Here is Shinya Aoki v. Eddie Alvarez from K-1: Dynamite NYE, which took place on 12/31/08. Aoki next fights Vitor Ribiero at Dream 10. After winning the Bellator LW championship, Eddie Alvarez is taking a break for a couple months.
Tuesday, July 14, 2009
Monday, July 13, 2009
UFC 100 Review
UFC 100 proved to be an excellent card as champions Brock Lesnar and Georges St. Pierre dominated their respective opponents to defend their titles. Even though there have been many more than 100 events in UFC history, including Fight Nights and the ever popular UFC 37.5, this card stuck out as one of the best.
Yoshihiro Akiyama def Alan Belcher via Dec (Split)- Akiyama and Belcher slugged it out in the first televised fight of the night. Akiyama seemed to land clean punches and high kicks. Belcher worked the legs with low kicks. Akiyama closed the first by getting dazed by a Belcher punch, then getting a takedown.
In the second it was all Akiyama, as he was able to get a takedown and rain down some solid punches from top position. Belcher was able to get a few leg kicks to close the round. In the third, Belcher scored a nasty superman punch in the third pushing it off the fence. Akiyama wouldn't be deterred as he scored a very close split decision. I gave the fight to Akiyama, taking the first and second rounds.
*Akiyama and Belcher win Fight of the Night bonus.
Dan Henderson def Michael Bisping via KO (Punch) R2, 3:20- Dan Henderson completely destroyed Mike Bisping throughout the fight. In the first round, Henderson was able to stun Bisping with a punch and brutalize him with knees. In the second round, Bisping was circling into Henderson's big right hand. One big one connected, and Bisping was out cold. Henderson threw one extra punch to seal his KO of the night award.
*Henderson wins KO of the Night bonus
Georges St. Pierre def Thiago Alves via Dec (Unanimous)- Georges St. Pierre looked phenomenal in this fight that featured takedowns, ground and pound, and precision striking. In the second round, St. Pierre busted up a couple cuts while getting in shots in the mount position. GSP was also able to get the back of Alves on numerous occasions.
Every round in this fight went to St. Pierre who ran into trouble in the third round. In that round, in the only time St. Pierre went to his back, he injured his groin when Alves attempted to pass guard. In the fourth round break, GSP was heard saying that he pulled his groin. Trainer Greg Jackson said that he didn't care. GSP headed his advice and continued to beat him up to seal the unanimous decision.
(WW Champ Georges St. Pierre pictured)
Brock Lesnar def Frank Mir via TKO (Punches) R2, 1:48- Lesnar was able to get revenge in this much hyped title fight. After Mir pulled out of their proposed bout at UFC 98, then talk serious smack, Lesnar's hatred began to build. Lesnar came to the bout ready for war. Mir looked a little banged up with a completely taped knee and recently drained hematoma.
In the first round, Lesnar was more cautious and focused fighter, as he was able to get a takedown and do damage. He looked to get position on Mir pinning his arm up and throwing punches. He landed numerous shots from the ground to cause serious damage. In the second, Mir had his best chance as he briefly stunned Lesnar with a knee. However, Lesnar was just too much as he clobbered Mir with punches until Herb Dean stopped the fight. Lesnar unifies the HW belts.
*MMA Blaster readers correctly choose Lesnar 104-79.
(HW Champ Brock Lesnar pictured)
Jon Fitch def Paulo Thiago via Dec (Unanimous)- In this fight, squeezed in at the end of the show, Fitch laid a whooping on Paulo Thiago. Fitch consistently scored takedowns, got Thiago's back, and nearly won by TKO as the bell rang.
UNDERCARD RESULTS
Shannon Gugerty def Matt Grice via Sub (Guillotine) R1, 2:36
Dong Hyun Kim def T.J. Grant via Dec (Unanimous)
Jon Jones def Jake O'Brien via Sub(Guillotine) R2, 2:43
Jim Miller def Mac Danzig via Dec (Unanimous)
Mark Coleman def Stephan Bonnar via Dec (Unanimous)
Tom Lawlor def CB Dollaway via Sub (Guillotine) R1, 0:55
*Lawlor wins Submission of the Night Bonus.
Yoshihiro Akiyama def Alan Belcher via Dec (Split)- Akiyama and Belcher slugged it out in the first televised fight of the night. Akiyama seemed to land clean punches and high kicks. Belcher worked the legs with low kicks. Akiyama closed the first by getting dazed by a Belcher punch, then getting a takedown.
