MMA News Thread
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HENDERSON VS PALHARES LIKELY AT UFC 88
It appears that Dan Henderson’s return to the middleweight division wasn’t a one-time deal to challenge UFC champion Anderson Silva. MMAWeekly.com has confirmed with sources close to the camp of Brazilian Top Team fighter Rousimar Palhares that he has signed to fight Henderson in a 185-pound divisional bout at UFC 88 on Sept. 6 in Atlanta.
Henderson has stated several times in the past that he prefers to fight at light heavyweight, but the bout with Palhares will keep him in the middleweight division, at least for the time being.
Henderson lost his last two bouts, both being title fights. He was defeated by Silva at UFC 82 in Columbus earlier this year and lost in a light heavyweight title bout to Quinton Jackson in September of last year. Prior to those two defeats, Henderson had won two in a row – over Wanderlei Silva and Vitor Belfort – and held both the middleweight and light heavyweight Pride championship belts simultaneously.
One of the fastest rising talents of the Brazilian Top Team, Rousimar Palhares made his Octagon debut last month against Ivan Salaverry at UFC 84. Improving his record to 8-1 as a professional, Palhares also earned Submission of the Night honors and a $75,000 bonus check for his slick submission of Salaverry via armbar.
Palhares has finished six of his eight victories by submission, including both Daniel Acacio and Fabio Negao in one night to win the Fury FC middleweight title. He is widely regarded as one of the most dynamic submission specialists to recently emerge from Brazil.
UFC 88 will take place on Sept. 6 at the Philips Arena in Atlanta. The main event features former light heavyweight champion Chuck Liddell in a battle with undefeated Ultimate Fighter Season 2 winner Rashad Evans.
UFC 88 Bouts (officially announced):
-Chuck Liddell vs. Rashad Evans
UFC 88 Bouts (unannounced):
-Dan Henderson vs. Rousimar Palhares
-James Lee vs. Tim Boetsch
It appears that Dan Henderson’s return to the middleweight division wasn’t a one-time deal to challenge UFC champion Anderson Silva. MMAWeekly.com has confirmed with sources close to the camp of Brazilian Top Team fighter Rousimar Palhares that he has signed to fight Henderson in a 185-pound divisional bout at UFC 88 on Sept. 6 in Atlanta.
Henderson has stated several times in the past that he prefers to fight at light heavyweight, but the bout with Palhares will keep him in the middleweight division, at least for the time being.
Henderson lost his last two bouts, both being title fights. He was defeated by Silva at UFC 82 in Columbus earlier this year and lost in a light heavyweight title bout to Quinton Jackson in September of last year. Prior to those two defeats, Henderson had won two in a row – over Wanderlei Silva and Vitor Belfort – and held both the middleweight and light heavyweight Pride championship belts simultaneously.
One of the fastest rising talents of the Brazilian Top Team, Rousimar Palhares made his Octagon debut last month against Ivan Salaverry at UFC 84. Improving his record to 8-1 as a professional, Palhares also earned Submission of the Night honors and a $75,000 bonus check for his slick submission of Salaverry via armbar.
Palhares has finished six of his eight victories by submission, including both Daniel Acacio and Fabio Negao in one night to win the Fury FC middleweight title. He is widely regarded as one of the most dynamic submission specialists to recently emerge from Brazil.
UFC 88 will take place on Sept. 6 at the Philips Arena in Atlanta. The main event features former light heavyweight champion Chuck Liddell in a battle with undefeated Ultimate Fighter Season 2 winner Rashad Evans.
UFC 88 Bouts (officially announced):
-Chuck Liddell vs. Rashad Evans
UFC 88 Bouts (unannounced):
-Dan Henderson vs. Rousimar Palhares
-James Lee vs. Tim Boetsch
Shaw On His Way Out at ProElite?
Speculation within the MMA industry suggests that Gary Shaw's days at ProElite may be numbered. Rumors suggest that Shaw may be out by the end of the summer, possibly soon after the July 26 CBS event. Multiple sources have told MMAPayout.com that the expected move is another example of CBS's growing influence on the company. Santa Monica Capital Partners, the largest shareholder in the company, is also believed to have taken a more active role in the company of late.
Under terms of its deal with ProElite, CBS is entitled to purchase 500,000 shares of stock in the company each time it broadcasts a show on CBS. Based on those options and warrrants already exercised in conjunction with the CBS and Showtime deals, CBS Corporation is believed to be the second largest shareholder in the company.
Earlier this year, Doug DeLuca was "promoted" from CEO to Chairman of the Board in favor of Charles Champion. That move was reportedly also at the behest of CBS and Santa Monica Partners. CBS also fast tracked EliteXC's return to network television to July (as opposed to the October date preferred by ProElite) after reportedly selling out its commercial inventory for the 5/31 show.
Speculation within the MMA industry suggests that Gary Shaw's days at ProElite may be numbered. Rumors suggest that Shaw may be out by the end of the summer, possibly soon after the July 26 CBS event. Multiple sources have told MMAPayout.com that the expected move is another example of CBS's growing influence on the company. Santa Monica Capital Partners, the largest shareholder in the company, is also believed to have taken a more active role in the company of late.
Under terms of its deal with ProElite, CBS is entitled to purchase 500,000 shares of stock in the company each time it broadcasts a show on CBS. Based on those options and warrrants already exercised in conjunction with the CBS and Showtime deals, CBS Corporation is believed to be the second largest shareholder in the company.
Earlier this year, Doug DeLuca was "promoted" from CEO to Chairman of the Board in favor of Charles Champion. That move was reportedly also at the behest of CBS and Santa Monica Partners. CBS also fast tracked EliteXC's return to network television to July (as opposed to the October date preferred by ProElite) after reportedly selling out its commercial inventory for the 5/31 show.
Tomasz Drwal vs Andre Gusmao UFC 87 fight official
Promising up-and-coming light heavyweight talents Andre Gusmao (5-0) and Tomasz Drwal (14-2) are set to clash at UFC 87: “Seek and Destroy” at the Target Center in Minneapolis, Minn., on August 9.
Gusmao is an undefeated fighter who most recently competed in the International Fight League (IFL). In fact, his first round knockout win (knee) of Mike Ciesnolevicz sealed the victory for the Renzo Gracie-led New York Pitbulls at the 2007 Team Championship Final in September.
He was supposed to make his Octagon debut at UFC 81: “Breaking Point” against David Heath; however, contractual obligations with the IFL prevented him from competing in the 205-pound bout. It appears that the red tape has now been lifted.
Drwal was actually inserted to replace Gusmao against Heath, but the Polish fighter sustained a knee injury during training and had to withdraw from the bout. “The Gorilla” dropped his Octagon debut to Thiago Silva at UFC 75: “Champion vs. Champion” via technical knockout in a spirited effort back in September 2006.
It’s good to see him return, as well as Gusmao finally in the fold — this is good fight between two rising young stars.
Promising up-and-coming light heavyweight talents Andre Gusmao (5-0) and Tomasz Drwal (14-2) are set to clash at UFC 87: “Seek and Destroy” at the Target Center in Minneapolis, Minn., on August 9.
Gusmao is an undefeated fighter who most recently competed in the International Fight League (IFL). In fact, his first round knockout win (knee) of Mike Ciesnolevicz sealed the victory for the Renzo Gracie-led New York Pitbulls at the 2007 Team Championship Final in September.
He was supposed to make his Octagon debut at UFC 81: “Breaking Point” against David Heath; however, contractual obligations with the IFL prevented him from competing in the 205-pound bout. It appears that the red tape has now been lifted.
Drwal was actually inserted to replace Gusmao against Heath, but the Polish fighter sustained a knee injury during training and had to withdraw from the bout. “The Gorilla” dropped his Octagon debut to Thiago Silva at UFC 75: “Champion vs. Champion” via technical knockout in a spirited effort back in September 2006.
It’s good to see him return, as well as Gusmao finally in the fold — this is good fight between two rising young stars.
Mauro Ranallo and John McCarthy to announce Affliction: Banned pay-per-view event
It was announced over the weekend that Mauro Ranallo and John McCarthy have been named as the announce team for Affliction’s first-ever event on Saturday, July 19 in Anaheim, Calif.
Ranallo, a former play-by-play announcer for PRIDE, is also the play-by-play announcer for mixed martial arts events on SHOWTIME as well as a color commentator for EliteXC events that air on CBS. He also hosts a daily combat sports radio show on Sirius Satellite Radio and Hardcore Sports Radio every weekday from 3-4 p.m. ET.
McCarthy had been a long-time MMA referee before announcing his retirement last year in order to accept a dual executive-announcer with The Fight Network. He also owns a training center based out of California and is a former law enforcement official.
Affliction: Banned will be headlined by a main event featuring former PRIDE heavyweight champion Fedor Emelianenko taking on former UFC heavyweight champion Tim Sylvia in a match to decide the first-ever WAMMA heavyweight champion. Other bouts slated for the card include a rematch between former UFC heavyweight champion Josh Barnett vs. Pedro Rizzo; Andrei Arlovski vs. Ben Rothwell and Matt Lindland vs. Fabio Negao.
It was announced over the weekend that Mauro Ranallo and John McCarthy have been named as the announce team for Affliction’s first-ever event on Saturday, July 19 in Anaheim, Calif.
Ranallo, a former play-by-play announcer for PRIDE, is also the play-by-play announcer for mixed martial arts events on SHOWTIME as well as a color commentator for EliteXC events that air on CBS. He also hosts a daily combat sports radio show on Sirius Satellite Radio and Hardcore Sports Radio every weekday from 3-4 p.m. ET.
McCarthy had been a long-time MMA referee before announcing his retirement last year in order to accept a dual executive-announcer with The Fight Network. He also owns a training center based out of California and is a former law enforcement official.
Affliction: Banned will be headlined by a main event featuring former PRIDE heavyweight champion Fedor Emelianenko taking on former UFC heavyweight champion Tim Sylvia in a match to decide the first-ever WAMMA heavyweight champion. Other bouts slated for the card include a rematch between former UFC heavyweight champion Josh Barnett vs. Pedro Rizzo; Andrei Arlovski vs. Ben Rothwell and Matt Lindland vs. Fabio Negao.
UFC's merchandise agreement: good in theory, not on paper
Mixed martial arts is in the business of overnight money-making -- raking in hundreds of millions in its opening years while many (ethically and legally) still push it away. And the biggest player behind the sport's chart-defying growth: the Ultimate Fighting Championship.
Revitalized in 2001 by Zuffa, LLC, the UFC has emphasized its "strong ownership and depth of management" as the brand enhanced the sport's international and national presence, helped it ride the wave of reality TV, put it near the top of premium and network television ratings and guided it into the arena of merchandising and sponsorship to make it a force to be reckoned with in sports business.
And it is in this quick-hit climate that fighters signed to Zuffa, which also owns World Extreme Cagefighting, have recently been asked to sign a merchandise rights agreement as an addendum to their fight contracts.
Born out of Zuffa's desire to license and merchandise its UFC and WEC brands on a global scale, the agreement expands the areas and ways a fighter's name and likeness can be sold -- "apparel, footwear, hats, photographs, souvenirs, toys, collectibles, trading cards, and any and all other similar type products" -- pushing it far beyond the event-related rights afforded to the promoter through bout agreements and promotional contracts.
On June 10, Zuffa jumped into the merchandise market when it announced a four-year deal with JAKKS Pacific to create a line of action figures based on current UFC stars. By fall 2009, Brock Lesnar, Michael Bisping, Forrest Griffin, Anderson Silva, Chuck Liddell and others will have action figures in their image for sale from K-Mart to Toys R Us. (Each, presumably, will have signed some sort of merchandise rights deal in order to be part of the initial campaign.)
In theory, the official UFC and WEC merchandise and licenses would allow athletes to cash checks for doing nothing.
"I'm excited about it, actually, because what we've been working for a number of years on is getting the fighters more money while not fighting -- how to get these guys paid while sitting on the couch," UFC President Dana White told SI.com last week. "And this new merchandising deal that we did with all these guys is a step in the right direction."
But the company's claim has raised concerns by mixed martial artists and their managers over issues such as undefined terms of compensation, the loss of likeness rights in perpetuity and the inability to audit how much Zuffa is making in individual licensing agreements.
While UFC officials declined to comment for this story, some managers have already spoken up, and their fighters have already declined to participate.
Cesar Gracie (who guides The Ultimate Fighter 5 winner Nate Diaz), J.T. Stewart (who handles business affairs for former UFC middleweight champion Rich Franklin) and a handful of other managers who asked not to be identified in this story are in the growing phalanx of those who have voiced concerns. Specifically, they're concerned about the more than half-dozen "deal-breaker" clauses in the agreement -- mainly: the indefinite term of perpetuity, made worse by a fighter's inability to opt out.
Essentially, they claim, the deal allows the UFC to control an important section of a fighter's career by determining which licensing ventures he can or cannot enter into -- during his career and beyond.
"I thought it was a good deal for the UFC," Gracie said. "I thought, financially, it was not a good deal for the fighters. Making a few dollars is better than making no dollars, and that would be the only reason to making a deal like this happen, but there are too many negatives right now, too many ways to get screwed, where it's not worth it in my opinion."
According to the standard agreement, which was obtained by SI.com, clause 1.2 states:
The Merchandise Rights shall be ZUFFA's sole property in perpetuity throughout the world, which ZUFFA shall hold free and clear from any and all claimes of Fighter or anyone claiming through Fighter.
Per Article III about compensation, fighters are entitled to "10 percent of the Gross Revenues and 20 percent of the Gross Royalty Revenues" from all licensed merchandise created by third parties, not the UFC.
"If they do a tenth of what they say they can do, it'll mean a ton of money for Rich," Stewart added. "I hope they make it happen and I hope Rich is a part of it. But you've got to do it in a fair and equitable way that gets the best deal for your client. And their first pass at this was not the best deal. Hopefully, they'll come back with a different version."
