uk/breakingnews/feedstory/0,,-6963596,00.html

[LEONARD]

For just $90, you can get a "limited edition" UFC t-shirt...looks like an Affliction knockoff to me! :lol
http://ufcstore.seenon.com/detail.php?p=38240&pa=emUFC0024

Jordan Breen reviews Sept
http://www.sherdog.com/news/articles.asp?n_id=9324

[LEONARD]

People are pissed about UFC 77...Okami vs MacDonald is not on the main card, but Belcher vs Starnes and Bonnar vs Shafer are. Also, only 4 fights on the main card instead of 5. 77 and 78 are not looking good overall. I'm interested in the top 2 fights and Okami/MacDonald on 77.

Main card (televised)
Anderson Silva vs Rich Franklin (MW Title)
Tim Sylvia (23-3) vs. Brandon Vera (8-0)
Stephan Bonnar (10-4) vs. Eric Schafer (7-2-2)
Kalib Starnes (8-1-1) vs. Alan Belcher (10-3)

Undercard (may not be broadcast):
Jason MacDonald (19-8) vs. Yushin Okami (20-4)
Jorge Gurgel (11-2) vs. Alvin Robinson (8-2)
Josh Burkman (8-4) vs. Forrest Petz (13-4)
Ryan Jensen (11-2) vs. Demian Maia (5-0)
Jason Black (21-3-1) vs. Matt Grice (8-1)

UFC 78 so far (some not confirmed, but strong rumors)
-Tito Ortiz vs Rashad Evans
-Hector Lombard vs Karo Parisyan
-Ryo Chonan vs Thiago Alves
-Joe Lauzon vs Jason Reinhardt
-Frankie Edgar vs Spencer Fisher
-Ed Herman vs David Terrell
-Tamdan McCrory vs Akihiro Gono

I'm actually interested in more fights on the 78 card, but Tito-Rashad 2 is CRAP as a headliner. The return of Terrell...Edgar-Fisher will be great...Lauzon-Reinhardt (undefeated) will be great...Lombard-Parisyan will be a good judo fest...

Chonan and Gono are setup for failure...Alves is a beast and McCrory will tower over Gono and dominate him. McCrory is a guy to watch out for...

[oligarchy]

77 is a BUST. I'll find a place to watch it, same with 78. I typically like to watch it at home, but i'm only interested in a few fights and it's not worth the money.

[Evan]

77 isn't so bad


78....meh.


This time of year is probably bad for PPV since you have NBA and NHL starting.

NFL is in full stream.

And MLB playoffs.

so it makes sense to me to not blow big cards.

[cornbread]

The main card fights on 77 are very solid. It doesn't seem to have much depth though.

[Evan]

It doesn't seem to have much depth though.

Excellent way to put it.

[LEONARD]

Dana White started posting on the UG again...he's in a nice argument about boxing, fighter pay, etc...
http://mma.tv/tuf/index.cfm?ac=ListMessages&PID=6&TID=1139923&FID=1

[LEONARD]

Sokoudjou on Beatdown Radio today...it's on now, not sure when he'll be on...

http://www.sherdog.com/news/beatdown.asp

[Evan]

Dana White started posting on the UG again...he's in a nice argument about boxing, fighter pay, etc...
http://mma.tv/tuf/index.cfm?ac=ListMessages&PID=6&TID=1139923&FID=1

:reading

[Evan]

geez.......

guy can't go 10 words without cursing.....

[dallaskd]

Sokoudjou on Beatdown Radio today...it's on now, not sure when he'll be on...

http://www.sherdog.com/news/beatdown.asp

:fro

[LEONARD]

Can download it now...
http://www.sherdog.com/news/radio.asp?id=339

Lindland on SDS too...
http://www.sherdog.com/news/radio.asp?id=338

[dallaskd]

Sounds like Soku's agent doesn't have anything working right now. But he DOES want to fight for the UFC but i don't think the money is there.

[LEONARD]

Here's a couple of Rampage's K-1 fights...
http://www.sherdog.net/forums/showthread.php?t=653991

[dallaskd]

Sokoudjou on Beatdown Radio today...it's on now, not sure when he'll be on...

http://www.sherdog.com/news/beatdown.asp

lmao. his parents don't even know he's fighting.

[oligarchy]

I went back a couple of pages and didn't see this. It's suprising that they released the news, but good for them.

Anthony Torres test positive for anabolic steroids at UFC 75. He was released from his contract, but apparently not for testing positive. UFC did their own testing because it was an overseas event.

http://sports.yahoo.com/box/blog/box_experts/post/Update-on-MMA-steroid-tests;_ylt=AlKgtRApTTJseqW.ADjfHp6UxLYF?urn=box,47 806

[LEONARD]

Good to know that they really are testing at the non-sanctioned events...

[Evan]

dallaskd

I think your gonna be a happy dude soon

[dallaskd]

whys that?

[Evan]

I would bet my last dollar your favorite predator impressionist will be in the UFC within the next 2 months.

[dallaskd]

I hope so. Im just glad that 4 fight deal with EliteXC didn't go through...

http://www.sherdog.com/news/news.asp?n_id=8027

I know that is an old article, but how did that just fall through the roof? If Soku comes over to the UFC, because the LHWs are so corrupt, I would say within 3-4 fights he should have a title fight.

[dallaskd]

nvm....

One high-profile fighter who won't appear on an EliteXC card in the coming year is Rameau Thierry Sokoudjou (Pictures), this despite the light heavyweight verbally agreeing to a deal with Pro Elite that would have kept him busy, fighting four times in 12 months.

Reports surfaced Friday that Sokoudjou (4-1-0), who knocked out Ricardo Arona and Antonio Rogerio Nogueira in his last two fights, fielded a late offer from K-1. Ryan Parsons, a representative for the 23-year-old fighter, told Sherdog.com that the K-1 contract promised "significantly more money" than the potential $200,000 per-fight Sokoudjou was slated to receive from Pro Elite.

Last week K-1 approached Sokoudjou with a one-year offer that would have placed the young Team Quest fighter against either Melvin Manhoef or Alistair Overeem on Monday's HERO'S card in Yokohama, the first of at least three fights he would have owed the Japanese promotion. However, failing to obtain a visa on short notice delayed the PRIDE veteran's return to Japan, and will keep Sokoudjou in Southern California this weekend.

Having backed away from EliteXC, Sokoudjou now awaits signing with K-1, which Parsons said should happen "shortly."

[dallaskd]

PRIDE FC Worldwide closes its office (mmafighting.com)

In what could be the final nail in the coffin for PRIDE, Sports Navi is reporting that PRIDE FC Worldwide shut down its offices today and laid off all of its employees. The owners of the UFC, the Fertitta brothers, formed PRIDE FC Worldwide in an effort to continue promoting PRIDE as a separate brand from the UFC. The outlook seemed bright when all employees from the previous owner of PRIDE, Dream Stage Entertainment, were retained for PRIDE FC Worldwide. But with PRIDE unable to secure a new television deal under its American owners, the likelihood of PRIDE resurrecting became slim to none.

[Evan]

One day I want a full story on what happened from the day the problems started until the doors sclosed.

[2centsworth]

why is the most popular sport in the world having trouble getting a tv deal?

[Evan]

why is the most popular sport in the world having trouble getting a tv deal?

....

[LEONARD]

why is the most popular sport in the world having trouble getting a tv deal?

It's not the most popular sport in the world... :drunk

[LEONARD]

Hector Lombard denied entry to US, will be replaced for UFC 78 (against Karo)
http://www.sherdog.com/news/news.asp?n_id=9396

Aurelio vs Caudillo added for UFC 78
http://ufcmania.com/2007/10/05/ufc-78-marcus-aurelio-vs-luke-caudillo/

Rampage featured in Rolling Stone magazine
http://ufcmania.com/2007/10/06/rolling-stone-features-ufc-champion-quinton-rampage-jackson/

No HBO deal for UFC for now...but Spike TV will be in HD within 6 months
supposedly...
http://fiveouncesofpain.com/2007/10/06/ufc-negotiations-with-hbo-end-without-an-agreement/

Shields vs Pyle at EliteXC Nov 10th
http://thefightnetwork.com/news_detail.php?nid=5046

Babalu signs 3 fight deal with HFC in Canada (along with a non-exclusive 3 fight deal with Strikeforce)
http://thefightnetwork.com/news_detail.php?nid=5040

If you missed the MMA episode of "Human Weapon" here it is...
http://www.megavideo.com/?v=4XOOYQLW

Pride hardcore KO's volume 1
http://charlesmma.blogspot.com/2007/10/pride-fc-hardcore-knockouts-vol-1_05.html

[LEONARD]

Rampage was also on Sports Science...
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jzYMX_3K_xE

[desflood]

For us mma old-timers ( :lol ), the latest Oleg Taktarov interview on strictlymma.com.

http://www.strictlymma.com/site/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=219&Itemid=1

[oligarchy]

For us mma old-timers ( :lol ), the latest Oleg Taktarov interview on strictlymma.com.

http://www.strictlymma.com/site/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=219&Itemid=1

I didn't listen to the interview, but I remember got into acting (or was during/before fighting?)
I remember the Pride event where he got KTFO by Big Daddy.