In the second it was all Akiyama, as he was able to get a takedown and rain down some solid punches from top position. Belcher was able to get a few leg kicks to close the round. In the third, Belcher scored a nasty superman punch in the third pushing it off the fence. Akiyama wouldn't be deterred as he scored a very close split decision. I gave the fight to Akiyama, taking the first and second rounds.
*Akiyama and Belcher win Fight of the Night bonus.
Dan Henderson def Michael Bisping via KO (Punch) R2, 3:20- Dan Henderson completely destroyed Mike Bisping throughout the fight. In the first round, Henderson was able to stun Bisping with a punch and brutalize him with knees. In the second round, Bisping was circling into Henderson's big right hand. One big one connected, and Bisping was out cold. Henderson threw one extra punch to seal his KO of the night award.
*Henderson wins KO of the Night bonus
Georges St. Pierre def Thiago Alves via Dec (Unanimous)- Georges St. Pierre looked phenomenal in this fight that featured takedowns, ground and pound, and precision striking. In the second round, St. Pierre busted up a couple cuts while getting in shots in the mount position. GSP was also able to get the back of Alves on numerous occasions.
Every round in this fight went to St. Pierre who ran into trouble in the third round. In that round, in the only time St. Pierre went to his back, he injured his groin when Alves attempted to pass guard. In the fourth round break, GSP was heard saying that he pulled his groin. Trainer Greg Jackson said that he didn't care. GSP headed his advice and continued to beat him up to seal the unanimous decision.
(WW Champ Georges St. Pierre pictured)
Brock Lesnar def Frank Mir via TKO (Punches) R2, 1:48- Lesnar was able to get revenge in this much hyped title fight. After Mir pulled out of their proposed bout at UFC 98, then talk serious smack, Lesnar's hatred began to build. Lesnar came to the bout ready for war. Mir looked a little banged up with a completely taped knee and recently drained hematoma.
In the first round, Lesnar was more cautious and focused fighter, as he was able to get a takedown and do damage. He looked to get position on Mir pinning his arm up and throwing punches. He landed numerous shots from the ground to cause serious damage. In the second, Mir had his best chance as he briefly stunned Lesnar with a knee. However, Lesnar was just too much as he clobbered Mir with punches until Herb Dean stopped the fight. Lesnar unifies the HW belts.
*MMA Blaster readers correctly choose Lesnar 104-79.
(HW Champ Brock Lesnar pictured)
Jon Fitch def Paulo Thiago via Dec (Unanimous)- In this fight, squeezed in at the end of the show, Fitch laid a whooping on Paulo Thiago. Fitch consistently scored takedowns, got Thiago's back, and nearly won by TKO as the bell rang.
UNDERCARD RESULTS
Shannon Gugerty def Matt Grice via Sub (Guillotine) R1, 2:36
Dong Hyun Kim def T.J. Grant via Dec (Unanimous)
Jon Jones def Jake O'Brien via Sub(Guillotine) R2, 2:43
Jim Miller def Mac Danzig via Dec (Unanimous)
Mark Coleman def Stephan Bonnar via Dec (Unanimous)
Tom Lawlor def CB Dollaway via Sub (Guillotine) R1, 0:55
*Lawlor wins Submission of the Night Bonus.
Video of the Day - Lawlor v. Bartlett
Here is Tom Lawlor v. Travis Bartlett from FFP: Untamed 20 which took place on 4/12/08 in Mississippi. Since his loss to Ryan Bader on The Ultimate Fighter 8, Lawlor has back to back UFC wins over Kyle Kingsbury and CB Dollaway.
Lawlor has also flashed his personality, showing up to UFC 100 weigh-ins as the Just Bleed guy, then did his walk-out entrance to "Who Let the Dogs Out" while walking his dog, Seth Petruzelli. Tom won $100,000 for his submission of the night bonus at UFC 100, by far the biggest payday of his career.
(Tom Lawlor as "Just Bleed" guy at UFC 100)
(Tom Lawlor grows a beard in tribute of Evan Tanner before the Ultimate Fighter 8 Finale)
(Original "Just Bleed" Guy)
Lawlor has also flashed his personality, showing up to UFC 100 weigh-ins as the Just Bleed guy, then did his walk-out entrance to "Who Let the Dogs Out" while walking his dog, Seth Petruzelli. Tom won $100,000 for his submission of the night bonus at UFC 100, by far the biggest payday of his career.
(Tom Lawlor as "Just Bleed" guy at UFC 100)
(Tom Lawlor grows a beard in tribute of Evan Tanner before the Ultimate Fighter 8 Finale)
(Original "Just Bleed" Guy)
Sunday, July 12, 2009
Video of the Day - UFC 100 Postfight
Here is video of the post-fight interviews. Brock Lesnar apologizes for his not so classy post fight celebration.
