As much as Anthony Johnson would like to think he's a middleweight, he's still moonlighting.
"I'm out here to get this experience that I need right now at 185 (pounds) and see if these guys are the real deal like they say they are," Johnson today told MMAjunkie.com (www.mmajunkie.com).
Vitor Belfort (20-9 MMA, 9-4 UFC), whom Johnson (10-3 MMA, 7-3 UFC) faces in the co-main event of Saturday's UFC 142 event, offers the first taste of experience fighting in a division most say he should have occupied years ago.
Of course, he'd like to see how he stacks up against the rest of the top-tier.
"Sure, I'll fight Anderson," Johnson said of middleweight champ Silva. "He's a fighter, he's a human, I respect him, and I like to challenge myself. You've got Michael Bisping, Vitor, Chael Sonnen, Mark Munoz, (Rousimar) Palhares
View the Original article
петак, 13. јануар 2012.
Video: 'Countdown to UFC 142' full episode
by MMAjunkie.com Staff on Jan 11, 2012 at 3:50 pm ET"Countdown to UFC 142," the official event-preview show for this weekend's UFC 142 event, recently debuted on FUEL TV.
Now, the half-hour program is available for free viewing online.
Check out the show, which features UFC featherweight champion Jose Aldo and fellow main-event fighter Chad Mendes, as well as middleweight co-headliners Anthony Johnson and Vitor Belfort.
UFC 142, which is the UFC's first of 2012, takes place Saturday at HSBC Arena in Rio de Janeiro.
UFC 142's main card, including the co-headliners, airs on pay-per-view.The prelims air on FX and stream on Facebook. Despite Brazil being three hours ahead of theU.S. East Coast, the event airs live in its normal Saturday-nighttimeslot with prelims at 8 p.m. ET (5 p.m. PT) and the main card at 10p.m. ET.
Check out the video preview above, and stay tuned to MMAjunkie.com throughout the week for full on-site event coverage.
The full UFC 142 card includes:
MAIN CARD (Pay-per-view) Champ Jose Aldo vs. Chad Mendes (for featherweight title) Vitor Belfort vs. Anthony Johnson Mike Massenzio vs. Rousimar Palhares Carlo Prater vs. Erick Silva Edson Barboza vs. Terry EtimPRELIMINARY CARD (FX)
Sam Stout vs. Thiago Tavares Gabriel Gonzaga vs. Ednaldo Oliveira Yuri Alcantara vs. Michihiro Omigawa Ricardo Funch vs. Mike Pyle Felipe Arantes vs. Antonio "Pato" CarvalhoFor the latest on UFC 142, stay tuned to the UFC Rumors section of the site.
» ReplyComments: 15 Related News UFC 142 V. Belfort A. Johnson UFC UFC officials and fighters cautiously enthused by Brazil's soccer sponsorshipsWanderlei Silva says Vitor Belfort rematch was lone fight he wanted before retirementUFC's international schedule will slow in mid-2012, but expansion still a priorityWith mom in new home, 'TUF 14' winner Diego Brandao channels inner Mike TysonGray Maynard meant no disrespect in helping UFC 142's Jose AldoWatch today's UFC 142 press conference live on MMAjunkie.com at 10 a.m. ETJoyful Vitor Belfort says elephant not the king of UFC 142 jungleUFC 142's Edson Barboza says undefeated record already puts him 'in the mix'UFC 142's Chad Mendes enjoying Brazil, excited for first career main event Wanderlei Silva says Vitor Belfort rematch was lone fight he wanted before retirement'TUF: Brazil' features featherweights and middleweights, tourney finals on PPVJoyful Vitor Belfort says elephant not the king of UFC 142 jungleVitor Belfort, Wanderlei Silva named coaches of 'The Ultimate Fighter: Brazil'UFC 142 main card set with five boutsVitor Belfort vs. Anthony Johnson slated for UFC 142 in BrazilUFC officials shoot down Silva-Belfort 'TUF: Brazil' coaching reportsMMAjunkie.com's John Morgan on pre-UFC 137 'Fight Day' show at 5 p.m. ETUFC 136 winner Chael Sonnen offers Anderson Silva rematch, calls Vitor Belfort a fool UFC 142's Anthony Johnson out to see if middleweights are the 'real deal'UFC 142's Anthony Johnson done for now with welterweight divisionMMAjunkie.com Radio: Anthony Njokuani, Anthony Johnson, Sergio Non, Joey OddessaUFC 142 main card set with five boutsVitor Belfort vs. Anthony Johnson slated for UFC 142 in BrazilCharlie Brenneman camp takes no issue with stoppage at UFC on Versus 6Anthony Johnson, Dana White have no problem with UFC on Versus 6 stoppageUFC on Versus 6 bonuses: Johnson, Struve, Wiman and Danzig earn $65K awardsUFC on Versus 6 main-card results: Spirited 'Mighty Mouse' can't dethrone champ Cruz UFC officials and fighters cautiously enthused by Brazil's soccer sponsorshipsU.K. to get UFC event in late 2012, TV deal could prompt additional showWanderlei Silva says Vitor Belfort rematch was lone fight he wanted before retirementUFC's international schedule will slow in mid-2012, but expansion still a priority'TUF: Brazil' features featherweights and middleweights, tourney finals on PPVMMAjunkie.com Radio: Jim Miller, 'King Mo,' Joey Diaz and Joey OddessaWith mom in new home, 'TUF 14' winner Diego Brandao channels inner Mike TysonGray Maynard meant no disrespect in helping UFC 142's Jose AldoWatch today's UFC 142 press conference live on MMAjunkie.com at 10 a.m. ET
View the Original article
Now, the half-hour program is available for free viewing online.
