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Michael Bisping not meeting Wanderlei Silva in Manchester's UFC 105 main event
A planned bout between Michael Bisping (17-2 MMA, 7-2 UFC) and Wanderlei Silva (32-10-1 MMA, 2-5 UFC) that was likely to headline UFC 105 in Manchester, England, has been scratched.
In a recent blog post penned by Bisping on his official Web site, the British fighter said Silva's recent facial surgery will keep "The Axe Murderer" out of competition, possibly until 2010.
A source close to the event told MMAjunkie.com (www.mmajunkie.com) that officials hope to find a suitable replacement so Bisping remains in the main event of the overseas show.
UFC 105 takes place Nov. 14 at the Manchester Evening News Arena and airs (via tape delay) on Spike TV.
During festivities for UFC 101 earlier this month, UFC president Dana White said the organization had a "fight in mind" for the UFC 105 main event but that "it's not set yet." Just a couple weeks prior, MMAjunkie.com reported the Bisping vs. Silva fight was in the works but not signed.
Although Silva has not confirmed the procedure, the fighter is believed to have undergone surgery to remove scar tissue from his face. Other fighters such as Marcus Davis and Nick Diaz have undergone such surgeries in recent years with positive results. However, if true, the fighter will likely need extended time to heal.
As for Bisping, when he does return to the octagon, he looks to rebound from a devastating knockout loss to Dan Henderson at UFC 100 in July. The defeat was just the second in Bisping's MMA career, and it ended a three-fight win streak for "The Ultimate Fighter 3" winner.
A planned bout between Michael Bisping (17-2 MMA, 7-2 UFC) and Wanderlei Silva (32-10-1 MMA, 2-5 UFC) that was likely to headline UFC 105 in Manchester, England, has been scratched.
In a recent blog post penned by Bisping on his official Web site, the British fighter said Silva's recent facial surgery will keep "The Axe Murderer" out of competition, possibly until 2010.
A source close to the event told MMAjunkie.com (www.mmajunkie.com) that officials hope to find a suitable replacement so Bisping remains in the main event of the overseas show.
UFC 105 takes place Nov. 14 at the Manchester Evening News Arena and airs (via tape delay) on Spike TV.
During festivities for UFC 101 earlier this month, UFC president Dana White said the organization had a "fight in mind" for the UFC 105 main event but that "it's not set yet." Just a couple weeks prior, MMAjunkie.com reported the Bisping vs. Silva fight was in the works but not signed.
Although Silva has not confirmed the procedure, the fighter is believed to have undergone surgery to remove scar tissue from his face. Other fighters such as Marcus Davis and Nick Diaz have undergone such surgeries in recent years with positive results. However, if true, the fighter will likely need extended time to heal.
As for Bisping, when he does return to the octagon, he looks to rebound from a devastating knockout loss to Dan Henderson at UFC 100 in July. The defeat was just the second in Bisping's MMA career, and it ended a three-fight win streak for "The Ultimate Fighter 3" winner.
"TUF 8" winner James Wilks vs. Matt Brown in the works for UFC 105 main card
In his first fight since winning the welterweight crown on "The Ultimate Fighter 9," James Wilks (6-2 MMA, 1-0 UFC) is expected to face fast-rising 170-pounder Matt Brown (9-7 MMA, 3-1 UFC) in October at UFC 105.
A source close to the event told MMAjunkie.com (www.mmajunkie.com) the bout is "close to finalized" and that bout agreements could be signed shortly.
UFC 105 takes place Nov. 14 at the Manchester Evening News Arena in Manchester, England, and the Wilks vs. Brown fight is expected to be part of the Spike TV-televised (tape delay) main card.
Wilks, a member of Team U.K. on the latest season of "TUF," is a British-born fighter who now trains out of California. On the reality show, he defeated Che Mills and Frank Lester (twice) before submitting fellow finalist DaMarques Johnson at The Ultimate Fighter 9 Finale in June.
Wilks has now won four consecutive pro fights (and seven bouts overall) heading into the likely fight with Brown.
However, while most "TUF" winners are eased into competition after winning the reality show, Wilks would face a very stern test with one of the UFC's biggest surprises. Brown, an Ohio native who entered the seventh season of "TUF" as a journeyman fighter with a 6-6 pro record, posted a series of solid performances before he was knocked out of the semifinals by eventual show winner Amir Sadollah.
Brown, though, has since revamped his training camp and has posted a 3-1 record (with three stoppage victories) in the UFC. His lone loss came to undefeated Dong Hyun Kim via close split decision in September.
Brown spoke to MMAjunkie.com last week about a fundraiser for his father, who recently was diagnosed with and is suffering from complications related to acute myeloid leukemia. (Learn how to donate to the James Brown Medical Fund.) Brown, who was slated to fight in June before opponent Anthony Johnson suffered an injury and was forced out of the bout, could not comment on his next fight but said he hoped to return to the octagon before year's end.
In his first fight since winning the welterweight crown on "The Ultimate Fighter 9," James Wilks (6-2 MMA, 1-0 UFC) is expected to face fast-rising 170-pounder Matt Brown (9-7 MMA, 3-1 UFC) in October at UFC 105.
A source close to the event told MMAjunkie.com (www.mmajunkie.com) the bout is "close to finalized" and that bout agreements could be signed shortly.
UFC 105 takes place Nov. 14 at the Manchester Evening News Arena in Manchester, England, and the Wilks vs. Brown fight is expected to be part of the Spike TV-televised (tape delay) main card.
Wilks, a member of Team U.K. on the latest season of "TUF," is a British-born fighter who now trains out of California. On the reality show, he defeated Che Mills and Frank Lester (twice) before submitting fellow finalist DaMarques Johnson at The Ultimate Fighter 9 Finale in June.
Wilks has now won four consecutive pro fights (and seven bouts overall) heading into the likely fight with Brown.
However, while most "TUF" winners are eased into competition after winning the reality show, Wilks would face a very stern test with one of the UFC's biggest surprises. Brown, an Ohio native who entered the seventh season of "TUF" as a journeyman fighter with a 6-6 pro record, posted a series of solid performances before he was knocked out of the semifinals by eventual show winner Amir Sadollah.
Brown, though, has since revamped his training camp and has posted a 3-1 record (with three stoppage victories) in the UFC. His lone loss came to undefeated Dong Hyun Kim via close split decision in September.
Brown spoke to MMAjunkie.com last week about a fundraiser for his father, who recently was diagnosed with and is suffering from complications related to acute myeloid leukemia. (Learn how to donate to the James Brown Medical Fund.) Brown, who was slated to fight in June before opponent Anthony Johnson suffered an injury and was forced out of the bout, could not comment on his next fight but said he hoped to return to the octagon before year's end.
Injured Evangelista Santos out of Sept. 25 Strikeforce headliner with Tim Kennedy
An injury has forced middleweight Evangelista "Cyborg" Santos (16-13) out of a scheduled Sept. 25 Strikeforce Challengers main event with Tim Kennedy (10-2).
Strikeforce executive Mike Afromowitz today told MMAjunkie.com (www.mmajunkie.com) the organization learned of the injury over the weekend (when Evangelista's wife, Cris "Cyborg" Santos, defeated Gina Carano for Strikeforce's 145-pound women's title) and that the search is underway for a replacement.
The injury was first reported by The Fight Network, citing a source close to Showtime.
The upcoming event, set to air on Showtime, takes place at the SpiritBank Event Center in Bixby, Okla.
Although the event is only about a month away, the only other fight currently booked for the card, which is the third held under the recently established "Strikeforce Challengers" series, is Paul Bradley (11-1) vs. Zak Cummings (10-0).
"We'll have a lot more fights soon," Afromowitz said. "We know the event is coming up soon (and is) only about a month away."
Santos, a veteran of organizations such as Cage Rage and PRIDE, was set to make his second Strikeforce appearance at the upcoming event. The Brazilian, though, has struggled lately with four losses in his past five fights, including a close split-decision defeat to Joey Villasenor at Strikeforce's June event.
The extent of his injury is not currently known, though Afromowitz said the organization hopes to have him back in the organization by year's end.
Kennedy, meanwhile, enters the fight with 10 wins in his past 11 fights, the lone blemish coming to notable Jason "Mayhem" Miller in late 2007 (Kennedy won their original meeting in 2003). The IFL veteran recently made his Strikeforce debut and scored a second-round submission victory over Nick Thompson in June (though Thompson protested the stoppage).
An injury has forced middleweight Evangelista "Cyborg" Santos (16-13) out of a scheduled Sept. 25 Strikeforce Challengers main event with Tim Kennedy (10-2).
Strikeforce executive Mike Afromowitz today told MMAjunkie.com (www.mmajunkie.com) the organization learned of the injury over the weekend (when Evangelista's wife, Cris "Cyborg" Santos, defeated Gina Carano for Strikeforce's 145-pound women's title) and that the search is underway for a replacement.