Saturday, July 11, 2009
ZUFFA Title Picture
Here is the title picture for the Zuffa controlled UFC and WEC promotions post UFC 100.
HW Champ- Brock Lesnar
Contenders- Randy Couture, Shane Carwin, Cain Velasquez, Antonio Nogueira
*Lesnar defended his title at UFC 100.
(Brock Lesnar pictured)
LHW Champ- Lyoto Machida
Contenders- Shogun Rua, Quinton "Rampage" Jackson, Rashad Evans, Forrest Griffin, Rich Franklin
*Lyoto Machida against Shogun Rua rumored for UFC 104
*Rashad and Rampage to coach TUF 10
(Lyoto Machida pictured)
MW Champ- Anderson Silva
Contenders- Nate Marquardt, Demian Maia, Dan Henderson, Yoshihiro Akiyama, Yushin Okami
*Anderson Silva will face Forrest Griffin at UFC 101 in a LHW bout.
*Yushin Okami pulled out of his fight at UFC 98 due to injury.
*Marquardt and Maia will fight at UFC 102 for #1 contender.
(Anderson Silva pictured)
WW Champ- Georges St. Pierre
Contenders- Jon Fitch, Martin Kampmann, Mike Swick
*GSP defends title at UFC 100
*Kampmann v. Swick likely to determine #1 contender
(Georges St. Pierre pictured)
LW Champ- BJ Penn
Contenders- Kenny Florian, Sean Sherk, Clay Guida, Gray Maynard
*Penn v. Florian confirmed for UFC 101.
(BJ Penn pictured)
FW Champ- Mike Thomas Brown
Contenders- Jose Aldo, Wagnney Fabiano, Rapheal Assuncao, Urijah Faber
*Brown's next opponent not announced
(Mike Thomas Brown pictured)
BW Champ- Miguel Torres
Contenders- Brian Bowles, Joseph Benavidez, Damacio Paige
*Torres Brian Bowles at WEC 42.
(Miguel Torres pictured)
HW Champ- Brock Lesnar
Contenders- Randy Couture, Shane Carwin, Cain Velasquez, Antonio Nogueira
*Lesnar defended his title at UFC 100.
(Brock Lesnar pictured)
LHW Champ- Lyoto Machida
Contenders- Shogun Rua, Quinton "Rampage" Jackson, Rashad Evans, Forrest Griffin, Rich Franklin
*Lyoto Machida against Shogun Rua rumored for UFC 104
*Rashad and Rampage to coach TUF 10
(Lyoto Machida pictured)
MW Champ- Anderson Silva
Contenders- Nate Marquardt, Demian Maia, Dan Henderson, Yoshihiro Akiyama, Yushin Okami
*Anderson Silva will face Forrest Griffin at UFC 101 in a LHW bout.
*Yushin Okami pulled out of his fight at UFC 98 due to injury.
*Marquardt and Maia will fight at UFC 102 for #1 contender.
(Anderson Silva pictured)
WW Champ- Georges St. Pierre
Contenders- Jon Fitch, Martin Kampmann, Mike Swick
*GSP defends title at UFC 100
*Kampmann v. Swick likely to determine #1 contender
(Georges St. Pierre pictured)
LW Champ- BJ Penn
Contenders- Kenny Florian, Sean Sherk, Clay Guida, Gray Maynard
*Penn v. Florian confirmed for UFC 101.
(BJ Penn pictured)
FW Champ- Mike Thomas Brown
Contenders- Jose Aldo, Wagnney Fabiano, Rapheal Assuncao, Urijah Faber
*Brown's next opponent not announced
(Mike Thomas Brown pictured)
BW Champ- Miguel Torres
Contenders- Brian Bowles, Joseph Benavidez, Damacio Paige
*Torres Brian Bowles at WEC 42.
(Miguel Torres pictured)
Video of the Day - Shonie Teaches GSP
Here is one of my favorite moments from TUF 4 as Shonie teaches Georges St. Pierre how to do a pimp walk. If you don't remeber, GSP served as a coach on TUF 4 and Shonie Carter was a contestant. Shonie was able to defeat Rich Clementi in the show's opening round. Matt Serra, who had gotten KO'd by Shonie's infamous backfist at UFC 31, acted as Shonie's main cornerman. Serra did everything in his power to help him out and hype him up before the fight.
GSP just defended his WW belt with a victory over Thiago Alves.
GSP just defended his WW belt with a victory over Thiago Alves.