[oligarchy]

Fedor apparently signs with M-1? We'll see, if so, Frank Trigg has his first true "scoop."

Let's see who else they sign. They say it's an American that bought M-1, but it's undisclosed who actually bought it.

Guess Dana's terms were unrealistic for Fedor (Sambo competitions? ..or some other sticking point?) I'd like to hear actual reasoning from both sides as to why this "imminent" deal went south.

[Evan]

we shall see.

[cornbread]

For us mma old-timers ( :lol ), the latest Oleg Taktarov interview on strictlymma.com.

http://www.strictlymma.com/site/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=219&Itemid=1
A couple of weeks ago I referred to Igor as "the original stoic Russian". How could I forget about Oleg? He introduced Sambo to the game! That guy was so freakin' tough.

[desflood]

A couple of weeks ago I referred to Igor as "the original stoic Russian". How could I forget about Oleg? He introduced Sambo to the game! That guy was so freakin' tough.
Shame on you. Penance is in order.

[LEONARD]

Fedor apparently signs with M-1? We'll see, if so, Frank Trigg has his first true "scoop."

Let's see who else they sign. They say it's an American that bought M-1, but it's undisclosed who actually bought it.

Guess Dana's terms were unrealistic for Fedor (Sambo competitions? ..or some other sticking point?) I'd like to hear actual reasoning from both sides as to why this "imminent" deal went south.

The Fight Network is reporting the same, which makes it pretty solid...
http://www.mmahaven.com/2007/10/10/fedor-emelianenko-officially-signs-deal-to-fight-for-m-1/

[Evan]

If FN says it....believe it....ugh

[dallaskd]

PRIDE Coming back?!?
(kind of)
-------
Among various MMA-related items coming out of Japan today is that a new promotion called World Victory Road Inc. could become the new PRIDE in Japan. A handful of wealthy and prominent names with MMA and wrestling connections are expected to attend a news conference scheduled for Monday in Tokyo.

It's worth noting that World #1 LW Takanori Gomi is said to be headed to this new company already, and Yasuda's connections and clout could easily help stack the roster with notable names that could help its appeal among Japanese fans.


http://www.sherdog.com/news/articles.asp?n_id=9461

[oligarchy]

Forrest on Law & Order: SVU :lol

http://mmajunkie.com/2007/10/16/forrest-griffin-makes-network-tv-debut-nov-13/

[LEONARD]

FightFan.com will be doing live play by play for the HCF fights tonight...

Aleksander Emelianenko press conf video...
http://fightfan.com/mma/1007-HardCore-Calgary-Presser.html

http://fightfan.com/mma/1007-HardCore-Calgary-presspic-2.jpg

Oct 19th - Hardcore Championship Fighting in Calgary AB Canada.
-Aleksander Emelianenko vs Dan Bobish
-Gegard Mousasi vs Damir Mirenic
-Thomas Schulte vs Ariel Sexton (LW title)
-Sarah Kaufman vs Ginele Marquez (women's 135 lbs title)
-Marcus Vinicios vs Sean Salmon
-Garrett Davis vs Toby Johnson
-Len Tam vs Gerald Lovato
-Myles Merola vs Juan Barrantes
-Tim Smith vs Mike Rowbotham
-Brad Cardinal vs Ryan Machan
-Larry Lyttle vs Steven Hachey
-Andrew Buckland vs Lucas Rota

[Evan]

From fiveouncesofpain.com

Eric Shapiro: A lot of guys in the UFC including yourself are sponsored by Xyience. Are they still treating you well?

Sean Sherk: Oh no, I’m not sponsored by them anymore. I used to be but they stiffed me a bunch of money. They stiff everybody. A lot of people are leaving them.

[LEONARD]

Aleks vs Bobish :lol

http://youtube.com/watch?v=PZ6saW3JGcE

[LEONARD]

Fedor / M1 / Monte Cox press conf...
http://ufcmania.com/2007/10/22/fedor-emelianenko-signs-two-year-six-fight-contract-with-m-1/

Fedor Emelianenko signs two-year, six-fight contract with M-1

PRIDE FC Heavyweight Champion Fedor Emelianenko announced that he has signed a six-fight, two-year fight contract with M-1 Global — a new mixed martial arts organization — today at a press conference at Marc Ecko Enterprises in downtown Manhattan.

This information was revealed in the media kit for the event, which was attended by Jesse Holland from UFCmania.com. It was supposed to begin at 5:30 p.m. ET; however, delays pushed the start back to a little after 6 p.m. ET.

In addition, the “mystery” owner of the new promotion was revealed in a press release earlier today and confirmed at the packed New York City event.

Here are those details:

“Sibling Entertainment Group Holdings, Inc. announced Sibling Theatricals, Inc., a wholly-owned subsidiary of Sibling Entertainment Group, Inc., together with Garlin Holdings Limited as Managing Members, have formed Sibling Sports, LLC for the purpose of creating M-1 Global …”

Monte Cox — the long-time manager of mixed martial artists such as former welterweight champion Matt Hughes — was was named President and CEO of M-1 Global.

At this time, no opponent or date has been set for the debut of the Russian superstar under the M-1 banner. However, M-1 is searching for a television partner and is eager to stage an event as early as February 2008.

In the next 10 days, M-1 will reveal its stable of fighters who will join Emelianenko on the new roster. In addition, Jesse is passing along news that Emelianenko’s contract will allow him to fight in the UFC if a deal can be struck between the two organizations.

Furthermore, M-1 representatives indicate that the winner of the bout would earn a $1 million payday.

Other highlights:

* UFC turned down an offer to match Emelianenko up against Tim Sylvia when both were champions in there respective organizations.

* Fedor mentioned that his brother, Aleks, was offered a “low ball” contract to fight inside the Octagon. The goal is to sign him to an M-1 contract as soon as possible.

* M-1 will follow PRIDE FC rules for the most part and not include elbows.

[LEONARD]

M-1's new site
http://www.m-1global.com/

Fedor's new site
http://www.fedormma.com/

Red Devil gear
http://www.reddevilshop.com/

[desflood]

Fedor's take on Randy leaving the UFC, from Sherdog.com:

Emelianenko called news of Couture's UFC departure "positive" and said he was "very proud that Couture made such a great decision."

"To tell you the truth, he's such a great person," said Emelianenko, who owned the PRIDE heavyweight belt from 2003 until the company went out of business in March of this year. "I really admire him and bow in front of him. I'd rather get to know him more as a friend than a competitor. But I understand that we're in the position that fans want to see the fight happen. I'm always ready."

[Evan]

I would really like to know where they are going to get their money from. Fedor is great but he is obviously not a gigantic PPV draw.

IE…. PRIDE's death from lack of PPV buys.

Fedor is marketible but you need a huge organization behind it to really pull it off. He is still a MMA cult hero. Die hards and people that really follow the sport love him but how many of them are there and how many will buy the PPV's? Most will wait until the next day for daily motion or youtube. I don't buy PPV's for one fight.

Fact is people are still doing more searches for Chuck and Tito hundreds time's over than they are for Fedor.

The UFC will bury the event with one of their own. They have done it time and time again for years. They did it to PRIDE, WFA, WEC and Bodog. I really don't see how this will work out, at least with everything presented to us so far.

[Evan]

And I know they are working on a TV deal but that doesn't mean much. The real money is in PPV.

[LEONARD]

If it's Fedor and a bunch of dudes, it won't work...

The key to this whole thing is Monte Cox I think. He's as tapped into the sport and it's fighters as anybody. If he can start convincing guys to leave the UFC we could see things start to shift. Dana White certainly won't make things easy as far as contracts go. When guys get down to their last fight, he'll leave them sitting like he's doing to Arlovski right now...force them to sign. I expect that he'll do it to Hendo too since he only has one fight left...

It'll still be REALLY hard to compete because the UFC pushes hard to make everybody think that the sport is "Ultimate Fighting"...the casual fan thinks the UFC is the sport, not the org.

It'll be interesting to see how they do though...

[Evan]

Yeah. I think this is where the UFC pushing their brand as MMA will pay off.

And one thing about Monte, Monte is no longer the sole super agent he was 3 years ago. Many more agents are in the game now. But regardless he is their best chance.

The few people I know who watch MMA follow it and keep up with the big fights. Probably order every 3rd or 4th one and not one of them can tell you who Fedor is. And causual fans as in every sport are the economic back bone. They are the masses.

They have a very long uphill road to climb. They may have a strong economic force behind him but nobody is in business to lose money.