The injury was first reported by The Fight Network, citing a source close to Showtime.
The upcoming event, set to air on Showtime, takes place at the SpiritBank Event Center in Bixby, Okla.
Although the event is only about a month away, the only other fight currently booked for the card, which is the third held under the recently established "Strikeforce Challengers" series, is Paul Bradley (11-1) vs. Zak Cummings (10-0).
"We'll have a lot more fights soon," Afromowitz said. "We know the event is coming up soon (and is) only about a month away."
Santos, a veteran of organizations such as Cage Rage and PRIDE, was set to make his second Strikeforce appearance at the upcoming event. The Brazilian, though, has struggled lately with four losses in his past five fights, including a close split-decision defeat to Joey Villasenor at Strikeforce's June event.
The extent of his injury is not currently known, though Afromowitz said the organization hopes to have him back in the organization by year's end.
Kennedy, meanwhile, enters the fight with 10 wins in his past 11 fights, the lone blemish coming to notable Jason "Mayhem" Miller in late 2007 (Kennedy won their original meeting in 2003). The IFL veteran recently made his Strikeforce debut and scored a second-round submission victory over Nick Thompson in June (though Thompson protested the stoppage).
John Doyle replaces Nick Thompson in "M-1: Breakthrough" fight with Karl Amoussou
Less than 24 hours after MMAjunkie.com (www.mmajunkie.com) reported Nick Thompson (38-11-1) had suffered a facial cut and was forced out of an "M-1: Breakthrough" fight with highly touted Karl Amoussou (10-2-1), the organization has announced a replacement.
Filling in on nine days' notice is veteran fighter John Doyle (8-8).
The middleweight bout and the rest of the HDNet-televised card takes place Aug. 28 at Memorial Hall in Kansas City.
"Nick was sparring very hard on Monday and sustained a cut," M-1 Global Vice President of Live Events Joe Kelly stated. "Nick alerted us immediately, and like a true fighter, he had the cut glued instead of immediately getting stitches. He did everything in his power not to pull out of this fight and kept us informed all day. However, in the end, his doctor wouldn't clear him to fight. It's unfortunate, but fighter safety always comes first."
Amoussou, a French fighter and longtime veteran of the M-1 circuit, has racked up a solid 5-1 record since 2008 with four finishes. The 185-pound striker was looking for a signature career victory over Thompson but now faces someone who was once of the sport's top prospects.
Doyle began his career with a 6-1 record and reportedly drew interest from major organizations such as the UFC. However, he then hit a skid with six consecutive losses, including an EliteXC loss to Rafael "Feijao" Cavalcante in 2008 and a Ring of Combat defeat to Sean Salmon earlier this year.
"In the past, I've made some bad decisions," Doyle stated. "I accepted offers without asking questions because I simply enjoy fighting. I took fights on short notice without having trained, but this is a different situation. This time I had my management and trainers talk about this fight and whether it was the right decision. In the end, we all decided that I have nothing to lose and everything to gain."
Less than 24 hours after MMAjunkie.com (www.mmajunkie.com) reported Nick Thompson (38-11-1) had suffered a facial cut and was forced out of an "M-1: Breakthrough" fight with highly touted Karl Amoussou (10-2-1), the organization has announced a replacement.
Filling in on nine days' notice is veteran fighter John Doyle (8-8).
The middleweight bout and the rest of the HDNet-televised card takes place Aug. 28 at Memorial Hall in Kansas City.
"Nick was sparring very hard on Monday and sustained a cut," M-1 Global Vice President of Live Events Joe Kelly stated. "Nick alerted us immediately, and like a true fighter, he had the cut glued instead of immediately getting stitches. He did everything in his power not to pull out of this fight and kept us informed all day. However, in the end, his doctor wouldn't clear him to fight. It's unfortunate, but fighter safety always comes first."
Amoussou, a French fighter and longtime veteran of the M-1 circuit, has racked up a solid 5-1 record since 2008 with four finishes. The 185-pound striker was looking for a signature career victory over Thompson but now faces someone who was once of the sport's top prospects.
Doyle began his career with a 6-1 record and reportedly drew interest from major organizations such as the UFC. However, he then hit a skid with six consecutive losses, including an EliteXC loss to Rafael "Feijao" Cavalcante in 2008 and a Ring of Combat defeat to Sean Salmon earlier this year.
"In the past, I've made some bad decisions," Doyle stated. "I accepted offers without asking questions because I simply enjoy fighting. I took fights on short notice without having trained, but this is a different situation. This time I had my management and trainers talk about this fight and whether it was the right decision. In the end, we all decided that I have nothing to lose and everything to gain."
Atlanta Braves to honor new WEC champ and Athens resident Brian Bowles on Aug. 25
Major League Baseball's Atlanta Braves will honor recently crowned WEC bantamweight champion Brian Bowles next week during their game with the San Diego Padres, the WEC today announced.
Bowles, a Braves fans and native of Athens, Ga., recently dethroned the seemingly indestructible Miguel Torres to win the title at WEC 42.
Bowles, who will start the Aug. 25 game with "play ball!" duties, will also be at Turner Field to meet with fans.
"It is an honor that my favorite team wants to have me out to the ballpark," stated Bowles, who trains at the Hardcore Gym in Athens under the Singer brothers. "The Braves have a long history of being a world-class organization. I'm excited to bring the WEC belt to Turner Field."
The Braves-Padres game starts at 7:10 p.m. ET. Bowles will ceremoniously start the game at 7:09 p.m.
Bowles, who's now 8-0 following the first-round knockout in his recent title fight, joins other fighters such as Torres and Urijah Faber who recently have been honored by their local baseball teams. In fact, Torres threw out a ceremonial first pitch at the July 23 White Sox-Devil Ray game. That day Chicago pitcher Mark Buehrle made history by tossing just the 18th perfect game in MMA history.
Major League Baseball's Atlanta Braves will honor recently crowned WEC bantamweight champion Brian Bowles next week during their game with the San Diego Padres, the WEC today announced.
Bowles, a Braves fans and native of Athens, Ga., recently dethroned the seemingly indestructible Miguel Torres to win the title at WEC 42.
Bowles, who will start the Aug. 25 game with "play ball!" duties, will also be at Turner Field to meet with fans.
"It is an honor that my favorite team wants to have me out to the ballpark," stated Bowles, who trains at the Hardcore Gym in Athens under the Singer brothers. "The Braves have a long history of being a world-class organization. I'm excited to bring the WEC belt to Turner Field."
The Braves-Padres game starts at 7:10 p.m. ET. Bowles will ceremoniously start the game at 7:09 p.m.
Bowles, who's now 8-0 following the first-round knockout in his recent title fight, joins other fighters such as Torres and Urijah Faber who recently have been honored by their local baseball teams. In fact, Torres threw out a ceremonial first pitch at the July 23 White Sox-Devil Ray game. That day Chicago pitcher Mark Buehrle made history by tossing just the 18th perfect game in MMA history.
Wanderlei Silva possibly out until 2010 recovering from facial surgery
A middleweight match-up between Wanderlei Silva and Michael Bisping previously rumored to be taking place at UFC 105 will not happen.
According to Bisping in a recent blog on his official website, Silva may be out until sometime in 2010 due to “The Axe Murderer” currently recovering from facial reconstructive surgery.
There is no news of a replacement opponent for Bisping at this time, but it makes sense that he will still be competing on the card being that it takes place in Manchester, England.
The date for the event is set for November 14 and will air on Spike TV.
Wanderlei has not confirmed or denied the surgery, but reports have circulated recently that his facial appearance had undergone some change. If the procedure was done it would likely have been to remove excess scar tissue that is common with people that take punches to the face for a living.
A middleweight match-up between Wanderlei Silva and Michael Bisping previously rumored to be taking place at UFC 105 will not happen.
According to Bisping in a recent blog on his official website, Silva may be out until sometime in 2010 due to “The Axe Murderer” currently recovering from facial reconstructive surgery.
There is no news of a replacement opponent for Bisping at this time, but it makes sense that he will still be competing on the card being that it takes place in Manchester, England.
The date for the event is set for November 14 and will air on Spike TV.
Wanderlei has not confirmed or denied the surgery, but reports have circulated recently that his facial appearance had undergone some change. If the procedure was done it would likely have been to remove excess scar tissue that is common with people that take punches to the face for a living.
Takanori Gomi: "I will not fight again in 2009"
Former PRIDE lightweight champion Takanori Gomi has stated on his personal blog that he will not fight this year since his new child is coming.
“These days have been happy for me. I’m going to get married and it makes new sense in my life. The days in Koganezaki (resort) and its beautiful beaches made me think a lot. After all, a new member of the family is coming to give us happiness. If it will be a boy his name will be Isamu, if it will be a girl her name will be Aimi,” he wrote.
