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Bobby Lashley: Rated Exclusive Interview
link: http://mmarated.com/videos/v/20081007/bobby_lashley__rated_exclusive_interview-6104.html
The former WWE champion talks about making the transition to MMA, Brock Lesnar, the AFL, and more
link: http://mmarated.com/videos/v/20081007/bobby_lashley__rated_exclusive_interview-6104.html
The former WWE champion talks about making the transition to MMA, Brock Lesnar, the AFL, and more
Hughes: "I Still Owe Karo a Fight"
Denaro Sports Marketing recently sat down with Mixed Martial Arts legend and the man widely regarded as the greatest UFC welterweight champion of all time, Matt Hughes. Being one of the most dominating champions in UFC history, concerns linger as many critics call for Hughes' retirement and believe that his best days are behind him. After his recent loss to Brazilian contender, Thiago Alves, in June, Hughes has said immediately that he only has one more fight in him. “I’ve got one more fight in me,” said Hughes. “That’s Matt Serra. My wife wants it, I want it, and all these fans want it.”
Hughes and Serra were supposed to meet in the main event at UFC 79 in the Mandalay Bay arena at Las Vegas, in which Serra withdrew because of an injury, leaving the fight to never happen. The two men were last competing as opposing coaches in the sixth stint of "The Ultimate Fighter" series. "This is the fight that I want to complete before I make any final announcements as far as my career goes", said the calm and low toned Hughes. "Serra has been running his mouth for sometime and I owe it to myself, my team, and my fans to finally get in the cage with him."
The most interesting segment in our interview was Hughes' possible future after Matt Serra. "I won't take him lightly. I think all I really need to worry about are his heavy hands and I think if it goes to the ground, I can dominate him there and neutralize his ground game and jujitsu too." Given that Hughes may win against Serra, Hughes dismissed the idea of a third title run. "No. I won't go for another title run. I've been saying for a long time that my time in this sport is expiring. But if Dana White (UFC President) asks me to fight one more time, I'll choose Karo Parisyan. I was supposed to fight Karo back at UFC 56 and I ended up fighting Joe [Riggs]. Karo never ran his mouth the way Joe did and injuries happen in this sport. Even though it's not for the title, I feel like I owe him a match and he owes me one as well. I think it'll be great for the fans, myself, and my team." Although Hughes isn't fully confirming a fight with Karo, he states it as a possibility. "Let's see where my heart is after Serra. Depending on my performance, I'll sit down with my team and my manager and I'll make a decision."
Denaro Sports Marketing recently sat down with Mixed Martial Arts legend and the man widely regarded as the greatest UFC welterweight champion of all time, Matt Hughes. Being one of the most dominating champions in UFC history, concerns linger as many critics call for Hughes' retirement and believe that his best days are behind him. After his recent loss to Brazilian contender, Thiago Alves, in June, Hughes has said immediately that he only has one more fight in him. “I’ve got one more fight in me,” said Hughes. “That’s Matt Serra. My wife wants it, I want it, and all these fans want it.”
Hughes and Serra were supposed to meet in the main event at UFC 79 in the Mandalay Bay arena at Las Vegas, in which Serra withdrew because of an injury, leaving the fight to never happen. The two men were last competing as opposing coaches in the sixth stint of "The Ultimate Fighter" series. "This is the fight that I want to complete before I make any final announcements as far as my career goes", said the calm and low toned Hughes. "Serra has been running his mouth for sometime and I owe it to myself, my team, and my fans to finally get in the cage with him."
The most interesting segment in our interview was Hughes' possible future after Matt Serra. "I won't take him lightly. I think all I really need to worry about are his heavy hands and I think if it goes to the ground, I can dominate him there and neutralize his ground game and jujitsu too." Given that Hughes may win against Serra, Hughes dismissed the idea of a third title run. "No. I won't go for another title run. I've been saying for a long time that my time in this sport is expiring. But if Dana White (UFC President) asks me to fight one more time, I'll choose Karo Parisyan. I was supposed to fight Karo back at UFC 56 and I ended up fighting Joe [Riggs]. Karo never ran his mouth the way Joe did and injuries happen in this sport. Even though it's not for the title, I feel like I owe him a match and he owes me one as well. I think it'll be great for the fans, myself, and my team." Although Hughes isn't fully confirming a fight with Karo, he states it as a possibility. "Let's see where my heart is after Serra. Depending on my performance, I'll sit down with my team and my manager and I'll make a decision."
EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW with ROBERT DRYSDALE
MMA Sports caught up with Robert Drysdale as he prepares for his MMA debut on Tuff N Uff’s October 17 event.
MMA SPORTS: You are going to debut in MMA in October, how are you doing?
ROBERT DRYSDALE: I am feeling great. I have been training a lot and I train two or three times a day. I haven't been teaching as usual, and I have been doing my physical training with Rafael Alejarra. He is the man and really extracts from us the best. In our last training I almost died after three minutes of his training (laughs). I Box everyday and I also train wrestling and I cannot forget my Jiu-Jitsu…I am really confident about this debut.
I was supposed to fight in September, but I got my foot hurt and I needed at least six weeks to get better. Now I am feeling great and I will fight in October. I also received an invitation to fight in Canada in November, but I didn't want to wait so long…so I closed a deal to fight now and then in December.
MMA SPORTS: How is your training?
ROBERT DRYSDALE: I Box with Skiper Kelp, one of the best Boxing athletes,, he is very experienced. Then I go to Xtreme Couture and train Wrestling and Jiu-Jitsu. I am more focused in Wreslitng and Boxing. Jiu-Jitsu I train with Frank Mir...I am developing his game to fight Rodrigo Minotauro. I am also going to help Wanderlei for his next fight.
MMA SPORTS: So, how do you feel training with fighters such as Wanderlei Silva, Forrest Griffin and many other stars at Xtreme Couture?
ROBERT DRYSDALE: It's really good and makes me more confident. If I can exchange punches with Silva I can take anyone! If I can put Forrest down I can put anybody down and training with Couture is awesome. I have many sparring partners in there and some new fighters you can't imagine. I am having the time of my life and trying to learn as much I can. I teach a lot and they help me too…so it has been a nice exchange.
MMA SPORTS: You are a BJJ black belt and right now, tons of BJJ fighters are emerging in the MMA world...what do you think about that?
ROBERT DRYSDALE: I think no matter how much we enjoy and like to be on the mat, BJJ is the same as 10 years ago. It has not has been developed as MMA. BJJ Worlds came to the US, but it still do not count on sponsors, TV… there is no money involved, so it gets complicated to keep the fighters in the sport. So I am 26 now and I can't spend 10 more years of my life fighting for medals, so I decided to migrate.
MMA SPORTS: Does that include the grappling events such as ADCC?
ROBERT DRYSDALE: No, ADCC is different. I also want to fight MMA in 2008 because next year I want to focus in Abu Dhabi. I am hoping to fight Roger Gracie in the super-fight. So I want to spend three or four months training hard to beat him. So after this fight in December I will focus in Submission.
MMA SPORTS: And how do you plan on beating him?
ROBERT DRYSDALE: He is a great athlete and I know his weak spots. I will explore that and the rest will be history.
MMA SPORTS: He is also migrating to Vale-Tudo. Would you like to fight him under MMA rules?
ROBERT DRYSDALE: Man, I don't care to fight him in a ring. But if the promoters think it would be a great idea, why not? I don't see fighting as personal...but I tell you its really difficult when you have to face a friend. I say it would be very hard to fight Demian Maia for example. I do respect Roger a lot. He is very intelligent and a great person, but I won't see a problem to fight him professionally.
MMA SPORTS: Would you like to send a message to your fans that might be anxious about your debut in the ring?
ROBERT DRYSDALE: I thank all my friends and fans for the support. About this debut, I am very confident and have been training hard to do a great job, so the fans must be sure I will do my best and I hope you guys hear a lot from me.
MMA Sports caught up with Robert Drysdale as he prepares for his MMA debut on Tuff N Uff’s October 17 event.
MMA SPORTS: You are going to debut in MMA in October, how are you doing?
ROBERT DRYSDALE: I am feeling great. I have been training a lot and I train two or three times a day. I haven't been teaching as usual, and I have been doing my physical training with Rafael Alejarra. He is the man and really extracts from us the best. In our last training I almost died after three minutes of his training (laughs). I Box everyday and I also train wrestling and I cannot forget my Jiu-Jitsu…I am really confident about this debut.
I was supposed to fight in September, but I got my foot hurt and I needed at least six weeks to get better. Now I am feeling great and I will fight in October. I also received an invitation to fight in Canada in November, but I didn't want to wait so long…so I closed a deal to fight now and then in December.