UFC Hall of Fame - Who's Next?
A look into the future with the MMA Blaster
The UFC is the only mixed martial arts organization with a hall of fame. As of now, the members of the hall include Royce Gracie, Ken Shamrock, Dan Severn, Randy Couture, Chuck Liddell and Mark Coleman. The late, Charles "Mask" Lewis was inducted as a contributor to the sport. There are some current UFC stars that deserve immediate shots, and some that still have some fighting to do in order to get in.
I believe the promotion should induct Don Frye and Pat Miletich into the Hall of Fame next. Each is long overdue, especially considering what they have accomplished outside the UFC.
Don Frye (20-7, 9-1 UFC)(UFC 8, UU96 belts)- Plowed through the competition in UFC 8 to win the belt. Won UU96 in a crazy bout over Tank Abbott and UFC 8 over Gary Goodridge. Only reason to have him out would be because he still fights. (However, all other UFC Hall members still fight)
Pat Miletich (29-7, 8-2 UFC)(UFC 16 Lightweight tourney winner, WW belt holder)- Won two bouts to take UFC 16. Won a slim decision over Mikey Burnett to take the WW belt. Defended 4 times before losing to Carlos Newton. Won over John Alessio and Shonie Carter. Bigger impact may be in the fighters he has trained over the years.
Upon retirement:
1. Matt Hughes (43-7, 16-5 UFC)(WW belt holder)- Most dominant 170 pounder in the history of the UFC, 9 time belt holder. Victories over Frank Trigg, Georges St. Pierre, Carlos Newton, Royce Gracie, Sean Sherk, Hayato Sakurai and split with BJ Penn. He recently lost to Thiago Alves and GSP. Recent decision victory over Matt Serra at UFC 98.
2. Tito Ortiz (15-6-1, 14-6-1 UFC) (LHW belt holder)- Kept the UFC in the limelight during the dark ages, winning the LHW belt after Frank Shamrock left the UFC. Defended the belt five straight times. Victories over Vitor Belfort, Forrest Griffin, 3X Ken Shamrock, Jerry Bohlander, Evan Tanner, Yuki Kondo, Vladimir Matyushenko, Wanderlei Silva and a split with Guy Mezger. Lost a decision to Lyoto Machida in his last fight of his UFC contract.
3. Georges St. Pierre (19-2, 13-2 UFC)(WW belt holder)- Coming off big wins against Thiago Alves, Jon Fitch and BJ Penn. Won WW belt from Matt Hughes, then lost to Matt Serra, and recently beat Hughes again. Other victories over BJ Penn, Matt Serra, Sean Sherk, Josh Koscheck, Jason "Mayhem" Miller, Frank Trigg and Karo Parisyan. He may have suffered a groin injury in his last fight.
4. Rich Franklin (25-6, 12-4 UFC) (MW belt holder)- Won MW belt from Evan Tanner and defended twice. Victories over Yushin Okami, Jason MacDonald, Ken Shamrock and Evan Tanner 2X. Recent wins over Travis Lutter and Matt Hamill with a close decision loss to Dan Henderson. Was crunched twice by Anderson Silva at 185. Last defeated Wanderlei Silva at a 195 pound catch-weight.
5. Andrei Arlovski (12-5, 10-4 UFC)(HW belt holder)- Won HW belt from Tim Sylvia with an achilles lock. Defended twice against Justin Eilers and a 15 second KO of Paul Buentello. Other victories over Vladimir Matyushenko, Marcio Cruz, Ian Freeman, Fabricio Werdum and Jake O'Brien. His contract expired after the O'Brien fight and the UFC shunned him to the undercard. After beating Roy Nelson in Affliction, he got KO'd by Fedor.
6. BJ Penn (13-5-1, 9-4-1 UFC)(LW and WW belt holder)- Won the LW belt over Joe Stevenson and then defended against Sean Sherk in two dominating performances. Won WW belt from Matt Hughes in a great fight. Victories over Din Thomas, Matt Serra, Caol Uno and split with Jens Pulver. Two of his losses are to GSP at 170.
7. Evan Tanner (32-8, 11-6 UFC) (MW belt holder)- Wins over Robbie Lawler, Homer Moore, Phil Baroni 2X and David Terrell (MW belt). Unfortunately, Evan Tanner has passed away. With 17 total fights in the UFC and a title, I think Tanner deserves a spot. If Tank Abbott gets in with his 8 wins out of 18 in the UFC, Tanner should with his 11 wins in 17 fights in the UFC.