A soft spot for some fighters and their managers centered on the UFC's refusal to divulge monetary details of their licensing agreements with companies like JAKKS, making it impossible to know just how much fighters stand to profit from licensed merchandise sales.
"I can't even begin to think about entering into an agreement where I don't have auditing rights and I have to depend upon someone else's expertise and skills to tell me how much money I'm not making," Stewart said.
Licensing and merchandising deals with Bic, JC Penney and US Bank, which has released a UFC Visa credit card, were also announced earlier this month.
To put potential dollar figures in perspective, World Wrestling Entertainment, which in many ways resembles the new UFC merchandising and licensing framework, created $26.2 million in licensing revenue during the first quarter of 2008, according to the company's SEC filings. While few expect official UFC merchandise to generate that kind of money to start, an ardent fan base makes for the strong possibility that UFC- and WEC-branded products featuring the promotions' brightest stars would be lucrative.
Some of the UFC's top names, hoping for better percentages and control, have already sought out other licensing deals.
"It's a pretty solid income you can generate," said Damon Lau, president of Round 5, a collectibles company out of Toronto that has signed exclusive deals with Franklin, Sean Sherk, Randy Couture, Matt Hughes, Tito Ortiz and Quinton Jackson. "Is it going to buy you a new house? No, absolutely not. We're not talking about selling 10 million Barbies. But they have a lot of fans and they can make a pretty good pay check off of it."
While Liddell, Silva and a select few will negotiate their own merchandising rights agreements -- likely yielding more revenue and a possible revision of the perpetuity clause -- most fighters will need to accept the terms as written if they're going to participate in the broad-ranging yet loosely-defined program.
That puts a younger fighter who's yet to reach the height of his career in a difficult position, Stewart said. "If they sign and then they become popular, they're locked in depending on the deal they cut," he said. "And if they don't sign it, they don't really have anything going."
But not everyone outside of the UFC opposes the agreement. Florida-based manager Dean Albrecht, who consults with close to 40 fighters, including Bisping, Frank Mir and Joe Stevenson, has drawn the ire of other managers as an eager supporter of the merchandising agreement.
Why?
How about Amir Sadollah, for example. Prior to June 21, the 27-year-old Virginian was a surgical technician looking for a break. Now, the newest "Ultimate Fighter," and owner of a six-figure Ultimate Fighting Championship contract, Sadollah is on a career track that has propelled numerous fighters to stardom.
Or how about the ever-growing international fan-base as a result of multiple promotions in England, Ireland, Japan and Canada, and proposed future venues in Brazil, Germany, the Philippines and India.
And how about the promotion of a racially and ethnically diverse pool of athletes -- an aspect many mainstream sports are criticized of lacking today.
"Having a licensing department and licensing director that wants to use your mark, your name, your likeness in a positive way to promote you, and is offering to share in the equity on a go-forward basis, [is a positive thing]," Albrecht said. "[The fighters] don't have to do the accounting of it, they don't have to do the sales of it, they don't have to do the upkeep of it -- all they have to do is show up every once in a while and help promote the brand. I don't see how that's unfair."
While many have raised questions and even flat-out denied the chance to sign the UFC's new agreement, the organization has not been eager to change the language in the deal save for its biggest stars at this point. That may change if fighters continue to hold out. After all, what good is official UFC merchandise, suggested one manager, if you don't have the name and face of a fighter to go with it?
However, the question that really needs answering as the UFC moves forward on the licensing and merchandise agreement is: How much are the fighters worth in the equation?
Mixed martial arts is in the business of overnight money-making -- raking in hundreds of millions in its opening years while many (ethically and legally) still push it away. And the biggest player behind the sport's chart-defying growth: the Ultimate Fighting Championship.
Revitalized in 2001 by Zuffa, LLC, the UFC has emphasized its "strong ownership and depth of management" as the brand enhanced the sport's international and national presence, helped it ride the wave of reality TV, put it near the top of premium and network television ratings and guided it into the arena of merchandising and sponsorship to make it a force to be reckoned with in sports business.
And it is in this quick-hit climate that fighters signed to Zuffa, which also owns World Extreme Cagefighting, have recently been asked to sign a merchandise rights agreement as an addendum to their fight contracts.
Born out of Zuffa's desire to license and merchandise its UFC and WEC brands on a global scale, the agreement expands the areas and ways a fighter's name and likeness can be sold -- "apparel, footwear, hats, photographs, souvenirs, toys, collectibles, trading cards, and any and all other similar type products" -- pushing it far beyond the event-related rights afforded to the promoter through bout agreements and promotional contracts.
On June 10, Zuffa jumped into the merchandise market when it announced a four-year deal with JAKKS Pacific to create a line of action figures based on current UFC stars. By fall 2009, Brock Lesnar, Michael Bisping, Forrest Griffin, Anderson Silva, Chuck Liddell and others will have action figures in their image for sale from K-Mart to Toys R Us. (Each, presumably, will have signed some sort of merchandise rights deal in order to be part of the initial campaign.)
In theory, the official UFC and WEC merchandise and licenses would allow athletes to cash checks for doing nothing.
"I'm excited about it, actually, because what we've been working for a number of years on is getting the fighters more money while not fighting -- how to get these guys paid while sitting on the couch," UFC President Dana White told SI.com last week. "And this new merchandising deal that we did with all these guys is a step in the right direction."
But the company's claim has raised concerns by mixed martial artists and their managers over issues such as undefined terms of compensation, the loss of likeness rights in perpetuity and the inability to audit how much Zuffa is making in individual licensing agreements.
While UFC officials declined to comment for this story, some managers have already spoken up, and their fighters have already declined to participate.
Cesar Gracie (who guides The Ultimate Fighter 5 winner Nate Diaz), J.T. Stewart (who handles business affairs for former UFC middleweight champion Rich Franklin) and a handful of other managers who asked not to be identified in this story are in the growing phalanx of those who have voiced concerns. Specifically, they're concerned about the more than half-dozen "deal-breaker" clauses in the agreement -- mainly: the indefinite term of perpetuity, made worse by a fighter's inability to opt out.
Essentially, they claim, the deal allows the UFC to control an important section of a fighter's career by determining which licensing ventures he can or cannot enter into -- during his career and beyond.
"I thought it was a good deal for the UFC," Gracie said. "I thought, financially, it was not a good deal for the fighters. Making a few dollars is better than making no dollars, and that would be the only reason to making a deal like this happen, but there are too many negatives right now, too many ways to get screwed, where it's not worth it in my opinion."
According to the standard agreement, which was obtained by SI.com, clause 1.2 states:
The Merchandise Rights shall be ZUFFA's sole property in perpetuity throughout the world, which ZUFFA shall hold free and clear from any and all claimes of Fighter or anyone claiming through Fighter.
Per Article III about compensation, fighters are entitled to "10 percent of the Gross Revenues and 20 percent of the Gross Royalty Revenues" from all licensed merchandise created by third parties, not the UFC.
"If they do a tenth of what they say they can do, it'll mean a ton of money for Rich," Stewart added. "I hope they make it happen and I hope Rich is a part of it. But you've got to do it in a fair and equitable way that gets the best deal for your client. And their first pass at this was not the best deal. Hopefully, they'll come back with a different version."
A soft spot for some fighters and their managers centered on the UFC's refusal to divulge monetary details of their licensing agreements with companies like JAKKS, making it impossible to know just how much fighters stand to profit from licensed merchandise sales.
"I can't even begin to think about entering into an agreement where I don't have auditing rights and I have to depend upon someone else's expertise and skills to tell me how much money I'm not making," Stewart said.
Licensing and merchandising deals with Bic, JC Penney and US Bank, which has released a UFC Visa credit card, were also announced earlier this month.
To put potential dollar figures in perspective, World Wrestling Entertainment, which in many ways resembles the new UFC merchandising and licensing framework, created $26.2 million in licensing revenue during the first quarter of 2008, according to the company's SEC filings. While few expect official UFC merchandise to generate that kind of money to start, an ardent fan base makes for the strong possibility that UFC- and WEC-branded products featuring the promotions' brightest stars would be lucrative.
Some of the UFC's top names, hoping for better percentages and control, have already sought out other licensing deals.
"It's a pretty solid income you can generate," said Damon Lau, president of Round 5, a collectibles company out of Toronto that has signed exclusive deals with Franklin, Sean Sherk, Randy Couture, Matt Hughes, Tito Ortiz and Quinton Jackson. "Is it going to buy you a new house? No, absolutely not. We're not talking about selling 10 million Barbies. But they have a lot of fans and they can make a pretty good pay check off of it."
While Liddell, Silva and a select few will negotiate their own merchandising rights agreements -- likely yielding more revenue and a possible revision of the perpetuity clause -- most fighters will need to accept the terms as written if they're going to participate in the broad-ranging yet loosely-defined program.
That puts a younger fighter who's yet to reach the height of his career in a difficult position, Stewart said. "If they sign and then they become popular, they're locked in depending on the deal they cut," he said. "And if they don't sign it, they don't really have anything going."
But not everyone outside of the UFC opposes the agreement. Florida-based manager Dean Albrecht, who consults with close to 40 fighters, including Bisping, Frank Mir and Joe Stevenson, has drawn the ire of other managers as an eager supporter of the merchandising agreement.
Why?
How about Amir Sadollah, for example. Prior to June 21, the 27-year-old Virginian was a surgical technician looking for a break. Now, the newest "Ultimate Fighter," and owner of a six-figure Ultimate Fighting Championship contract, Sadollah is on a career track that has propelled numerous fighters to stardom.
Or how about the ever-growing international fan-base as a result of multiple promotions in England, Ireland, Japan and Canada, and proposed future venues in Brazil, Germany, the Philippines and India.
And how about the promotion of a racially and ethnically diverse pool of athletes -- an aspect many mainstream sports are criticized of lacking today.
"Having a licensing department and licensing director that wants to use your mark, your name, your likeness in a positive way to promote you, and is offering to share in the equity on a go-forward basis, [is a positive thing]," Albrecht said. "[The fighters] don't have to do the accounting of it, they don't have to do the sales of it, they don't have to do the upkeep of it -- all they have to do is show up every once in a while and help promote the brand. I don't see how that's unfair."
While many have raised questions and even flat-out denied the chance to sign the UFC's new agreement, the organization has not been eager to change the language in the deal save for its biggest stars at this point. That may change if fighters continue to hold out. After all, what good is official UFC merchandise, suggested one manager, if you don't have the name and face of a fighter to go with it?
However, the question that really needs answering as the UFC moves forward on the licensing and merchandise agreement is: How much are the fighters worth in the equation?
Why Did Kimbo Choose MMA Over Boxing
By Rahul Deb: MMA recently got its first exposure on network television when CBS broadcast the EliteXC fight card headlined by none other than internet sensation Kimbo Slice. It was a big step for MMA towards gaining mainstream recognition as a sport and some claim it is a matter of time before MMA passes boxing in popularity. Boxing as we know hasn’t had network tv airtime in many years. I had the pleasure of watching Kimbo Slice pop open the alien ear of James Thompson on route to a highly questionable stoppage.
Watching Kimbo struggle and almost get stopped against the extremely mediocre and limited Thompson made me wonder. Why did Kimbo choose to become a professional mixed martial artist as opposed to a professional boxer? After all, his only fighting experience is in street fights which
were basically old fashioned bare knuckled brawls. Fighters were not allowed to grapple and they are given counts after each knockdown exactly as in the sweet science. There were no elbows, knees, kicks or submissions allowed. In fact, the only fight Kimbo lost was against Sean Gannon,
a policeman with some MMA training. In the fight, Sean was able to tire Kimbo by choking him and grappling with him which Kimbo’s troupe complained was against the rules. Kimbo’s lack of ground skills was also exposed by Thompson, who is an unquestionably inept ground fighter.
So why then is Kimbo not a professional boxer? If the latter part of Mike Tyson’s career has proved anything, it is that we as boxing fans like a freak show as much as anyone else. I’m sure promoters would have welcomed the opportunity of having Kimbo fight on their cards. To me the answer is very simple. It would be a terrible career move. Kimbo is an extremely limited fighter who is slow and throws wide telegraphed punches. While he does have power it is unclear whether this power is considerably more than an average heavyweight boxer. In MMA, having moderate boxing skills makes you a striker and this presents a competitive advantage over other fighters who have a predominantly wrestling or jiu jitsu background. By possessing a dimension which other fighters do not, Kimbo gives himself a chance at winning.
In a boxing ring, on the other hand, Kimbo would be exposed. Possessing mediocre boxing skills merely makes you a mediocre fighter. After all, even shop worn journey men would provide a bigger challenge than some of the bums Kimbo beat up on youtube and the extremely unskilled and chinny James Thompson. On the other hand with careful matchmaking, Kimbo can climb up the MMA ladder against good fighters with good records who have been known to perform poorly against strikers.
Don’t get me wrong, Kimbo would be destroyed by a medium to top level MMA fighter just as he would against a medium to top level boxer. All I am saying is that I doubt a feared puncher in the MMA world like Chuck Liddell would be competitive in a boxing fight against a comparably sized David Haye. MMA and boxing are just extremely different sports. Come to think of it, I wonder if Kimbo would have beaten the 46 year old Ray Mercer had they been fighting Marquess of Queensberry rules.
By Rahul Deb: MMA recently got its first exposure on network television when CBS broadcast the EliteXC fight card headlined by none other than internet sensation Kimbo Slice. It was a big step for MMA towards gaining mainstream recognition as a sport and some claim it is a matter of time before MMA passes boxing in popularity. Boxing as we know hasn’t had network tv airtime in many years. I had the pleasure of watching Kimbo Slice pop open the alien ear of James Thompson on route to a highly questionable stoppage.