“The expectation of becoming a father is such an unique sensation and I want to make the most of any moment. Therefore fighting isn’t the goal for this year anymore,” he added.
The talented fighter was scheduled to fight at Affliction “Trilogy” until the organization folded last month. Now he has other things on his mind than competing.
“I’m going to be a father and I must not fight in 2009 unless there is a change of plans. However, my intention is spending more time attending to the pregnancy of Chiaki (future wife) as soon we get back from the vacation,” he said.
“I won’t stop training because I need to keep in shape but I haven’t thought about competition. I’m glad my fans have understood my choice. Being a father is more important than winning any tournament and I want to live it intensively. Thanks to everyone who has sent messages of care.”
Gomi has a record of 30-5-0 and was often argued to be the world’s top lightweight when he competed in PRIDE FC.
But has suffered patchy form of late and is 1-1 in 2009, 3-2 in his last five outings. Six fights ago he was submitted by Nick Diaz via gogoplata, but the loss was changed to a no contest when Diaz tested positive for marijuana.
Former PRIDE lightweight champion Takanori Gomi has stated on his personal blog that he will not fight this year since his new child is coming.
“These days have been happy for me. I’m going to get married and it makes new sense in my life. The days in Koganezaki (resort) and its beautiful beaches made me think a lot. After all, a new member of the family is coming to give us happiness. If it will be a boy his name will be Isamu, if it will be a girl her name will be Aimi,” he wrote.
“The expectation of becoming a father is such an unique sensation and I want to make the most of any moment. Therefore fighting isn’t the goal for this year anymore,” he added.
The talented fighter was scheduled to fight at Affliction “Trilogy” until the organization folded last month. Now he has other things on his mind than competing.
“I’m going to be a father and I must not fight in 2009 unless there is a change of plans. However, my intention is spending more time attending to the pregnancy of Chiaki (future wife) as soon we get back from the vacation,” he said.
“I won’t stop training because I need to keep in shape but I haven’t thought about competition. I’m glad my fans have understood my choice. Being a father is more important than winning any tournament and I want to live it intensively. Thanks to everyone who has sent messages of care.”
Gomi has a record of 30-5-0 and was often argued to be the world’s top lightweight when he competed in PRIDE FC.
But has suffered patchy form of late and is 1-1 in 2009, 3-2 in his last five outings. Six fights ago he was submitted by Nick Diaz via gogoplata, but the loss was changed to a no contest when Diaz tested positive for marijuana.
Affliction to Sponsor Paul Daley
MMAPayout.com has received word that Affliction Clothing has come to a sponsorship agreement with former Affliction Entertainment and newly signed UFC fighter Paul “Semtex” Daley.
Daley, 26, had agreed to fight Jay Heiron at Affliction: Trilogy on August 1st - an event that ended up being cancelled. Despite reports that visa problems would have prevented him from participating, he did, in fact, secure the proper documentation prior to the show.
Thus, the new deal with Affliction and his signing to the UFC have helped turn around quite a tumultuous four weeks for “Semtex.”
The Nottingham, England native is expected to face Brian Foster in his UFC debut at UFC 103 in Dallas, Texas.
MMAPayout.com has received word that Affliction Clothing has come to a sponsorship agreement with former Affliction Entertainment and newly signed UFC fighter Paul “Semtex” Daley.
Daley, 26, had agreed to fight Jay Heiron at Affliction: Trilogy on August 1st - an event that ended up being cancelled. Despite reports that visa problems would have prevented him from participating, he did, in fact, secure the proper documentation prior to the show.
Thus, the new deal with Affliction and his signing to the UFC have helped turn around quite a tumultuous four weeks for “Semtex.”
The Nottingham, England native is expected to face Brian Foster in his UFC debut at UFC 103 in Dallas, Texas.
UFC in D.C.?
According to Thom Loverro’s latest in the Washington Times, the UFC is strongly considering an event in the Maryland-D.C. area in 2010.
Here’s a snippet:
Good times, bad times - the dollars seem to be the same for UFC, the mixed martial arts juggernaut that made its Philadelphia debut as 45,000 people were across the street at Citizens Bank Park watching the Phillies.
The show - coming about a year after the state’s athletic commission approved the licensing of mixed martial arts - is the closest UFC has gotten to the District. Ratner said UFC will bring an event to the Baltimore-Washington area next year.
“I have had discussions with people at the Verizon Center, the Patriot Center, and had several inquiries from the people at the Baltimore Arena,” Ratner said. “What it comes down to is economics for us also. Is the tax structure good? Is it more expensive to be in one place than another. What are the pay-per-view numbers there? Those all factor in.
“I feel very strongly we will be in that area sometime in 2010.”
Payout Perspective:
It’s becoming increasingly evident that holding a live event in a particular area may, in fact, be the best way to market and expand the sport of MMA. The exposure that local media provide for a UFC event, such as in Philadelphia last week, is far superior to that of any UFC Countdown or other piece of corollary programming. Live event exposure is simply much more concentrated and intense; an area is literally inundated with information regarding MMA and the UFC from every angle including print, television, radio, and live events such as meet & greets or press conferences.
Yet there is another reason why live events are so crucial for the expansion of the both the sport and the UFC: competition. In bringing a live event to Philadelphia, the UFC has stirred up a great deal of interest in the surrounding areas including D.C. The fans, businesses, and governments alike see from a nearly first-hand account how great a product the UFC is (and the potential for all of MMA), and are thus more eager to get in on the action.
Cross your fingers for D.C. in 2010.
Also: Read the entire article. It was interesting to read Marc Ratner talk about some of the factors the UFC takes into account before moving into a new area. Taxes are one of them, which is something of an issue in Oregon right now as the organization prepares to make its debut in Portland.
According to Thom Loverro’s latest in the Washington Times, the UFC is strongly considering an event in the Maryland-D.C. area in 2010.
Here’s a snippet:
Good times, bad times - the dollars seem to be the same for UFC, the mixed martial arts juggernaut that made its Philadelphia debut as 45,000 people were across the street at Citizens Bank Park watching the Phillies.
The show - coming about a year after the state’s athletic commission approved the licensing of mixed martial arts - is the closest UFC has gotten to the District. Ratner said UFC will bring an event to the Baltimore-Washington area next year.
“I have had discussions with people at the Verizon Center, the Patriot Center, and had several inquiries from the people at the Baltimore Arena,” Ratner said. “What it comes down to is economics for us also. Is the tax structure good? Is it more expensive to be in one place than another. What are the pay-per-view numbers there? Those all factor in.
“I feel very strongly we will be in that area sometime in 2010.”
Payout Perspective:
It’s becoming increasingly evident that holding a live event in a particular area may, in fact, be the best way to market and expand the sport of MMA. The exposure that local media provide for a UFC event, such as in Philadelphia last week, is far superior to that of any UFC Countdown or other piece of corollary programming. Live event exposure is simply much more concentrated and intense; an area is literally inundated with information regarding MMA and the UFC from every angle including print, television, radio, and live events such as meet & greets or press conferences.
Yet there is another reason why live events are so crucial for the expansion of the both the sport and the UFC: competition. In bringing a live event to Philadelphia, the UFC has stirred up a great deal of interest in the surrounding areas including D.C. The fans, businesses, and governments alike see from a nearly first-hand account how great a product the UFC is (and the potential for all of MMA), and are thus more eager to get in on the action.
Cross your fingers for D.C. in 2010.
Also: Read the entire article. It was interesting to read Marc Ratner talk about some of the factors the UFC takes into account before moving into a new area. Taxes are one of them, which is something of an issue in Oregon right now as the organization prepares to make its debut in Portland.
Palhares vs. Sakara at TUF 10 Finale
After a split decision victory over Thales Leites, Alessio Sakara will have another tough challenge in 2009. Originally scheduled to fight Rousimar Palhares at UFC 101, the American Top Team product had the opponent change few weeks before the fight with Palhare’s leg injury. With the Brazilian’s recovery, the fight will finaly take place at TUF Finale 10, in December 5th
After a split decision victory over Thales Leites, Alessio Sakara will have another tough challenge in 2009. Originally scheduled to fight Rousimar Palhares at UFC 101, the American Top Team product had the opponent change few weeks before the fight with Palhare’s leg injury. With the Brazilian’s recovery, the fight will finaly take place at TUF Finale 10, in December 5th
Dos Santos: “Minotauro will submit Couture”
After two stunning knockouts in the UFC, Junior dos Santos will face a knockout artist in the UFC 103, but before fighting Mirko Cro Cop, the Brazilian trains hard with Rodrigo “Minotauro” Nogueira for his next fight in the octagon, against Randy Couture. At Black House HQ, in California, “Cigano” spoke with TATAME.com about the preparation for Nogueira’s fight.
“We’re doing the stand up training and boxing to work well on top, besides the ground game… We’ll go after the submission all the time, keep the fight dominated”, commented Junior, making his best for the UFC 102 main event.