On their way (only belt holders eligible)
1. Anderson Silva (24-4, 9-0 UFC)(MW belt holder)- Has crushed all comers, not letting a bout go to decision. Recently worked over James Irvin in the first round at 205. Won the belt in his second UFC fight and has defended five more times. Victories over Dan Henderson, Rich Franklin 2X, Nate Marquardt, Travis Lutter and Chris Leben. In his last fight he won in lackluster fashion over Thales Leites. He next fights Forrest Griffin.
2. Frank Mir (12-4, 10-4 UFC)(HW belt holder)- Biggest win by far was the arm break of Tim Sylvia for the HW title. Submission victories over Brock Lesnar, Pete Williams, Tank Abbott, Antoni Hardonk and Roberto Traven. He will fight a rematch with Lesnar for the title at UFC 100.
3. Tim Sylvia (24-6, 9-4 UFC) (HW belt holder)- Won HW belt over Ricco Rodriguez UFC 41, reclaimed at UFC 59 over Arlovski defending twice. Other Victories include Brandon Vera, Jeff Monson, Gan McGee and Assuerio Silva. He has gone 0-2 outside the UFC, losing in 36 seconds to Fedor Emelianenko, then in 9 seconds to Ray Mercer.
4. Forrest Griffin (16-5, 7-3 UFC, LHW belt holder)- Two back to back victories over the number one light heavyweights in Shogun Rua and Rampage Jackson. One of the sports biggest victories over Stephen Bonnar in the 1st Ultimate Fighter. Needs some wins over bigger names and in more convincing fashion to get over the hump. Lost the LHW belt to Rashad Evans. Next fight with Anderson Silva.
5. Rashad Evans (13-1-1, 8-1-1 UFC, LHW belt holder)- Won the LHW belt over Forrest Griffin and is defending against Lyoto Machida at UFC 98. Defeated Sean Salmon with a nasty high kick. KO'd Chuck Liddell and Jason Lambert. Decision victories over Micheal Bisping, Stephan Bonnar and Brad Imes for the TUF 2 HW belt. Lost the LHW belt to Lyoto Machida.
Too bad - Frank Shamrock (23-8, 5-0 UFC)(LHW, then called MW belt)- Entered the UFC winning the MW belt (now LHW) over Gold medalist Kevin Jackson (4-2) with an arm bar in 16 seconds. He then slammed undefeated Igor Zinoviev (4-1) into retirement in 22 seconds in his first title defense. He beat Jeremy Horn (79-16) and John Lober in his next two defenses. Shamrock defended the belt once more in one of the best fights in MMA history against Tito Ortiz (15-5).
*The UFC would have to let him have another fight, I don't see it happening.
Dana White said he would put in:
Tank Abbott (10-14, 8-10 UFC)- His selection would be more to do with popularity and helping build the UFC and support it in the early days. His best performances were UFC 6 and UU96. In UFC 6, Tank delivered a highlight real KO of John Matua 20 seconds in, rising up the crowd. In his second fight, Tank crushed the "Polar Bear" Paul Varelens in the first reving the crowd into a fury. Unfortunately, Oleg Taktarov beat Tank in the final. In UU96 he crushed Cal Worsham in a massive flurry in the first round then KO'd Steve Nelmark at 1:03 in his second fight. He almost beat Don Frye in the final after a big punch to the face, but lost. Other notable wins were against Hugo Duarte and Steve Jennum.
**All text copyright of MMA Blaster**
The UFC is the only mixed martial arts organization with a hall of fame. As of now, the members of the hall include Royce Gracie, Ken Shamrock, Dan Severn, Randy Couture, Chuck Liddell and Mark Coleman. The late, Charles "Mask" Lewis was inducted as a contributor to the sport. There are some current UFC stars that deserve immediate shots, and some that still have some fighting to do in order to get in.
I believe the promotion should induct Don Frye and Pat Miletich into the Hall of Fame next. Each is long overdue, especially considering what they have accomplished outside the UFC.
Don Frye (20-7, 9-1 UFC)(UFC 8, UU96 belts)- Plowed through the competition in UFC 8 to win the belt. Won UU96 in a crazy bout over Tank Abbott and UFC 8 over Gary Goodridge. Only reason to have him out would be because he still fights. (However, all other UFC Hall members still fight)
Pat Miletich (29-7, 8-2 UFC)(UFC 16 Lightweight tourney winner, WW belt holder)- Won two bouts to take UFC 16. Won a slim decision over Mikey Burnett to take the WW belt. Defended 4 times before losing to Carlos Newton. Won over John Alessio and Shonie Carter. Bigger impact may be in the fighters he has trained over the years.