Watching Kimbo struggle and almost get stopped against the extremely mediocre and limited Thompson made me wonder. Why did Kimbo choose to become a professional mixed martial artist as opposed to a professional boxer? After all, his only fighting experience is in street fights which
were basically old fashioned bare knuckled brawls. Fighters were not allowed to grapple and they are given counts after each knockdown exactly as in the sweet science. There were no elbows, knees, kicks or submissions allowed. In fact, the only fight Kimbo lost was against Sean Gannon,
a policeman with some MMA training. In the fight, Sean was able to tire Kimbo by choking him and grappling with him which Kimbo’s troupe complained was against the rules. Kimbo’s lack of ground skills was also exposed by Thompson, who is an unquestionably inept ground fighter.
So why then is Kimbo not a professional boxer? If the latter part of Mike Tyson’s career has proved anything, it is that we as boxing fans like a freak show as much as anyone else. I’m sure promoters would have welcomed the opportunity of having Kimbo fight on their cards. To me the answer is very simple. It would be a terrible career move. Kimbo is an extremely limited fighter who is slow and throws wide telegraphed punches. While he does have power it is unclear whether this power is considerably more than an average heavyweight boxer. In MMA, having moderate boxing skills makes you a striker and this presents a competitive advantage over other fighters who have a predominantly wrestling or jiu jitsu background. By possessing a dimension which other fighters do not, Kimbo gives himself a chance at winning.
In a boxing ring, on the other hand, Kimbo would be exposed. Possessing mediocre boxing skills merely makes you a mediocre fighter. After all, even shop worn journey men would provide a bigger challenge than some of the bums Kimbo beat up on youtube and the extremely unskilled and chinny James Thompson. On the other hand with careful matchmaking, Kimbo can climb up the MMA ladder against good fighters with good records who have been known to perform poorly against strikers.
Don’t get me wrong, Kimbo would be destroyed by a medium to top level MMA fighter just as he would against a medium to top level boxer. All I am saying is that I doubt a feared puncher in the MMA world like Chuck Liddell would be competitive in a boxing fight against a comparably sized David Haye. MMA and boxing are just extremely different sports. Come to think of it, I wonder if Kimbo would have beaten the 46 year old Ray Mercer had they been fighting Marquess of Queensberry rules.
Sherdog P4P: Penn, Torres and Faber Advance
June 25, 2008
In the past few weeks, nothing has changed insofar as we all still know who the top fighter in the sport is. However, July 19 will put the essence of pound-for-pound on display, when Anderson Silva moves up to 205 pounds to meet James Irvin (Pictures). The bout may be the first step of a new competitive odyssey for the sport's top fighter.
However, this last stretch of fights has further put the sport's premiere smaller standouts on display. B.J. Penn's domination of Sean Sherk (Pictures) validated claims of the Hawaiian as the sport's premiere lightweight. A week later, Urijah Faber (Pictures) and Miguel Torres (Pictures) fought, and flew in the face of traditional combative convention that smaller divisions can't sell, as they entrenched themselves as pound-for-pound stars putting MMA's little men on the map. But where do they stack up in the pound-for pound world?
Furthermore, after time away from serious competition, the likes of Fedor Emelianenko (Pictures), Takanori Gomi (Pictures) and Norifumi "Kid" Yamamoto are ready to get back into the saddle this summer. What prospects do these standouts have of meeting top opponents and securing their spot among the sport's best?
1. Anderson Silva (21-4)
Of course, it is no surprise that "The Spider" reigns as the sport's top dog. However, what is most pertinent is that Silva has at least temporarily given up on his pugilistic pipe dream of meeting Roy Jones Jr. in a boxing match, and there may be serious pound-for-pound impact in the future for the UFC's middleweight king. July 19 will mark Silva's foray into the light heavyweight division when he takes on James Irvin (Pictures). Furthermore, Silva is likely looking at an autumn title defense against former foe Yushin Okami (Pictures) in an elite-level middleweight scrap. It is important to remember that Silva began his career as a top welterweight; between continued 185-pound dominance and possible preeminence at 205 pounds, Silva has the potential to solidify himself as an elite fighter across three weights classes in his career, which would be an enormous achievement.
2. Quinton Jackson (Pictures) (28-6)
With only the final bout left on the books for the seventh season of "The Ultimate Fighter," fans' full attention will now turn to Jackson's July 5 clash with Forrest Griffin (Pictures), the second defense of his UFC light heavyweight crown. The MMA populace has always thought "Rampage" had all the tools in and out of the cage to be a star, and an impressive performance against the beloved Griffin may solidify the 205-pound champ's celeb status. More importantly, superstar status for Jackson may be good for the sport in general, as the light heavyweight division may be MMA's historically greatest division, rich with both stars and young up-and-comers. When the best fights are the biggest tickets, the sport is in a good place.
3. Georges St. Pierre (Pictures) (16-2)
With the entire Matt Serra (Pictures) saga now behind him, St. Pierre now shares similar prospects with "Rampage." A talented champion with transcendental charisma, GSP also reigns over MMA's other historically rich class. While 170 pounds may lack some of the stardom that 205 traditionally has enjoyed, there is a host of legitimate major fights for the welterweight champ. The first of what may be many comes August 9, when St. Pierre takes on Jon Fitch (Pictures) in what should be a fantastic 170-pound scrap. The line behind Fitch seems near limitless with emerging contenders such as Thiago Alves (Pictures) and Mike Swick (Pictures), top fighters who continue to improve their game such as Diego Sanchez (Pictures) and Josh Koscheck (Pictures), and the introduction of quality international prospects such as Yoshiyuki Yoshida (Pictures) and Dong Hyun Kim.
4. Fedor Emelianenko (Pictures) (27-1, 1 NC)
It is refreshing to know that a legitimate heavyweight contest is around the corner for Emelianenko, when he meets Tim Sylvia (Pictures) on July 19. Although an Emelianenko-Randy Couture (Pictures) bout is the big heavyweight ticket at this point in time, between the dearth of heavyweight talent, the fracturing of that scarce talent pool and Emelianenko's recent run against non-elite heavyweights, the clash with Sylvia is more than welcomed. The operative question, however, is if Emelianenko conquers Sylvia, whether or not there are further great heavyweight bouts which can be made in the near future for the Russian.
5. B.J. Penn (Pictures) (13-4-1)
After finally claiming the UFC lightweight crown with his destruction of Sean Sherk in May, the world's most talented lightweight is now certifiably the best, rising from ninth to fifth in the Sherdog pound-for-pound rankings. August 9 should give us our next challenger to the lightweight kingpin, as Roger Huerta (Pictures) and Kenny Florian (Pictures) square off in a presumptive 155-pound title eliminator. Despite the UFC's lightweight class being rich with young up-and-comers, many fans have already declared Penn unbeatable within the division, and are already looking forward to Penn moving up in weight to rematch Georges St. Pierre (Pictures). Although it may be preferable for Zuffa if Penn were to reign and give their historically troubled lightweight division some stability, it is hard to refute the allure of a five-round rematch between two of the sports pound-for-pound stars.
6. Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira (Pictures) (31-4-1, 1 NC)
The unfortunate reality for Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira (Pictures) is that while he's undoubtedly one of the greatest and most accomplished fighters this sport has seen thus far, he is still and perhaps will always be known as the number two heavyweight behind Fedor Emelianenko (Pictures). It appeared as though with Emelianenko not exactly facing the best crop of heavyweight talent, that Nogueira's move to the UFC could afford him the opportunity to face the best heavies in the game and reemerge as the sport's heavyweight king. Now, with the departures of fighters like Tim Sylvia, Andrei Arlovski (Pictures), Mirko "CroCop" Filipovic, and the deep pockets willing to stage fights for Emelianenko, the tables may have turned. Furthermore, with the rise of B.J. Penn, Nogueira slips one spot in these rankings to number six. However, the upcoming season of "The Ultimate Fighter 8," on which Nogueira will coach against former UFC champ Frank Mir (Pictures), should raise the profile of "Minotauro" to an audience his Russian rival has yet to reach.
7. Urijah Faber (Pictures) (21-1)
Although the ascent of B.J. Penn sees Faber slip in these rankings from sixth to seventh, Faber has become the first real sub-lightweight star in North American MMA, a thought that once seemed inconceivable in years past, when many thought that even lightweights couldn't catch on with fans. In his Sacramento, Calif. homecoming against Jens Pulver (Pictures) on June 1, "The California Kid" effortlessly played the superstar role. Faber was not only able to galvanize the audience, but in the biggest featherweight fight this sport has seen thus far, he dominated Pulver from bell-to-bell in a commanding performance that showed off his newly matured striking game. More importantly, more and more featherweight talent continues to pour into the WEC, which should allow Faber to have both a future full of top competition and outstanding fights.
8. Miguel Torres (Pictures) (33-1)
After turning in a champion's performance in what may wind up as 2008's fight of the year, MMA's mulleted Mexicano raises his pound-for-pound stock, climbing from tenth to eighth. Torres' June 1 bout with Pancrase star Yoshiro Maeda (Pictures) was a perfect example of why hardcore fans have championed MMA's smaller weight classes for so long, and why now that these weight classes are being put on the big stage with the help of Zuffa and the WEC, fans are so quick to take to them. What's even better is that like Urijah Faber, with WEC emerging as the big ticket for MMA's smaller fighters, Torres will have no shortage of quality opponents, especially as the promotion sees more international competitors enter the cage for a crack at him.
9. Takanori Gomi (Pictures) (28-3, 1 NC)
With the likes of Penn, Faber and Torres putting on defining performances in major fights, Gomi sees his pound-for-pound stature slip, falling from seventh to ninth. With the majority of former Pride Bushido lightweights now in Dream, the question regarding Gomi has been whether or not the longtime lightweight king can manage to secure fights with accomplished, talented lightweights fighting in World Victory Road's Sengoku. While undoubtedly, a more fitting environment would be the UFC's Octagon or Dream's lightweight grand prix, things may not be so grim for Gomi competitively speaking. "The Fireball Kid" will return to action on August 24's Sengoku card, which will also see an eight-man lightweight tournament with some high quality if not unknown lightweights such as Rodrigo Damm (Pictures), Satoru Kitaoka (Pictures) and Eiji Mitsuoka (Pictures). The tournament's winner will then go on to challenge Gomi in a scenario which isn't the "ultimate" or "dreamy," but isn't too shabby either.
10. Norifumi Yamamoto (Pictures) (17-1, 1 NC)
As we lie in wait for Yamamoto's return to the ring, the bad boy of Japanese MMA slips from eighth to tenth for Sherdog's pound-for-pound purposes. Thankfully, "Kid" will make his return soon enough on Dream's July 21 card in Osaka, where he'll meet undefeated Urijah Faber pupil Joseph Benavidez (Pictures). Although it is not nearly as important as the world collide-style dream match with featherweight ruler Urijah Faber, it is great to see Dream's parent company, Fighting and Entertainment Group, finally create a featherweight class, giving Yamamoto a true divisional home rather than having him float between contract weights, or fight far beyond his means at 154 pounds. The creation of Dream's featherweight class should lead to attracting high quality international featherweights, which means that finally, "Kid" should get the chance to face the elite level competitors befitting his talent
June 25, 2008
In the past few weeks, nothing has changed insofar as we all still know who the top fighter in the sport is. However, July 19 will put the essence of pound-for-pound on display, when Anderson Silva moves up to 205 pounds to meet James Irvin (Pictures). The bout may be the first step of a new competitive odyssey for the sport's top fighter.
However, this last stretch of fights has further put the sport's premiere smaller standouts on display. B.J. Penn's domination of Sean Sherk (Pictures) validated claims of the Hawaiian as the sport's premiere lightweight. A week later, Urijah Faber (Pictures) and Miguel Torres (Pictures) fought, and flew in the face of traditional combative convention that smaller divisions can't sell, as they entrenched themselves as pound-for-pound stars putting MMA's little men on the map. But where do they stack up in the pound-for pound world?
Furthermore, after time away from serious competition, the likes of Fedor Emelianenko (Pictures), Takanori Gomi (Pictures) and Norifumi "Kid" Yamamoto are ready to get back into the saddle this summer. What prospects do these standouts have of meeting top opponents and securing their spot among the sport's best?
1. Anderson Silva (21-4)
Of course, it is no surprise that "The Spider" reigns as the sport's top dog. However, what is most pertinent is that Silva has at least temporarily given up on his pugilistic pipe dream of meeting Roy Jones Jr. in a boxing match, and there may be serious pound-for-pound impact in the future for the UFC's middleweight king. July 19 will mark Silva's foray into the light heavyweight division when he takes on James Irvin (Pictures). Furthermore, Silva is likely looking at an autumn title defense against former foe Yushin Okami (Pictures) in an elite-level middleweight scrap. It is important to remember that Silva began his career as a top welterweight; between continued 185-pound dominance and possible preeminence at 205 pounds, Silva has the potential to solidify himself as an elite fighter across three weights classes in his career, which would be an enormous achievement.
2. Quinton Jackson (Pictures) (28-6)
With only the final bout left on the books for the seventh season of "The Ultimate Fighter," fans' full attention will now turn to Jackson's July 5 clash with Forrest Griffin (Pictures), the second defense of his UFC light heavyweight crown. The MMA populace has always thought "Rampage" had all the tools in and out of the cage to be a star, and an impressive performance against the beloved Griffin may solidify the 205-pound champ's celeb status. More importantly, superstar status for Jackson may be good for the sport in general, as the light heavyweight division may be MMA's historically greatest division, rich with both stars and young up-and-comers. When the best fights are the biggest tickets, the sport is in a good place.
3. Georges St. Pierre (Pictures) (16-2)
With the entire Matt Serra (Pictures) saga now behind him, St. Pierre now shares similar prospects with "Rampage." A talented champion with transcendental charisma, GSP also reigns over MMA's other historically rich class. While 170 pounds may lack some of the stardom that 205 traditionally has enjoyed, there is a host of legitimate major fights for the welterweight champ. The first of what may be many comes August 9, when St. Pierre takes on Jon Fitch (Pictures) in what should be a fantastic 170-pound scrap. The line behind Fitch seems near limitless with emerging contenders such as Thiago Alves (Pictures) and Mike Swick (Pictures), top fighters who continue to improve their game such as Diego Sanchez (Pictures) and Josh Koscheck (Pictures), and the introduction of quality international prospects such as Yoshiyuki Yoshida (Pictures) and Dong Hyun Kim.