"I believe in a submission. He’ll submit in the second or third round. But, I’ll tell you that we’re ready and focused. In fact, Rodrigo can also knock him out, but one thing is sure: we’ll leave with a victory”, guarantees the fighters. “The training are great, we’re training hard everyday, doing jiu-jitsu, muay thai, boxing, physical preparation... The training is 100%, everybody is in excellent shape here”, finished Dos Santos.
After two stunning knockouts in the UFC, Junior dos Santos will face a knockout artist in the UFC 103, but before fighting Mirko Cro Cop, the Brazilian trains hard with Rodrigo “Minotauro” Nogueira for his next fight in the octagon, against Randy Couture. At Black House HQ, in California, “Cigano” spoke with TATAME.com about the preparation for Nogueira’s fight.
“We’re doing the stand up training and boxing to work well on top, besides the ground game… We’ll go after the submission all the time, keep the fight dominated”, commented Junior, making his best for the UFC 102 main event.
"I believe in a submission. He’ll submit in the second or third round. But, I’ll tell you that we’re ready and focused. In fact, Rodrigo can also knock him out, but one thing is sure: we’ll leave with a victory”, guarantees the fighters. “The training are great, we’re training hard everyday, doing jiu-jitsu, muay thai, boxing, physical preparation... The training is 100%, everybody is in excellent shape here”, finished Dos Santos.
AFFLICTION VP ON NEGOTIATING WITH M-1 & FEDOR
When the negotiations between the Ultimate Fighting Championship and M-1 Global, which represents Fedor Emelianenko, broke down last month, there weren't too many fans or critics surprised by the fact that the Russian wouldn't compete in the Octagon any time in the near future.
The sticking point to the entire process was M-1's demand to co-promote with the UFC, and the UFC has always had a strict policy to not co-promote with other organizations. At the end of the day, no agreement was reached, and Fedor went on to sign with Strikeforce.
One man who has a keen insight into what it's like to negotiate with Vadim Finkelchtein and M-1 Global is Affliction vice president Tom Atencio, who signed the former Pride champion to compete for his promotion for two fights and presumably a third before the organization shut down it's "Trilogy" show in August.
"I had a great relationship with them," Atencio said about M-1. "One of the things I always said is I would co-promote and the UFC doesn't co-promote and they have what they do, and it works for them.
"I've always said I don't blame the UFC for doing what they do. They don't really need anybody else, and that's what Dana said. They're not going to co-promote because he doesn't need them and that's 100-percent true. The bottom line is it worked out for Strikeforce and Vadim is still co-promoting his brand, M-1."
UFC president Dana White blasted Fedor's signing with Strikeforce earlier this month just before UFC 101 in Philadelphia, claiming that at the end of the day, M-1 and Emelianenko would put the San Jose, Calif., based company out of business, while also stating that he knew the deal he offered the Russian was above and beyond what anybody else had on the table.
"I guarantee you the deal he got at Strikeforce isn't even in the (expletive) universe of what he got (from the UFC)," White stated. "The deal he got at Strikeforce probably isn't even the deal he had at Affliction. They have no money."
The biggest hurdle for Strikeforce now that they have Fedor is how to promote him. Emelianenko is widely thought of as one of the best pound-for-pound fighters on the planet, but he's never proven to be a big pay-per-view commodity in the United States, and Atencio believes that's still a tremendous job ahead of Scott Coker and company.
"There is no doubt in my mind that Fedor is the No. 1 fighter in the world. He's fought; he's proven that," said Atencio. "It's not like he's fought easy fights. But nonetheless he still has the hurdle of making a huge name in the U.S."
Time will tell if Fedor Emelianenko will wind up to be the biggest fighter in the U.S. or just the biggest paycheck on the Strikeforce roster.
When the negotiations between the Ultimate Fighting Championship and M-1 Global, which represents Fedor Emelianenko, broke down last month, there weren't too many fans or critics surprised by the fact that the Russian wouldn't compete in the Octagon any time in the near future.
The sticking point to the entire process was M-1's demand to co-promote with the UFC, and the UFC has always had a strict policy to not co-promote with other organizations. At the end of the day, no agreement was reached, and Fedor went on to sign with Strikeforce.
One man who has a keen insight into what it's like to negotiate with Vadim Finkelchtein and M-1 Global is Affliction vice president Tom Atencio, who signed the former Pride champion to compete for his promotion for two fights and presumably a third before the organization shut down it's "Trilogy" show in August.
"I had a great relationship with them," Atencio said about M-1. "One of the things I always said is I would co-promote and the UFC doesn't co-promote and they have what they do, and it works for them.
"I've always said I don't blame the UFC for doing what they do. They don't really need anybody else, and that's what Dana said. They're not going to co-promote because he doesn't need them and that's 100-percent true. The bottom line is it worked out for Strikeforce and Vadim is still co-promoting his brand, M-1."
UFC president Dana White blasted Fedor's signing with Strikeforce earlier this month just before UFC 101 in Philadelphia, claiming that at the end of the day, M-1 and Emelianenko would put the San Jose, Calif., based company out of business, while also stating that he knew the deal he offered the Russian was above and beyond what anybody else had on the table.
"I guarantee you the deal he got at Strikeforce isn't even in the (expletive) universe of what he got (from the UFC)," White stated. "The deal he got at Strikeforce probably isn't even the deal he had at Affliction. They have no money."
The biggest hurdle for Strikeforce now that they have Fedor is how to promote him. Emelianenko is widely thought of as one of the best pound-for-pound fighters on the planet, but he's never proven to be a big pay-per-view commodity in the United States, and Atencio believes that's still a tremendous job ahead of Scott Coker and company.
"There is no doubt in my mind that Fedor is the No. 1 fighter in the world. He's fought; he's proven that," said Atencio. "It's not like he's fought easy fights. But nonetheless he still has the hurdle of making a huge name in the U.S."
Time will tell if Fedor Emelianenko will wind up to be the biggest fighter in the U.S. or just the biggest paycheck on the Strikeforce roster.
KENNY FLORIAN TO FILL IN FOR JOE ROGAN
Kenny Florian will fill in for Joe Rogan as color commentator at UFC Fight Night 19 on Sept. 16 at the Cox Convention Center in Oklahoma City, Okla. Rogan will be absent filming a movie.
"I'll be commentating a UFC Fight Night coming up in September," Florian told MMAWeekly.com. "I think Joe Rogan is filming a movie. He'll be out for that, but I"ll be around."
Florian is used to the broadcasting role, serving as co-host of the popular ESPN.com and ESPN mobile television weekly show MMA Live, filled in for Rogan for UFC 83, and commentated for WEC 41.
Florian has also served as a special guest commentator on MMAWeekly Radio for several years.
UFC Fight Night 19 will be the second time the Ultimate Fighting Championship has gone to Oklahoma, but the first time in nearly fifteen years. UFC 4 was held in Tulsa on Dec. 16, 1994.
Kenny Florian will fill in for Joe Rogan as color commentator at UFC Fight Night 19 on Sept. 16 at the Cox Convention Center in Oklahoma City, Okla. Rogan will be absent filming a movie.
"I'll be commentating a UFC Fight Night coming up in September," Florian told MMAWeekly.com. "I think Joe Rogan is filming a movie. He'll be out for that, but I"ll be around."
Florian is used to the broadcasting role, serving as co-host of the popular ESPN.com and ESPN mobile television weekly show MMA Live, filled in for Rogan for UFC 83, and commentated for WEC 41.
Florian has also served as a special guest commentator on MMAWeekly Radio for several years.
UFC Fight Night 19 will be the second time the Ultimate Fighting Championship has gone to Oklahoma, but the first time in nearly fifteen years. UFC 4 was held in Tulsa on Dec. 16, 1994.
Olympian Cormier Talks Move to MMA
2007 World Team Trials Champion. Five-time US Nationals Champion. Fourth Place in the 2004 Olympic Games. 2003 Pan-American Gold Medalist. Second-place in the 2001 NCAA Championships.
It’s very possible Daniel Cormier could melt down the contents of his trophy room and put a dent in the national debt. A freestyle wrestler formerly with Oklahoma State University, the multi-decorated Olympian missed the 2008 Beijing Olympics due to dehydration and has elected not to train for the 2012 Games.
Instead, Cormier now spends his days bouncing between the American Kickboxing Academy in San Jose, Calif., and dodging the mitts of noted boxing trainer Pepe Johnson in Tulsa, Okla. The idea is to become as proficient a mixed martial artist as friend and training partner Josh Koscheck, along with the dozens of other accredited wrestlers who have made careers, names, and small fortunes in a high-profile sport custom-made for their skills.
Still months away from his debut -- he’d like to get a fight in by year’s end -- Cormier spoke to Sherdog.com about dodging a quarter-million dollar bonus, getting into a rumble backed by Muhammed “King Mo” Lawal, and refusing to leave wrestling completely behind.