[LEONARD]

Cox's fighters...
http://www.teamextrememma.com/

JC Pennington
Jeff Curran
Matt Fiordirosa
Mike French
Jason Black
Kyle Bradley
Rich Clementi
Jeff Cox
Mac Danzig
Spencer Fisher
Lee Gibson
Jorge Gurgel
Roger Huerta
Justin James
Nate Mohr
Josh Neer
Jens Pulver
Sean Sherk
Shonie Carter
Tony Fryklund
Brian Gassaway
Dustin Hazelett
Jay Hieron
Matt Hughes
Brock Larson
Rory Markham
Dave Menne
Pat Miletich
Dom O'Grady
Forrest Petz
Tom Speer
Logan Clark
Joe Doerksen
Rich Franklin
Jeremy Horn
Robbie Lawler
Mike Marrello
Terry Martin
Drew McFedries
Ryan McGivern
Joe Vedepo
Luke Zachrich
Houston Alexander
Tim Boetsch
Mike Ciesnolevicz
Noah Inhofer
Justin McElfresh
Sherman Pendergarst
Aaron Rosa
Mike Whitehead
Travis Wiufff
Justin Eilers
Brad Imes
Ben Rothwell
Mike Russow
Kerry Schall
Tim Sylvia


-FEMALE-
Jennifer Howe

[Evan]

Obviously the biggest names on that list will never leave the UFC.

And I could see Ben Rothwell jumping ship but the IFL cannot afford to let him go. He is the face of the IFL.

Certainly they will work things out?

I have always joked that the biggest name Fedor will fight if he doesn't sign with the UFC will be Ben Rothwell and it may come true. lol

[Evan]

And I thought he had more females signed up

[LEONARD]

I wonder about Hughes...he's said that he may only fight 2 or 3 more times...I wonder what his contract situation is right now...

[Evan]

I believe he re-signed right before his last fight and I think it pretty much closes his career with the UFC unless he fights after 37. I think.

And one tidbit I would like to point out that I just rememered. In a issue of Real Fighter from over a year ago Monte says nobody has a contract with him. All fighters are hand shake deals with him as an agent.

[LEONARD]

Logan Clark confirmed that on the UG...definitely true.

[Evan]

As crazy as this sounds I really think Monte has more to do with the success of Fedor in M-1 than Fedor himself.

[oligarchy]

Don Frye and "Sonny" who is Leland Champan's body guard apparently got into a fight (two actually?). I'd like to hear Don's side of the story, but Meltzer said the Sonny sucker-punched him.
http://www.mmaontap.com/mma/entry/brawl-for-it-all-cancelled-madness-ensues/

[dallaskd]

Aleks vs Bobish :lol

http://youtube.com/watch?v=PZ6saW3JGcE

god bobish is sorry. aleks didnt really get to show anything off and still doesnt have me convinced but i got him at around #10 or #9 in the HWs but im not sold.

[cornbread]

It's on like Donkey Kong!


Chuck Liddell vs. Wanderlei Silva at UFC 79 — It’s Finally Official
Posted by MMA Junkie on October 23, 2007 at 10:27 pm ET
The worst-kept secret in UFC history was finally revealed this evening; UFC President Dana White confirmed that former UFC champion Chuck Liddell (20-5 MMA, 15-4 UFC) will face former PRIDE title-holder Wanderlei Silva (31-7-1 MMA, 1-2 UFC) at UFC 79 on Dec. 29.

The pay-per-view event takes place at the Mandalay Bay Events Center in Las Vegas.

White made the announcement during a spot on Tuesday night’s “Scream 2007” special on Spike TV.

The one-time cross-promotion mega-fight, which had been promised a few times over the past couple years (most recently at UFC 61), never came to fruition because UFC and PRIDE officials couldn’t work out the details. However, owners of Zuffa LLC (the UFC’s parent company) purchased PRIDE earlier this year, signed Silva to a contract, and then scheduled him to fight at UFC 79.

Liddell was the likely opponent — until a split-decision loss to Keith Jardine at UFC 76 in September appeared to temporarily derail the idea. However, despite both fighters coming off back-to-back losses (Liddell to Quinton Jackson and Jardine; Silva to Mirko “Cro Cop” Filipovic and Dan Henderson), the bout remains one of the most-anticipated in MMA history, and UFC officials booked the fight anyway.

As MMAjunkie.com exclusively announced in July, Silva was expected to fight Liddell at UFC 76. However, when Silva requested a November fight date instead (to accommodate his move to the U.S.), the bout was scrapped and Jardine got the fight instead. White went on the offensive soon after, saying Silva was ducking Liddell and that the fight would probably never happen.

Three weeks later, though, White boasted that he had signed Silva — and even posted a video of the actual contract signing on UFC.com. However, he never clarified his claims that Silva was trying to avoid a fight with Liddell.

MMAjunkie.com spoke to Silva over the weekend during Cincinnati’s UFC 77 event, and the Brazilian confirmed he would be fighting Liddell. White, though, remained tight-lipped about the fight, saying only that the two fighters would face off sometime “soon.“

Now officially booked, the fight will take second billing to a main event between UFC welterweight champion Matt Serra and former champ Matt Hughes.

For the latest rumored UFC 79 fight card, check out the UFC Rumors section of MMAjunkie.com

[LEONARD]

Glad they finally made it official...too bad the mass email they sent out arrived AFTER the announcement on Spike... :lol

Not a big surprise...DirecTV's website spoiled it last week and UFC.com already had it early in the day yesterday...

Can't wait to see it, even though both have lost their last 2...

[LEONARD]

Couture's press conf will be Thurs at 3:30 central time on HDNet (live)...
http://fiveouncesofpain.com/2007/10/23/randy-couture-press-conference-to-be-covered-live/

[LEONARD]

Bodog's Nick Thompson lays out the fighters available to M-1...I'm sure it's not 100% right :lol
http://mma.tv/tuf/index.cfm?ac=ListMessages&PID=1&TID=1154412

HW
Couture (contract dispute)
Barnett
Arlovski (1 fight left on his deal)
Hunt
Aleks
Monson
Kharitonov (k-1)
Lebanner
Rothwell
Buentello (?)
Antonio �Frankenberry� Silva
Roger Gracie
Rizzo
Coleman
Igor
Ricco
James Thompson
Randleman
Bob Sapp
Butterbean
Yoshida
Eric Pele
Kimbo (eliteXC)
Tank
Mark Kerr
Cabbage
Nastula
Mike Whitehead
Wes Simms
Ogawa
Justin McCully
Dewey Cooper

LHW
Arona
Soko (K-1 ?)
Sobral
Vitor
Lil Nog
Manhoef
Sak
Ken Shamrock
Goes
Akiyama
Andrade
Marero
Diabate

MW
Lindland (Bodog)
Kang
Busta
Shamrock (EliteXC)
Royce
Misaki
Gono
Horn (Art of War ?)
Lawler
Trigg
Baroni (EliteXC)
Prangley (Bodog)
Sonnen (Bodog)
Mayhem
Sulev
Seminov
Crow
Jorge Santiago (Art of War)
Kawajiri
Doerksen (WEC ?)
Minowa
Weir
Kondo
Takase
Acacio
Suda
Ryuta
Dewees
Sean Salmon
Steve Byrnes

WW
Diaz (Elite XC ?)
Shields (eliteXC – 1 fight left)
Marcelo (k-1)
Aoki
Thompson (Bodog – 1 fight left)
Landis
Alvarez (Bodog – 1 fight left)
Kikuchi
Fickett
Superman
Neer
Noble
Carlo Prater
Mike Pyle (EliteXC – 1 fight left)
azeredo
Riley
Berger
Anthony Torres
Sam Morgan
Tiki
Jacob Volkman (3-time All-American who is going to be a star)

LW
Cintron (said he would fight mma, would be a big seller)
Gomi (k-1)
Melendez
JZ
Mach
Hellboy
Kawajiri
Genki
Kid
Uno
Ribiero
Krazy Horse
Masvidal (Bodog)
Yves
Hominic
Ishida
Bang
Azevedo
Boku
kotani
Mishima
Diego Saravia
Tristan Yunker
Assuncao
Gabe “when’s lunch” Ruediger
Zach Light
Kyle "add me to the list" Bradley
the Malachy Friedman

[desflood]

That's quite the list. Oh, the places we could go...

[cornbread]

http://www.spurstalk.com/forums/showthread.php?t=80082

Voice your opinion here about a possible "MMA forum".

[Evan]

Done. Thanks for the heads up

[dallaskd]

Mayhem Miller vs Sean Salmon? :fro

http://mmajunkie.com/2007/10/25/full-time-fighter-sean-salmon-discusses-fight-with-jason-mayhem-miller-possible-bout-with-cung-le/

[dallaskd]

Dana on Everything UFC....

http://www.sherdog.com/news/articles.asp?n_id=9664

"Good luck to him, because I don't want Fedor fighting in the UFC."

[Evan]

Mayhem Miller vs Sean Salmon? :fro

http://mmajunkie.com/2007/10/25/full-time-fighter-sean-salmon-discusses-fight-with-jason-mayhem-miller-possible-bout-with-cung-le/

Should have checked in Monday buddy :spin !