MMA SPORTS: How is your training?
ROBERT DRYSDALE: I Box with Skiper Kelp, one of the best Boxing athletes,, he is very experienced. Then I go to Xtreme Couture and train Wrestling and Jiu-Jitsu. I am more focused in Wreslitng and Boxing. Jiu-Jitsu I train with Frank Mir...I am developing his game to fight Rodrigo Minotauro. I am also going to help Wanderlei for his next fight.
MMA SPORTS: So, how do you feel training with fighters such as Wanderlei Silva, Forrest Griffin and many other stars at Xtreme Couture?
ROBERT DRYSDALE: It's really good and makes me more confident. If I can exchange punches with Silva I can take anyone! If I can put Forrest down I can put anybody down and training with Couture is awesome. I have many sparring partners in there and some new fighters you can't imagine. I am having the time of my life and trying to learn as much I can. I teach a lot and they help me too…so it has been a nice exchange.
MMA SPORTS: You are a BJJ black belt and right now, tons of BJJ fighters are emerging in the MMA world...what do you think about that?
ROBERT DRYSDALE: I think no matter how much we enjoy and like to be on the mat, BJJ is the same as 10 years ago. It has not has been developed as MMA. BJJ Worlds came to the US, but it still do not count on sponsors, TV… there is no money involved, so it gets complicated to keep the fighters in the sport. So I am 26 now and I can't spend 10 more years of my life fighting for medals, so I decided to migrate.
MMA SPORTS: Does that include the grappling events such as ADCC?
ROBERT DRYSDALE: No, ADCC is different. I also want to fight MMA in 2008 because next year I want to focus in Abu Dhabi. I am hoping to fight Roger Gracie in the super-fight. So I want to spend three or four months training hard to beat him. So after this fight in December I will focus in Submission.
MMA SPORTS: And how do you plan on beating him?
ROBERT DRYSDALE: He is a great athlete and I know his weak spots. I will explore that and the rest will be history.
MMA SPORTS: He is also migrating to Vale-Tudo. Would you like to fight him under MMA rules?
ROBERT DRYSDALE: Man, I don't care to fight him in a ring. But if the promoters think it would be a great idea, why not? I don't see fighting as personal...but I tell you its really difficult when you have to face a friend. I say it would be very hard to fight Demian Maia for example. I do respect Roger a lot. He is very intelligent and a great person, but I won't see a problem to fight him professionally.
MMA SPORTS: Would you like to send a message to your fans that might be anxious about your debut in the ring?
ROBERT DRYSDALE: I thank all my friends and fans for the support. About this debut, I am very confident and have been training hard to do a great job, so the fans must be sure I will do my best and I hope you guys hear a lot from me.
BEYOND THE HYPE: GET TO KNOW SOKOUDJOU
link: http://www.fighthype.com/pages/content3563.html?PHPSESSID=9758b93cd053479371c6292775723f4c
FightHype.com brings you closer to the fighters with this unique series. Go beyond the hype to find out what makes your favorite fighters tick. From favorite movies, music and shows to childhood heroes, you'll get an inside look at their life outside of the ring/cage. So without further ado, get to know UFC light heavyweight contender Sokoudjou.
link: http://www.fighthype.com/pages/content3563.html?PHPSESSID=9758b93cd053479371c6292775723f4c
FightHype.com brings you closer to the fighters with this unique series. Go beyond the hype to find out what makes your favorite fighters tick. From favorite movies, music and shows to childhood heroes, you'll get an inside look at their life outside of the ring/cage. So without further ado, get to know UFC light heavyweight contender Sokoudjou.
Ill' Retire Crocop in Newyears eve reamtch say's Overeem
Dutch heavyweight Alistair Overeem was disappointed last month when his fight with Mirko CroCop at DREAM 6 was declared a no-contest. This week, he told Fighters Only that he is keen to get back in the ring with CroCop as soon as possible...
Fighters Only: There is talk of a New Year's Eve rematch between you and CroCop, is this confirmed or in discussion?
As of now it is in discussion, but I’m very adamant on getting the fight to finish what I’ve started.
I want to finish CroCop and put his name on my list, especially now because he has been arrogant and big mouthed.
Fighters Only: CroCop has suggested that if the fight had gone longer you would have run out of gas and he would have finished you. But you looked to be in excellent condition and very strong; How were you feeling for this fight?
I think it is good people underestimate me. I felt very strong and very secure. My cardio issue is something of the past where I had to cut a lot of weight every time.
Fighters Only: There seems a strong dislike between you and CroCop - is this real or is it hype and publicity for the fight? If it is real, where did it start?
I don’t like him, the fact that he picks his opponents, he stays in another, more expensive hotel and doesn’t want to socialize with other fighters. He thinks he is a superstar. He is an arrogant fighter who talks a lot to keep face.
Fighters Only: You have many fans in the USA that want to see you fight in the UFC, would you like to fight in this organisation if the right deal was made?
Of course, my management is working on some deals in the US right now. But i would like to add that I have been treated very well by Strikeforce.
Fighters Only: Any idea when we can see you in Strikeforce again?
There is nothing confirmed as of yet, but there will soon be more information on this.
Fighters Only: You’re fighting Gary Goodridge at Glory 10 in Holland next month. Which do you prefer, to fight in front of a big crowd in the USA or Japan, or to fight in front of your home fans?
To me, it doesn’t matter. A fight is a fight, you need to be sharp and 100 per cent.
Fighters Only: And finally, do you have any message for your fans?
I would like to thank all my fans! There response has been great and I appreciate it very much. Also, I would like to say that my best time is ahead of me and I’ve got a lot more good stuff to show them.
Dutch heavyweight Alistair Overeem was disappointed last month when his fight with Mirko CroCop at DREAM 6 was declared a no-contest. This week, he told Fighters Only that he is keen to get back in the ring with CroCop as soon as possible...
Fighters Only: There is talk of a New Year's Eve rematch between you and CroCop, is this confirmed or in discussion?
As of now it is in discussion, but I’m very adamant on getting the fight to finish what I’ve started.
I want to finish CroCop and put his name on my list, especially now because he has been arrogant and big mouthed.
Fighters Only: CroCop has suggested that if the fight had gone longer you would have run out of gas and he would have finished you. But you looked to be in excellent condition and very strong; How were you feeling for this fight?
I think it is good people underestimate me. I felt very strong and very secure. My cardio issue is something of the past where I had to cut a lot of weight every time.
Fighters Only: There seems a strong dislike between you and CroCop - is this real or is it hype and publicity for the fight? If it is real, where did it start?
I don’t like him, the fact that he picks his opponents, he stays in another, more expensive hotel and doesn’t want to socialize with other fighters. He thinks he is a superstar. He is an arrogant fighter who talks a lot to keep face.
Fighters Only: You have many fans in the USA that want to see you fight in the UFC, would you like to fight in this organisation if the right deal was made?
Of course, my management is working on some deals in the US right now. But i would like to add that I have been treated very well by Strikeforce.
Fighters Only: Any idea when we can see you in Strikeforce again?
There is nothing confirmed as of yet, but there will soon be more information on this.
Fighters Only: You’re fighting Gary Goodridge at Glory 10 in Holland next month. Which do you prefer, to fight in front of a big crowd in the USA or Japan, or to fight in front of your home fans?
To me, it doesn’t matter. A fight is a fight, you need to be sharp and 100 per cent.
Fighters Only: And finally, do you have any message for your fans?
I would like to thank all my fans! There response has been great and I appreciate it very much. Also, I would like to say that my best time is ahead of me and I’ve got a lot more good stuff to show them.
Satoshi Ishii Clearifies
Yesterday I and several other blogs and web-sites reported on the comments Olympic Judo gold medalist, Satoshi Ishii made regarding switching to MMA.
The stir he caused resulted in a pressconferance today, and it is clear that Ishii caused something he did not intend.
In his press-conferance today I will just give the quick note of what he said, as it might be clearer that way.
-He wants to fight MMA in the future, HOWEVER, his thoughts are currently on graduating university.
-He is currently injured, and can not compete in the upcoming world championships. To qualify for the London Olympics there is a point system in Judo, and because he is not competing and hence might not be able to qualify.
Ok, so that is just a very quick summary of what was said. Keep in mind that this is a 21 year old and his comment probably had much bigger impact than he imagined. IF he changes to MMA it will be huge! We have seen that the last few days, everyone knows about these news in Japan.
But when that day comes I would also be concerned about how that is managed... Putting up a debut against Fedor might not be the best idea.