Sherdog.com: You’re electing not to prepare for the 2012 Olympics, but USA Wrestling has made an aggressive push to keep wrestlers in their fold: they’re offering $250,000 to any athlete who wins a Gold Medal there. Wasn’t that tempting?
Cormier: Oh, yeah, it was. People get upset about the pay you get in wrestling. But when you win, you get paid. In my career, I think I’ve been compensated pretty fairly by USA Wrestling. They took care of me. Without USA Wrestling, none of these opportunities would be available to me. Some people get upset about the pay, and obviously there were times I felt like we could’ve gotten more. But I think I was treated fairly over the course of my career.
Sherdog.com: It’s really playing the odds. In the next two years, you could make a lot more than $250,000 if your fight career goes well. That money in wrestling is all-or-nothing proposition, no?
Cormier: I think it is. There are a lot of incentives to do it [fighting]. It’s possible for us wrestlers to do well and make quite a bit of money, but you gotta win. It all depends on how well I do in the cage.
I want to stress that, even though I’m moving to MMA, it doesn’t mean I won’t get in any wrestling competitions in the future. I still want to compete. I love wrestling. I think the biggest mistake a lot of wrestlers make is that they don’t go back and compete. You see guys going into jiu-jitsu tournaments and grappling tournaments to get better. Why is it any different than going to a wrestling competition and wrestling really good wrestlers and keeping yourself sharp?
Sherdog.com: Koscheck started out not knowing anything but wrestling. Now he’s good with his hands and has kept some of his fights standing. How do you think you’ll adapt? Will you always be a wrestler first?
Cormier: I want to put on entertaining fights. I’ve been a fan long enough to know that I don’t want to sit there and watch a guy lay on top of another guy. I’ve done that my entire life with wrestling. I really don’t want to put on any more wrestling matches. I will, if I’m not comfortable or I’m put in a situation where I need to, but I want to put on an exciting fight. And in order to do that, I’ve got to have high-impact wrestling moves in terms of throws, really hard double legs, slams, and mix that in with some striking.
Sherdog.com: Your last Olympic weight was 211 lbs. Where do you think you’ll come in for a fight?
Cormier: I see myself long-term fighting at 205. But in the beginning, I see myself fighting up at heavyweight because right now I want to enjoy this. I don’t want to cut all the weight I did throughout my whole career.
Sherdog.com: What do you weigh right now?
Cormier: Right now, probably 245 or 250. I’m a big guy. But with the correct diet, I’ll be able to knock that weight off pretty quickly. These guys train so hard at AKA that the weight just peels off of you.
Sherdog.com: Another wrestler with notoriety, Cael Sanderson, gets asked about MMA constantly, but he says he doesn’t have the appetite for it. Do you mind punching people? Do you mind taking punches?
Cormier: I don’t mind it. I’m really not a guy that likes to hurt people. But it’s a sport now, and most times guys don’t get seriously hurt. That’s how I’ve allowed myself to deal with it: the idea of hitting people. It’s a sport. Guys got hurt training in wrestling and it just killed me.
Sherdog.com: Have you been in many street fights?
Cormier: [Laughs]. Growing up in Louisiana, man, you had to, to survive. Otherwise, you’d just get punked everyday. That’s one thing I’ll never be, a punk. I’ve been in quite a few, actually.
Sherdog.com: Have you been in any since you matured physically and had these wrestling credentials?
Cormier: I got into a pretty big brawl in Colorado Springs when I was 22 or 23. It was me and Mo Lawal and a lot of other guys. A big old brawl. We were with the whole US volleyball team and we were all hanging out and having a good time. Then one guy hit one of the girls on the volleyball team. We had to defend them. Obviously, the guy regretted the decision that he made.
Sherdog.com: I don’t doubt it. Do you think your list of credentials precedes you in the ring? Gives you a psychological advantage?
Cormier: S---t, I would hope so. But ultimately, I’ll have to back it up.
2007 World Team Trials Champion. Five-time US Nationals Champion. Fourth Place in the 2004 Olympic Games. 2003 Pan-American Gold Medalist. Second-place in the 2001 NCAA Championships.
It’s very possible Daniel Cormier could melt down the contents of his trophy room and put a dent in the national debt. A freestyle wrestler formerly with Oklahoma State University, the multi-decorated Olympian missed the 2008 Beijing Olympics due to dehydration and has elected not to train for the 2012 Games.
Instead, Cormier now spends his days bouncing between the American Kickboxing Academy in San Jose, Calif., and dodging the mitts of noted boxing trainer Pepe Johnson in Tulsa, Okla. The idea is to become as proficient a mixed martial artist as friend and training partner Josh Koscheck, along with the dozens of other accredited wrestlers who have made careers, names, and small fortunes in a high-profile sport custom-made for their skills.
Still months away from his debut -- he’d like to get a fight in by year’s end -- Cormier spoke to Sherdog.com about dodging a quarter-million dollar bonus, getting into a rumble backed by Muhammed “King Mo” Lawal, and refusing to leave wrestling completely behind.
Sherdog.com: You’re electing not to prepare for the 2012 Olympics, but USA Wrestling has made an aggressive push to keep wrestlers in their fold: they’re offering $250,000 to any athlete who wins a Gold Medal there. Wasn’t that tempting?
Cormier: Oh, yeah, it was. People get upset about the pay you get in wrestling. But when you win, you get paid. In my career, I think I’ve been compensated pretty fairly by USA Wrestling. They took care of me. Without USA Wrestling, none of these opportunities would be available to me. Some people get upset about the pay, and obviously there were times I felt like we could’ve gotten more. But I think I was treated fairly over the course of my career.
Sherdog.com: It’s really playing the odds. In the next two years, you could make a lot more than $250,000 if your fight career goes well. That money in wrestling is all-or-nothing proposition, no?
Cormier: I think it is. There are a lot of incentives to do it [fighting]. It’s possible for us wrestlers to do well and make quite a bit of money, but you gotta win. It all depends on how well I do in the cage.
I want to stress that, even though I’m moving to MMA, it doesn’t mean I won’t get in any wrestling competitions in the future. I still want to compete. I love wrestling. I think the biggest mistake a lot of wrestlers make is that they don’t go back and compete. You see guys going into jiu-jitsu tournaments and grappling tournaments to get better. Why is it any different than going to a wrestling competition and wrestling really good wrestlers and keeping yourself sharp?
Sherdog.com: Koscheck started out not knowing anything but wrestling. Now he’s good with his hands and has kept some of his fights standing. How do you think you’ll adapt? Will you always be a wrestler first?
Cormier: I want to put on entertaining fights. I’ve been a fan long enough to know that I don’t want to sit there and watch a guy lay on top of another guy. I’ve done that my entire life with wrestling. I really don’t want to put on any more wrestling matches. I will, if I’m not comfortable or I’m put in a situation where I need to, but I want to put on an exciting fight. And in order to do that, I’ve got to have high-impact wrestling moves in terms of throws, really hard double legs, slams, and mix that in with some striking.
Sherdog.com: Your last Olympic weight was 211 lbs. Where do you think you’ll come in for a fight?
Cormier: I see myself long-term fighting at 205. But in the beginning, I see myself fighting up at heavyweight because right now I want to enjoy this. I don’t want to cut all the weight I did throughout my whole career.
Sherdog.com: What do you weigh right now?
Cormier: Right now, probably 245 or 250. I’m a big guy. But with the correct diet, I’ll be able to knock that weight off pretty quickly. These guys train so hard at AKA that the weight just peels off of you.
Sherdog.com: Another wrestler with notoriety, Cael Sanderson, gets asked about MMA constantly, but he says he doesn’t have the appetite for it. Do you mind punching people? Do you mind taking punches?
Cormier: I don’t mind it. I’m really not a guy that likes to hurt people. But it’s a sport now, and most times guys don’t get seriously hurt. That’s how I’ve allowed myself to deal with it: the idea of hitting people. It’s a sport. Guys got hurt training in wrestling and it just killed me.
Sherdog.com: Have you been in many street fights?
Cormier: [Laughs]. Growing up in Louisiana, man, you had to, to survive. Otherwise, you’d just get punked everyday. That’s one thing I’ll never be, a punk. I’ve been in quite a few, actually.
Sherdog.com: Have you been in any since you matured physically and had these wrestling credentials?
Cormier: I got into a pretty big brawl in Colorado Springs when I was 22 or 23. It was me and Mo Lawal and a lot of other guys. A big old brawl. We were with the whole US volleyball team and we were all hanging out and having a good time. Then one guy hit one of the girls on the volleyball team. We had to defend them. Obviously, the guy regretted the decision that he made.
Sherdog.com: I don’t doubt it. Do you think your list of credentials precedes you in the ring? Gives you a psychological advantage?