[Evan]

Dana on Everything UFC....

http://www.sherdog.com/news/articles.asp?n_id=9664

"Good luck to him, because I don't want Fedor fighting in the UFC."

Dana is such an odd guy.............

[mardigan]

Dana on Everything UFC....

http://www.sherdog.com/news/articles.asp?n_id=9664

"Good luck to him, because I don't want Fedor fighting in the UFC."
God, Dana is such a whiney little bitch. Im quickly tiring of his act

[LEONARD]

Part 1 of Chuck vs Wand (3 parts by Boondock)
http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=1242478660544629085

Training with BJ Penn…
http://ufcmania.com/2007/10/27/mma-drills-with-bj-penn-video/

[ATRAIN]

Hey guys I challenged Midge to a boxing match and there is a poll in the club. Boxer vs xmoker, what do you guys think about the outcome?

[desflood]

Taken from mmajunkie.com:

For the second time in two fights, “The Ultimate Fighter 2” heavyweight runner-up Brad Imes (9-3 MMA, 0-3 UFC) has posted a victory with a rare gogoplata submission.

The former University of Missouri football player posted the latest submission win in an Oct. 27 King of the Cage event this past weekend in Reno, Nev. Imes, who defeated Zak Jensen with the submission at a World Fighting Championship “Downtown Throwndown” event in September, submitted Bo Cantrell with the chokehold on Saturday.

A gogoplata is usually executed from a fighter’s guard when one leg is held against an opponent’s upper back and the other shin is pressed against the opponent’s neck. The fighter then pulls down on the back of his opponent’s head, forcing his shin into his opponent’s trachea. The air supply is cut off, and an opponent is forced to tap out or pass out.

Imes recently joined Shinya Aoki and Nick Diaz in the small fraternity of fighters who have successfully pulled off a submission victory via gogoplata. And he’s likely the only fighter — on any type of professional level — to do it in back-to-back MMA fights.

Imes lost to Rashad Evans in The Ultimate Fighter 2 Finale in November 2005. His only other losses have come in the UFC (to Dan Christison and Heath Herring). He’s undefeated outside the organization.

Although his ground game was noticeably lacking during his time on the Spike TV reality series, Imes is currently riding a four-fight win streak — with all four victories coming via submission.

Imes’ name recently surfaced as a possible first opponent for recent UFC signee Brock Lesnar, but Imes quickly squelched the rumors and said he hadn’t been contacted about the fight.

[dallaskd]

again???? hahha

[Evan]

Locoplata

[Evan]

Din arrested for idiocy

http://www.sherdog.com/news/news.asp?n_id=9725

"
Din Thomas (Pictures) was arrested Tuesday in Port St. Lucie, Florida, for running in his local gym what a police spokesman called "illegal cage fighting" matches.

The TCPalm reported that Thomas faces a felony prohibited-competitions charge after police entered his training studio and watched two men fighting in an "octagon-shaped ring" before roughly 150 spectators"

[desflood]

What a dumbass.

(this Red Foreman moment was sponsored by desflood)

[Evan]

Kimbo write up. Looks like he is taking MMA seriously.

http://www.sherdog.com/news/articles.asp?n_id=9743

[Evan]

Frank on Cung Le

http://fiveouncesofpain.com/2007/11/01/frank-shamrock-on-cung-le-i-would-just-smash-him-and-ruin-his-progress/

"Frank: I think Cung Le needs some more time and experience. I don’t think it is a good fight right now because I would just smash him and ruin his progress. Everyone is pushing for Cung because he has been very exciting so far. I think it would be a waste of money and it would crush him when I crush him. I would like to wait till 2009 for that fight. I don’t really know who is on the horizon right now. Robbie Lawler’s name has been thrown around, but I am good with whoever they decide."


Personally I think he is right. Just like Thierry Sokoudjou we need to see what these guys can do on the ground before we over praise them.

[dallaskd]

Sherk hearing postponed again until Nov. 13!! :madrun

[Evan]

Yeah poor Sean. I am actually starting to believe him now. He claims to have spent 20k figthing this.

[cornbread]

I saw this on Sherdog today and found it interesting.

http://mixfight.ru/multimedia/video/

Fedor doing some Sambo training.

[Evan]

Sherk keeps the title until UFC 80. Stevenson and Penn will fight for it then Sherk gets his shot at it again later.

[dallaskd]

Damn!!!! Dave Terrell allegedly injurs ankle. out of ufc 78!!!!!!!!! :bang

[dallaskd]

must read...mma look-a-likes....

http://www.sherdog.net/forums/showthread.php?threadid=673997

:lmao

[dallaskd]

Doerksen to replace Terrell at 78

http://www.ufc.com/index.cfm?fa=news.detail&gid=8515

[desflood]

must read...mma look-a-likes....

http://www.sherdog.net/forums/showthread.php?threadid=673997

:lmao
Sherdog's had dozens of look-a-like threads, but that is the best one by far. All the way to the end (17 damn pages, no less).

:lmao @ Evan Tanner and Ron Burgandy.

[Evan]

Sherdog is such a great mixture of genius and insanity! Funny stuff!

Anyway

"Report Connects Zuffa to Xyience"

http://www.sherdog.com/news/articles.asp?n_id=9803

If this is true I would not be surprised but if your going to write something like this be more specific. They seem to dance around the topic and it leads to speculation by the reader. Give us specifics on what exactly are you trying to say.... :pctoss

[Evan]

And I must admit, those "cran/razz" energy drinsk are mighty tastey... :toast

[cornbread]

Brock vs. Mir!

11/05/2007
Super Bowl Showdown set between Lesnar and MirBy Thomas Gerbasi

In Related News
Fantasy Preview – UFC 78 Main Card
Terrell out with injury; Doerksen steps up to fight Herman at UFC 78
Fantasy Preview – UFC 78 Undercard
Matt Hughes' Blog - Week Seven
Ultimate Fighter: Team Hughes Profile – Jared Rollins

a classic case of putting your money where your mouth is, new UFC signee Brock Lesnar – who has made no bones about wanting to fight the best the heavyweight division has to offer – will make his Octagon debut at UFC 81 on February 2nd against none other than former UFC Heavyweight Champion Frank Mir.

The bout will be held at the Mandalay Bay Events Center in Las Vegas, Nevada on the eve of Super Bowl XLII.

“It’s an interesting matchup,” said UFC President Dana White. “Lesnar is a great wrestler, a good athlete, and this is definitely gonna be a big test for him. Frank Mir is a former world champion who is coming off a big win over Antoni Hardonk, and he’s looking to get his career back on track while Lesnar’s looking to walk into the UFC and prove what type of fighter he’s gonna be by trying to knock him off.”

The 6-3 ½, 265 Lesnar (1-0) comes to the UFC with stellar college wrestling credentials that saw him earn All American status four times, win Big Ten Championships twice, and also win the 2000 NCAA National Championship. After leaving the University of Minnesota, the South Dakota-born Lesnar gained fame as a professional wrestler and also had a stint with the NFL’s Minnesota Vikings. In 2007, he made his mixed martial arts debut and annihilated Min Soo Kim in just 69 seconds on June 2nd.

“This guy’s not trying to duck anybody,” said White of Lesnar. “He knew once he got in the UFC that he was gonna fight tough guys.”

28 year old Las Vegan Frank Mir (10-3) was destined for stardom from the moment he stepped in the UFC Octagon, and he lived up to all expectations when he submitted Tim Sylvia in 50 seconds in 2004 to win the UFC Heavyweight Championship. Unfortunately, Mir’s career ground to a halt when a serious motorcycle accident later that year forced him to the sidelines for almost two years. His eagnerness to return forced him into some spotty performances when he did return in 2006, but at UFC 74 in August, Mir was back in top notch form as he submitted Antoni Hardonk in just 77 seconds.

[IX_Equilibrium]

Mir by sub.

[desflood]

Eh... I don't know. My initial reaction when I heard was, "Mir hasn't looked good in quite a while and Lesnar's huge. Frank is going to wind up hurt."

[Evan]

Can Brock take a punch

[LEONARD]

Would be hilarious if Mir sub'd him...

and I hope Doerksen whacks Herman...he's a good dude that doesn't get enough recognition for what he's done...

[oligarchy]

I wish Mir would come in shape. Still an interesting fight, though. I think Mir will take it.

LEONARD: Agreed about Doerksen

[dallaskd]

Mir will run through brock. what has he done in mma!?!?!? he's just huge! that's it!

[Evan]

The more I think about this the more I think Brock has a chance and this is a very solid matchup.

Mir hasn't had an impressive win since he broke his leg.

[LEONARD]

Trigg vs Dewees at Dec 15th HDNet Fights event...
http://www.mmahaven.com/2007/11/08/exclusive-frank-trigg-to-sign-with-hdnet-fights/

[oligarchy]

Former Ultimate Fighting Championship middleweight titleholder Evan Tanner on Thursday announced via his myspace page that he has signed a four-fight contract with the UFC. Independent sources have confirmed the signing.