Upon retirement:
1. Matt Hughes (43-7, 16-5 UFC)(WW belt holder)- Most dominant 170 pounder in the history of the UFC, 9 time belt holder. Victories over Frank Trigg, Georges St. Pierre, Carlos Newton, Royce Gracie, Sean Sherk, Hayato Sakurai and split with BJ Penn. He recently lost to Thiago Alves and GSP. Recent decision victory over Matt Serra at UFC 98.
2. Tito Ortiz (15-6-1, 14-6-1 UFC) (LHW belt holder)- Kept the UFC in the limelight during the dark ages, winning the LHW belt after Frank Shamrock left the UFC. Defended the belt five straight times. Victories over Vitor Belfort, Forrest Griffin, 3X Ken Shamrock, Jerry Bohlander, Evan Tanner, Yuki Kondo, Vladimir Matyushenko, Wanderlei Silva and a split with Guy Mezger. Lost a decision to Lyoto Machida in his last fight of his UFC contract.
3. Georges St. Pierre (19-2, 13-2 UFC)(WW belt holder)- Coming off big wins against Thiago Alves, Jon Fitch and BJ Penn. Won WW belt from Matt Hughes, then lost to Matt Serra, and recently beat Hughes again. Other victories over BJ Penn, Matt Serra, Sean Sherk, Josh Koscheck, Jason "Mayhem" Miller, Frank Trigg and Karo Parisyan. He may have suffered a groin injury in his last fight.
4. Rich Franklin (25-6, 12-4 UFC) (MW belt holder)- Won MW belt from Evan Tanner and defended twice. Victories over Yushin Okami, Jason MacDonald, Ken Shamrock and Evan Tanner 2X. Recent wins over Travis Lutter and Matt Hamill with a close decision loss to Dan Henderson. Was crunched twice by Anderson Silva at 185. Last defeated Wanderlei Silva at a 195 pound catch-weight.
5. Andrei Arlovski (12-5, 10-4 UFC)(HW belt holder)- Won HW belt from Tim Sylvia with an achilles lock. Defended twice against Justin Eilers and a 15 second KO of Paul Buentello. Other victories over Vladimir Matyushenko, Marcio Cruz, Ian Freeman, Fabricio Werdum and Jake O'Brien. His contract expired after the O'Brien fight and the UFC shunned him to the undercard. After beating Roy Nelson in Affliction, he got KO'd by Fedor.
6. BJ Penn (13-5-1, 9-4-1 UFC)(LW and WW belt holder)- Won the LW belt over Joe Stevenson and then defended against Sean Sherk in two dominating performances. Won WW belt from Matt Hughes in a great fight. Victories over Din Thomas, Matt Serra, Caol Uno and split with Jens Pulver. Two of his losses are to GSP at 170.
7. Evan Tanner (32-8, 11-6 UFC) (MW belt holder)- Wins over Robbie Lawler, Homer Moore, Phil Baroni 2X and David Terrell (MW belt). Unfortunately, Evan Tanner has passed away. With 17 total fights in the UFC and a title, I think Tanner deserves a spot. If Tank Abbott gets in with his 8 wins out of 18 in the UFC, Tanner should with his 11 wins in 17 fights in the UFC.
On their way (only belt holders eligible)
1. Anderson Silva (24-4, 9-0 UFC)(MW belt holder)- Has crushed all comers, not letting a bout go to decision. Recently worked over James Irvin in the first round at 205. Won the belt in his second UFC fight and has defended five more times. Victories over Dan Henderson, Rich Franklin 2X, Nate Marquardt, Travis Lutter and Chris Leben. In his last fight he won in lackluster fashion over Thales Leites. He next fights Forrest Griffin.
2. Frank Mir (12-4, 10-4 UFC)(HW belt holder)- Biggest win by far was the arm break of Tim Sylvia for the HW title. Submission victories over Brock Lesnar, Pete Williams, Tank Abbott, Antoni Hardonk and Roberto Traven. He will fight a rematch with Lesnar for the title at UFC 100.
3. Tim Sylvia (24-6, 9-4 UFC) (HW belt holder)- Won HW belt over Ricco Rodriguez UFC 41, reclaimed at UFC 59 over Arlovski defending twice. Other Victories include Brandon Vera, Jeff Monson, Gan McGee and Assuerio Silva. He has gone 0-2 outside the UFC, losing in 36 seconds to Fedor Emelianenko, then in 9 seconds to Ray Mercer.