4. Fedor Emelianenko (Pictures) (27-1, 1 NC)
It is refreshing to know that a legitimate heavyweight contest is around the corner for Emelianenko, when he meets Tim Sylvia (Pictures) on July 19. Although an Emelianenko-Randy Couture (Pictures) bout is the big heavyweight ticket at this point in time, between the dearth of heavyweight talent, the fracturing of that scarce talent pool and Emelianenko's recent run against non-elite heavyweights, the clash with Sylvia is more than welcomed. The operative question, however, is if Emelianenko conquers Sylvia, whether or not there are further great heavyweight bouts which can be made in the near future for the Russian.
5. B.J. Penn (Pictures) (13-4-1)
After finally claiming the UFC lightweight crown with his destruction of Sean Sherk in May, the world's most talented lightweight is now certifiably the best, rising from ninth to fifth in the Sherdog pound-for-pound rankings. August 9 should give us our next challenger to the lightweight kingpin, as Roger Huerta (Pictures) and Kenny Florian (Pictures) square off in a presumptive 155-pound title eliminator. Despite the UFC's lightweight class being rich with young up-and-comers, many fans have already declared Penn unbeatable within the division, and are already looking forward to Penn moving up in weight to rematch Georges St. Pierre (Pictures). Although it may be preferable for Zuffa if Penn were to reign and give their historically troubled lightweight division some stability, it is hard to refute the allure of a five-round rematch between two of the sports pound-for-pound stars.
6. Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira (Pictures) (31-4-1, 1 NC)
The unfortunate reality for Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira (Pictures) is that while he's undoubtedly one of the greatest and most accomplished fighters this sport has seen thus far, he is still and perhaps will always be known as the number two heavyweight behind Fedor Emelianenko (Pictures). It appeared as though with Emelianenko not exactly facing the best crop of heavyweight talent, that Nogueira's move to the UFC could afford him the opportunity to face the best heavies in the game and reemerge as the sport's heavyweight king. Now, with the departures of fighters like Tim Sylvia, Andrei Arlovski (Pictures), Mirko "CroCop" Filipovic, and the deep pockets willing to stage fights for Emelianenko, the tables may have turned. Furthermore, with the rise of B.J. Penn, Nogueira slips one spot in these rankings to number six. However, the upcoming season of "The Ultimate Fighter 8," on which Nogueira will coach against former UFC champ Frank Mir (Pictures), should raise the profile of "Minotauro" to an audience his Russian rival has yet to reach.
7. Urijah Faber (Pictures) (21-1)
Although the ascent of B.J. Penn sees Faber slip in these rankings from sixth to seventh, Faber has become the first real sub-lightweight star in North American MMA, a thought that once seemed inconceivable in years past, when many thought that even lightweights couldn't catch on with fans. In his Sacramento, Calif. homecoming against Jens Pulver (Pictures) on June 1, "The California Kid" effortlessly played the superstar role. Faber was not only able to galvanize the audience, but in the biggest featherweight fight this sport has seen thus far, he dominated Pulver from bell-to-bell in a commanding performance that showed off his newly matured striking game. More importantly, more and more featherweight talent continues to pour into the WEC, which should allow Faber to have both a future full of top competition and outstanding fights.
8. Miguel Torres (Pictures) (33-1)
After turning in a champion's performance in what may wind up as 2008's fight of the year, MMA's mulleted Mexicano raises his pound-for-pound stock, climbing from tenth to eighth. Torres' June 1 bout with Pancrase star Yoshiro Maeda (Pictures) was a perfect example of why hardcore fans have championed MMA's smaller weight classes for so long, and why now that these weight classes are being put on the big stage with the help of Zuffa and the WEC, fans are so quick to take to them. What's even better is that like Urijah Faber, with WEC emerging as the big ticket for MMA's smaller fighters, Torres will have no shortage of quality opponents, especially as the promotion sees more international competitors enter the cage for a crack at him.
9. Takanori Gomi (Pictures) (28-3, 1 NC)
With the likes of Penn, Faber and Torres putting on defining performances in major fights, Gomi sees his pound-for-pound stature slip, falling from seventh to ninth. With the majority of former Pride Bushido lightweights now in Dream, the question regarding Gomi has been whether or not the longtime lightweight king can manage to secure fights with accomplished, talented lightweights fighting in World Victory Road's Sengoku. While undoubtedly, a more fitting environment would be the UFC's Octagon or Dream's lightweight grand prix, things may not be so grim for Gomi competitively speaking. "The Fireball Kid" will return to action on August 24's Sengoku card, which will also see an eight-man lightweight tournament with some high quality if not unknown lightweights such as Rodrigo Damm (Pictures), Satoru Kitaoka (Pictures) and Eiji Mitsuoka (Pictures). The tournament's winner will then go on to challenge Gomi in a scenario which isn't the "ultimate" or "dreamy," but isn't too shabby either.
10. Norifumi Yamamoto (Pictures) (17-1, 1 NC)
As we lie in wait for Yamamoto's return to the ring, the bad boy of Japanese MMA slips from eighth to tenth for Sherdog's pound-for-pound purposes. Thankfully, "Kid" will make his return soon enough on Dream's July 21 card in Osaka, where he'll meet undefeated Urijah Faber pupil Joseph Benavidez (Pictures). Although it is not nearly as important as the world collide-style dream match with featherweight ruler Urijah Faber, it is great to see Dream's parent company, Fighting and Entertainment Group, finally create a featherweight class, giving Yamamoto a true divisional home rather than having him float between contract weights, or fight far beyond his means at 154 pounds. The creation of Dream's featherweight class should lead to attracting high quality international featherweights, which means that finally, "Kid" should get the chance to face the elite level competitors befitting his talent
UFC Confirms Blockbuster Deal with Setanta
Blockbuster Deal with Setanta
Stash Capar
European Correspondent
CATEGORIES: MMA, International
Fans in the UK will soon have access to all the UFC they can handle thanks to a new deal inked between the American promotion and sports broadcaster Setanta. As of Saturday, July 5, Setanta will have the rights to broadcast every live UFC event, both in America and internationally. The news was confirmed by UFC UK president Marshall Zelaznik this week.
"[UK fans] can see every single live UFC event," Zelaznik said, "whether it is the supercards, like UFC 86, 87 or 88, a special event like Anderson Silva versus James Irvin, a UFC Fight Night card or the finale of the latest series of ‘The Ultimate Fighter.'"
The new agreement makes Setanta the UFC's exclusive live broadcasting partner within the UK. Zelaznik indicated the Las Vegas-based promotion was offered numerous live broadcast deals from various television networks but said Setanta's ambitions and versatility made it the perfect partner.
"In many ways, Setanta is a lot like the UFC," Zelaznik said. "They're young, hungry and expanding at a rapid pace."
Setanta Sports was established in 1990 and has experienced impressive growth in recent years, making it a worthy competitor to News Corp-owned giant SKY Sports -- the former broadcast partner of the Cage Rage promotion
Blockbuster Deal with Setanta
Stash Capar
European Correspondent
CATEGORIES: MMA, International
Fans in the UK will soon have access to all the UFC they can handle thanks to a new deal inked between the American promotion and sports broadcaster Setanta. As of Saturday, July 5, Setanta will have the rights to broadcast every live UFC event, both in America and internationally. The news was confirmed by UFC UK president Marshall Zelaznik this week.
"[UK fans] can see every single live UFC event," Zelaznik said, "whether it is the supercards, like UFC 86, 87 or 88, a special event like Anderson Silva versus James Irvin, a UFC Fight Night card or the finale of the latest series of ‘The Ultimate Fighter.'"
The new agreement makes Setanta the UFC's exclusive live broadcasting partner within the UK. Zelaznik indicated the Las Vegas-based promotion was offered numerous live broadcast deals from various television networks but said Setanta's ambitions and versatility made it the perfect partner.
"In many ways, Setanta is a lot like the UFC," Zelaznik said. "They're young, hungry and expanding at a rapid pace."
Setanta Sports was established in 1990 and has experienced impressive growth in recent years, making it a worthy competitor to News Corp-owned giant SKY Sports -- the former broadcast partner of the Cage Rage promotion
Professors give MMA scholarly examination
By David A. Avila
NBCSports.com contributor
updated 2 hours, 8 minutes ago
Listening to a fight announcer shout the names Chuck “The Iceman” Liddell and Wanderlei “The Axe Murderer” Silva, you would think it was a roll call for the serial killer club.
It’s just mixed martial arts.
Because of an unregulated beginning, the sport of MMA has carried a bad rap as one of the most brutal sports ever devised; a virtual shop of horrors.
Not so, say two authors who investigated the sport from the inside and out.
A two-year look into the growing sport of MMA saw two college professors take an educated look into the nuts and bolts of professional fighting in a book called “Fighting for Acceptance: Mixed Martial Arts and Violence in American Society.”
The title says it succinctly.
Authors David T. Mayeda and David Ching spent two years interviewing various participants in the world of the fastest-growing sport. It was Ching that approached Mayeda about writing a book on the sport to explain it to the rest of the world.
Mayeda, who holds a doctorate in American Studies, saw it as an opportunity to look into the myths and theories about the effects of the sport on the American public. Ching is an economist with a masters degree.
Both had two primary quests: 1) to find out if MMA promotes violence, and 2) is it the most vicious sport?
The two Hawaiian residents began trekking from their native island to gyms throughout the U.S., from California to Nevada and Texas beginning in 2005. Their goal was to obtain the voices of MMA via interviews from veterans and rookies of the sport.
Among the voices collected were Randy Couture, Quinton “Rampage” Jackson, Dan Henderson, Bas Rutten, Jason “Mayhem” Miller, Travis Lutter, Chris Leben, Guy Mezger, Antonio McKee, Tony Fryklund, Jesse Juarez, and Chris Bowles. Those are just a few of the fighters that were interviewed for this book that gives an inside look at MMA.
When two fighters step in the cage and begin circling each other before exploding in a swirl of kicks, punches and takedowns, those watching inside an arena or on television seldom realize the effort and sacrifice needed to perform these acts.
Mayeda and Ching aptly dissect a fighter’s mind with questions many fans have always wanted to ask. The book is a hodgepodge of questions and answers about the sport that was first abhorred by the general public and politicians. It’s only now that MMA is becoming more readily accepted, even by those who once bashed its existence.
One of the most interesting sections of the book is when fighters are asked about their inner thoughts before a big fight. Another section dealt with the money factor and how not all MMA fighters emerge with riches.
Just a bare few make more than a million per fight.
Lutter, a reputable fighter who was recently released from the UFC, explains how most pro fighters make very little money. If it’s $2,000 or less, it’s quite possible that the fighter is going to owe money for training expenses, medical checkups, and diet supplements.
MMA fighters are not rich, contrary to common belief.
Many fighters make the bare minimum, even an elite fighter like Rashad Evans during his fight with Tito Ortiz last year made a paltry $16,000 purse. Sure Ortiz made $210,000, but he is one of a very few MMA fighters considered a marquee fighter who draws big crowds. It seems unfair but it’s all about supply and demand. The more popular the fighter, the bigger his purse.
One fighter, Ku Lee, hits it on the nose describing MMA as a sport more for the middle-class, and how attending MMA schools one needs to “pay 200 bucks (a month) to do it.”
Another interesting topic hit by the authors is the safety issue. Is MMA still too dangerous?
The two writers delve into that issue with both hands and do a great job of comparing MMA to sports like boxing, football, rugby, and other sports where there is physical contact.
“Football is much more violent,” said Mayeda by telephone from Hawaii. “There’s a former female gymnast who is now in MMA and she says gymnastics is much more brutal.”
It’s a wonderful collection of quotes, interviews, insights and theories about the effects of MMA on the general public.
If you like MMA, then this book is a valuable source when defending the sport.
The book can be purchased on Amazon.com or BarnesandNoble.com
Strikeforce fight card
One of the top pound for pound fighters in the world Gilbert “El Nino” Melendez (14-1) defends his Strikeforce lightweight title against Josh “The Punk” Thomson (14-2) at the HP Pavilion in San Jose, California.
Thomson and Melendez are longtime rivals from the Bay area.
Other bouts on the fight card include Raymond “Real Deal” Daniels making his pro debut against Jeremiah Metcalf (8-4) in a middleweight clash. Daniels is a former kickboxing star who is also considered the best karate fighter in the world.
“I’m going to give MMA fans something they’ve never seen before,” stated Daniels who lives in Long Beach, California. “I want to become the greatest fighter in the world.”
Strikeforce light heavyweight champion Bobby Southworth (8-5) defends his title against Anthony “El Toro” Ruiz (20-10).
The fight card will be televised on HDNet live. Tickets are still available for the loaded MMA card that begins at 6 p.m. (408) 287-7070.
Fights coming up
Fri. June 27 – Ring of Combat at Tropicana Casino in Atlantic City, New Jersey. (800) 345-8767.
Fri. June 27 – FCE: Weed St. Massacre 08 at Joes Sports Bar in Chicago, Illinois. (773) 745-1112.
Fri. June 27 – Strikeforce at HP Pavilion in San Jose, California. (408) 287-7070.
Sat. June 28 – Total Fight Challenge 12 at Hammond Civic Center in Hammond, Indiana. (219) 853-6378.
Sat. June 28 – Total Fight Challenge 12 at Hammond Civic Center in Hammond, Indiana. (219) 853-6378.
© 2008 NBC Sports.com
By David A. Avila
NBCSports.com contributor
updated 2 hours, 8 minutes ago
Listening to a fight announcer shout the names Chuck “The Iceman” Liddell and Wanderlei “The Axe Murderer” Silva, you would think it was a roll call for the serial killer club.
It’s just mixed martial arts.
Because of an unregulated beginning, the sport of MMA has carried a bad rap as one of the most brutal sports ever devised; a virtual shop of horrors.