At this time, no return date or opponent has been named.

Tanner last fought for the UFC, or anywhere else for that matter, more than one-and-a-half years ago when he defeated Justin Levens by triangle choke at UFC 59.

He won the middleweight championship at UFC 51, defeating David Terrell by TKO. His reign didn’t last long though, as he lost the belt to Rich Franklin four months later.

The 36-year-old fighter out of Amarillo, Texas has long been considered a nomad, never staying with one fight camp for very long. Tanner has spent time training with teams such as Team Quest and Chute Boxe USA, but is currently training at Hard Knocks Muay Thai in Las Vegas.

[Evan]

/had it first, or a very close second :)

[oligarchy]

Sorry. I didn't see it.

[Evan]

No I meant I posted it on a blog before just about anyone else had it and I am pretty sure I had it first.

I am just being a smart @ss....ignore me. :)

[LEONARD]

Fedor / Sambo episode of “Human Weapon” on TLC aired last night…look for a re-run if you missed it.

Here is what host Jason Chambers said on the UG about the final fight with Bill Duff…

“UG gets the inside scoop. That guy has zip to do with Fedor. I was upset that we made it look like Fedor was training sub-par guys...however the producer for the episode really dropped the ball and at the very last minute we had no one for our final match..we had to scout the gym for ANYONE that would take on Bill.. (this kid was the closest in size) Fedor had planned to give us someone but it fell thru and we got homeboy. He was a sambo player and a decent one, but bills size and muscle was a bit overwhelming. long live FEDOR!”

[Evan]

dallaskd..

keep your fingers crossed buddy

http://www.mmahaven.com/2007/11/12/thierry-sokoudjous-next-fight-dec-29th-at-ufc-79/

[LEONARD]

Sokoudjou leg kicks a listener…lol. Damn that would hurt…
http://youtube.com/watch?v=kT9domJZgbI

Forrest leg kicks a reporter… (hairline fracture of his femur)
http://youtube.com/watch?v=7KMRMcVDZLE

[dallaskd]

Trigg vs Dewees at Dec 15th HDNet Fights event...
http://www.mmahaven.com/2007/11/08/exclusive-frank-trigg-to-sign-with-hdnet-fights/

nice brotha

[dallaskd]

dallaskd..

keep your fingers crossed buddy

http://www.mmahaven.com/2007/11/12/thierry-sokoudjous-next-fight-dec-29th-at-ufc-79/

Soku-Machida???? LETS DO IT! Sokoudjou would pound Lyoto's face in. How great would that be? Soku getting revenge for what Machida did to Rich.

[dallaskd]

nah i take that back. Machida is a great fighter and it would be a great challenge for Soku. i got a little carried away with the pounding the face.

[oligarchy]

Confirmed: Sokoudjou in the UFC, versus Machida.

dallaskd: You got what you wanted... Sokoudjou in the UFC

The only bad part, he is fighting Machida. This is going to be a very interesting fight.

http://fiveouncesofpain.com/2007/11/15/confirmed-sokoudjou-to-fight-machida-at-ufc-79/

[Evan]

Machida is a very interesting match up. Oh man o man.....can't wait!

The LHW division does not have a single can....

[Evan]

http://www.sherdog.com/news/articles.asp?n_id=9981

My God I hope this does not happen. My biggest fear as an ex boxing fan (became a fan in the 80's until late 90's) is MMA having anything to do with boxing in the way its run.

Makes me F-ING sick. I have so many problems with this. Thankfully the UFC will never join them and it will die eventually.

[dallaskd]

Happy Thanksgiving MMA fans!

[oligarchy]

http://www.sherdog.com/news/articles.asp?n_id=9981

My God I hope this does not happen. My biggest fear as an ex boxing fan (became a fan in the 80's until late 90's) is MMA having anything to do with boxing in the way its run.

Makes me F-ING sick. I have so many problems with this. Thankfully the UFC will never join them and it will die eventually.

There's good and bad with both -- really it's a catch 22.

[Evan]

There is no good with this one....its a for profit ruling body. Unless you want a McDonalds 176 lb belt then its a bad thing IMO.

[oligarchy]

Didn't realize it was for-profit; I agree with you. In regards to the "unifying body," I just don't see this type of thing happening with the current constructs of MMA. Unless all of the fighters in UFC protest, then it's destined to fail. The smaller orgs may like it, but ProElite and UFC won't fall into this.

[LEONARD]

Mayhem vs GSP from UFC 52…tough draw for your UFC debut...
http://mmafightvideos.blogspot.com/2007/11/georges-st-pierre-vs-jason-mayhem.html

Fedor's 2007 Sambo Match (he only had 1…the others didn’t show)...pretty weak...
http://mmafightvideos.blogspot.com/2007/11/fedor-emelianenko-sambo-championships.html

Fedor vs Barnett in Feb or Mar?? Hope so...
http://fiveouncesofpain.com/2007/11/29/exclusive-first-m-1-global-event-could-take-place-in-newark-possibly-feature-fedor-vs-barnett/

Leonard Garcia leaving UFC for WEC’s 145 lbs division…
http://samcaplan.proelite.com/75883

Anderson Silva’s Bruce Lee impression…funny
http://mmamania.com/2007/11/29/anderson-silva-does-a-killer-bruce-lee-impression-video/

Rich Franklin is the next one to appear in an action movie…with Kelly from Saved By the Bell.
http://mmamania.com/2007/11/27/rich-franklin-is-a-genetically-engineered-super-soldier-in-action-film-weapon/

If you missed Forrest Griffin on “Law and Order” here it is…he was dead by the 14 min mark of the show…here’s a snip (Renzo Gracie was also on the show for the fight scenes)
http://youtube.com/watch?v=s4n9-SMmOE4

Mac Danzig’s photography…
http://www.macdanzigphotography.com/g/featured

[Evan]

awesome photos by mac

[LEONARD]

Koscheck is in the new Chevelle video…
http://mmamania.com/2007/11/29/ufcs-josh-koscheck-appears-in-i-get-it-music-video-from-chevelle/

[LEONARD]

UFC 80 to air on CBS in primetime??
http://mmamania.com/2007/11/30/ufc-80-rapid-fire-to-air-on-cbs-network-not-ppv/

[Evan]

hmmmmmmmmmm

didn't junkie say last week this was PPV?

[LEONARD]

Yes...this isn't a guarantee...just something to keep an eye on.

UFC 72 was terrible as a PPV at 2:00...80's card is much better than 72's was, but I think the time of the PPV was the biggest issue...

Meltzer > Junkie IMO :fro

[Evan]

Meltzer > Junkie IMO :fro

Agree.

But Junkie is becoming such a good website. Hard to believe just back in Feb they were a gossip site.

[LEONARD]

Sokoudjou video interview...discusses fight with Machida
http://www.ufcscene.com/2007/11/28/rameau-thierry-sokoudjou-interview-video/

[dallaskd]

Sokoudjou video interview...discusses fight with Machida
http://www.ufcscene.com/2007/11/28/rameau-thierry-sokoudjou-interview-video/

who writes that website? they misspelled liddell a bunch of times in more than one way and misspelled some other names too.

[LEONARD]

Poor Ross Pointon...he was dominating his fight at Cage Rage over the weekend before this happened...
http://i212.photobucket.com/albums/cc294/JalacoJones/5185-ZaromskisPointon_002_CR24.jpg

http://i212.photobucket.com/albums/cc294/JalacoJones/vlcsnap-1572827.png

[desflood]

That is some nasty-looking sh*t. I always cheer for that little guy. Not much skill to speak of, but more balls than he knows what to do with :lol

[Evan]

Bring the pain!

[desflood]

From mmajunkie...

Gina Carano, one of the world’s most recognizable female fighters, will appear as a “gladiator” on an upcoming reincarnation of “American Gladiators,” a sports/action game show that aired from 1989-1996.

The news comes from the American Gladiators Blog.

The new version of the once-popular show debuts Jan. 6 on NBC and is being produced by MGM TV and Reveille.

Carano, 25, posted a 12-1-1 record in Muay Thai competitions before making her MMA debut (in the first-ever state-sanctioned female fight). She’s 5-0 in MMA fights, winning two via decision and two via knockout. At a September EliteXC event, she earned her first career submission victory via rear-naked choke over Tonya Evinger.

She’ll join Robin Coleman who will go by the name Helga, Valerie Waugaman as Siren, Tanji Johnson as Stealth, Jamie Reed as Fury and Beth Horn as Venom. Carano will go by the gladiator name Crush. The gladiators, mainstays on the show, compete with a revolving list of amateur athletes in a variety of competitions.

Reruns of the original “American Gladiators” series are currently airing on ESPN Classic. The show has reportedly drawn solid ratings, which helped convince NBC executives to give the remake a shot in prime-time TV slot. The show’s producers promise a beefed-up version of the show for the remake.