Yesterday I and several other blogs and web-sites reported on the comments Olympic Judo gold medalist, Satoshi Ishii made regarding switching to MMA.
The stir he caused resulted in a pressconferance today, and it is clear that Ishii caused something he did not intend.
In his press-conferance today I will just give the quick note of what he said, as it might be clearer that way.
-He wants to fight MMA in the future, HOWEVER, his thoughts are currently on graduating university.
-He is currently injured, and can not compete in the upcoming world championships. To qualify for the London Olympics there is a point system in Judo, and because he is not competing and hence might not be able to qualify.
Ok, so that is just a very quick summary of what was said. Keep in mind that this is a 21 year old and his comment probably had much bigger impact than he imagined. IF he changes to MMA it will be huge! We have seen that the last few days, everyone knows about these news in Japan.
But when that day comes I would also be concerned about how that is managed... Putting up a debut against Fedor might not be the best idea.
Rafael Cordeiro interview
Considered one of the best MMA coaches of the world, Rafael Cordeiro is running the Chute Boxe branch in USA, and celebrates the good moments of the team. With more than 70 athletes and training in it’s own training center, Rafael believes that now Chute Boxe will show her work in America. In an exclusive chat with TATAME, Cordeiro revealed that one of the biggest opponents of the team in the past, Quinton Jackson, that fought Wanderlei Silva, Maurício Shogun and Murilo Ninja, wanted to train with him to face Wanderlei again, at UFC 92. On the exclusive interview, Cordeiro commented Cris Cyborg’s victory, his probable fight with Gina Carano, the new Chute Boxe USA training center and revealed that Marlon Mathias and Fernando Bettega will fight at November’s ShoXC edition.
What do you think about Cris Cyborg performance at her last fight?
I wasn’t at her corner in this fight, because her coaches from Brazil, Cristiano Marcello, Cyborg and Rudimar (Fedrigo) came here and helped her a lot. Thanks God he left there with the victory. Everything was right and now we’re going after the title. I think she’ll fight Gina Carano… There’s nowhere to run, EliteXC may put them to fight in February.
Which details do you think she still has to develop to face Gina Carano?
I think every athlete always has something to develop. In every fight you do, you can win well, but always you’ll have a detail do fix… She can’t stop working hard, it’s on the victory and losses that you learn, and we have a lot of thing to fix. Even if one day she gets this belt, something that would be historical in the MMA and for Brazil, to have a fighter there fighting for it, she has to develop even more and I think she’s doing fine, going even more and I’m glad to being following her since the beginning, showing a good athlete and now known in whole world.
How do you think would be a fight between Cyborg and Carano?
I think I’d be a great fight for both, they deserve that and they’re record speak for them. It’ll be awesome, everybody will be excited, and we believe she has all conditions to win and will do it with the same will she fought all her opponents. If she puts her pace in the fight, she’ll bring this title.
How is the training at Chute Boxe USA?
Everything is fine. We have a great team here, Fernando Bettega recently won at ShoXC and will fight again at California Xtreme Fight (CXF) by the end of the month with other two fighters from Chute Boxe USA. Marlon Mathias is training here with us and will be at next EliteXC, in November 8th, and if Bettega don’t get hurt in his next fight he will be there too.
Who’ll Marlon fight at EliteXC now?
We don’t know yet, but he’ll be at 150lbs division… He’s well, and our team is very strong here. We have 70 athletes and we’re training in our own training center. When we came here we were using other gym, and today we have our gym own Chute Boxe, our team.
You were at Wandelei Silva’s corner when he defeated Quinton Jackson twice at Pride… What are your predictions for this fight, now in UFC?
I’m sure it’ll be another knockout. If Wanderlei shows the same game he always showed, he’ll bring to Brazil another victory. He knows Quinton’s game, but unfortunately Quinton knows his too, but he may had bad memories of that… In fact, when I was here I heard some rumors that Quinton wanted to train with me, and when I knew that it was his preparation to fight with Wanderlei I didn’t accept. Everybody is professional, but there are things that money can’t buy. I heard this rumors, I have nothing against him, I’m a professional, but not that much, train someone to fight someone that already trained with me.
You also were at Shogun’s corner when he fought Coleman at Pride… How do you think it’ll be this fight now?
I think Coleman came down (in divisions) for this fight, but I think it won’t be a mystery for Shogun. He’s more versatile, he always showed that, and if he fights him like he did in his best times, this fight won’t pass the first round.
When they fight each other in Pride, everybody in Chute Boxe wanted a rematch because of what happened there… Today, out of Chute Boxe, Shogun will face him again. If he wins the fight, will he revenge Chute Boxe or only for himself?
No, I don’t think it’ll have that revenge taste. What happened there at the ring is that Coleman and his team wanted to come fight with us, and we went there. It was very emotional, but I don’t think it’ll be a revenge for Chute Boxe… If we start waiting to get a revenge against everybody that beat us we’ll live out whole life with enemies, we and who we defeat. It’s past. Coleman is a great athlete, still fighting with more than 40 years old and I pray God bless them, but I believe Shogun may win. And I believe it’ll be on the first round.
Considered one of the best MMA coaches of the world, Rafael Cordeiro is running the Chute Boxe branch in USA, and celebrates the good moments of the team. With more than 70 athletes and training in it’s own training center, Rafael believes that now Chute Boxe will show her work in America. In an exclusive chat with TATAME, Cordeiro revealed that one of the biggest opponents of the team in the past, Quinton Jackson, that fought Wanderlei Silva, Maurício Shogun and Murilo Ninja, wanted to train with him to face Wanderlei again, at UFC 92. On the exclusive interview, Cordeiro commented Cris Cyborg’s victory, his probable fight with Gina Carano, the new Chute Boxe USA training center and revealed that Marlon Mathias and Fernando Bettega will fight at November’s ShoXC edition.
What do you think about Cris Cyborg performance at her last fight?
I wasn’t at her corner in this fight, because her coaches from Brazil, Cristiano Marcello, Cyborg and Rudimar (Fedrigo) came here and helped her a lot. Thanks God he left there with the victory. Everything was right and now we’re going after the title. I think she’ll fight Gina Carano… There’s nowhere to run, EliteXC may put them to fight in February.
Which details do you think she still has to develop to face Gina Carano?
I think every athlete always has something to develop. In every fight you do, you can win well, but always you’ll have a detail do fix… She can’t stop working hard, it’s on the victory and losses that you learn, and we have a lot of thing to fix. Even if one day she gets this belt, something that would be historical in the MMA and for Brazil, to have a fighter there fighting for it, she has to develop even more and I think she’s doing fine, going even more and I’m glad to being following her since the beginning, showing a good athlete and now known in whole world.
How do you think would be a fight between Cyborg and Carano?
I think I’d be a great fight for both, they deserve that and they’re record speak for them. It’ll be awesome, everybody will be excited, and we believe she has all conditions to win and will do it with the same will she fought all her opponents. If she puts her pace in the fight, she’ll bring this title.
How is the training at Chute Boxe USA?
Everything is fine. We have a great team here, Fernando Bettega recently won at ShoXC and will fight again at California Xtreme Fight (CXF) by the end of the month with other two fighters from Chute Boxe USA. Marlon Mathias is training here with us and will be at next EliteXC, in November 8th, and if Bettega don’t get hurt in his next fight he will be there too.
Who’ll Marlon fight at EliteXC now?
We don’t know yet, but he’ll be at 150lbs division… He’s well, and our team is very strong here. We have 70 athletes and we’re training in our own training center. When we came here we were using other gym, and today we have our gym own Chute Boxe, our team.
You were at Wandelei Silva’s corner when he defeated Quinton Jackson twice at Pride… What are your predictions for this fight, now in UFC?
I’m sure it’ll be another knockout. If Wanderlei shows the same game he always showed, he’ll bring to Brazil another victory. He knows Quinton’s game, but unfortunately Quinton knows his too, but he may had bad memories of that… In fact, when I was here I heard some rumors that Quinton wanted to train with me, and when I knew that it was his preparation to fight with Wanderlei I didn’t accept. Everybody is professional, but there are things that money can’t buy. I heard this rumors, I have nothing against him, I’m a professional, but not that much, train someone to fight someone that already trained with me.
You also were at Shogun’s corner when he fought Coleman at Pride… How do you think it’ll be this fight now?
I think Coleman came down (in divisions) for this fight, but I think it won’t be a mystery for Shogun. He’s more versatile, he always showed that, and if he fights him like he did in his best times, this fight won’t pass the first round.