Not so, say two authors who investigated the sport from the inside and out.
A two-year look into the growing sport of MMA saw two college professors take an educated look into the nuts and bolts of professional fighting in a book called “Fighting for Acceptance: Mixed Martial Arts and Violence in American Society.”
The title says it succinctly.
Authors David T. Mayeda and David Ching spent two years interviewing various participants in the world of the fastest-growing sport. It was Ching that approached Mayeda about writing a book on the sport to explain it to the rest of the world.
Mayeda, who holds a doctorate in American Studies, saw it as an opportunity to look into the myths and theories about the effects of the sport on the American public. Ching is an economist with a masters degree.
Both had two primary quests: 1) to find out if MMA promotes violence, and 2) is it the most vicious sport?
The two Hawaiian residents began trekking from their native island to gyms throughout the U.S., from California to Nevada and Texas beginning in 2005. Their goal was to obtain the voices of MMA via interviews from veterans and rookies of the sport.
Among the voices collected were Randy Couture, Quinton “Rampage” Jackson, Dan Henderson, Bas Rutten, Jason “Mayhem” Miller, Travis Lutter, Chris Leben, Guy Mezger, Antonio McKee, Tony Fryklund, Jesse Juarez, and Chris Bowles. Those are just a few of the fighters that were interviewed for this book that gives an inside look at MMA.
When two fighters step in the cage and begin circling each other before exploding in a swirl of kicks, punches and takedowns, those watching inside an arena or on television seldom realize the effort and sacrifice needed to perform these acts.
Mayeda and Ching aptly dissect a fighter’s mind with questions many fans have always wanted to ask. The book is a hodgepodge of questions and answers about the sport that was first abhorred by the general public and politicians. It’s only now that MMA is becoming more readily accepted, even by those who once bashed its existence.
One of the most interesting sections of the book is when fighters are asked about their inner thoughts before a big fight. Another section dealt with the money factor and how not all MMA fighters emerge with riches.
Just a bare few make more than a million per fight.
Lutter, a reputable fighter who was recently released from the UFC, explains how most pro fighters make very little money. If it’s $2,000 or less, it’s quite possible that the fighter is going to owe money for training expenses, medical checkups, and diet supplements.
MMA fighters are not rich, contrary to common belief.
Many fighters make the bare minimum, even an elite fighter like Rashad Evans during his fight with Tito Ortiz last year made a paltry $16,000 purse. Sure Ortiz made $210,000, but he is one of a very few MMA fighters considered a marquee fighter who draws big crowds. It seems unfair but it’s all about supply and demand. The more popular the fighter, the bigger his purse.
One fighter, Ku Lee, hits it on the nose describing MMA as a sport more for the middle-class, and how attending MMA schools one needs to “pay 200 bucks (a month) to do it.”
Another interesting topic hit by the authors is the safety issue. Is MMA still too dangerous?
The two writers delve into that issue with both hands and do a great job of comparing MMA to sports like boxing, football, rugby, and other sports where there is physical contact.
“Football is much more violent,” said Mayeda by telephone from Hawaii. “There’s a former female gymnast who is now in MMA and she says gymnastics is much more brutal.”
It’s a wonderful collection of quotes, interviews, insights and theories about the effects of MMA on the general public.
If you like MMA, then this book is a valuable source when defending the sport.
The book can be purchased on Amazon.com or BarnesandNoble.com
Strikeforce fight card
One of the top pound for pound fighters in the world Gilbert “El Nino” Melendez (14-1) defends his Strikeforce lightweight title against Josh “The Punk” Thomson (14-2) at the HP Pavilion in San Jose, California.
Thomson and Melendez are longtime rivals from the Bay area.
Other bouts on the fight card include Raymond “Real Deal” Daniels making his pro debut against Jeremiah Metcalf (8-4) in a middleweight clash. Daniels is a former kickboxing star who is also considered the best karate fighter in the world.
“I’m going to give MMA fans something they’ve never seen before,” stated Daniels who lives in Long Beach, California. “I want to become the greatest fighter in the world.”
Strikeforce light heavyweight champion Bobby Southworth (8-5) defends his title against Anthony “El Toro” Ruiz (20-10).
The fight card will be televised on HDNet live. Tickets are still available for the loaded MMA card that begins at 6 p.m. (408) 287-7070.
Fights coming up
Fri. June 27 – Ring of Combat at Tropicana Casino in Atlantic City, New Jersey. (800) 345-8767.
Fri. June 27 – FCE: Weed St. Massacre 08 at Joes Sports Bar in Chicago, Illinois. (773) 745-1112.
Fri. June 27 – Strikeforce at HP Pavilion in San Jose, California. (408) 287-7070.
Sat. June 28 – Total Fight Challenge 12 at Hammond Civic Center in Hammond, Indiana. (219) 853-6378.
Sat. June 28 – Total Fight Challenge 12 at Hammond Civic Center in Hammond, Indiana. (219) 853-6378.
© 2008 NBC Sports.com
Tamdan McCrory vs. Luke Cummo official for UFC 87
After a nine-month layoff in which he wrapped up his collegiate studies, welterweight prospect Tamdan McCrory (8-1 MMA, 1-1 UFC) will return to action for a bout with veteran Luke Cummo (6-5 MMA, 3-3 UFC) at UFC 87.
The UFC confirmed the long-rumored bout earlier today.
The fight will take place on the preliminary card of UFC 87, which takes place Aug. 9 at the Target Center in Minneapolis.
McCrory, also known as "The Barn Cat," is a Cage Fury Fighting Championships vet who made his UFC debut just 17 months after turning pro. The 21-year-old has racked up six of his eight victories via knockout -- four of them in the first round. The 6-foot-4 fighter submitted Pete Spratt (via triangle choke) in his UFC debut at UFC Fight Night 10 but then suffered a submission loss to PRIDE veteran Akihiro Gono at UFC 78.
Cummo, "The Ultimate Fighter 2" welterweight runner-up, looked stellar in recent victories over Josh Haynes (second-round knockout) and Edilberto de Oliveira (first-round TKO). However, the 28-year-old looked flat in a recent loss to Luigi Fioravanti at UFC 82, where he was repeatedly taken down and unable to mount much of an offense. He'll look to rebound for his third win in his past four fights.
After a nine-month layoff in which he wrapped up his collegiate studies, welterweight prospect Tamdan McCrory (8-1 MMA, 1-1 UFC) will return to action for a bout with veteran Luke Cummo (6-5 MMA, 3-3 UFC) at UFC 87.
The UFC confirmed the long-rumored bout earlier today.
The fight will take place on the preliminary card of UFC 87, which takes place Aug. 9 at the Target Center in Minneapolis.
McCrory, also known as "The Barn Cat," is a Cage Fury Fighting Championships vet who made his UFC debut just 17 months after turning pro. The 21-year-old has racked up six of his eight victories via knockout -- four of them in the first round. The 6-foot-4 fighter submitted Pete Spratt (via triangle choke) in his UFC debut at UFC Fight Night 10 but then suffered a submission loss to PRIDE veteran Akihiro Gono at UFC 78.
Cummo, "The Ultimate Fighter 2" welterweight runner-up, looked stellar in recent victories over Josh Haynes (second-round knockout) and Edilberto de Oliveira (first-round TKO). However, the 28-year-old looked flat in a recent loss to Luigi Fioravanti at UFC 82, where he was repeatedly taken down and unable to mount much of an offense. He'll look to rebound for his third win in his past four fights.
Vernon White out of "Affliction: Banned"
Veteran fighter Vernon White has been pulled from the July 19 "Affliction: Banned" event.
MMAjunkie.com (www.mmajunkie.com) today confirmed with the 36-year-old fighter's management team that White has been scratched from his televised bout with Antonio Rogerio Nogueira. Their fight had been scheduled for the FSN portion of the event.
According to K.O. Dynasty Sports Management, White recently competed in a regional show and tested positive for a diuretic that he didn't know was a banned substance.
The fight took place May 31 at the Cox Pavilion in Las Vegas as part of an Xtreme Fighting Association event. White defeated Anthony Brown via unanimous decision.
White plans to file an appeal with the local commission, according to his manager.
The White-Nogueira bout was a late addition to Affliction's debut event. Despite his 27-32-2 record, White has faced many of the sport's elite fighters during his 15-year-career.
Currently, there's no word on a possible replacement for White, but MMAjunkie.com will have further updates on this story posted later today.
Veteran fighter Vernon White has been pulled from the July 19 "Affliction: Banned" event.
MMAjunkie.com (www.mmajunkie.com) today confirmed with the 36-year-old fighter's management team that White has been scratched from his televised bout with Antonio Rogerio Nogueira. Their fight had been scheduled for the FSN portion of the event.
According to K.O. Dynasty Sports Management, White recently competed in a regional show and tested positive for a diuretic that he didn't know was a banned substance.
The fight took place May 31 at the Cox Pavilion in Las Vegas as part of an Xtreme Fighting Association event. White defeated Anthony Brown via unanimous decision.
White plans to file an appeal with the local commission, according to his manager.
The White-Nogueira bout was a late addition to Affliction's debut event. Despite his 27-32-2 record, White has faced many of the sport's elite fighters during his 15-year-career.
Currently, there's no word on a possible replacement for White, but MMAjunkie.com will have further updates on this story posted later today.
An Interview with Mr. International
An injury forced Shonie Carter (Pictures) out of the upcoming Strikeforce card, but it could not keep "Mr. International" from speaking his mind about "Iron Ring," Kimbo Slice and his own intriguing tenure in MMA. TJ De Santis spoke with Carter in this exclusive interview.
Sherdog.com: Shonie, thanks for taking the time and talking to us. It's so hard to keep up with where you're at and what you're doing. I know you have been seen with Frank Shamrock (Pictures) when he was getting ready for Cung Le (Pictures). Are you still out with Frank?
Carter: You can't keep up with me! Damn, I do a lot of stuff! I need to take notes. I gotta blog myself sometimes. I be doing strange things. Let's see ... I worked out a bit with Frank. I worked out a little bit with AKA. Then I had to leave. I had to go down to Florida ... no! During that I got inducted into the martial arts hall of fame. That's right. Ah, yeah. It's coming back to me. I have a lot of stuff going on.
Sherdog.com: It's sort of funny. I think Frank Shamrock and Shonie Carter is sort of an odd couple.
Carter: It is the oddest couple. Dude, it's crazy. I consider him strange, and I am sure he considers me strange. You know, it was crazy. He does his thing with the Swiss balls, and I just go weight lift. I do plyometrics and cardio. I like to do focus mitts and drill throws. He doesn't like to do throwing. You know Maurice Smith (Pictures)? I discovered I have been kicking wrong. According to Maurice Smith.
Sherdog.com: What's wrong with your kicks?
Carter: Maurice says I was too much karate. I said, "Man, I am too much crazy!" I mean, it was crazy. Marlon Sims (Pictures) showed up. Some other Dutch kickboxer showed up. I mean, you name it, man. I couldn't stay out there cause, I mean, AKA ... we all know their camp. I think they looked at me like a predator or an insurgent. Couldn't figure them out. But I love them to death. You know Koscheck, Swick, Fitch. Even Baroni was there.
Sherdog.com: Let's talk a little bit about "Iron Ring." We talk about an odd couple; this seemed like a good fit. BET is trying to cash in on the mixed martial arts game. How did that come about? And what was your overall experience with the tapings?
Carter: Man, I was minding my own business, doing the whole Shonie thing. You know how I am. Shakin' and bakin'. It's another opportunity I had to be takin'. And somebody's money was being given to me, so it's something I had to be makin'. So they call me. JJ Cornell for Casca-Grossa calls me wanting me to do the damn thing. I am like, "For sure, JJ. We are homies, let's do this." Then I get down there, and these damn rappers and that little big-mouth boxer … . Let me tell you, the director, Dave Isaacs, I love him. I mean, it did its job. It got people knowing the minorities, the Hispanics, the blacks into MMA. Was it the most exemplary example? I'll let the fans decide. For me, it was a step into a different direction. Because now black folks know who I am. Did you know that? Black people do not know me in my hometown. I walk down the street, it's, "Hey, aren't you that dude from ‘Iron Ring'?"
Sherdog.com: So you have more people coming up to you after "Iron Ring," saying, "Hey, aren't you Shonie Carter?" than when you were fighting in the UFC or on "The Ultimate Fighter"?
Carter: Man, look. This is the way I am going to break it down, honestly. White folks, you all knew me from Spike TV, "The Ultimate Fighter" and the UFC. Black folks and Hispanic folks know me from "Iron Ring." And this is what I was telling people. If they had not focused so much time on the hip hop guys, and actually show what we do as athletes -- you know, focus more on the fighters instead of the damn wannabe-tough-on-the-mic rappers. You know, and those sissy bully-ass athletes that call themselves fighters, but we call them boxers -- they'd probably get a lot more positive feedback. I ain't mad at 'em! I can now walk through the ghetto and not worry about getting robbed because people know who I am now.
Sherdog.com: Let's talk about that a little bit more -- getting the African American and minority groups into MMA. I think CBS and EliteXC have a gold mine with Kimbo Slice. What are your thoughts on Kimbo?
Carter: I will respect anybody that gets in the cage or the ring and does something, puts themselves in harm's way. I don't think he is the next star. There are guys out there who've been pioneers in the stuff from the minorities. Blacks and Hispanics. I mean hell, remember Carlos Newton (Pictures)? Remember Kevin Randleman (Pictures), Maurice Smith? Oh yeah, me! They're paying him six figures, and he is 3-0. Because he is the Internet champion. I don't plug my Internet escapades on the Internet to see if I can get one hell of a pay raise. I mean, I think he is overhyped, but I respect him. He gets in there and does what most people won't do, to be willing to get an ass whooping to give an ass whooping.