“American Gladiators,” which is hosted by Hulk Hogan and Laila Ali, debuts with a two-hour premiere on Sunday, Jan. 6. One-hour episodes will then air weekly on Mondays at 8 p.m. ET/PT.

(Touch of gloves: FiveOuncesofPain.com)

:lmao

[Evan]

I need 2 hours with her and my life is complete...

[tlongII]

I spent about a half-hour talking with Ed Herman Saturday night at my neighborhood bar Saturday night. That was kind of cool.

[TheTruth]

are you sure it was saturday night?

[Evan]

I spent about a half-hour talking with Ed Herman Saturday night at my neighborhood bar Saturday night. That was kind of cool.

Hate to admit he is growing with me...

He seems to be a better person since he has been humbled.

[oligarchy]

http://www.mmahaven.com/2007/11/26/shutting-the-site-down/
:cry

[Evan]

ruh roh

[Evan]

Here is the deal on that...

I only say a point in posting stories I found on my own from fighter or organization websites. I don't understand the point in linking other blogs and commenting on their stories. To me that just doesn't make sense.

So I was literally spending hours a day most of the time searching for stuff worth posting. It was just becoming to big of a beating. You literally become attached to your internet connection. Not healthy. Last week I spend a few hours correcting a problem with my blog template after wordpress did an update. It knocked the CCS out of alignment and when I fixed it I had had it.

Besides, chances are another scum bag website would copy and paste what you said anyway....

[LEONARD]

it's a sad day in the mma blog world...but you'll be better off without it Evan...glad I could help with it a little. It was fun...

[Evan]

it's a sad day in the mma blog world...but you'll be better off without it Evan...glad I could help with it a little. It was fun...

Dude no kidding...like I told you earlier today...last night was the first night I was able to watch an entire football game without hitting pause on the DVR and checking mma websites every 30 minutes to make sure I wasn't missing something.

It was fun for sure for awhile but I went full speed to burnout in one night.

Many thanks again for the help :toast

[desflood]

Big John retiring?

“Big” John McCarthy, a legendary mixed-martial-arts referee who made his octagon debut at UFC 2, has scheduled a media conference call for Friday to make a big announcement.

MMAjunkie.com (www.mmajunkie.com) has been told by multiple sources that the legendary referee may be announcing his retirement as an MMA referee, though the news could not be confirmed.

McCarthy, who’s also been a Los Angeles police officer since 1985, is withholding comment until Friday’s announcement.

McCarthy, one of the sport’s most respected officials, reffed every UFC main-card bout from March 1994 to May 2001. Once the sport became regulated by state commissions, he reffed fewer fights, but he’s always been a go-to guy for some of the biggest bouts in MMA history.

Of the UFC’s 100 total events, McCarthy has been a referee in 98 of them.

A longtime student of Rorian Gracie, McCarthy was awarded a Brazilian jiu jitsu black belt back in January. He opened his own school — Big John McCarthy’s Ultimate Training Academy (BJMUTA) — in Valencia, Calif., back in September 2006. Additionally, the LAPD awarded McCarthy Tactic/Self-Defense Instructor Certification, and he’s been an instructor for the police department since 1993.

McCarthy, who is known for his trademarked “Let’s get it on!” phrase to start each fight, has reffed more than 500 career MMA fights.

[dallaskd]

Big John retiring?

“Big” John McCarthy, a legendary mixed-martial-arts referee who made his octagon debut at UFC 2, has scheduled a media conference call for Friday to make a big announcement.

MMAjunkie.com (www.mmajunkie.com) has been told by multiple sources that the legendary referee may be announcing his retirement as an MMA referee, though the news could not be confirmed.

McCarthy, who’s also been a Los Angeles police officer since 1985, is withholding comment until Friday’s announcement.

McCarthy, one of the sport’s most respected officials, reffed every UFC main-card bout from March 1994 to May 2001. Once the sport became regulated by state commissions, he reffed fewer fights, but he’s always been a go-to guy for some of the biggest bouts in MMA history.

Of the UFC’s 100 total events, McCarthy has been a referee in 98 of them.

A longtime student of Rorian Gracie, McCarthy was awarded a Brazilian jiu jitsu black belt back in January. He opened his own school — Big John McCarthy’s Ultimate Training Academy (BJMUTA) — in Valencia, Calif., back in September 2006. Additionally, the LAPD awarded McCarthy Tactic/Self-Defense Instructor Certification, and he’s been an instructor for the police department since 1993.

McCarthy, who is known for his trademarked “Let’s get it on!” phrase to start each fight, has reffed more than 500 career MMA fights.


Wow. I loved Big John. He should be in the UFC hall of fame, no doubt.

[LEONARD]

Eh...I doubt if he's retiring from ref'ing all together...I think we'll see him back somewhere else... :D

[LEONARD]

Jens Pulver vs Joe Stevenson (at 16 yrs old!) from 1999
http://bloodyelbow.com/story/2007/12/6/83635/2944

[desflood]

Eh...I doubt if he's retiring from ref'ing all together...I think we'll see him back somewhere else... :D
Har de har har...

by Kevin Iole/Yahoo! Sports
(Reprinted from Yahoo! Sports with permission)

The best known referee in mixed martial arts will step down after Saturday’s UFC card at the Palms Hotel.

“Big” John McCarthy, who has been a referee since UFC 2 in 1994, will work the main event of The Ultimate Fighter finale on Saturday between Roger Huerta and Clay Guida and then announce his retirement.

(MMAjunkie.com first mentioned the rumor yesterday afternoon. For that story and more background information on McCarthy, check out the MMAjunkie.com archives.)

McCarthy, 45, will take a job as an MMA analyst with The Fight Network.

McCarthy, who began training in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu with Rorion Gracie in 1993, has become more popular with UFC fans than many of the fighters whom he officiates.

McCarthy, who operates an MMA gym in Valencia, Calif., has worked every UFC card since UFC 2 except for UFC 78 last month in Newark, N.J. According to his website, BigJohnMcCarthy.com, he’s officiated more than 500 MMA bouts.

[LEONARD]

Har de har har...

McCarthy, 45, will take a job as an MMA analyst with The Fight Network.


Oh I know that...I'm sure he is taking a job with them. I still expect to see him ref'ing in other org's before too long though...

[oligarchy]

Jens Pulver vs Joe Stevenson (at 16 yrs old!) from 1999
http://bloodyelbow.com/story/2007/12/6/83635/2944

Watched that this morning. Stevenson look good in that fight ! :lol

[oligarchy]

Oh I know that...I'm sure he is taking a job with them. I still expect to see him ref'ing in other org's before too long though...

Did he have an exclusive contract with the UFC for reffing? All the other refs in the UFC ref in other orgs. If he did have an exclusive I could possibly see it, but I don't expect to see him reffing again.

[LEONARD]

Did he have an exclusive contract with the UFC for reffing? All the other refs in the UFC ref in other orgs. If he did have an exclusive I could possibly see it, but I don't expect to see him reffing again.

I think he had some kind of arrangement...all the other refs show up in IFL, WEC, etc...

and I do expect to see him again ;)

[oligarchy]

I just don't see how reffing in another org is going to benefit him so that it would garner more attention or money. Maybe I am looking at this the wrong way, but what benefit is it for him to ref in another org(s)? I know that Herb Dean and those guys ref in other orgs to make up money. I'm sure Big John makes plenty per fight and wouldn't make the same numbers in any other org. I mean would reffing 50 fights at smaller organizations yield the same as 10 fights in the UFC? He could probably still work on the FightNetwork and ref in the UFC if he wanted. Doesn't make sense.

[LEONARD]

Sorry, I just can't say anything else... :fro

[desflood]

I just don't see how reffing in another org is going to benefit him so that it would garner more attention or money. Maybe I am looking at this the wrong way, but what benefit is it for him to ref in another org(s)? I know that Herb Dean and those guys ref in other orgs to make up money. I'm sure Big John makes plenty per fight and wouldn't make the same numbers in any other org. I mean would reffing 50 fights at smaller organizations yield the same as 10 fights in the UFC? He could probably still work on the FightNetwork and ref in the UFC if he wanted. Doesn't make sense.
Sometimes the biggest benefit is not having to work for an ass. Dana's a good businessman, but a bit of a tyrant.

[oligarchy]

MMAJunkie had an interview with Filho and he stated this about "a possible" fight with A. Silva:

“I’d rather not fight him if I don’t have to,” he said. “But if it’s the fight that the people want to see, the time is right and the money is right, I would do it. We are professionals. The only stipulation is the winner takes the loser out to dinner after the fight. But the circumstances have to be right.“

Interesting that he changed his view about this. Originally, he said he wouldn't fight Silva. That's the whole reason he is in the WEC and not the UFC. I'd like to see that match.