When they fight each other in Pride, everybody in Chute Boxe wanted a rematch because of what happened there… Today, out of Chute Boxe, Shogun will face him again. If he wins the fight, will he revenge Chute Boxe or only for himself?
No, I don’t think it’ll have that revenge taste. What happened there at the ring is that Coleman and his team wanted to come fight with us, and we went there. It was very emotional, but I don’t think it’ll be a revenge for Chute Boxe… If we start waiting to get a revenge against everybody that beat us we’ll live out whole life with enemies, we and who we defeat. It’s past. Coleman is a great athlete, still fighting with more than 40 years old and I pray God bless them, but I believe Shogun may win. And I believe it’ll be on the first round.
"A Night of Combat II" debuts Oct. 17 on HDNet
"A Night of Combat II," an Oct. 11 fight card that features many notables from the Xtreme Couture camp, will debut Friday, Oct. 17 on HDNet.
It'll be a one-week delay from when the event takes place live in Las Vegas at the Thomas & Mack Center on the campus of UNLV.
HDNet officials today told MMAjunkie.com (www.mmajunkie.com) that the event is set for an Oct. 17 debut on the all-high-definition cable station and that it'll replay at various times over the next few months.
The debut is tentatively set for 10 p.m. ET.
The night's entire fight card will be included in the broadcast.
"A Night of Combat II," which is co-promoted by Xtreme Couture Vice President Kim Couture's KC Concepts and Scott Kelp's Superfights MMA, features Mike Pyle vs. Brian Gassaway, John Alessio vs. Gideon Ray, Jay Hieron vs. Bryson Kamaka, Josh Haynes vs. Sean Salmon and many other notables.
Pyle, Alessio, Hieron, Haynes, preliminary-card fighter Elena Reid and others all represent the Xtreme Couture gym.
The event will be Couture's second as a co-promoter. The 32-year-old former casino executive was involved with June's original "Night of Combat" event, where Couture also made her professional fighting debut. The show, which featured a hybrid MMA/boxing card and free tickets, drew 10,000 spectators to the Thomas & Mack Center.
"A Night of Combat II," an Oct. 11 fight card that features many notables from the Xtreme Couture camp, will debut Friday, Oct. 17 on HDNet.
It'll be a one-week delay from when the event takes place live in Las Vegas at the Thomas & Mack Center on the campus of UNLV.
HDNet officials today told MMAjunkie.com (www.mmajunkie.com) that the event is set for an Oct. 17 debut on the all-high-definition cable station and that it'll replay at various times over the next few months.
The debut is tentatively set for 10 p.m. ET.
The night's entire fight card will be included in the broadcast.
"A Night of Combat II," which is co-promoted by Xtreme Couture Vice President Kim Couture's KC Concepts and Scott Kelp's Superfights MMA, features Mike Pyle vs. Brian Gassaway, John Alessio vs. Gideon Ray, Jay Hieron vs. Bryson Kamaka, Josh Haynes vs. Sean Salmon and many other notables.
Pyle, Alessio, Hieron, Haynes, preliminary-card fighter Elena Reid and others all represent the Xtreme Couture gym.
The event will be Couture's second as a co-promoter. The 32-year-old former casino executive was involved with June's original "Night of Combat" event, where Couture also made her professional fighting debut. The show, which featured a hybrid MMA/boxing card and free tickets, drew 10,000 spectators to the Thomas & Mack Center.
Wagnney Dec 13 WEC debut
At last fight fans will get another glimpse of a fighter widely considered to be the IFL's greatest product, as GRACIEMAG.com has learned Wagnney Fabiano has a date and opponent for his much speculated-about return to the ring. With both fighters having signed their respective bout agreements, the man the now-defunct IFL created a weight category for and former Shooto lightweight title challenger Akitoshi Tamura will make their WEC debuts at the WEC December-3rd show facing each other.
The two fighters from opposite sides of the globe both hold winning records and are coming off wins as they enter the Zuffa-owned event, since Wagnney’s last fight was an efficient dispatching of Shad Leirley by early-first-round knockout to capture his belt, while the Japanese fighter from Tsudanuma Dojo’s last adventure in the ring was a submission win over legendary Rumina Sato, after coming out on the wrong side of a decision in challenging Hideki Kadowaki for Shooto’s lightweight title.
With the Brazilian of pure bred fighting lineage’s only loss a controversial decision dropped to Jeff Curran in 2006 and the Japanese Shooto fixture never having been finished in his entire 20-fight career, the match up seems intriguing to say the least. Sparks should fly in the WEC cage come December 3rd.
At last fight fans will get another glimpse of a fighter widely considered to be the IFL's greatest product, as GRACIEMAG.com has learned Wagnney Fabiano has a date and opponent for his much speculated-about return to the ring. With both fighters having signed their respective bout agreements, the man the now-defunct IFL created a weight category for and former Shooto lightweight title challenger Akitoshi Tamura will make their WEC debuts at the WEC December-3rd show facing each other.
The two fighters from opposite sides of the globe both hold winning records and are coming off wins as they enter the Zuffa-owned event, since Wagnney’s last fight was an efficient dispatching of Shad Leirley by early-first-round knockout to capture his belt, while the Japanese fighter from Tsudanuma Dojo’s last adventure in the ring was a submission win over legendary Rumina Sato, after coming out on the wrong side of a decision in challenging Hideki Kadowaki for Shooto’s lightweight title.
With the Brazilian of pure bred fighting lineage’s only loss a controversial decision dropped to Jeff Curran in 2006 and the Japanese Shooto fixture never having been finished in his entire 20-fight career, the match up seems intriguing to say the least. Sparks should fly in the WEC cage come December 3rd.
UFC signs U.K. fighter Abdul Mohamed for UFC 93
The Ultimate Fighting Championship has further added to its growing roster of European talent by inking a deal with top U.K. lightweight Abdul Mohamed (16-6-3 MMA, 0-0 UFC).
Sources close to Mohamed told MMAjunkie.com (www.mmajunkie.com) of the signing on Monday, though terms of the contract were not undisclosed.
Mohamed is expected to make his debut at UFC 93, which takes place Jan. 17 in Dublin, Ireland.
No opponent has been determined.
Mohamed, a five year-veteran of the sport, has fought the entirety of his career in the U.K. A member of the expanding Wolfslair gym, he will join stablemates Michael Bisping, Paul Kelly, Quinton Jackson and Cheick Kongo on the UFC roster.
Mohamed has been a longtime target of the UFC, and he had been a rumored participant during past UFC shows in the U.K.
Mohamed is a powerhouse grappler known for overwhelming his opponents with wrestling and dominant top position control. He picked up a unanimous-decision victory over Ross Pearson at Cage Gladiators 9 this past weekend. The victory is believed to have secured the UFC deal, sources close to the fighter said.
During his career, Mohamed has competed against the likes of former Cage Rage champion and EliteXC fighter Paul Daley, whom he fought to a draw, and grappling sensation Vitor Ribeiro, to whom he lost via submission. He holds victories over the likes of Jean Silva, Ross Pointon and Robbie Olivier.
The Ultimate Fighting Championship has further added to its growing roster of European talent by inking a deal with top U.K. lightweight Abdul Mohamed (16-6-3 MMA, 0-0 UFC).
Sources close to Mohamed told MMAjunkie.com (www.mmajunkie.com) of the signing on Monday, though terms of the contract were not undisclosed.
Mohamed is expected to make his debut at UFC 93, which takes place Jan. 17 in Dublin, Ireland.
No opponent has been determined.
Mohamed, a five year-veteran of the sport, has fought the entirety of his career in the U.K. A member of the expanding Wolfslair gym, he will join stablemates Michael Bisping, Paul Kelly, Quinton Jackson and Cheick Kongo on the UFC roster.
Mohamed has been a longtime target of the UFC, and he had been a rumored participant during past UFC shows in the U.K.
Mohamed is a powerhouse grappler known for overwhelming his opponents with wrestling and dominant top position control. He picked up a unanimous-decision victory over Ross Pearson at Cage Gladiators 9 this past weekend. The victory is believed to have secured the UFC deal, sources close to the fighter said.
During his career, Mohamed has competed against the likes of former Cage Rage champion and EliteXC fighter Paul Daley, whom he fought to a draw, and grappling sensation Vitor Ribeiro, to whom he lost via submission. He holds victories over the likes of Jean Silva, Ross Pointon and Robbie Olivier.
RICK ROUFUS HEADS UPDATED NIGHT OF COMBAT 2
Superfights MMA and KC Concepts has officially announced the addition of Rick “The Jet” Roufus to “A Night of Combat II.” Roufus, a kickboxing legend and former K-1 champion recently transitioned into MMA and is ready to make his mark in the sport. He will face UFC veteran Hector “Sick Dog” Ramirez in the main event at the Thomas & Mack Center on Saturday, Oct. 11.