Cormier: S---t, I would hope so. But ultimately, I’ll have to back it up.
The Plight and Prosperity of British MMA
Compact within the confines of a well-made suit, Ian “The Machine” Freeman appeals for calm from an unresponsive audience.
The deep, authoritative tone of the former UFC heavyweight contender asserts that the fight will not continue, until respect is shown and seats are taken.
The hall is half empty.
The half that have attended appear to be relations of a local fighter, whose Lithuanian opponent has left the cage and is refusing to return until the partisan crowd are a little more welcoming.
There are few casual fans. The audience is charged with the heightened emotion of those about to watch a loved one fight and a minor scuffle breaks out between the rows of unfixed, plastic chairs.
Welcome to the fledgling world of British MMA.
By all measurements, mixed martial arts has never been more popular on this side of the Atlantic. Media coverage, talent and public awareness progressively rise, and yet, despite these increases, domestic promotions are finding it harder than ever to attract the fans that play the video game, buy the magazines and watch the UFC.
On June 2, a press conference held in decadent, West London surroundings heralded a new dawn for British MMA. The British Association of Mixed Martial Arts (BAMMA) sought to bring cohesion to the splintered UK scene with a trilogy of televised events. They would culminate in an end-of-year card, on which six definitive British champions would be crowned.
Two months and one event later, BAMMA is on the verge of collapse. Their website has been taken off-line, their events have been cancelled and official statements are eerily absent.
When the cessation is confirmed, it will be the third time within a year that a high profile British organization has chosen to fold. In March, Liverpool-based Cage Gladiators, proving ground of current UFC alum Terry Etim and Paul Kelly, ended a run of thirteen events. The British Fighting Championship -- a conglomeration of promotions including FX3, AMMA and Ultimate Force -- failed to assemble a single show before a failed television deal forced them to abort their ambitious plans.
A worrying paradox has developed around British MMA.
The increase in popularity and acceptance of the sport in the U.K. has failed to translate into support of the domestic scene.
Matt Freeman, editor of leading British magazine MMA Unlimited, points to the global dominance of the UFC as a possible explanation for the disparity between popularity and success for local promotions.
“With the UFC coming back to the U.K., we have seen an explosion of interest in that particular promotion but not in the sport,” said Freeman. “Everyone has heard of the UFC, but not MMA, which could be construed as negative.
“The top U.K. promotions used to host huge domestic and international cards, but things have definitely changed,” continued Freeman. “The trickle-down effect many thought would happen a few years ago hasn't happened. Add that to the economic downturn, which has seemingly had no effect on the UFC and British shows have struggled in my opinion.”
Since April 2007, the UFC has held eight events across the U.K. and Ireland, filling sizable arenas with ease and forever changing the landscape of MMA in Europe. November will see the UFC return to the Manchester Evening News Arena, scene of their triumphant re-entry into the market, buoyed by the confirmation of a new long-term television deal with ESPN.
Marshall Zelaznik, UFC U.K. division president, regards the recent television negotiations as an indicator of the progress made by the organization in the U.K..
“We used to have to beat their doors down, now they come to us with requests,” said Zelaznik. “There were definitely more players in the TV negotiations this time. Two and a half years ago, we had year-to-year deals, but now companies understand the product.”
Zelaznik also feels that the problems facing some British promotions are a result of flawed business strategies and over-extension rather than lack of interest outside of the UFC brand.
“I hope that we are driving awareness,” he said. “There is enough interest here for smaller promotions but more simplistic business models are required.
“You can’t oversell, telling everyone you have the best fighters in the world, when people know that you don’t,” continued Zelaznik. “They should say ‘We’ve got the best up and coming talent in the U.K. Come and have a good night out,’ instead of acting like the second coming of Jesus Christ. There are plenty of shows in the U.S., that put on compelling and entertaining fights without TV.”
Veteran British Promoter Dave O' Donnell takes a similar view to Zelaznik. O'Donnell's UCUK promotion is one the few domestic organizations to prosper alongside the UFC, and he feels that his success can be attributed to his experience in the business. A quality sadly lacking in the sudden deluge of aspiring promoters, ill equipped to contend with the rigors of running a successful show.
“They come to the show and think, ‘I can do that, I can do this,’ but you've got to look big picture, not small,” said O’Donnell. “The danger will come when there are too many organizations not doing it properly. They cut corners like, ‘We'll have one doctor instead of two,’ or ‘I'll get my brother’s mate to fight,’ instead of hiring professional fighters.”
Much of the problems facing U.K. promotions stem from the absence of a nationalized governing body. There is a lack of consistency from one event to the next, making a definitive British brand impossible. BAMMA and the BFC both tried to establish such a base by uniting numerous smaller productions, with no success.
Until unity is found between the plethora of regional shows, the future of British MMA for the casual fan will rest firmly upon the UFC, who insist that despite plans to extend the promotion into Australia and Asia, have the U.K. firmly at the forefront of their plans.
“We still feel that there is work to be done,” said Zelaznik. “Next year we plan to be more aggressive in our promotion; we are looking to put on three to five shows in the U.K. Any arena that can hold in the region of 9,000 throughout the country, we are looking to fill.”
As the UFC continues to grow, the future of the British MMA scene remains under threat. It will take cooperation from regional shows or the emergence of an outstanding promotion to fully exploit the increase in popularity that the UFC has generated, and until that time comes, we can expect many more false dawns on the British horizon.
Compact within the confines of a well-made suit, Ian “The Machine” Freeman appeals for calm from an unresponsive audience.
The deep, authoritative tone of the former UFC heavyweight contender asserts that the fight will not continue, until respect is shown and seats are taken.
The hall is half empty.
The half that have attended appear to be relations of a local fighter, whose Lithuanian opponent has left the cage and is refusing to return until the partisan crowd are a little more welcoming.
There are few casual fans. The audience is charged with the heightened emotion of those about to watch a loved one fight and a minor scuffle breaks out between the rows of unfixed, plastic chairs.
Welcome to the fledgling world of British MMA.
By all measurements, mixed martial arts has never been more popular on this side of the Atlantic. Media coverage, talent and public awareness progressively rise, and yet, despite these increases, domestic promotions are finding it harder than ever to attract the fans that play the video game, buy the magazines and watch the UFC.
On June 2, a press conference held in decadent, West London surroundings heralded a new dawn for British MMA. The British Association of Mixed Martial Arts (BAMMA) sought to bring cohesion to the splintered UK scene with a trilogy of televised events. They would culminate in an end-of-year card, on which six definitive British champions would be crowned.
Two months and one event later, BAMMA is on the verge of collapse. Their website has been taken off-line, their events have been cancelled and official statements are eerily absent.
When the cessation is confirmed, it will be the third time within a year that a high profile British organization has chosen to fold. In March, Liverpool-based Cage Gladiators, proving ground of current UFC alum Terry Etim and Paul Kelly, ended a run of thirteen events. The British Fighting Championship -- a conglomeration of promotions including FX3, AMMA and Ultimate Force -- failed to assemble a single show before a failed television deal forced them to abort their ambitious plans.
A worrying paradox has developed around British MMA.
The increase in popularity and acceptance of the sport in the U.K. has failed to translate into support of the domestic scene.
Matt Freeman, editor of leading British magazine MMA Unlimited, points to the global dominance of the UFC as a possible explanation for the disparity between popularity and success for local promotions.
“With the UFC coming back to the U.K., we have seen an explosion of interest in that particular promotion but not in the sport,” said Freeman. “Everyone has heard of the UFC, but not MMA, which could be construed as negative.
“The top U.K. promotions used to host huge domestic and international cards, but things have definitely changed,” continued Freeman. “The trickle-down effect many thought would happen a few years ago hasn't happened. Add that to the economic downturn, which has seemingly had no effect on the UFC and British shows have struggled in my opinion.”
Since April 2007, the UFC has held eight events across the U.K. and Ireland, filling sizable arenas with ease and forever changing the landscape of MMA in Europe. November will see the UFC return to the Manchester Evening News Arena, scene of their triumphant re-entry into the market, buoyed by the confirmation of a new long-term television deal with ESPN.
Marshall Zelaznik, UFC U.K. division president, regards the recent television negotiations as an indicator of the progress made by the organization in the U.K..
“We used to have to beat their doors down, now they come to us with requests,” said Zelaznik. “There were definitely more players in the TV negotiations this time. Two and a half years ago, we had year-to-year deals, but now companies understand the product.”
Zelaznik also feels that the problems facing some British promotions are a result of flawed business strategies and over-extension rather than lack of interest outside of the UFC brand.
“I hope that we are driving awareness,” he said. “There is enough interest here for smaller promotions but more simplistic business models are required.