[dallaskd]

Amazing MMA wallpaper...

http://www.alwaysanupset.com/category/ufc-wallpapers

[LEONARD]

If you missed Kimbo on ESPN E:60 last night, here it is…really well done.
http://www.dailymotion.com/video/x3qihj_kimbo-slice-interview-on-e60_sport

[IX_Equilibrium]

If you missed Kimbo on ESPN E:60 last night, here it is…really well done.
http://www.dailymotion.com/video/x3qihj_kimbo-slice-interview-on-e60_sport


I won't watch anything concerning Kimbo until he fights a non-pathetic opponent. Any chance of that happening?

[LEONARD]

I won't watch anything concerning Kimbo until he fights a non-pathetic opponent. Any chance of that happening?

I'm sure he will eventually...

You should watch what I posted...he's a pretty level-headed guy it seems. He's an interesting story, but still a "bit" at this point. Who knows if he'll ever be anything close to top level. Hard to say he won't until we see more. He's certainly getting the right training and taking his MMA endeavor seriously...

[oligarchy]

http://i18.tinypic.com/6wx5e7p.gif

:lol

[oligarchy]

Bisping down to middleweight.
http://fiveouncesofpain.com/2007/12/14/its-official-michael-bisping-moving-to-middleweight/

[LEONARD]

Glad he finally decided to do that...

[IX_Equilibrium]

RYAN GRACIE DEAD AT 33

http://www.mmaweekly.com/absolutenm/templates/dailynews.asp?articleid=5282&zoneid=13

[Evan]

RYAN GRACIE DEAD AT 33

http://www.mmaweekly.com/absolutenm/templates/dailynews.asp?articleid=5282&zoneid=13

Live hard die hard.

That guy has led one hell of a wheels off life.

[IX_Equilibrium]

I didn't feel too sorry for him when I found out he was stealing vehicles.

[Evan]

http://i18.tinypic.com/6wx5e7p.gif

:lol


O....M....G

Now thats comedy

[oligarchy]

Tanner vs Bisping?

[Evan]

Yeah thats a has to be done matchup once Tanner gets one or two fights under his belt.

[LEONARD]

Franklin vs Lutter at UFC 82
http://mmamania.com/2007/12/18/ufc-82-rich-franklin-vs-travis-lutter-fight-booked/

TUF 6 Finale bonus’…2 Fights of the Night…only $15k since it wasn’t a PPV.
http://mmamania.com/2007/12/17/ufc-the-ultimate-fighter-tuf-6-finale-bonuses-revealed/

Fights of the Night: Jon Koppenhaver vs. Jared Rollins and Roger Huerta vs. Clay Guida
Knockout of the Night: Jon Koppenhaver (defeated Rollins)
Submission of the Night: Matt Arroyo (defeated John Kolosci via armbar)

Koppenhaver will need the extra cash for bail money…

UFC 81 won’t be on CBS, and the price is going up from $40 to $45…
http://mmamania.com/2007/12/17/ufc-81-ppv-to-cost-4495-not-free-on-cbs/

Fedor article in Esquire
http://www.esquire.com/the-side/feature/fedor-emelianenko-121807

Penn seems pretty motivated these days
http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/sports/5383360.html

If you missed the CNBC show on the UFC and mma, here are some clips of the bulk of it. It was really well done.
http://fiveouncesofpain.com/2007/12/14/links-for-ufc-story-on-cnbc/

Al Bundy getting his black belt (video)
http://bloodyelbow.com/story/2007/12/17/10232/950

[LEONARD]

Shinya Aoki vs. George Sotiropoulos at Shooto - Champion Carnival 10/14/2006
http://www.dailymotion.com/video/x3nj4f_shinya-aoki-vs-george-sotiropoulos_sport

[desflood]

The reason I quit watching boxing and WWE ppv's (years ago now) was because of the high prices. If $45 is going to be the regular ppv price now they're going to be treading a fine line with working class viewers everywhere. Especially if they still want us to shell out every month.

[oligarchy]

The reason I quit watching boxing and WWE ppv's (years ago now) was because of the high prices. If $45 is going to be the regular ppv price now they're going to be treading a fine line with working class viewers everywhere. Especially if they still want us to shell out every month.

I guess the only decent thing is that it's either SD or HD. There is no difference in price point. I never paid for the HD previously, but I'll start watching the HD cast.

[LEONARD]

The reason I quit watching boxing and WWE ppv's (years ago now) was because of the high prices. If $45 is going to be the regular ppv price now they're going to be treading a fine line with working class viewers everywhere. Especially if they still want us to shell out every month.

Not sure...

I'll just stream more of them than I already do if the prices start going up...


I guess the only decent thing is that it's either SD or HD. There is no difference in price point. I never paid for the HD previously, but I'll start watching the HD cast.

So it's not $45/$55 (HD)?? I can't find anywhere that talks about an HD option for UFC 81...

[LEONARD]

Matthew McConaughey to whip us with a fighting movie…kill me now. :pctoss
http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20071218/ap_on_en_mo/people_matthew_mcconaughey;_ylt=AgjAyWOLg5V_m2g1Sp K.h4kDW7oF

[Evan]

Suggest retail price will be the same for HD and standard for the immediate future.

Hey its been $40 for awhile so I have no problems with this and neither should anyone else who complains about fighter pay.

UFC has steadily been paying larger payouts every fight so this was coming.

[dallaskd]

O....M....G

Now thats comedy

:dramaquee

ahahaha.

[dallaskd]

Not sure...

I'll just stream more of them than I already do if the prices start going up...



So it's not $45/$55 (HD)?? I can't find anywhere that talks about an HD option for UFC 81...

There's always a HD option because that's what I always buy unless i go to hooters or buffalo wild wings.

[dallaskd]

Jason Macdonald calls out Michael Bisping...

http://mmamania.com/2007/12/18/ufc-quick-quote-jason-macdonald-wants-him-some-michael-bisping/#comments

“So Michael Bisping has dropped down to my division, middleweight. I think it’s a smart move on his behalf. He was a small light heavyweight, too small for that division. I’ve met him on a couple occasions and I was bigger than him. I walk around heavier than he does when we’re not preparing for fights. I’m not sure that he would be a contender anytime soon. I don’t think he would beat Rich Franklin. He certainly wouldn’t beat Anderson Silva or Dan Henderson. Not sure he’ll make a big impact. Henderson, who made the same move, will make an impact, but not Bisping. I do think Bisping is a quality fighter and could potentially match up for some interesting fights. I see myself matching well against Bisping, and I would love the opportunity to fight him.”

[Evan]

Jason Macdonald needs to worry about stringing together a couple of wins and not Bisping.

[LEONARD]

Couture - Favre
http://xtremecouture.wordpress.com/2007/12/21/randy-couture-football-fan/

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2202/2125813393_13ca525575.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2160/2125813603_cf4900a97a.jpg

and at the Cowboys-Eagles game
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2044/2125813473_40afeaf93e.jpg

[Evan]

such a stange set of photos....

[dallaskd]

I just got the UFC Toolbar. Very Nice!

[dallaskd]

Merry Christmas Spurstalk MMA Fans! what would the forum do with out us?
what a way to start the new year...

Sokoudjou wrecking his way into the UFC
Fedor getting his ass handed to him by a big asian dude
Hughes realizing he will never be the champ again
Liddell vs Wandy

Hoy! Bring on 2008 baby!

[dallaskd]

MMA Junkie Quick Hits:

∙ UFC 79 (Nemesis) is Sold Out

∙ Calvancante vs Aoki is off New Years card for now

∙ HDnet will televise "Fedor Returns" card

∙ Rich Franklin is out until at least June due to torn Meniscus

∙ EliteXC's Gary Shaw is working on Shamrock vs Shamrock Superfight

∙ Shogun and Ninja (Rua Brothers) leave Chute Box to start own academy

∙ Matt Lindland has met with Dana White about a possible return

[dbreiden83080]

∙ EliteXC's Gary Shaw is working on Shamrock vs Shamrock Superfight

Oh please no, both Frank and Ken are totally washed up.

[oligarchy]

http://www.sherdog.com/news/articles.asp?n_id=10538&my_page=3




"I never met Dana White, never spoke to him on the phone, never exchanged e-mails," Fedor said. "However, I did read a lot on the Internet about what he said in regard to me and Vadim []. I also read e-mails that he sent to Vadim; all of his correspondence was very upsetting. The contract that we were presented with by the UFC was simply impossible, couldn't be signed -- I couldn't leave. If I won, I had to fight eight times in two years. If I lost one fight, then the UFC had the right to rip up the contract. At the conclusion of the contract, if I am undefeated, then it automatically extends for an as yet unspecified period of time, though for the same compensation.

"Basically I can't leave undefeated. I can't give interviews, appear in films or advertising. I don't have the right to do anything without the UFC's agreement. I could do nothing without the OK from the UFC. I didn't have the right to compete in combat sambo competition. It's my national sport. It's the Russian sport, which in his time our president competed in, and I no longer have the right to do so. There were many such clauses; the contract was 18 pages in length. It was written in such a way that I had absolutely no rights while the UFC could at any moment, if something didn't suit them, tear up the agreement. We worked with lawyers who told us that it was patently impossible to sign such a document."