4. Forrest Griffin (16-5, 7-3 UFC, LHW belt holder)- Two back to back victories over the number one light heavyweights in Shogun Rua and Rampage Jackson. One of the sports biggest victories over Stephen Bonnar in the 1st Ultimate Fighter. Needs some wins over bigger names and in more convincing fashion to get over the hump. Lost the LHW belt to Rashad Evans. Next fight with Anderson Silva.
5. Rashad Evans (13-1-1, 8-1-1 UFC, LHW belt holder)- Won the LHW belt over Forrest Griffin and is defending against Lyoto Machida at UFC 98. Defeated Sean Salmon with a nasty high kick. KO'd Chuck Liddell and Jason Lambert. Decision victories over Micheal Bisping, Stephan Bonnar and Brad Imes for the TUF 2 HW belt. Lost the LHW belt to Lyoto Machida.
Too bad - Frank Shamrock (23-8, 5-0 UFC)(LHW, then called MW belt)- Entered the UFC winning the MW belt (now LHW) over Gold medalist Kevin Jackson (4-2) with an arm bar in 16 seconds. He then slammed undefeated Igor Zinoviev (4-1) into retirement in 22 seconds in his first title defense. He beat Jeremy Horn (79-16) and John Lober in his next two defenses. Shamrock defended the belt once more in one of the best fights in MMA history against Tito Ortiz (15-5).
*The UFC would have to let him have another fight, I don't see it happening.
Dana White said he would put in:
Tank Abbott (10-14, 8-10 UFC)- His selection would be more to do with popularity and helping build the UFC and support it in the early days. His best performances were UFC 6 and UU96. In UFC 6, Tank delivered a highlight real KO of John Matua 20 seconds in, rising up the crowd. In his second fight, Tank crushed the "Polar Bear" Paul Varelens in the first reving the crowd into a fury. Unfortunately, Oleg Taktarov beat Tank in the final. In UU96 he crushed Cal Worsham in a massive flurry in the first round then KO'd Steve Nelmark at 1:03 in his second fight. He almost beat Don Frye in the final after a big punch to the face, but lost. Other notable wins were against Hugo Duarte and Steve Jennum.
**All text copyright of MMA Blaster**
Thursday, July 9, 2009
TUF 10 Cast Confirmed!
With a recent confirmation that Kimbo Slice will be a contestant in TUF 10, you can bet it will be the most hyped season of the Ultimate Fighter. Kimbo will garner the attention of the casual fan, creating a massive buzz. You can bet he will be featured in the Spike TV ads for the show. Recently, the UFC has confirmed the cast members listed below.
The coaches are also big names in former UFC champs Rashad Evans and Rampage Jackson. Each has personality and flair which you can bet will be shown during the season. Rashad was the winner of the previous HW TUF tournament in season 2. Rampage was coach of TUF 7.
Season 10 was slated to begin taping on June 1st, with 16 heavyweights competing for the title. This year, there will be no fight to make it in the house and feature only the big boys. In addition, there are rumors that three ex-NFL players tried out for the show.
Here are some of the rumored contestants:
Kimbo Slice (3-1)- Wins over Tank Abbott and James Thompson
Mike Wessel (6-1)- Win over Pat Castillo (7-3), loss in UFC
Scott Junk (6-2)- Win over Jimmy Ambriz (13-11), loss in UFC
Darrell Schoonover (9-0)- Win over Rex Richards @ Shark Fights
Justin Wren (8-1) - Accomplished wrestler
Abe Wagner (6-2 )- Decicion win over Sherman Pendergarst
Zak Jensen (7-3)- Former NIU football player and wrestler
Wes Sims (22-12, 0-3 UFC)- Wins over Kimo Leopoldo and Marcus Silveira, 6'10"
Roy Nelson (13-4)- IFL HW Champ, wins over Brad Imes, Fabiano Scherner and Antoine Jaoude
(Roy Nelson pictured)
Rumored NFL players to have tried out:
Tampa Bay Bucaneer - Marcus Jones (4-2) 6'6" defensive tackle
Atlanta Falcons- Wes Shivers (0-1 or 6-1)- massive guy 6'7"
New York Giants- Matt Miotrone (0-0) 6'4" defensive lineman
Brendan Schaub (4-0)- almost made Buffalo Bills, Arena League player
The coaches are also big names in former UFC champs Rashad Evans and Rampage Jackson. Each has personality and flair which you can bet will be shown during the season. Rashad was the winner of the previous HW TUF tournament in season 2. Rampage was coach of TUF 7.
Season 10 was slated to begin taping on June 1st, with 16 heavyweights competing for the title. This year, there will be no fight to make it in the house and feature only the big boys. In addition, there are rumors that three ex-NFL players tried out for the show.