Skip Kelp of Superfights MMA had this to say, “We are excited to have Rick Roufus in our main event. Rick’s a phenomenal fighter, he holds titles in both kick-boxing and boxing, has added ground skills to his arsenal and is ready to take it to the cage.”
The main bout between Roufus and Ramirez is well matched. Ramirez last competed for Hardcore Championship Fighting in March, defeating Toronto’s own Rob McDonald by unanimous decision in Gatineau, QC. Roufus, also coming off of a victory, defeated Ryan "The Hunter" Lopez of The Ultimate Fighter 8 by TKO in round two at a recent C3 Fight event in Concho, Okla.
“Both Roufus and Ramirez are bangers and exciting to watch. This bout is a great addition to the already stacked card, which includes some of the top fighters from Xtreme Couture. Get ready for an exciting night of fights!” states Kim Couture of KC Concepts.
Roufus trains out of Ken Shamrock’s Lion’s Den in Scottsdale, Az. and has a legendary resume that many MMA fans may not be aware of. He is the most decorated full contact kickboxer in the history of the sport. He holds six world championship titles in kickboxing, is a former K-1 champion, and won the WBC Continental Americas Cruiserweight title in boxing. His decision to transition into MMA was a well thought out one. If Roufus attains his goal, he will be the only fighter in history to hold titles in American kickboxing, boxing, Thai boxing and MMA.
“This is a huge opportunity for me. Winning this fight will take me one step closer to my objective of winning a light-heavyweight title in MMA,” Roufus said. “To put myself in contention for a title, I need to fight on reputable cards and defeat high profile opponents. My goal is to go on to fight for Affliction or UFC, but right now my focus is winning this fight.”
Superfights MMA and KC Concepts has officially announced the addition of Rick “The Jet” Roufus to “A Night of Combat II.” Roufus, a kickboxing legend and former K-1 champion recently transitioned into MMA and is ready to make his mark in the sport. He will face UFC veteran Hector “Sick Dog” Ramirez in the main event at the Thomas & Mack Center on Saturday, Oct. 11.
Skip Kelp of Superfights MMA had this to say, “We are excited to have Rick Roufus in our main event. Rick’s a phenomenal fighter, he holds titles in both kick-boxing and boxing, has added ground skills to his arsenal and is ready to take it to the cage.”
The main bout between Roufus and Ramirez is well matched. Ramirez last competed for Hardcore Championship Fighting in March, defeating Toronto’s own Rob McDonald by unanimous decision in Gatineau, QC. Roufus, also coming off of a victory, defeated Ryan "The Hunter" Lopez of The Ultimate Fighter 8 by TKO in round two at a recent C3 Fight event in Concho, Okla.
“Both Roufus and Ramirez are bangers and exciting to watch. This bout is a great addition to the already stacked card, which includes some of the top fighters from Xtreme Couture. Get ready for an exciting night of fights!” states Kim Couture of KC Concepts.
Roufus trains out of Ken Shamrock’s Lion’s Den in Scottsdale, Az. and has a legendary resume that many MMA fans may not be aware of. He is the most decorated full contact kickboxer in the history of the sport. He holds six world championship titles in kickboxing, is a former K-1 champion, and won the WBC Continental Americas Cruiserweight title in boxing. His decision to transition into MMA was a well thought out one. If Roufus attains his goal, he will be the only fighter in history to hold titles in American kickboxing, boxing, Thai boxing and MMA.
“This is a huge opportunity for me. Winning this fight will take me one step closer to my objective of winning a light-heavyweight title in MMA,” Roufus said. “To put myself in contention for a title, I need to fight on reputable cards and defeat high profile opponents. My goal is to go on to fight for Affliction or UFC, but right now my focus is winning this fight.”
Brian Stann Off UFC Fight Night 16 Due To Injury
Former WEC Light Heavyweight Champion Brian Stann will not be able to fight on the December 10th UFC FIGHT FOR THE TROOPS show which is to be held at Fort Bragg, North Carolina. Sources close to the fighter today confirmed to Fiveouncesofpain.com that an injury to the fighter’s foot would not allow him to fight in his scheduled bout with Steve Cantwell.
Former WEC Light Heavyweight Champion Brian Stann will not be able to fight on the December 10th UFC FIGHT FOR THE TROOPS show which is to be held at Fort Bragg, North Carolina. Sources close to the fighter today confirmed to Fiveouncesofpain.com that an injury to the fighter’s foot would not allow him to fight in his scheduled bout with Steve Cantwell.
PEE WEE & MEAT TRUCK HEAD FRIDAY'S SHOXC
Nicknames such as “Pee Wee” and “Meat Truck” may not exactly strike fear into an opponent, but make no mistake, undefeated Dave “Pee Wee” Herman, of Bloomington, Ind., and Kerry “Meat Truck” Schall, of Cincinnati, Ohio, can fight.
The heavyweights – Herman, a talented, up-and-comer and hometown favorite, and the more-experienced Schall – will collide in the main event on ShoXC: Elite Challenger Series this Friday, Oct. 10, live on SHOWTIME (11 p.m. ET/PT, delayed on the west coast) at The Venue inside Harrah’s Horseshoe Casino at Hammond, Ind.
ShoXC, a presentation of Los Angeles-based ProElite, Inc.’s live fight division, EliteXC, showcases young, talented fighters in tough matchups. A springboard for the future stars and champions of EliteXC, ShoXC is patterned after the SHOWTIME boxing series ShoBox: The New Generation.
Speaking of nicknames, fighters known as “Fancy Pants, “Cannibal,’’ “Storm,” “The Recipe’’ and “Bubba” will appear in the other SHOWTIME fights: streaking Mamed “Cannibal” Khalidov of Olsztyn, Poland, meets Jason Guida of Schaumburg, Ill., at 205 pounds; Anthony “The Recipe’’ Lapsley of Fort Wayne, Ind., faces Mike Stumpf of Crystal Lake, Fla., at 170 pounds; rugged Alexander “Storm” Shlemenko of Omsk, Russia, throws down with Robert “Bubba” McDaniel of Wichita Falls, Tex., at 185 pounds; and Lyle “Fancy Pants’’ Beerbohm of Spokane, Wash., takes on Brazil’s Rafaello “Trator” Olivera in a battle of unbeaten 160-pounders.
Ten of the 12 fighters appearing in non-televised bouts hail from Indiana: Anthony Marti takes on Jared “The Spider’’ McMahon at 140 pounds; Torrance Taylor collides with Jeff Cox of Cleveland, Ohio, at 150 pounds; Orville Smith meets Matt Jaggers at 140 pounds; Tiawon Howard battles Hector Urbina at 170 pounds; John Kuhner of Columbus, Ohio, takes on Deray Davis at 170 pounds; and Josh Barnes faces Jeremy Norton at 265.
The scheduled 11 fights on EliteXC’s third fight card in 15 days – the others came Oct. 4 on the CBS Television Network and Sept. 26 on SHOWTIME – are scheduled for three, 5-minute rounds.
Outside the cage, Herman is perhaps the most colorful, comical, laid-back, unconventional fighter in mixed martial arts history. He trains out of his house, doesn’t belong to a team and pays hardly any attention to MMA fights he’s not a participant in. But you can’t argue with the results. He’s perfect so far.
Herman doesn’t appear to take anything seriously, least of all himself. Hence, the six-foot-five, 24-year-old’s nickname: “Pee Wee.” Actually, he’s contemplated changing his nickname to “BlueBerry Muffin.” See, he loves his mother’s homemade pastries. But he’s no cupcake, at least in the cage.
Since turning pro in December 2006, the athletic, former Indiana-Bloomington standout wrestler with impressive striking skills and amazing knees has won eight fights via knockout and three by submission. He has never fought to a decision and only one fight has gone past the first round.
Herman is making his third start for EliteXC and second on SHOWTIME. He scored a third-round TKO (knees and punches) over Mario Rinaldi on Feb. 16, 2008, and a crowd-pleasing 2:19, opening-round TKO (strikes) over veteran Ron “H20” Waterman on June 14, 2008, on SHOWTIME.
Schall, an experienced fighter who was part of the original cast on the second season of “The Ultimate Fighter,’’ has faced some impressive competition in a 10-year career, including a fight with Fedor Emelianenko. Schall owns notable victories over Wade Hamilton and Brian Ebersole.
Not known as a heavy striker, Schall, 2-2 in his last four fights, can be expected to try and take this to the ground.