There is NO WAY this is serious. No wonder Dana called them crazy Russians.
I sort of believe the ability of the UFC to cancel the contract. I'm sure they don't want another Cro Cop on their hands.. payings millions for another can just wouldn't be pretty. Now, automatically extending a contract? I seriously doubt that.

Other than that, the UFC allows the fighters to choose sponsorships, be in films, etc. I think he should talk to a real agent rather than believing his manager. I'm sure his manager told Fedor a bunch of lies so Fedor wouldn't want to go to the UFC.

Also, I don't get his big fascination with Sambo. Nobody fights him anyways, so what's the point? Well, I guess UFC shouldn't care about Sambo. NEITHER SHOULD CARE.

[Evan]

Yeah that was such a one sided write up. Most sherdog writing is such one sided BS defending anything non UFC and pushing everything negative against the UFC.

"Fedor is sooooo used to living free!" Blah Blah Blah...........BS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

lol! He grew up in communism and is now living in a dictatorship state that is slowly slipping back to communism.

Fedor has never known freedom.

[Evan]

The downfall of PRIDE

http://www.sherdog.net/forums/showthread.php?t=701332

Its a difficult read but worth the time and effort. Fedor's management team seems to be screwing him pretty hard.

[oligarchy]

I'm believing that Fedor has no clue as to what's going on. He'll figure everything else out too late.

[Evan]

I'm believing that Fedor has no clue as to what's going on. He'll figure everything else out too late.

Yep!

Anyone who follows hockey or Footy (world soccer) knows how bad these Russian management teams screw their athletes.

[Evan]

Maybe Monte Cox can get to him....

And the thing is...Fedor isn't an idiot. Things are just done different where he is from.

[dallaskd]

http://a690.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/86/l_684e393cb263ebcdc829d92d56584b19.jpg

:lol

[Evan]

http://a690.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/86/l_684e393cb263ebcdc829d92d56584b19.jpg

:lol


hahahahahahhahahaha......oh thats hilarious!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[LEONARD]

Tito on The Apprentice tonight...
http://bloodyelbow.com/story/2008/1/3/123955/5291

Want a UFC HW belt?
http://cgi.ebay.com/UFC-39-HEAVYWEIGHT-CHAMPIONSHIP-BELT_W0QQitemZ140194796581QQihZ004QQ

Ken Pavia starts his 2 weeks with Luke Cummo
http://mmajunkie.com/2008/01/02/living-with-luke-mma-agent-ken-pavia-journals-his-two-weeks-with-ufc-fighter-luke-cummo/
http://mmajunkie.com/2008/01/03/living-with-luke-ken-pavia-discusses-days-2-and-3-on-lifefood-diet/

Crocop doing pro wrestling
http://bloodyelbow.com/story/2008/1/1/152952/5264

[Evan]

is he going to drink his tinkle?

[LEONARD]

Have to stay tuned and see... :lol

[Evan]

I have done this diet before. Back when I worked at a health food store where I was in awesome shape and didn't look like I was preparing to hybernate. :lol

I am sure there are some differences but its the same concept.

It is something else...

[oligarchy]

Dave Meltzer's article on MMA (really the UFC)

-- WARNING: long read!

http://sports.yahoo.com/mma/news;_ylt=Au7ENF1FZdcaFHa.SooM3eY9Eo14?slug=dm-business010708&prov=yhoo&type=lgns

• 1. Boxing: Oscar De La Hoya vs. Floyd Mayweather, May 5: 2,400,000
• 2. Boxing: Mayweather vs. Ricky Hatton, Dec. 8: 850,000
• 3. WWE: Wrestlemania, April 1: 760,000
• 4. UFC: Chuck Liddell vs. Quinton Jackson, May 26: 675,000
• 5. UFC: Tim Sylvia vs. Randy Couture, March 3: 540,000
• 6. UFC: Couture vs. Gabriel Gonzaga, Aug. 24: 520,000
• 7. UFC: Liddell vs. Keith Jardine, Sept. 22: 475,000
• 8. UFC: Tito Ortiz vs. Rashad Evans, July 7: 425,000
• 9. UFC: Anderson Silva vs. Travis Lutter, Feb. 2: 400,000
• 10. UFC: Georges St. Pierre vs. Matt Serra, April 7: 400,000
• 11. Boxing: Manny Pacquiao vs. Marco Antonio Barrera, Oct. 6: 350,000
• 12. WWE: SummerSlam, Aug. 26: 344,000
• 13. Boxing: Miguel Cotto vs. Shane Mosley, Nov. 10: 340,000
• 14. UFC: Anderson Silva vs. Rich Franklin, Oct. 20: 325,000
• 15. WWE: Royal Rumble, Jan. 28: 314,000
*Numbers not yet available for UFC 78 and 79, which are expected to crack the top 15. Source: Wrestling Observer.

I know 79 had to pull in 500k, at least. Sure seems like MMA (the UFC) is slowing down :hat

:::
Related to the article:

The UFC vs. boxing news story proved to be overblown. UFC doesn't have a De La Hoya, and as long as he's active and the masses consider him a superstar worth paying to see, boxing has the potential to have the biggest single events.
Mayweather pulls numbers, but not like De La Hoya. He goes on to explain that UFC needs to brand more of stars as it is most likely that Couture is gone and Chuck isn't the same. He points out pushing Rampage, who I believe is the most marketable, GSP, and then Penn. Of course other stars could possibly pop-up next year, but those three should be the top draws.

There are other good sections in the article, but I don't feel like pulling out the quotes. A short summation would be that UFC is basically it (as far as Bodog, EliteXC, IFL, HDNet). I still HDNet as a wildcard because of Cuban, but I don't see M-1 as a threat in N. America. Also, Meltzer goes on to warn that the UFC needs to scale back their events or fall into the problems that WWE had, where people essentially pick and chose events during the year. The only problem I see with this is, it's wrestling. Marquee matchups, will always draw people. That's the key here; not the number of events, but the quality of events.

[Evan]

Very good read.

The only part I would argue is that the UFC is running too many shows.

I think right now that’s exactly what they need to do to kill the wrong type of competition. The UFC needs to keep garbage organizations like M-1 and Boxing scumbags like Gary Shaw in check. Although I love EliteXC I cannot stand Shaw and scumbags like him need to stay away. None of the current MMA competition has proven it can be stable. Hw many orgs have folded or been absorbed in 07? Almost all of them. And the IFL and Bodog look like they are soon to follow although that last IFL show looked so slick.

But, I think the EliteXC will be that much stronger if they can weather this storm which is a good thing.

[Evan]

And just to be more clear.

I think the only true competition to the UFC will end up being EliteXC and HDNet in 09. Competition is good and healthy but as this sport grows I think its good for MMA to have such a strong central focal point like the UFC.

[oligarchy]

I don't think EliteXC is going to make it. HDNet *could* be, but it's going to be awhile I would think. Cuban would have to make some radical moves, because the HDNet channel's market penetration is pretty much non-existant. He won't make it taking a slow burn and trying to get as much MMA content onto HDNet. That's why I said could.

[Evan]

If EliteXC were to fail I would be fairly alarmed.

[oligarchy]

Why would you be alarmed?

They have a few names, but not enough to continue big draws. Unless they can keep brining in talent, how can they continue to fill seats and tv sets? Without a combination of both of those, they will fail like all other have tried. We'll see, but I won't be alarmed. I think they will fall before Cuban does.

[Evan]

They are without question the most stable and "most full of potential" MMA organization behind the UFC. They have a few big names but the fact that they can afford multi fight deals with some of these people is amazing. Don't forget, they have only been around a bit shy of one year. And with the fact that they are on a major cable network is huge.

I am just concerned now that Gary Shaw is making so much noise wanting the camera on him.

[Evan]

IFL stock closed at .12 last night, opened at .11 today.

http://moneycentral.msn.com/detail/stock_quote?Symbol=US%3AIFLI

Ruh Roh..........

[LEONARD]

Mike Pyle and Gray Maynard on Super Nanny tonight (8:00 CT on ABC)
http://xtremecouture.wordpress.com/2008/01/09/mike-pyle-gray-maynard-on-supernanny-tonight/

[LEONARD]

EliteXC snagged one of the Team Takedown guys...Eric Bradley. Possibly looking at the others too...
http://samcaplan.proelite.com/87276

[IX_Equilibrium]

http://weblogs.baltimoresun.com/spor...ghtweight.html

Anyone read this interview with Guillard? Goddamn, what a fucking idiot. I really don't care to see this guy fight in the UFC ever again. His stupidity is astonishing.

[Evan]

I can't stand that idiot.

He really needs to grow up.

[oligarchy]

I don't think Guillard will be back. He says that he is "taking some time off from the UFC." If he doesn't have any fights left on his contract, don't expect him back. If he does have a fight, it'll probably be on the dark card.