Here are some of the rumored contestants:
Kimbo Slice (3-1)- Wins over Tank Abbott and James Thompson
Mike Wessel (6-1)- Win over Pat Castillo (7-3), loss in UFC
Scott Junk (6-2)- Win over Jimmy Ambriz (13-11), loss in UFC
Darrell Schoonover (9-0)- Win over Rex Richards @ Shark Fights
Justin Wren (8-1) - Accomplished wrestler
Abe Wagner (6-2 )- Decicion win over Sherman Pendergarst
Zak Jensen (7-3)- Former NIU football player and wrestler
Wes Sims (22-12, 0-3 UFC)- Wins over Kimo Leopoldo and Marcus Silveira, 6'10"
Roy Nelson (13-4)- IFL HW Champ, wins over Brad Imes, Fabiano Scherner and Antoine Jaoude
(Roy Nelson pictured)
Rumored NFL players to have tried out:
Tampa Bay Bucaneer - Marcus Jones (4-2) 6'6" defensive tackle
Atlanta Falcons- Wes Shivers (0-1 or 6-1)- massive guy 6'7"
New York Giants- Matt Miotrone (0-0) 6'4" defensive lineman
Brendan Schaub (4-0)- almost made Buffalo Bills, Arena League player
Tuesday, July 7, 2009
Video of the Day - Akiyama v. Nagata
Here is Yoshiro Akiyama v. Katsuhiko Nagata from K-1: Hero's 5 which took place on 5/3/06. Akiyama fights Alan Belcher at UFC 100.
Wednesday, July 1, 2009
Video of the Day - Manhoef v. Akiyama
Here is video from K1 Hero's 7 (10/9/06) fight between Melvin Manhoef and Yoshihiro Akiyama. Manhoef is easily one of the most feared strikers in mma, with 20 KO wins. Judo practicioner Akiyama is dangerous on the ground and in throwing opponents.
Video of the Day - Kim v. Kubota
Here is Dong Hyun Kim v. Kosei Kubota from Deep 26 which took place on 10/10/06. Kim will be fighting TJ Grant at UFC 100.
Sunday, June 28, 2009
Ultimate Chaos Results
Bobby Lashley looked impressive in his fourth mixed martial arts bout in a victory over the massive Bob Sapp. Wanting to avoid any big punches while standing, Lashley immediately scored a double leg takedown and then threw punches until the bout was called. It will be interesting to see where Lashley fights next.
Gilbert Yvel looked impressive in his fight with Pedro Rizzo. Rizzo scored an early takedown and worked ground and pound before Yvel was able to push kick Rizzo off. When the action was standing, Yvel threw a head kick, following Rizzo to the ground. From there, Yvel threw punches, knocking Rizzo completely unconscious.
Here are the full results:
Bobby Lashley def Bob Sapp via TKO (strikes) R1, 3:17
Gilbert Yvel def Pedro Rizzo via sub (punches) R1, 2:10
Colin McKee def Lance Thompson via sub (punches) R1, 4:16
Javier Vazquez def Mark Kergosien via sub (guillotine) R1, 0:59
Chris Horodecki def William Sriyapai via sub (RNC) R1, 4:02
Waachim Spiritwolf def Brett Cooper via KO (punches) R1, 3:41
Tom Atencio def Randy Hedderick via TKO (did not answer) R2, 5:00
Brandon Harder def John Harris via sub (arm triangle) R2, 4:31
James Orso def Danny Abbadi via unanimous dec
(Bobby Lashley pictured)
Gilbert Yvel looked impressive in his fight with Pedro Rizzo. Rizzo scored an early takedown and worked ground and pound before Yvel was able to push kick Rizzo off. When the action was standing, Yvel threw a head kick, following Rizzo to the ground. From there, Yvel threw punches, knocking Rizzo completely unconscious.
Here are the full results:
Bobby Lashley def Bob Sapp via TKO (strikes) R1, 3:17
Gilbert Yvel def Pedro Rizzo via sub (punches) R1, 2:10
Colin McKee def Lance Thompson via sub (punches) R1, 4:16
Javier Vazquez def Mark Kergosien via sub (guillotine) R1, 0:59
Chris Horodecki def William Sriyapai via sub (RNC) R1, 4:02
Waachim Spiritwolf def Brett Cooper via KO (punches) R1, 3:41
Tom Atencio def Randy Hedderick via TKO (did not answer) R2, 5:00
Brandon Harder def John Harris via sub (arm triangle) R2, 4:31
James Orso def Danny Abbadi via unanimous dec
(Bobby Lashley pictured)