“You can’t oversell, telling everyone you have the best fighters in the world, when people know that you don’t,” continued Zelaznik. “They should say ‘We’ve got the best up and coming talent in the U.K. Come and have a good night out,’ instead of acting like the second coming of Jesus Christ. There are plenty of shows in the U.S., that put on compelling and entertaining fights without TV.”
Veteran British Promoter Dave O' Donnell takes a similar view to Zelaznik. O'Donnell's UCUK promotion is one the few domestic organizations to prosper alongside the UFC, and he feels that his success can be attributed to his experience in the business. A quality sadly lacking in the sudden deluge of aspiring promoters, ill equipped to contend with the rigors of running a successful show.
“They come to the show and think, ‘I can do that, I can do this,’ but you've got to look big picture, not small,” said O’Donnell. “The danger will come when there are too many organizations not doing it properly. They cut corners like, ‘We'll have one doctor instead of two,’ or ‘I'll get my brother’s mate to fight,’ instead of hiring professional fighters.”
Much of the problems facing U.K. promotions stem from the absence of a nationalized governing body. There is a lack of consistency from one event to the next, making a definitive British brand impossible. BAMMA and the BFC both tried to establish such a base by uniting numerous smaller productions, with no success.
Until unity is found between the plethora of regional shows, the future of British MMA for the casual fan will rest firmly upon the UFC, who insist that despite plans to extend the promotion into Australia and Asia, have the U.K. firmly at the forefront of their plans.
“We still feel that there is work to be done,” said Zelaznik. “Next year we plan to be more aggressive in our promotion; we are looking to put on three to five shows in the U.K. Any arena that can hold in the region of 9,000 throughout the country, we are looking to fill.”
As the UFC continues to grow, the future of the British MMA scene remains under threat. It will take cooperation from regional shows or the emergence of an outstanding promotion to fully exploit the increase in popularity that the UFC has generated, and until that time comes, we can expect many more false dawns on the British horizon.
Report: Brock Lesnar vs. Shane Carwin at UFC 106?
It appears as though Brock Lesnar may be making his first official heavyweight title defense against Shane Carwin at UFC 106.
The event is scheduled for November 21 from the Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas and will also showcase a light-heavyweight bout between Tito Ortiz and Mark Coleman.
The news comes courtesy of a recent report on MMAMadness.com citing sources close to the fight. However, when FiveOuncesOfPain.com was able to contact sources close to the promotion, they were unable confirm or deny the report.
5 Oz’s will keep you updated on this still developing story, and we will be able to either confirm or deny the report shortly.
Carwin had previously been slated to meet Cain Velasquez at UFC 104.
Carwin will be making his return off of the most impressive performance in his career when he pulled himself from the canvas to knock the dangerous Brazilian senseless in electrifying fashion. Undefeated in eleven professional bouts, Carwin has not been extended past the first round a single time in his beatdown littered career.
Lesnar will be defending his title he recently unified by obliterating Frank Mir with brutal ground and pound in the second round of their UFC 100 bout. He has taken the world of MMA by storm, winning the UFC heavyweight strap in a record amount of time, and compiling a record of 4-1 while avenging his sole defeat to the previously mentioned Mir.
The Octagon will likely need to be specially reinforced for the bout as both men should weigh in right around the 265 pound mark. Both guys are known for their dynamic wrestling ability, strength and dominance in the Octagon.
It appears as though Brock Lesnar may be making his first official heavyweight title defense against Shane Carwin at UFC 106.
The event is scheduled for November 21 from the Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas and will also showcase a light-heavyweight bout between Tito Ortiz and Mark Coleman.
The news comes courtesy of a recent report on MMAMadness.com citing sources close to the fight. However, when FiveOuncesOfPain.com was able to contact sources close to the promotion, they were unable confirm or deny the report.
5 Oz’s will keep you updated on this still developing story, and we will be able to either confirm or deny the report shortly.
Carwin had previously been slated to meet Cain Velasquez at UFC 104.
Carwin will be making his return off of the most impressive performance in his career when he pulled himself from the canvas to knock the dangerous Brazilian senseless in electrifying fashion. Undefeated in eleven professional bouts, Carwin has not been extended past the first round a single time in his beatdown littered career.
Lesnar will be defending his title he recently unified by obliterating Frank Mir with brutal ground and pound in the second round of their UFC 100 bout. He has taken the world of MMA by storm, winning the UFC heavyweight strap in a record amount of time, and compiling a record of 4-1 while avenging his sole defeat to the previously mentioned Mir.
The Octagon will likely need to be specially reinforced for the bout as both men should weigh in right around the 265 pound mark. Both guys are known for their dynamic wrestling ability, strength and dominance in the Octagon.
Paul Bradley Signs With Strikeforce
Highly regarded prospect and former Ultimate Fighter cast member Paul Bradley has signed a multi-fight contract with Strikeforce.
FiveOuncesOfPain.com has learned of the news of the signing this evening in a statement issued through Bradley’s management at LionHeart Professional Management & Promotions.
“I am very excited for Paul,” said Chad Dubin, owner of LionHeart Management. “He has worked extremely hard over the last two years to become one of the top contenders at 170 & 185. Paul’s focus for the last 18 months has been to improve his stand up and this has made him a very complete and dangerous guy to fight. Most importantly, Paul will finally get a chance to showcase his talents in an organization that has some of the best fighters in the world. Above everything else, this is what Paul has wanted since he started training MMA over four years ago.”
A former state champion wrestler in high school, and a two-time All-American at 184 pounds in college, Bradley has established himself a force to be reckoned with in both the welterweight and middleweight divisions during his time in MMA. Sporting an impressive record of 11-1, Bradley’s sole defeat in his professional career came in the form of a hard-fought unanimous decision at the hands of fellow blue-chip prospect Mike Pierce.
The arrival of Bradley will add a little more depth in the ever growing Strikeforce 170 and 185 pound divisions.
According to Bradley, the move to Strikeforce is one he welcomes with open arms. He’s eager to show the world that he has arrived, and he’s not going anywhere anytime soon.
“I am very pleased with the opportunity to be fighting in an organization such as Strikeforce,” said Bradley. “They are signing some of the top guys in the world as of late and I feel honored to be a part of this group of people. I look forward to putting on exciting fights for Strikeforce in the future as well as showing the company they made a good decision signing me.”
Highly regarded prospect and former Ultimate Fighter cast member Paul Bradley has signed a multi-fight contract with Strikeforce.
FiveOuncesOfPain.com has learned of the news of the signing this evening in a statement issued through Bradley’s management at LionHeart Professional Management & Promotions.
“I am very excited for Paul,” said Chad Dubin, owner of LionHeart Management. “He has worked extremely hard over the last two years to become one of the top contenders at 170 & 185. Paul’s focus for the last 18 months has been to improve his stand up and this has made him a very complete and dangerous guy to fight. Most importantly, Paul will finally get a chance to showcase his talents in an organization that has some of the best fighters in the world. Above everything else, this is what Paul has wanted since he started training MMA over four years ago.”
A former state champion wrestler in high school, and a two-time All-American at 184 pounds in college, Bradley has established himself a force to be reckoned with in both the welterweight and middleweight divisions during his time in MMA. Sporting an impressive record of 11-1, Bradley’s sole defeat in his professional career came in the form of a hard-fought unanimous decision at the hands of fellow blue-chip prospect Mike Pierce.
The arrival of Bradley will add a little more depth in the ever growing Strikeforce 170 and 185 pound divisions.
According to Bradley, the move to Strikeforce is one he welcomes with open arms. He’s eager to show the world that he has arrived, and he’s not going anywhere anytime soon.
“I am very pleased with the opportunity to be fighting in an organization such as Strikeforce,” said Bradley. “They are signing some of the top guys in the world as of late and I feel honored to be a part of this group of people. I look forward to putting on exciting fights for Strikeforce in the future as well as showing the company they made a good decision signing me.”
Showtime's Hershman Declares Ratings ‘Victory’
Strikeforce “Carano vs. Cyborg” was a homerun according to Ken Hershman, senior vice president of Showtime Sports. The premium cable network did its biggest numbers yet in the sport with the first mixed martial arts card headlined by a women’s bout.
Since Saturday’s event, which went head-to-head against a replay of UFC 100 on Spike TV, numbers have been flying and statements have been made about which show actually did better.
In an interview with the Sherdog Radio Network’s “Beatdown” show Wednesday, Hershman, predictably, planted the Showtime flag atop the ratings mountain, declaring Showtime’s higher share superior to the UFC’s much bigger audience.
“It’s typical television behavior,” said Hershman of a press release sent out by Spike TV on Tuesday. “Everyone wants to promote their agenda and their network and we are prepared to engage in that discussion because we are very proud of how our show did.”
Preliminary numbers show that Strikeforce averaged about 576,000 viewers, while UFC counter-programming on Spike drew an estimated two million viewers of the 98 million homes it’s available in. Strikeforce reportedly peaked with an audience of around 860,000 during the Gina Carano-Cristiane “Cyborg” Santos fight (The network’s highest marks thus far had been 522,000 for a Kimbo Slice-David “Tank” Abbott showdown in February 2008.)