Khalidov, who is making his United States, EliteXC and SHOWTIME debut, will enter the cage with a 12-fight unbeaten streak. A small light heavyweight at only 195 pounds, the Chechen Top Team member Khalidov has competed exclusively in Poland and Lithuania.
A draw against Daniel Tabera in his last start on Sept. 13, 2008, ended a run of 11 consecutive victories for Khalidov, whose style reminds some of a young Mauricio “Shogun’’ Rua.
The younger brother of top lightweight Clay Guida, Jason Guida has fought some good ones since going pro in July 2003. A winner of two of his last three, Jason also will be making his EliteXC debut.
Lapsley has registered submissions in nine of his 12 victories, including a 1:34, first-round submission over Aaron Wetherspoon in his last start on Aug. 14, 2008.
An exceptional athlete, Lapsley has kept busy since turning pro. His first appearance for EliteXC will mark the 17th time he has gone to the post since June 2006.
Stumpf, who has triumphed inside the distance in six of his 10 victories, will bring a four-fight winning streak into his EliteXC and SHOWTIME debut. Perhaps his most noteworthy victory came when he scored a second-round TKO (strikes) over Dom O’Grady on June 14, 2008.
The 21-year-old Stumpf has a strong wrestling base thanks in large part to his father, who was a Division I standout in folk-style and Greco-Roman wrestling and was considered to be Olympic-caliber.
Shiemenko possesses good Muay Thai and is a tough striker with knockout capability. No stranger to winning streaks, he began his career 15-0 and enters this one having won six in a row, all inside the distance. Five of the six ended in the first round and the other was over in the second.
A well-conditioned, 24-year-old knockout artist, Shiemenko has been fighting his entire life. His biggest victory, though, came when he decided at an early age to focus on athletics and managed to stick with it.
In the Siberian city of Omsk where Shiemenko grew up, statistics indicate that 50 percent of the city's youth are either in prison, addicted to drugs, or dead by the age of 21.
McDaniel is a serious-minded, tough Texan who has won his last two starts, including a startling 0:41, first-round submission (rear naked choke) over Icon Sport middleweight champion Kala “Kolohe” Hose in a non-title fight on June 14, 2008, in Hawaii.
A submission whiz, nine of McDaniel’s 11 victories have come inside the distance. None of his fights have lasted more than two rounds.
Beerbohm is making his sixth start in 2008 and ninth since his pro debut on Aug. 30, 2007. In his last outing, he went the distance for the first time, scoring a unanimous decision over Ed Nuno on April 18, 2008.
Olivera is a Brazilian making his debut on EliteXC and SHOWTIME.
SHOWTIME announcer Mauro Ranallo will call the play-by-play for ShoXC with Stephen Quadros, The Fight Professor, serving as color analyst. The producer of ShoXC: Elite Challenger Series is Richard Gaughan with Rick Phillips directing. The executive producer of SHOWTIME Sports is David Dinkins, Jr.
Nicknames such as “Pee Wee” and “Meat Truck” may not exactly strike fear into an opponent, but make no mistake, undefeated Dave “Pee Wee” Herman, of Bloomington, Ind., and Kerry “Meat Truck” Schall, of Cincinnati, Ohio, can fight.
The heavyweights – Herman, a talented, up-and-comer and hometown favorite, and the more-experienced Schall – will collide in the main event on ShoXC: Elite Challenger Series this Friday, Oct. 10, live on SHOWTIME (11 p.m. ET/PT, delayed on the west coast) at The Venue inside Harrah’s Horseshoe Casino at Hammond, Ind.
ShoXC, a presentation of Los Angeles-based ProElite, Inc.’s live fight division, EliteXC, showcases young, talented fighters in tough matchups. A springboard for the future stars and champions of EliteXC, ShoXC is patterned after the SHOWTIME boxing series ShoBox: The New Generation.
Speaking of nicknames, fighters known as “Fancy Pants, “Cannibal,’’ “Storm,” “The Recipe’’ and “Bubba” will appear in the other SHOWTIME fights: streaking Mamed “Cannibal” Khalidov of Olsztyn, Poland, meets Jason Guida of Schaumburg, Ill., at 205 pounds; Anthony “The Recipe’’ Lapsley of Fort Wayne, Ind., faces Mike Stumpf of Crystal Lake, Fla., at 170 pounds; rugged Alexander “Storm” Shlemenko of Omsk, Russia, throws down with Robert “Bubba” McDaniel of Wichita Falls, Tex., at 185 pounds; and Lyle “Fancy Pants’’ Beerbohm of Spokane, Wash., takes on Brazil’s Rafaello “Trator” Olivera in a battle of unbeaten 160-pounders.
Ten of the 12 fighters appearing in non-televised bouts hail from Indiana: Anthony Marti takes on Jared “The Spider’’ McMahon at 140 pounds; Torrance Taylor collides with Jeff Cox of Cleveland, Ohio, at 150 pounds; Orville Smith meets Matt Jaggers at 140 pounds; Tiawon Howard battles Hector Urbina at 170 pounds; John Kuhner of Columbus, Ohio, takes on Deray Davis at 170 pounds; and Josh Barnes faces Jeremy Norton at 265.
The scheduled 11 fights on EliteXC’s third fight card in 15 days – the others came Oct. 4 on the CBS Television Network and Sept. 26 on SHOWTIME – are scheduled for three, 5-minute rounds.
Outside the cage, Herman is perhaps the most colorful, comical, laid-back, unconventional fighter in mixed martial arts history. He trains out of his house, doesn’t belong to a team and pays hardly any attention to MMA fights he’s not a participant in. But you can’t argue with the results. He’s perfect so far.
Herman doesn’t appear to take anything seriously, least of all himself. Hence, the six-foot-five, 24-year-old’s nickname: “Pee Wee.” Actually, he’s contemplated changing his nickname to “BlueBerry Muffin.” See, he loves his mother’s homemade pastries. But he’s no cupcake, at least in the cage.
Since turning pro in December 2006, the athletic, former Indiana-Bloomington standout wrestler with impressive striking skills and amazing knees has won eight fights via knockout and three by submission. He has never fought to a decision and only one fight has gone past the first round.
Herman is making his third start for EliteXC and second on SHOWTIME. He scored a third-round TKO (knees and punches) over Mario Rinaldi on Feb. 16, 2008, and a crowd-pleasing 2:19, opening-round TKO (strikes) over veteran Ron “H20” Waterman on June 14, 2008, on SHOWTIME.
Schall, an experienced fighter who was part of the original cast on the second season of “The Ultimate Fighter,’’ has faced some impressive competition in a 10-year career, including a fight with Fedor Emelianenko. Schall owns notable victories over Wade Hamilton and Brian Ebersole.
Not known as a heavy striker, Schall, 2-2 in his last four fights, can be expected to try and take this to the ground.
Khalidov, who is making his United States, EliteXC and SHOWTIME debut, will enter the cage with a 12-fight unbeaten streak. A small light heavyweight at only 195 pounds, the Chechen Top Team member Khalidov has competed exclusively in Poland and Lithuania.
A draw against Daniel Tabera in his last start on Sept. 13, 2008, ended a run of 11 consecutive victories for Khalidov, whose style reminds some of a young Mauricio “Shogun’’ Rua.
The younger brother of top lightweight Clay Guida, Jason Guida has fought some good ones since going pro in July 2003. A winner of two of his last three, Jason also will be making his EliteXC debut.
Lapsley has registered submissions in nine of his 12 victories, including a 1:34, first-round submission over Aaron Wetherspoon in his last start on Aug. 14, 2008.
An exceptional athlete, Lapsley has kept busy since turning pro. His first appearance for EliteXC will mark the 17th time he has gone to the post since June 2006.
Stumpf, who has triumphed inside the distance in six of his 10 victories, will bring a four-fight winning streak into his EliteXC and SHOWTIME debut. Perhaps his most noteworthy victory came when he scored a second-round TKO (strikes) over Dom O’Grady on June 14, 2008.
The 21-year-old Stumpf has a strong wrestling base thanks in large part to his father, who was a Division I standout in folk-style and Greco-Roman wrestling and was considered to be Olympic-caliber.
Shiemenko possesses good Muay Thai and is a tough striker with knockout capability. No stranger to winning streaks, he began his career 15-0 and enters this one having won six in a row, all inside the distance. Five of the six ended in the first round and the other was over in the second.
A well-conditioned, 24-year-old knockout artist, Shiemenko has been fighting his entire life. His biggest victory, though, came when he decided at an early age to focus on athletics and managed to stick with it.