Now do I think he is going to do anything? Not for a long time. And I know there is a lot of money invested in him. That is why CBS is picking and choosing his opponents. But I mean, let's face it. Ray Mercer, Tank Abbott and James Thompson (Pictures) -- hell, put 50 pounds on me and I'd kick their ass. People may get mad at me for how I say it. But if you put 45 pounds on me, I'd kick Kimbo Slice in the legs and take him out. But I respect him. I'd like to meet him and shake his hand because I give combat athletes their respect for getting in there and doing the damn thing. Do I think he is worth what they are paying him? F--- no! His underground fights, those weren't even real street fights. Those fights were rules where you can't grapple, you can't elbow, you can't kick. Hell, I've got DVDs I've been selling out where I am spiking people in the spine 27 times.
I am up here in Canada right now, and they wanted to bring Kimbo Slice in, but they asked for $25,000 and three first-class tickets from Hawaii. I'm like, "Are you out of your f---ing mind?" I know everyone talks about the UFC being the major and only belt in the world. But I have had 11 different world titles and six national titles. I am a former All-American wrestler. I went to the Olympic trials. People say what they want, they can degrade me, belittle what I've done. But I look at guys like a Kimbo Slice -- quote me on this: Who the f--- are you to get 25 grand to show up? Because you're tough on the Internet? I mean, hell, I would take the time to teach the young sir. He'd probably read this interview and think that I am being disrespectful. It's not about disrespect. It's called paying your dues.
Hell, who ain't been homeless? Who ain't gone through things? We all have. But to give a man a cover on ESPN when you have guys like me … people still talk about a spinning backfist that happened seven years ago. People are talking about me throwing water bottles in the swimming pool -- that happened two years ago. But they don't talk about the fights that I've done. I've got a world title from King of the Cage. People might not think that much of it. But do you remember who I fought? Jason Black (Pictures) when he was 20-0. End of that fight, he was 20-1. I was the first WEC welterweight world champion. Oops, that's right! I was the first world champion of the WEC. The first UFC veteran from Chicago. And you've got guys like Kimbo who they try to give credence and credit to? Brother, please! Keep paying your dues. But keep taking that fool's money if they going to keep paying you six figures. The next time someone sees me on TV, if it ain't six, it's going to be so damn high up there near it. You might only see me once a year now.
Sherdog.com: Is that something that bothers you, Shonie? You mentioned it. You are one of the most charismatic fighters in the sport's history. Win or lose, a Shonie Carter fight is one of the more entertaining fights on the card. Do you wish the sport's popularity now was this way five, six or seven years ago, so you could have made that money?
Carter: That's why I am not retiring anytime soon. And yeah, because I think I should get prorated for the fight of the night and knockout of the night between Matt Serra (Pictures) and myself. I mean, you've got guys out there that are getting to go to Iraq to represent the UFC and the WEC. But they were never in the military. I was in the Marines. I support the troops. I don't just sit there and wave a flag and hop up and down. I am a U.S. Marine. I was 03110811. I am a Marine. I don't pretend it. I don't pretend to be a fighter. That's why I am glad Dana White didn't say, "Do you want to be an ‘Ultimate Fighter'?" I am so old-school that I was doing this before him. I am not knocking Dana. I am off the busting-Dana-White's-balls bandwagon. God bless him. Keep your head bald, man, and keep pimpin' and pimpin'. Look at guys like me who can continually be on TV. I am doing another movie. I will be down in Louisiana filming. One of these days I am going to land a role, and it's going to be more real than me. And that's pretty damn real. But that's cool, I ain't tripping. I ain't worried about it. God bless every athlete out there. Take the money and run with it. How many world champions are out there? How many TUF fighters are out there? Do you know, TJ?
Sherdog.com: Tough fighters or TUF fighters?
Carter: Let me ask you and the people that read this: all of the "Ultimate Fighters," season one through seven, name them.
Sherdog.com: I can name them, but that might just be because of what I do for a living. I am not sure the casual fan could name all of them.
Carter: They can't! Do you know why? Because they're all rookies. I tell them, "You hot right now. But I'm a legend." I was a legend before the backfist and I am a legend after the backfist.
Sherdog.com: You obviously want to keep going. You're an entertainer in and out of the ring. At some point soon your skills are going to diminish. What are your goals for the next five, 10, 15 years?
Carter: Well let's see. I have already wrote a book. I am working on my second book. I am doing movies. I do guest appearances and seminars. Me being a sports commentator, a judge, a referee, a promoter. Well, I will never be a promoter. I've done it and I hate it. But, as far as everything else I've done, I've worked security at fight shows. I've been an usher at fight shows. I've taken tickets, sat people down. I've served drinks at fight shows. I've turned the lights on, I've turned the lights off. I've set the ring or the cage up, I've torn the ring or the cage down. Every aspect of the business. I have made contracts, I've signed contracts, I've reviewed contracts. I've been an official to watch the weigh-ins, an official for licensing. I am in certification. Every aspect of the business I can do. Step right in. How should I say this? I can use my spectacular vernacular to go by play-by-play on what happened that very day.
Sherdog.com: How about Shonie Carter the ring girl?
Carter: Man, I have done that! You've already seen the wardrobe change in between rounds one and two when I fought. I went from Cavalli to Dolce & Gabbana Speedos. I have done everything. I will shock them again. And when I am done, they can say what they want. Just as long as they say my name right: "Mr. International" Shonie Carter.
Sherdog.com: You were supposed to be in action this Friday night on Strikeforce's card, but you had to pull out due to a hand injury. When will we get to see you compete again next?
Carter: July 26th I am fighting Shannon Ritch (Pictures). August 23rd I am fighting Matt Major. September I am fighting, somewhere. October, I've been asked to fight Mark Weir (Pictures) in Cage Rage. I believe that's what it's called. November I am already talking to Tom [Atencio] about getting on that next Affliction show. I am going to win the rest of the fights this year. Then I am going to sit back and see what they got to say to me. I am not looking to do these tough fights just to be a main event and to collect a check. I want to snatch every crown from every clown. From every different country to even big cities and even small towns. Because there are too many world champions out there. That's what I need to do. Unify as many as I can, then walk away.
An injury forced Shonie Carter (Pictures) out of the upcoming Strikeforce card, but it could not keep "Mr. International" from speaking his mind about "Iron Ring," Kimbo Slice and his own intriguing tenure in MMA. TJ De Santis spoke with Carter in this exclusive interview.
Sherdog.com: Shonie, thanks for taking the time and talking to us. It's so hard to keep up with where you're at and what you're doing. I know you have been seen with Frank Shamrock (Pictures) when he was getting ready for Cung Le (Pictures). Are you still out with Frank?
Carter: You can't keep up with me! Damn, I do a lot of stuff! I need to take notes. I gotta blog myself sometimes. I be doing strange things. Let's see ... I worked out a bit with Frank. I worked out a little bit with AKA. Then I had to leave. I had to go down to Florida ... no! During that I got inducted into the martial arts hall of fame. That's right. Ah, yeah. It's coming back to me. I have a lot of stuff going on.
Sherdog.com: It's sort of funny. I think Frank Shamrock and Shonie Carter is sort of an odd couple.
Carter: It is the oddest couple. Dude, it's crazy. I consider him strange, and I am sure he considers me strange. You know, it was crazy. He does his thing with the Swiss balls, and I just go weight lift. I do plyometrics and cardio. I like to do focus mitts and drill throws. He doesn't like to do throwing. You know Maurice Smith (Pictures)? I discovered I have been kicking wrong. According to Maurice Smith.
Sherdog.com: What's wrong with your kicks?
Carter: Maurice says I was too much karate. I said, "Man, I am too much crazy!" I mean, it was crazy. Marlon Sims (Pictures) showed up. Some other Dutch kickboxer showed up. I mean, you name it, man. I couldn't stay out there cause, I mean, AKA ... we all know their camp. I think they looked at me like a predator or an insurgent. Couldn't figure them out. But I love them to death. You know Koscheck, Swick, Fitch. Even Baroni was there.
Sherdog.com: Let's talk a little bit about "Iron Ring." We talk about an odd couple; this seemed like a good fit. BET is trying to cash in on the mixed martial arts game. How did that come about? And what was your overall experience with the tapings?
Carter: Man, I was minding my own business, doing the whole Shonie thing. You know how I am. Shakin' and bakin'. It's another opportunity I had to be takin'. And somebody's money was being given to me, so it's something I had to be makin'. So they call me. JJ Cornell for Casca-Grossa calls me wanting me to do the damn thing. I am like, "For sure, JJ. We are homies, let's do this." Then I get down there, and these damn rappers and that little big-mouth boxer … . Let me tell you, the director, Dave Isaacs, I love him. I mean, it did its job. It got people knowing the minorities, the Hispanics, the blacks into MMA. Was it the most exemplary example? I'll let the fans decide. For me, it was a step into a different direction. Because now black folks know who I am. Did you know that? Black people do not know me in my hometown. I walk down the street, it's, "Hey, aren't you that dude from ‘Iron Ring'?"
Sherdog.com: So you have more people coming up to you after "Iron Ring," saying, "Hey, aren't you Shonie Carter?" than when you were fighting in the UFC or on "The Ultimate Fighter"?
Carter: Man, look. This is the way I am going to break it down, honestly. White folks, you all knew me from Spike TV, "The Ultimate Fighter" and the UFC. Black folks and Hispanic folks know me from "Iron Ring." And this is what I was telling people. If they had not focused so much time on the hip hop guys, and actually show what we do as athletes -- you know, focus more on the fighters instead of the damn wannabe-tough-on-the-mic rappers. You know, and those sissy bully-ass athletes that call themselves fighters, but we call them boxers -- they'd probably get a lot more positive feedback. I ain't mad at 'em! I can now walk through the ghetto and not worry about getting robbed because people know who I am now.
Sherdog.com: Let's talk about that a little bit more -- getting the African American and minority groups into MMA. I think CBS and EliteXC have a gold mine with Kimbo Slice. What are your thoughts on Kimbo?
Carter: I will respect anybody that gets in the cage or the ring and does something, puts themselves in harm's way. I don't think he is the next star. There are guys out there who've been pioneers in the stuff from the minorities. Blacks and Hispanics. I mean hell, remember Carlos Newton (Pictures)? Remember Kevin Randleman (Pictures), Maurice Smith? Oh yeah, me! They're paying him six figures, and he is 3-0. Because he is the Internet champion. I don't plug my Internet escapades on the Internet to see if I can get one hell of a pay raise. I mean, I think he is overhyped, but I respect him. He gets in there and does what most people won't do, to be willing to get an ass whooping to give an ass whooping.
Now do I think he is going to do anything? Not for a long time. And I know there is a lot of money invested in him. That is why CBS is picking and choosing his opponents. But I mean, let's face it. Ray Mercer, Tank Abbott and James Thompson (Pictures) -- hell, put 50 pounds on me and I'd kick their ass. People may get mad at me for how I say it. But if you put 45 pounds on me, I'd kick Kimbo Slice in the legs and take him out. But I respect him. I'd like to meet him and shake his hand because I give combat athletes their respect for getting in there and doing the damn thing. Do I think he is worth what they are paying him? F--- no! His underground fights, those weren't even real street fights. Those fights were rules where you can't grapple, you can't elbow, you can't kick. Hell, I've got DVDs I've been selling out where I am spiking people in the spine 27 times.
I am up here in Canada right now, and they wanted to bring Kimbo Slice in, but they asked for $25,000 and three first-class tickets from Hawaii. I'm like, "Are you out of your f---ing mind?" I know everyone talks about the UFC being the major and only belt in the world. But I have had 11 different world titles and six national titles. I am a former All-American wrestler. I went to the Olympic trials. People say what they want, they can degrade me, belittle what I've done. But I look at guys like a Kimbo Slice -- quote me on this: Who the f--- are you to get 25 grand to show up? Because you're tough on the Internet? I mean, hell, I would take the time to teach the young sir. He'd probably read this interview and think that I am being disrespectful. It's not about disrespect. It's called paying your dues.
Hell, who ain't been homeless? Who ain't gone through things? We all have. But to give a man a cover on ESPN when you have guys like me … people still talk about a spinning backfist that happened seven years ago. People are talking about me throwing water bottles in the swimming pool -- that happened two years ago. But they don't talk about the fights that I've done. I've got a world title from King of the Cage. People might not think that much of it. But do you remember who I fought? Jason Black (Pictures) when he was 20-0. End of that fight, he was 20-1. I was the first WEC welterweight world champion. Oops, that's right! I was the first world champion of the WEC. The first UFC veteran from Chicago. And you've got guys like Kimbo who they try to give credence and credit to? Brother, please! Keep paying your dues. But keep taking that fool's money if they going to keep paying you six figures. The next time someone sees me on TV, if it ain't six, it's going to be so damn high up there near it. You might only see me once a year now.
Sherdog.com: Is that something that bothers you, Shonie? You mentioned it. You are one of the most charismatic fighters in the sport's history. Win or lose, a Shonie Carter fight is one of the more entertaining fights on the card. Do you wish the sport's popularity now was this way five, six or seven years ago, so you could have made that money?
Carter: That's why I am not retiring anytime soon. And yeah, because I think I should get prorated for the fight of the night and knockout of the night between Matt Serra (Pictures) and myself. I mean, you've got guys out there that are getting to go to Iraq to represent the UFC and the WEC. But they were never in the military. I was in the Marines. I support the troops. I don't just sit there and wave a flag and hop up and down. I am a U.S. Marine. I was 03110811. I am a Marine. I don't pretend it. I don't pretend to be a fighter. That's why I am glad Dana White didn't say, "Do you want to be an ‘Ultimate Fighter'?" I am so old-school that I was doing this before him. I am not knocking Dana. I am off the busting-Dana-White's-balls bandwagon. God bless him. Keep your head bald, man, and keep pimpin' and pimpin'. Look at guys like me who can continually be on TV. I am doing another movie. I will be down in Louisiana filming. One of these days I am going to land a role, and it's going to be more real than me. And that's pretty damn real. But that's cool, I ain't tripping. I ain't worried about it. God bless every athlete out there. Take the money and run with it. How many world champions are out there? How many TUF fighters are out there? Do you know, TJ?