“It was the highest rated MMA show on the network to date,” stated Hershman. “We’re obviously in a much smaller universe than Spike or the broadcast networks with 17 million homes, so the big apples to apples comparison for us is that our rating was a 2.1 and Spike’s was a 1.5 and that’s a victory in my book.”
Hershman said Showtime is very satisfied with Strikeforce, which replaced the now defunct EliteXC and ShoXC brands on the network last April.
“We’re three events in with Strikeforce and I think we’ve made amazing progress that we’re even in this conversation about UFC and counter-programming and all that silliness,” remarked Hershman. “They have a 100-event head start on us and I think that we’re doing pretty damn well.”
Though the women proved a ratings bonanza for Showtime on Saturday, the next challenge will be promoting Cyborg. Aside from Cyborg not being Carano, a fighter they have hyped incessantly going back to their relationship with Elite XC, Strikeforce’s new female champion does not speak English, which could make her a harder sell in North America.
Hershman said Cyborg is open to working on her English skills and that she has plenty of positives to exploit.
“Cris Cyborg is just an exciting, dynamic, ferocious fighter and I think we are going to market her that way,” said the Showtime VP. “Who is going to beat this woman? She’s just incredible. There is talent out there who want to try and are prepared to try and probably have some good shots, but this is going to be a long run, I think, for Cris Cyborg.”
It could also be a long run for MMA on Showtime, judging from the channel’s increasing subscription numbers. Obviously, not all of the new subscribers cough up their monthly fee because of MMA, but the influx of new paid viewers fall heavily in the young demographic that has been the lifeblood of the sport’s meteoric rise.
“If you want to track back to February ‘07 it’s probably about two, two-and-a-half million subscriber growth,” boasted Hershman. “That is unprecedented in premium television in the last few years. Most of our new subscribers coming onto Showtime are 18 to 34, so mixed martial arts is a perfect entrée for them to the network, it allows us to reach this younger demographic with programming they want and we’re growing.”
In addition, No. 1-ranked heavyweight Fedor Emelianenko has signed on to compete for Strikeforce and will be making his Showtime debut sometime this fall, according to Hershman.
Since the signing has been announced, the top heavyweight’s new partners have been defending the signing ad nauseam. With speculation swirling that the Fedor deal could be a financial handcuff for Strikeforce, like many believe it was for now out-of-business Affliction Entertainment, Hershman was eager to quell concerns.
“Let me put everything to rest here -- the Fedor deal is entirely manageable, it will be very, very workable for everyone including Fedor,” he said. “He is very well taken care of, but it’s a very responsible deal -- no one’s going out of business because of it. It’s all silliness, and I’ll tell you, if the UFC is good at anything, they are good at spreading a lot of nonsense.”
Hershman was less impressed with another Strikeforce star -- mainstay Nick Diaz. Diaz was slated to face Jay Hieron for the newly minted welterweight title, until he skipped a mandatory California State Athletic Commission pre-fight drug screening a week before the scheduled bout. Hershman had some pointed comments for the cult hero, who is one of the more marketable assets in the Strikeforce stable.
“I’m incredibly disappointed because I’m one of his biggest fans going into this, wanting to see him fight,” said Hershman of Diaz. “I love his fighting style, I love his attitude, I think he is a tremendous talent and to have the fight upended, at such a late date, over [the drug test] situation was really regrettable to me.
“The big issue for me is we spend a lot of money, a lot of time, a lot of energy marketing these shows and supporting and building our fighters and Strikeforce as a brand and the bottom line is we just ask our athletes to be reliable,” continued Hershman. “Injuries happen, sure, but there are a lot of things inside your control that you have to take care of as a professional athlete. So, we’ve got to make sure Nick understands that before we can go back and invest everything we are going to invest in him. I’m sure we’ll square it away.”
Strikeforce “Carano vs. Cyborg” was a homerun according to Ken Hershman, senior vice president of Showtime Sports. The premium cable network did its biggest numbers yet in the sport with the first mixed martial arts card headlined by a women’s bout.
Since Saturday’s event, which went head-to-head against a replay of UFC 100 on Spike TV, numbers have been flying and statements have been made about which show actually did better.
In an interview with the Sherdog Radio Network’s “Beatdown” show Wednesday, Hershman, predictably, planted the Showtime flag atop the ratings mountain, declaring Showtime’s higher share superior to the UFC’s much bigger audience.
“It’s typical television behavior,” said Hershman of a press release sent out by Spike TV on Tuesday. “Everyone wants to promote their agenda and their network and we are prepared to engage in that discussion because we are very proud of how our show did.”
Preliminary numbers show that Strikeforce averaged about 576,000 viewers, while UFC counter-programming on Spike drew an estimated two million viewers of the 98 million homes it’s available in. Strikeforce reportedly peaked with an audience of around 860,000 during the Gina Carano-Cristiane “Cyborg” Santos fight (The network’s highest marks thus far had been 522,000 for a Kimbo Slice-David “Tank” Abbott showdown in February 2008.)
“It was the highest rated MMA show on the network to date,” stated Hershman. “We’re obviously in a much smaller universe than Spike or the broadcast networks with 17 million homes, so the big apples to apples comparison for us is that our rating was a 2.1 and Spike’s was a 1.5 and that’s a victory in my book.”
Hershman said Showtime is very satisfied with Strikeforce, which replaced the now defunct EliteXC and ShoXC brands on the network last April.
“We’re three events in with Strikeforce and I think we’ve made amazing progress that we’re even in this conversation about UFC and counter-programming and all that silliness,” remarked Hershman. “They have a 100-event head start on us and I think that we’re doing pretty damn well.”
Though the women proved a ratings bonanza for Showtime on Saturday, the next challenge will be promoting Cyborg. Aside from Cyborg not being Carano, a fighter they have hyped incessantly going back to their relationship with Elite XC, Strikeforce’s new female champion does not speak English, which could make her a harder sell in North America.
Hershman said Cyborg is open to working on her English skills and that she has plenty of positives to exploit.
“Cris Cyborg is just an exciting, dynamic, ferocious fighter and I think we are going to market her that way,” said the Showtime VP. “Who is going to beat this woman? She’s just incredible. There is talent out there who want to try and are prepared to try and probably have some good shots, but this is going to be a long run, I think, for Cris Cyborg.”
It could also be a long run for MMA on Showtime, judging from the channel’s increasing subscription numbers. Obviously, not all of the new subscribers cough up their monthly fee because of MMA, but the influx of new paid viewers fall heavily in the young demographic that has been the lifeblood of the sport’s meteoric rise.
“If you want to track back to February ‘07 it’s probably about two, two-and-a-half million subscriber growth,” boasted Hershman. “That is unprecedented in premium television in the last few years. Most of our new subscribers coming onto Showtime are 18 to 34, so mixed martial arts is a perfect entrée for them to the network, it allows us to reach this younger demographic with programming they want and we’re growing.”
In addition, No. 1-ranked heavyweight Fedor Emelianenko has signed on to compete for Strikeforce and will be making his Showtime debut sometime this fall, according to Hershman.
Since the signing has been announced, the top heavyweight’s new partners have been defending the signing ad nauseam. With speculation swirling that the Fedor deal could be a financial handcuff for Strikeforce, like many believe it was for now out-of-business Affliction Entertainment, Hershman was eager to quell concerns.
“Let me put everything to rest here -- the Fedor deal is entirely manageable, it will be very, very workable for everyone including Fedor,” he said. “He is very well taken care of, but it’s a very responsible deal -- no one’s going out of business because of it. It’s all silliness, and I’ll tell you, if the UFC is good at anything, they are good at spreading a lot of nonsense.”
Hershman was less impressed with another Strikeforce star -- mainstay Nick Diaz. Diaz was slated to face Jay Hieron for the newly minted welterweight title, until he skipped a mandatory California State Athletic Commission pre-fight drug screening a week before the scheduled bout. Hershman had some pointed comments for the cult hero, who is one of the more marketable assets in the Strikeforce stable.
“I’m incredibly disappointed because I’m one of his biggest fans going into this, wanting to see him fight,” said Hershman of Diaz. “I love his fighting style, I love his attitude, I think he is a tremendous talent and to have the fight upended, at such a late date, over [the drug test] situation was really regrettable to me.
“The big issue for me is we spend a lot of money, a lot of time, a lot of energy marketing these shows and supporting and building our fighters and Strikeforce as a brand and the bottom line is we just ask our athletes to be reliable,” continued Hershman. “Injuries happen, sure, but there are a lot of things inside your control that you have to take care of as a professional athlete. So, we’ve got to make sure Nick understands that before we can go back and invest everything we are going to invest in him. I’m sure we’ll square it away.”