In the Siberian city of Omsk where Shiemenko grew up, statistics indicate that 50 percent of the city's youth are either in prison, addicted to drugs, or dead by the age of 21.
McDaniel is a serious-minded, tough Texan who has won his last two starts, including a startling 0:41, first-round submission (rear naked choke) over Icon Sport middleweight champion Kala “Kolohe” Hose in a non-title fight on June 14, 2008, in Hawaii.
A submission whiz, nine of McDaniel’s 11 victories have come inside the distance. None of his fights have lasted more than two rounds.
Beerbohm is making his sixth start in 2008 and ninth since his pro debut on Aug. 30, 2007. In his last outing, he went the distance for the first time, scoring a unanimous decision over Ed Nuno on April 18, 2008.
Olivera is a Brazilian making his debut on EliteXC and SHOWTIME.
SHOWTIME announcer Mauro Ranallo will call the play-by-play for ShoXC with Stephen Quadros, The Fight Professor, serving as color analyst. The producer of ShoXC: Elite Challenger Series is Richard Gaughan with Rick Phillips directing. The executive producer of SHOWTIME Sports is David Dinkins, Jr.
Noons: 'I’m a Free Agent'
Karl James Noons is looking towards greener pastures, which may or may not include his return to the EliteXC cage, he says.
“I’m a free agent,” Noons told Sherdog.com Monday, the result of EliteXC taking back his championship belt.
Noons, 25, was stripped of his EliteXC 160-pound title on Sept. 19 after the promotion said he refused to defend his title against Nick Diaz.
Noons bested the mouthy Stockton, Calif. native with a first-round TKO on cuts in November 2007. Words between the fighters and their families ensued in the cage, and a rematch loomed.
EliteXC attempted to promote said rematch on three separate cards since July. But Noons took umbrage with Diaz’s pay scale, which was nearly three times more than his.
Private discussions spilled into the public forum when an EliteXC rep announced Noons had been given a 24-hour deadline to accept the bout.
Though Noons was subsequently removed from EliteXC’s champions mantle, he said a piece is missing from the timeline.
“We weren’t coming to agreements on the fight, so I gave them written notice that I’d give them the belt back five days prior before they stripped me,” he said, in the hopes of “working something out.” “I didn’t make it public, and I guess to prove a point, or maybe out of ego or whatever they want, they stripped me.”
Noons said his contract, of which two fights remain, only pertains to his reign as a titleholder.
"Since I’ve been stripped, I’m no longer the champion and I don’t owe them the fights," he said. "I owed them fights for being a champion.”
Jeremy Lappen, EliteXC’s Head of Fight Operations, doesn’t agree.
"KJ still has two more fights on his contract," Lappen said Monday. “I’m hoping we’ll work something out, but there’s really not much to work out. He’s still under contract with us.”
Lappen confirmed that Diaz will now face Philadelphian upstart Eddie Alvarez for the vacated title on Nov. 8 at the Reno Events Center in Reno, Nev.
Noons, who offered to fight Alvarez when the Diaz negotiations broke down, was unimpressed by the news.
“Hopefully they’ll want to bring me back in the future and they can have Eddie or Nick or whoever they have in the future fight the real champ,” he said.
If Noons will be sitting cageside in Reno on Nov. 8 remains to be seen, though there has been some light at the end of the tunnel.
Noons, his manager Mark Dion, and EliteXC officials met for two days in Los Angeles two weeks ago to try and hash out the fighter’s future with the organization. Talks are ongoing, but both sides are hopeful for a resolution.
“I think the talks we’re very helpful,” said Lappen. “I think we have a better understanding of where each side is coming from.”
Though an immediate consensus wasn’t reached, both parties agreed that Noons could pursue a boxing match on Nov. 13 for a small Los Angeles promotion.
“We’re still on good terms,” said Noons. “We’re gonna see if we can work a deal out, but as of right now, we are on the same page as I’m going to go box right now.”
With Showtime in advanced negotiations to purchase EliteXC, the promotion’s future is looking a lot more stable than its $55 million debt currently suggests. Stars will be needed to steer vehicles on Showtime and CBS telecasts to come.
“I think KJ could be a big star,” said Lappen. I’ve always thought that. He’s a very talented fighter. That has never been a question.”
Whether both fighter and promotion can meet somewhere in the middle remains undecided. And if not, will rival promotions like the UFC, WEC, or Affliction be in the market for his services?
Noons is optimistic.
“I’m 25 years old. I’m the defending world champ and I can do two sports,” he said. “Hopefully they’ll want to bring me back. I just hope that they’ll see the value in me, and if not, I believe somebody else will.”
Karl James Noons is looking towards greener pastures, which may or may not include his return to the EliteXC cage, he says.
“I’m a free agent,” Noons told Sherdog.com Monday, the result of EliteXC taking back his championship belt.
Noons, 25, was stripped of his EliteXC 160-pound title on Sept. 19 after the promotion said he refused to defend his title against Nick Diaz.
Noons bested the mouthy Stockton, Calif. native with a first-round TKO on cuts in November 2007. Words between the fighters and their families ensued in the cage, and a rematch loomed.
EliteXC attempted to promote said rematch on three separate cards since July. But Noons took umbrage with Diaz’s pay scale, which was nearly three times more than his.
Private discussions spilled into the public forum when an EliteXC rep announced Noons had been given a 24-hour deadline to accept the bout.
Though Noons was subsequently removed from EliteXC’s champions mantle, he said a piece is missing from the timeline.
“We weren’t coming to agreements on the fight, so I gave them written notice that I’d give them the belt back five days prior before they stripped me,” he said, in the hopes of “working something out.” “I didn’t make it public, and I guess to prove a point, or maybe out of ego or whatever they want, they stripped me.”
Noons said his contract, of which two fights remain, only pertains to his reign as a titleholder.
"Since I’ve been stripped, I’m no longer the champion and I don’t owe them the fights," he said. "I owed them fights for being a champion.”
Jeremy Lappen, EliteXC’s Head of Fight Operations, doesn’t agree.
"KJ still has two more fights on his contract," Lappen said Monday. “I’m hoping we’ll work something out, but there’s really not much to work out. He’s still under contract with us.”
Lappen confirmed that Diaz will now face Philadelphian upstart Eddie Alvarez for the vacated title on Nov. 8 at the Reno Events Center in Reno, Nev.
Noons, who offered to fight Alvarez when the Diaz negotiations broke down, was unimpressed by the news.
“Hopefully they’ll want to bring me back in the future and they can have Eddie or Nick or whoever they have in the future fight the real champ,” he said.
If Noons will be sitting cageside in Reno on Nov. 8 remains to be seen, though there has been some light at the end of the tunnel.
Noons, his manager Mark Dion, and EliteXC officials met for two days in Los Angeles two weeks ago to try and hash out the fighter’s future with the organization. Talks are ongoing, but both sides are hopeful for a resolution.
“I think the talks we’re very helpful,” said Lappen. “I think we have a better understanding of where each side is coming from.”
Though an immediate consensus wasn’t reached, both parties agreed that Noons could pursue a boxing match on Nov. 13 for a small Los Angeles promotion.
“We’re still on good terms,” said Noons. “We’re gonna see if we can work a deal out, but as of right now, we are on the same page as I’m going to go box right now.”
With Showtime in advanced negotiations to purchase EliteXC, the promotion’s future is looking a lot more stable than its $55 million debt currently suggests. Stars will be needed to steer vehicles on Showtime and CBS telecasts to come.
“I think KJ could be a big star,” said Lappen. I’ve always thought that. He’s a very talented fighter. That has never been a question.”
Whether both fighter and promotion can meet somewhere in the middle remains undecided. And if not, will rival promotions like the UFC, WEC, or Affliction be in the market for his services?
Noons is optimistic.
“I’m 25 years old. I’m the defending world champ and I can do two sports,” he said. “Hopefully they’ll want to bring me back. I just hope that they’ll see the value in me, and if not, I believe somebody else will.”
After "depressing" July loss, Jorge Gurgel next meets Aaron Riley at UFC 91
After dealing with the first bout of depression in his entire life, submission specialist Jorge Gurgel (12-4 MMA, 3-3 UFC) will next fight at UFC 91 against Aaron Riley (26-10-1 MMA, 0-2 UFC), who returns to the UFC for the first time in nearly three years.
Gurgel today told MMAjunkie.com (www.mmajunkie.com) that bout agreements have been signed for the Nov. 15 fight, which takes place at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.
Gurgel, a Brazilian jiu-jitsu black belt, looks to rebound from his disappointing submission loss to Cole Miller at UFC 86.