Sherdog.com: Tough fighters or TUF fighters?
Carter: Let me ask you and the people that read this: all of the "Ultimate Fighters," season one through seven, name them.
Sherdog.com: I can name them, but that might just be because of what I do for a living. I am not sure the casual fan could name all of them.
Carter: They can't! Do you know why? Because they're all rookies. I tell them, "You hot right now. But I'm a legend." I was a legend before the backfist and I am a legend after the backfist.
Sherdog.com: You obviously want to keep going. You're an entertainer in and out of the ring. At some point soon your skills are going to diminish. What are your goals for the next five, 10, 15 years?
Carter: Well let's see. I have already wrote a book. I am working on my second book. I am doing movies. I do guest appearances and seminars. Me being a sports commentator, a judge, a referee, a promoter. Well, I will never be a promoter. I've done it and I hate it. But, as far as everything else I've done, I've worked security at fight shows. I've been an usher at fight shows. I've taken tickets, sat people down. I've served drinks at fight shows. I've turned the lights on, I've turned the lights off. I've set the ring or the cage up, I've torn the ring or the cage down. Every aspect of the business. I have made contracts, I've signed contracts, I've reviewed contracts. I've been an official to watch the weigh-ins, an official for licensing. I am in certification. Every aspect of the business I can do. Step right in. How should I say this? I can use my spectacular vernacular to go by play-by-play on what happened that very day.
Sherdog.com: How about Shonie Carter the ring girl?
Carter: Man, I have done that! You've already seen the wardrobe change in between rounds one and two when I fought. I went from Cavalli to Dolce & Gabbana Speedos. I have done everything. I will shock them again. And when I am done, they can say what they want. Just as long as they say my name right: "Mr. International" Shonie Carter.
Sherdog.com: You were supposed to be in action this Friday night on Strikeforce's card, but you had to pull out due to a hand injury. When will we get to see you compete again next?
Carter: July 26th I am fighting Shannon Ritch (Pictures). August 23rd I am fighting Matt Major. September I am fighting, somewhere. October, I've been asked to fight Mark Weir (Pictures) in Cage Rage. I believe that's what it's called. November I am already talking to Tom [Atencio] about getting on that next Affliction show. I am going to win the rest of the fights this year. Then I am going to sit back and see what they got to say to me. I am not looking to do these tough fights just to be a main event and to collect a check. I want to snatch every crown from every clown. From every different country to even big cities and even small towns. Because there are too many world champions out there. That's what I need to do. Unify as many as I can, then walk away.
Southworth Ready for Rematch
videolink: http://www.sherdog.com/videos/videos.asp?v_id=1659
Sherdog.com's Greg Savage caught up with Bobby Southworth (Pictures) to discuss his rematch with Anthony Ruiz (Pictures) this weekend on the HDNet-televised Strikeforce card.
videolink: http://www.sherdog.com/videos/videos.asp?v_id=1659
Sherdog.com's Greg Savage caught up with Bobby Southworth (Pictures) to discuss his rematch with Anthony Ruiz (Pictures) this weekend on the HDNet-televised Strikeforce card.
Thomson Not 100 Percent for Melendez
Josh Thomson (Pictures) hears the questions about his health and senses the doubt revolving around whether his body can withstand a potential five-round battle with Strikeforce lightweight champion Gilbert Melendez (Pictures). Truth be told, he has his own reservations.
Five months removed from shoulder surgery, Thomson will meet Melendez in the main event at Strikeforce's show this Friday at the HP Pavilion in San Jose, Calif. Even he questions the wisdom behind the matchup, which will pair the promotion's top 155-pound fighters for the first time.
"I was really hoping to avoid a fight with Gilbert my first fight back," Thomson says. "Promotions make fights, and fighters have to step up to take them. After eight or nine months off, I've got some catching up to do. It would have been nice to get a warm-up fight in."
Sixteen fights into his professional mixed martial arts career, Thomson (14-2) has begun to show signs of the wear and tear associated with spending nearly a decade in the sport. Punches, kicks and slams all have taken their toll. The 29-year-old underwent surgery to repair a torn labrum on Jan. 13, as doctors "scoped" his shoulder and left behind four quarter-inch-long scars that mark their work.
"They might as well have cut me open," Thomson says. "It's still not 100 percent. I don't know that I'll ever be 100 percent, but I've done as much as I could to get there."
He endures exhausting rehabilitation on the shoulder twice a day every day, as he attempts to work the joint back into shape through electric stimulation, weight lifting and various strength and range-of-motion exercises.
"It sucks," Thomson says. "I'm still going through it."
All this comes in addition to the normal four to six hours he spends training at the American Kickboxing Academy on a daily basis. The injury has forced him to deal with the limited shelf life of most mixed martial artists.
"It gave me flashbacks," Thomson says. "I had a lot of injuries early in my career. I've been fighting for 10 years. I started thinking, ‘Is this just one injury that's going to lead to the next? Is this it for me?'"
Universally received as one of the world's top-10 lightweights, Melendez (14-1) presents a myriad of challenges for Thomson. The 26-year-old Cesar Gracie (Pictures) disciple brings to the cage a toxic blend of strength, stamina and athleticism and holds high-profile victories over Rumina Sato (Pictures), Hiroyuki Takaya (Pictures), Clay Guida (Pictures) and Dream lightweight grand prix semifinalist Tatsuya Kawajiri (Pictures).
"He brings everything to the table," Thomson says. "He's got a big right hand, good wrestling and good ground-and-pound. He's a good athlete and a good person. He doesn't talk all that s--- other fighters talk, but if you make one mistake, he'll capitalize on it."
Thomson's longtime trainer, Bob Cook, admits to concern over his fighter's lengthy layoff and with how his surgically repaired shoulder will respond to the pace Melendez promises to push. Thompson has not competed since he stopped Adam Lynn (Pictures) on first-round strikes at the Playboy Mansion in September.
"That's not favorable," Cook says. "Ideally, you want to keep a fighter fighting every three months so no ring rust develops and they're used to being in the mix. But this is a big fight they've both wanted to do for a while. He's wanted another crack at that title for a long time."
Thomson, a man who has not been defeated in more than two years, thinks the pressure rests solely on Melendez's shoulders.
"To me, it's just another fight," he says. "I don't think I've been calmer for any fight in my career. I just woke up one day and thought, ‘Why am I stressing out? All the pressure's on him.' He's got the title. People are expecting him to beat me. If things aren't going well for him by the end of the first or second round, he's going to start doubting himself."
Thomson, who turns 30 in September, will carry a six-fight winning streak into the match with Melendez. He has dotted his resume with quality victories, from decision wins against former World Extreme Cagefighting lightweight titleholders "Razor" Rob McCullough (Pictures) and Hermes Franca (Pictures) to his submission win over decorated muay Thai practitioner Duane Ludwig (Pictures). Only Yves Edwards (Pictures) has been able to finish him, having done so with a head kick that still makes the rounds on UFC highlight reels.
Win or lose, Thomson feels at peace with what he has achieved since he made his professional debut back in 2001.
"I've pretty much accomplished everything I wanted to," Thomson says. "I've been able to make a living at something I enjoy. I don't need a gold belt strapped around my waist. I'm someone who's fine with leaving the sport at any time."
Josh Thomson (Pictures) hears the questions about his health and senses the doubt revolving around whether his body can withstand a potential five-round battle with Strikeforce lightweight champion Gilbert Melendez (Pictures). Truth be told, he has his own reservations.
Five months removed from shoulder surgery, Thomson will meet Melendez in the main event at Strikeforce's show this Friday at the HP Pavilion in San Jose, Calif. Even he questions the wisdom behind the matchup, which will pair the promotion's top 155-pound fighters for the first time.
"I was really hoping to avoid a fight with Gilbert my first fight back," Thomson says. "Promotions make fights, and fighters have to step up to take them. After eight or nine months off, I've got some catching up to do. It would have been nice to get a warm-up fight in."
Sixteen fights into his professional mixed martial arts career, Thomson (14-2) has begun to show signs of the wear and tear associated with spending nearly a decade in the sport. Punches, kicks and slams all have taken their toll. The 29-year-old underwent surgery to repair a torn labrum on Jan. 13, as doctors "scoped" his shoulder and left behind four quarter-inch-long scars that mark their work.
"They might as well have cut me open," Thomson says. "It's still not 100 percent. I don't know that I'll ever be 100 percent, but I've done as much as I could to get there."
He endures exhausting rehabilitation on the shoulder twice a day every day, as he attempts to work the joint back into shape through electric stimulation, weight lifting and various strength and range-of-motion exercises.
"It sucks," Thomson says. "I'm still going through it."
All this comes in addition to the normal four to six hours he spends training at the American Kickboxing Academy on a daily basis. The injury has forced him to deal with the limited shelf life of most mixed martial artists.
"It gave me flashbacks," Thomson says. "I had a lot of injuries early in my career. I've been fighting for 10 years. I started thinking, ‘Is this just one injury that's going to lead to the next? Is this it for me?'"
Universally received as one of the world's top-10 lightweights, Melendez (14-1) presents a myriad of challenges for Thomson. The 26-year-old Cesar Gracie (Pictures) disciple brings to the cage a toxic blend of strength, stamina and athleticism and holds high-profile victories over Rumina Sato (Pictures), Hiroyuki Takaya (Pictures), Clay Guida (Pictures) and Dream lightweight grand prix semifinalist Tatsuya Kawajiri (Pictures).
"He brings everything to the table," Thomson says. "He's got a big right hand, good wrestling and good ground-and-pound. He's a good athlete and a good person. He doesn't talk all that s--- other fighters talk, but if you make one mistake, he'll capitalize on it."
Thomson's longtime trainer, Bob Cook, admits to concern over his fighter's lengthy layoff and with how his surgically repaired shoulder will respond to the pace Melendez promises to push. Thompson has not competed since he stopped Adam Lynn (Pictures) on first-round strikes at the Playboy Mansion in September.
"That's not favorable," Cook says. "Ideally, you want to keep a fighter fighting every three months so no ring rust develops and they're used to being in the mix. But this is a big fight they've both wanted to do for a while. He's wanted another crack at that title for a long time."
Thomson, a man who has not been defeated in more than two years, thinks the pressure rests solely on Melendez's shoulders.
"To me, it's just another fight," he says. "I don't think I've been calmer for any fight in my career. I just woke up one day and thought, ‘Why am I stressing out? All the pressure's on him.' He's got the title. People are expecting him to beat me. If things aren't going well for him by the end of the first or second round, he's going to start doubting himself."
Thomson, who turns 30 in September, will carry a six-fight winning streak into the match with Melendez. He has dotted his resume with quality victories, from decision wins against former World Extreme Cagefighting lightweight titleholders "Razor" Rob McCullough (Pictures) and Hermes Franca (Pictures) to his submission win over decorated muay Thai practitioner Duane Ludwig (Pictures). Only Yves Edwards (Pictures) has been able to finish him, having done so with a head kick that still makes the rounds on UFC highlight reels.
Win or lose, Thomson feels at peace with what he has achieved since he made his professional debut back in 2001.
"I've pretty much accomplished everything I wanted to," Thomson says. "I've been able to make a living at something I enjoy. I don't need a gold belt strapped around my waist. I'm someone who's fine with leaving the sport at any time."
"Strikeforce: Melendez vs. Thomson" schedule of events
Friday will play host to "Strikeforce: Melendez vs. Thomson," which features a main event of Strikeforce world lightweight champion Gilbert Melendez (14-1) vs. top contender Josh Thomson (14-2).
The event takes place at the HP Pavilion in San Jose, Calif., and the main card airs live on HDNet beginning at 10:30 p.m. ET (7:30 p.m. PT).
MMAjunkie.com (www.mmajunkie.com) is in San Jose and will have full coverage of all of the weekend's activities.
In addition to Melendez vs. Thomson, the event also features Strikeforce world light heavyweight champion Bobby Southworth (8-5) vs. Anthony Ruiz (20-10), as well as Joe Riggs (27-10) vs. Luke Stewart (5-1).
Weigh-ins for the event take place tomorrow (Thursday) at Dave & Busters, which is located at 940 Great Mall Drive in Milpitas, Calif. The first fighter hits the scale at approximately 5:30 p.m. PT.
Friday's event takes place the following day at the HP Pavilion. The first fight begins at 6:30 p.m. PT, and the main card kicks off at 8 p.m. PT. HDNet's live broadcast of the event begins at 7:30 p.m. PT (10:30 p.m. ET).
Friday will play host to "Strikeforce: Melendez vs. Thomson," which features a main event of Strikeforce world lightweight champion Gilbert Melendez (14-1) vs. top contender Josh Thomson (14-2).
The event takes place at the HP Pavilion in San Jose, Calif., and the main card airs live on HDNet beginning at 10:30 p.m. ET (7:30 p.m. PT).
MMAjunkie.com (www.mmajunkie.com) is in San Jose and will have full coverage of all of the weekend's activities.
In addition to Melendez vs. Thomson, the event also features Strikeforce world light heavyweight champion Bobby Southworth (8-5) vs. Anthony Ruiz (20-10), as well as Joe Riggs (27-10) vs. Luke Stewart (5-1).
Weigh-ins for the event take place tomorrow (Thursday) at Dave & Busters, which is located at 940 Great Mall Drive in Milpitas, Calif. The first fighter hits the scale at approximately 5:30 p.m. PT.
Friday's event takes place the following day at the HP Pavilion. The first fight begins at 6:30 p.m. PT, and the main card kicks off at 8 p.m. PT. HDNet's live broadcast of the event begins at 7:30 p.m. PT (10:30 p.m. ET).
JAKE SHIELDS COMMENTS ON THOMPSON FIGHT
All Top 10 ranked welterweight Jake Shields has wanted over the past couple of years was to find a stable home in an organization that allowed him to face off against other top 170-pound fighters and one day fight for a title.
Now it appears he will finally get his wish.