Although seemingly on his way to a tough-fought unanimous-decision victory in the July bout, Gurgel ran into disaster in the fight's final moments. While scrambling for position after securing a trip-takedown, Gurgel was trapped by Miller's triangle choke and forced to tap out with just 12 seconds remaining in the fight.
It would have been Gurgel's fourth UFC victory in a five-fight span. Instead, he suffered just the second submission loss of his career -- and his first in nearly five years.
"It was extremely difficult for me," Gurgel said. "I never in my life -- never in any circumstance -- I've never been depressed. Depression can't get to me. I'm always happy. I don't get depressed. But, I got to the point where I couldn't sleep.
"My parents were disappointed. My family was very hurt, and the first words out of my step-dad's mouth, as soon as he walked down the aisle in the arena (at UFC 86) and saw me -- he goes, 'This is the first time in my life, Jorge, that I saw a fighter win and lose a fight in the same fight.' And that quote has never left my head because that's exactly what happened. ... I lost my focus for one second, and it cost me 14 minutes and 30 seconds of beating [Miller] up. It was my best fight yet. I didn't even have a black eye, but I just lost focus for that split second."
After such a stunning and stinging loss, Gurgel heard the same thing over and over from friends, family and fans.
"It was either 'tough break' or '[expletive] happens,'" Gurgel said. "I'm just ready to get in there and put it behind me."
Standing in his way is Riley, who returns to the octagon for the first time since a first-round TKO loss to Spencer Fisher at UFC Fight Night 3. Ten fights and four years earlier, the former PRIDE and BodogFIGHT veteran made his UFC debut with a unanimous-decision loss to Robbie Lawler.
Since his latest UFC appearance, Riley has posted a 3-2 record in a variety of organizations; the losses came to notables Eddie Alvarez and Ryan Schultz.
Riley, a former Golden Gloves champion who made his professional MMA debut as a 16-year-old in 1997, has won seven of his past 10 fights.
After dealing with the first bout of depression in his entire life, submission specialist Jorge Gurgel (12-4 MMA, 3-3 UFC) will next fight at UFC 91 against Aaron Riley (26-10-1 MMA, 0-2 UFC), who returns to the UFC for the first time in nearly three years.
Gurgel today told MMAjunkie.com (www.mmajunkie.com) that bout agreements have been signed for the Nov. 15 fight, which takes place at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.
Gurgel, a Brazilian jiu-jitsu black belt, looks to rebound from his disappointing submission loss to Cole Miller at UFC 86.
Although seemingly on his way to a tough-fought unanimous-decision victory in the July bout, Gurgel ran into disaster in the fight's final moments. While scrambling for position after securing a trip-takedown, Gurgel was trapped by Miller's triangle choke and forced to tap out with just 12 seconds remaining in the fight.
It would have been Gurgel's fourth UFC victory in a five-fight span. Instead, he suffered just the second submission loss of his career -- and his first in nearly five years.
"It was extremely difficult for me," Gurgel said. "I never in my life -- never in any circumstance -- I've never been depressed. Depression can't get to me. I'm always happy. I don't get depressed. But, I got to the point where I couldn't sleep.
"My parents were disappointed. My family was very hurt, and the first words out of my step-dad's mouth, as soon as he walked down the aisle in the arena (at UFC 86) and saw me -- he goes, 'This is the first time in my life, Jorge, that I saw a fighter win and lose a fight in the same fight.' And that quote has never left my head because that's exactly what happened. ... I lost my focus for one second, and it cost me 14 minutes and 30 seconds of beating [Miller] up. It was my best fight yet. I didn't even have a black eye, but I just lost focus for that split second."
After such a stunning and stinging loss, Gurgel heard the same thing over and over from friends, family and fans.
"It was either 'tough break' or '[expletive] happens,'" Gurgel said. "I'm just ready to get in there and put it behind me."
Standing in his way is Riley, who returns to the octagon for the first time since a first-round TKO loss to Spencer Fisher at UFC Fight Night 3. Ten fights and four years earlier, the former PRIDE and BodogFIGHT veteran made his UFC debut with a unanimous-decision loss to Robbie Lawler.
Since his latest UFC appearance, Riley has posted a 3-2 record in a variety of organizations; the losses came to notables Eddie Alvarez and Ryan Schultz.
Riley, a former Golden Gloves champion who made his professional MMA debut as a 16-year-old in 1997, has won seven of his past 10 fights.
Visa issues prevent Danillo Villefort vs Jake Rosholt WEC fight and other Hurricane Ike fallout
Hurricane Ike is still reeking its havoc on the WEC 36 card scheduled for South Florida.
The event was originally set to take place on September 10 at the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino in Hollywood, Fla., but the threat of the massive storm scared the promotion into rescheduling the show for November 5.
Because of the switch, Danillo “Indio” Villefort (8-2) — who was set to face Jake Rosholt in a middleweight bout on the card — has now been forced to return to Brazil because his temporary visa has expired and he will be unable to file the necessary paperwork in time for a new one, according to InTheGuard.tv.
Here’s a snip from “Indio:”
“I’m sad, I was very prepared and with my visa ok [for September 10], but the hurricane postponed the show and my lawyer said I’d be irregular for November.”
Now that the heavier weight classes, including middleweight, have been removed from all future WEC events, Villefort will likely miss his chance to compete in the organization. But he feels confident he’ll still make his way onto a Zuffa card under the UFC banner sometime in 2009:
“The Hurricane threw the event for November and my fight to 2009, I believe. I’ll come strong and I’ll show my game in UFC or WEC, this is a promise.”
Rosholt (4-0) — who was featured on episode four of season two of the popular TapouT reality show on The Versus Network — has yet to make his highly touted debut for the WEC and will await word on a possible replacement. If an opponent is not found to replace Villefort expect to see the former Oklahoma State University wrestling standout compete in the Octagon soon.
Real soon.
Johny Hendricks (3-0) — Rosholt’s former OSU teammate and current Team Takedown training partner who was also featured on the same episode of TapouT — was also set to fight at WEC 36 against Alex Serdyukov (12-4), but that bout has been moved to WEC 37 on December 3 in Las Vegas, Nevada, according to FiveOuncesOfPain.com.
Both Rosholt and Hendricks were national champion collegiate wrestlers as Cowboys.
WEC 36 will be headlined by a featherweight championship match between champion Urijah Faber (21-1) and challenger Mike Brown (19-4), and WEC 37 will be main evented by a bantamweight title bout between champion Miguel Torres (34-1) and challenger Manny “The Mangler” Tapia (10-0-1).
Hurricane Ike is still reeking its havoc on the WEC 36 card scheduled for South Florida.
The event was originally set to take place on September 10 at the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino in Hollywood, Fla., but the threat of the massive storm scared the promotion into rescheduling the show for November 5.
Because of the switch, Danillo “Indio” Villefort (8-2) — who was set to face Jake Rosholt in a middleweight bout on the card — has now been forced to return to Brazil because his temporary visa has expired and he will be unable to file the necessary paperwork in time for a new one, according to InTheGuard.tv.
Here’s a snip from “Indio:”
“I’m sad, I was very prepared and with my visa ok [for September 10], but the hurricane postponed the show and my lawyer said I’d be irregular for November.”
Now that the heavier weight classes, including middleweight, have been removed from all future WEC events, Villefort will likely miss his chance to compete in the organization. But he feels confident he’ll still make his way onto a Zuffa card under the UFC banner sometime in 2009:
“The Hurricane threw the event for November and my fight to 2009, I believe. I’ll come strong and I’ll show my game in UFC or WEC, this is a promise.”
Rosholt (4-0) — who was featured on episode four of season two of the popular TapouT reality show on The Versus Network — has yet to make his highly touted debut for the WEC and will await word on a possible replacement. If an opponent is not found to replace Villefort expect to see the former Oklahoma State University wrestling standout compete in the Octagon soon.
Real soon.
Johny Hendricks (3-0) — Rosholt’s former OSU teammate and current Team Takedown training partner who was also featured on the same episode of TapouT — was also set to fight at WEC 36 against Alex Serdyukov (12-4), but that bout has been moved to WEC 37 on December 3 in Las Vegas, Nevada, according to FiveOuncesOfPain.com.
Both Rosholt and Hendricks were national champion collegiate wrestlers as Cowboys.
WEC 36 will be headlined by a featherweight championship match between champion Urijah Faber (21-1) and challenger Mike Brown (19-4), and WEC 37 will be main evented by a bantamweight title bout between champion Miguel Torres (34-1) and challenger Manny “The Mangler” Tapia (10-0-1).