Recently it was officially announced by EliteXC that Shields will be squaring off against former Bodog Fight welterweight titleholder Nick “The Goat” Thompson on the July 26 CBS card to determine the promotion’s first 170-pound champion.
“I’ll fight anyone, but I’m particularly excited about facing Nick Thompson,” said Shields. “I actually asked for him.
“I know (EliteXC) didn’t want to use (the originally scheduled) Drew Fickett after he fought when he was supposed to be fighting me, and they gave me a few names and as soon as I heard Nick’s name, that’s who I asked for.”
An earlier concern of Shields’ was that he might not get to face a top-level fighter for the title, leading to legitimacy questions of any title status he may achieve.
With the addition of Thompson to the fight however, he feels the winner of their match-up will be considered a recognized, legitimate titleholder.
“I feel like I want to fight for a title, but not fight a nobody for it,” Shields stated. “I want to fight someone who deserves a title shot, and Nick Thompson’s certainly the guy.
“I think Fickett has had quite a career, but lately he hasn’t been on quite the upswing that Thompson has, so I’m even more excited for this fight. I’m on a big win streak, he’s on a big win streak, so it’s going to make for a great championship fight. I think I’m going to beat him still, but it makes it legit when I go out there and beat him.”
Even though it is still early, Shields has already begun to size up his new opponent, and feels this could be one of the most explosive fights of the year.
“I think he’s a really good, underrated fighter,” he said of Thompson. “I’ve been watching some of his fights and he’s a complete fighter.
“He’s strong, well-conditioned, has good stand up and jiu-jitsu. I think I bring a lot of the same things, so it’s going to be about who breaks who. I think right now I’m at the top of my game and I’m going to take it to him. It’s a fight the fans should be excited for, because it’s going to be a war.”
With an opportunity to co-headline one of the most exposed cards in MMA history as part of a live CBS broadcast on the second edition of CBS-EliteXC Saturday Night Fights, Shields was asked if he’s ever been this excited when it comes to his career as he is now.
“Probably not…this is pretty exciting,” he said. “It’s probably going to be in California, so a lot of friends and family are going to come, (plus) fighting on CBS in front of a few million people – it’s got me really motivated right now.”
Shields reiterated that now is the time for him to shine and that the fans shouldn’t miss out on what could be a memorable match-up on July 26.
“I think both me and him are going to bring our A-games for this fight. I think he’s motivated, and I really am right now, so it’s a perfect time for us to fight.”
All Top 10 ranked welterweight Jake Shields has wanted over the past couple of years was to find a stable home in an organization that allowed him to face off against other top 170-pound fighters and one day fight for a title.
Now it appears he will finally get his wish.
Recently it was officially announced by EliteXC that Shields will be squaring off against former Bodog Fight welterweight titleholder Nick “The Goat” Thompson on the July 26 CBS card to determine the promotion’s first 170-pound champion.
“I’ll fight anyone, but I’m particularly excited about facing Nick Thompson,” said Shields. “I actually asked for him.
“I know (EliteXC) didn’t want to use (the originally scheduled) Drew Fickett after he fought when he was supposed to be fighting me, and they gave me a few names and as soon as I heard Nick’s name, that’s who I asked for.”
An earlier concern of Shields’ was that he might not get to face a top-level fighter for the title, leading to legitimacy questions of any title status he may achieve.
With the addition of Thompson to the fight however, he feels the winner of their match-up will be considered a recognized, legitimate titleholder.
“I feel like I want to fight for a title, but not fight a nobody for it,” Shields stated. “I want to fight someone who deserves a title shot, and Nick Thompson’s certainly the guy.
“I think Fickett has had quite a career, but lately he hasn’t been on quite the upswing that Thompson has, so I’m even more excited for this fight. I’m on a big win streak, he’s on a big win streak, so it’s going to make for a great championship fight. I think I’m going to beat him still, but it makes it legit when I go out there and beat him.”
Even though it is still early, Shields has already begun to size up his new opponent, and feels this could be one of the most explosive fights of the year.
“I think he’s a really good, underrated fighter,” he said of Thompson. “I’ve been watching some of his fights and he’s a complete fighter.
“He’s strong, well-conditioned, has good stand up and jiu-jitsu. I think I bring a lot of the same things, so it’s going to be about who breaks who. I think right now I’m at the top of my game and I’m going to take it to him. It’s a fight the fans should be excited for, because it’s going to be a war.”
With an opportunity to co-headline one of the most exposed cards in MMA history as part of a live CBS broadcast on the second edition of CBS-EliteXC Saturday Night Fights, Shields was asked if he’s ever been this excited when it comes to his career as he is now.
“Probably not…this is pretty exciting,” he said. “It’s probably going to be in California, so a lot of friends and family are going to come, (plus) fighting on CBS in front of a few million people – it’s got me really motivated right now.”
Shields reiterated that now is the time for him to shine and that the fans shouldn’t miss out on what could be a memorable match-up on July 26.
“I think both me and him are going to bring our A-games for this fight. I think he’s motivated, and I really am right now, so it’s a perfect time for us to fight.”
MMAWEEKLY WORLD MMA RANKINGS UPDATED
The latest MMAWeekly World MMA Rankings were released on Wednesday, June 25. This system ranks the Top 10 MMA fighters from all across the world in each of the six most widely accepted weight classes.
Taken into consideration are a fighter's performance in addition to his win-loss record, head-to-head and common opponents, difficulty of opponents, and numerous other factors in what is the most comprehensive rankings system in the sport.
Fighters who are currently serving drug-related suspensions are not eligible for Top 10 consideration until they have fought one time after the completion of their suspension.
Fighters must also have competed within the past 12 months in order to be eligible for Top 10 consideration.
Below are the current MMAWeekly World MMA Rankings, which are up-to-date as of June 25.
<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
HEAVYWEIGHT DIVISION (over 205 pounds)
#1 Heavyweight Fighter in the World: Fedor Emelianenko
2. Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira
3. Randy Couture
4. Josh Barnett
5. Tim Sylvia
6. Andrei Arlovski
7. Fabricio Werdum
8. Gabriel Gonzaga
9. Mirko “Cro Cop” Filipovic
10. Aleksander Emelianenko
<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
LIGHT HEAVYWEIGHT DIVISION (205-pound limit)
#1 Light Heavyweight Fighter in the World: Quinton Jackson
2. Mauricio "Shogun" Rua
3. Chuck Liddell
4. Lyoto Machida
5. Wanderlei Silva
6. Forrest Griffin
7. Rameau Thierry Sokoudjou
8. Antonio Rogerio Nogueira
9. Keith Jardine
10. Thiago Silva
<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
MIDDLEWEIGHT DIVISION (185-pound limit)
#1 Middleweight Fighter in the World: Anderson Silva
2. Paulo Filho
3. Rich Franklin
4. Robbie Lawler
5. Kazuo Misaki
6. Yushin Okami
7. Nathan Marquardt
8. Dan Henderson
9. Gegard Mousasi
10. Denis Kang
<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
WELTERWEIGHT DIVISION (170-pound limit)
#1 Welterweight Fighter in the World: Georges St. Pierre
2. Jon Fitch
3. Thiago Alves
4. Josh Koscheck
5. Matt Hughes
6. Matt Serra
7. Jake Shields
8. Diego Sanchez
9. Carlos Condit
10. Karo Parisyan
<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
LIGHTWEIGHT DIVISION (160-pound limit)
#1 Lightweight Fighter in the World: B.J. Penn
2. Takanori Gomi
3. Shinya Aoki
4. Tatsuya Kawajiri
5. Gesias "JZ" Calvancante
6. Gilbert Melendez
7. Vitor "Shaolin" Ribeiro
8. Mitsuhiro Ishida
9. Joe Stevenson
10. Sean Sherk
<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
FEATHERWEIGHT DIVISION (145 pounds and under)
#1 Featherweight Fighter in the World: Urijah Faber
2. Akitoshi Tamura
3. Hideki Kadowaki
4. Hatsu Hioki
5. "Lion" Takeshi Inoue
6. Masakazu Imanari
7. Mike Brown
8. Jeff Curran
9. Rafael Assuncao
10. Wagnney Fabiano
The latest MMAWeekly World MMA Rankings were released on Wednesday, June 25. This system ranks the Top 10 MMA fighters from all across the world in each of the six most widely accepted weight classes.
Taken into consideration are a fighter's performance in addition to his win-loss record, head-to-head and common opponents, difficulty of opponents, and numerous other factors in what is the most comprehensive rankings system in the sport.
Fighters who are currently serving drug-related suspensions are not eligible for Top 10 consideration until they have fought one time after the completion of their suspension.
Fighters must also have competed within the past 12 months in order to be eligible for Top 10 consideration.
Below are the current MMAWeekly World MMA Rankings, which are up-to-date as of June 25.
<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
HEAVYWEIGHT DIVISION (over 205 pounds)
#1 Heavyweight Fighter in the World: Fedor Emelianenko
2. Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira
3. Randy Couture
4. Josh Barnett
5. Tim Sylvia
6. Andrei Arlovski
7. Fabricio Werdum
8. Gabriel Gonzaga
9. Mirko “Cro Cop” Filipovic
10. Aleksander Emelianenko
<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
LIGHT HEAVYWEIGHT DIVISION (205-pound limit)
#1 Light Heavyweight Fighter in the World: Quinton Jackson
2. Mauricio "Shogun" Rua
3. Chuck Liddell
4. Lyoto Machida
5. Wanderlei Silva
6. Forrest Griffin
7. Rameau Thierry Sokoudjou
8. Antonio Rogerio Nogueira
9. Keith Jardine
10. Thiago Silva
<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
MIDDLEWEIGHT DIVISION (185-pound limit)
#1 Middleweight Fighter in the World: Anderson Silva
2. Paulo Filho
3. Rich Franklin
4. Robbie Lawler
5. Kazuo Misaki
6. Yushin Okami
7. Nathan Marquardt
8. Dan Henderson
9. Gegard Mousasi
10. Denis Kang
<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
WELTERWEIGHT DIVISION (170-pound limit)
#1 Welterweight Fighter in the World: Georges St. Pierre
2. Jon Fitch
3. Thiago Alves
4. Josh Koscheck
5. Matt Hughes
6. Matt Serra
7. Jake Shields
8. Diego Sanchez
9. Carlos Condit
10. Karo Parisyan
<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
LIGHTWEIGHT DIVISION (160-pound limit)
#1 Lightweight Fighter in the World: B.J. Penn
2. Takanori Gomi
3. Shinya Aoki
4. Tatsuya Kawajiri
5. Gesias "JZ" Calvancante
6. Gilbert Melendez
7. Vitor "Shaolin" Ribeiro
8. Mitsuhiro Ishida
9. Joe Stevenson
10. Sean Sherk
<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
FEATHERWEIGHT DIVISION (145 pounds and under)
#1 Featherweight Fighter in the World: Urijah Faber
2. Akitoshi Tamura
3. Hideki Kadowaki
4. Hatsu Hioki
5. "Lion" Takeshi Inoue
6. Masakazu Imanari
7. Mike Brown
8. Jeff Curran
9. Rafael Assuncao
10. Wagnney Fabiano
Phil Baroni vs Scott Jansen Cage Rage main event set for July 12
We reported earlier this week here on MMAmania.com that Phil “The New York Badass” Baroni (10-10) was moving down to the welterweight division for the first time ever and would compete on the Cage Rage: “Step Up” card on July 12.
Today, his opponent, Scott Jansen (3-2), was revealed. In addition, the 170-pound fight will be featured as the main event of the evening.
Jansen is a hometown English-born fighter who has competed mostly in the Cage Rage “Contenders” shows. He should make for an exciting match up for Baroni because he’s never gone the distance. And all three of his wins have come via technical knockouts and his two losses are by submissions.
Clearly, Jansen prefers to stand and bang it out with his opponents and has some work to do on his submission defense. I doubt he’ll have to worry too much about defending submissions in this fight, however, because Baroni isn’t known to be much of a jiu-jitsu afficionado himself.
In fact, Baroni’s cited his move to the 170-pound division as a result of the weight class not having many one-punch knockout artists such as himself. He thinks it’s something he can capitalize on and finally capture that world championship that has alluded him thus far in his career.
“The New York Badass” is coming off three straight losses under the Elite XC banner, most recently losing on the May 31 “Saturday Night Fights” CBS show to Joey Villasenor by first round technical knockout.
This should be an entertaining fight for the British fans. Baroni is a showman and is usually very exciting to watch despite his ridiculously long entrances.
The co-featured fight of the night will be a heavyweight showdown between Robert “Buzz” Berry (12-7) and Neil Grove(5-1).
We reported earlier this week here on MMAmania.com that Phil “The New York Badass” Baroni (10-10) was moving down to the welterweight division for the first time ever and would compete on the Cage Rage: “Step Up” card on July 12.
Today, his opponent, Scott Jansen (3-2), was revealed. In addition, the 170-pound fight will be featured as the main event of the evening.
Jansen is a hometown English-born fighter who has competed mostly in the Cage Rage “Contenders” shows. He should make for an exciting match up for Baroni because he’s never gone the distance. And all three of his wins have come via technical knockouts and his two losses are by submissions.
Clearly, Jansen prefers to stand and bang it out with his opponents and has some work to do on his submission defense. I doubt he’ll have to worry too much about defending submissions in this fight, however, because Baroni isn’t known to be much of a jiu-jitsu afficionado himself.
In fact, Baroni’s cited his move to the 170-pound division as a result of the weight class not having many one-punch knockout artists such as himself. He thinks it’s something he can capitalize on and finally capture that world championship that has alluded him thus far in his career.
“The New York Badass” is coming off three straight losses under the Elite XC banner, most recently losing on the May 31 “Saturday Night Fights” CBS show to Joey Villasenor by first round technical knockout.
This should be an entertaining fight for the British fans. Baroni is a showman and is usually very exciting to watch despite his ridiculously long entrances.
The co-featured fight of the night will be a heavyweight showdown between Robert “Buzz” Berry (12-7) and Neil Grove(5-1).