Check out the show, which features UFC featherweight champion Jose Aldo and fellow main-event fighter Chad Mendes, as well as middleweight co-headliners Anthony Johnson and Vitor Belfort.
UFC 142, which is the UFC's first of 2012, takes place Saturday at HSBC Arena in Rio de Janeiro.
UFC 142's main card, including the co-headliners, airs on pay-per-view.The prelims air on FX and stream on Facebook. Despite Brazil being three hours ahead of theU.S. East Coast, the event airs live in its normal Saturday-nighttimeslot with prelims at 8 p.m. ET (5 p.m. PT) and the main card at 10p.m. ET.
Check out the video preview above, and stay tuned to MMAjunkie.com throughout the week for full on-site event coverage.
The full UFC 142 card includes:
MAIN CARD (Pay-per-view) Champ Jose Aldo vs. Chad Mendes (for featherweight title) Vitor Belfort vs. Anthony Johnson Mike Massenzio vs. Rousimar Palhares Carlo Prater vs. Erick Silva Edson Barboza vs. Terry EtimPRELIMINARY CARD (FX)
Sam Stout vs. Thiago Tavares Gabriel Gonzaga vs. Ednaldo Oliveira Yuri Alcantara vs. Michihiro Omigawa Ricardo Funch vs. Mike Pyle Felipe Arantes vs. Antonio "Pato" CarvalhoFor the latest on UFC 142, stay tuned to the UFC Rumors section of the site.
» ReplyComments: 15 Related News UFC 142 V. Belfort A. Johnson UFC UFC officials and fighters cautiously enthused by Brazil's soccer sponsorshipsWanderlei Silva says Vitor Belfort rematch was lone fight he wanted before retirementUFC's international schedule will slow in mid-2012, but expansion still a priorityWith mom in new home, 'TUF 14' winner Diego Brandao channels inner Mike TysonGray Maynard meant no disrespect in helping UFC 142's Jose AldoWatch today's UFC 142 press conference live on MMAjunkie.com at 10 a.m. ETJoyful Vitor Belfort says elephant not the king of UFC 142 jungleUFC 142's Edson Barboza says undefeated record already puts him 'in the mix'UFC 142's Chad Mendes enjoying Brazil, excited for first career main event Wanderlei Silva says Vitor Belfort rematch was lone fight he wanted before retirement'TUF: Brazil' features featherweights and middleweights, tourney finals on PPVJoyful Vitor Belfort says elephant not the king of UFC 142 jungleVitor Belfort, Wanderlei Silva named coaches of 'The Ultimate Fighter: Brazil'UFC 142 main card set with five boutsVitor Belfort vs. Anthony Johnson slated for UFC 142 in BrazilUFC officials shoot down Silva-Belfort 'TUF: Brazil' coaching reportsMMAjunkie.com's John Morgan on pre-UFC 137 'Fight Day' show at 5 p.m. ETUFC 136 winner Chael Sonnen offers Anderson Silva rematch, calls Vitor Belfort a fool UFC 142's Anthony Johnson out to see if middleweights are the 'real deal'UFC 142's Anthony Johnson done for now with welterweight divisionMMAjunkie.com Radio: Anthony Njokuani, Anthony Johnson, Sergio Non, Joey OddessaUFC 142 main card set with five boutsVitor Belfort vs. Anthony Johnson slated for UFC 142 in BrazilCharlie Brenneman camp takes no issue with stoppage at UFC on Versus 6Anthony Johnson, Dana White have no problem with UFC on Versus 6 stoppageUFC on Versus 6 bonuses: Johnson, Struve, Wiman and Danzig earn $65K awardsUFC on Versus 6 main-card results: Spirited 'Mighty Mouse' can't dethrone champ Cruz UFC officials and fighters cautiously enthused by Brazil's soccer sponsorshipsU.K. to get UFC event in late 2012, TV deal could prompt additional showWanderlei Silva says Vitor Belfort rematch was lone fight he wanted before retirementUFC's international schedule will slow in mid-2012, but expansion still a priority'TUF: Brazil' features featherweights and middleweights, tourney finals on PPVMMAjunkie.com Radio: Jim Miller, 'King Mo,' Joey Diaz and Joey OddessaWith mom in new home, 'TUF 14' winner Diego Brandao channels inner Mike TysonGray Maynard meant no disrespect in helping UFC 142's Jose AldoWatch today's UFC 142 press conference live on MMAjunkie.com at 10 a.m. ET
View the Original article
UFC 142's Chad Mendes enjoying Brazil, excited for first career main event
When undefeated featherweight contender Chad Mendes (11-0 MMA, 2-0 UFC) meets current champ Jose Aldo (20-1 MMA, 2-0 UFC) in the main event of Saturday's UFC 142 event in Rio de Janeiro, it will mark not only the first 145-pound headliner in UFC history, it will also serve as the first-ever main event of the challenger's MMA career.
So is Mendes perhaps a little nervous ahead of his first time in the pay-per-view spotlight?
Hardly.
"It's very special to me," Mendes told MMAjunkie.com (www.mmajunkie.com) at Wednesday's media workout session, which took place on the beaches of Barra da Tijuca in Rio. "This is something I'm definitely going to look back on when I have kids, telling them about when I was an athlete back in the day. It's something I'll never forget, and I'm just super-pumped to be a part of history."
It's been an astronomical ride to the top of the 145-pound division for Mendes, who just 27 months ago had yet to fight anywhere other than rural Lemoore, Calif., a town less than 10 miles from his hometown of Hanford.
Now Mendes' face is plastered on advertisements around the world. It's a position Mendes' Team Alpha Male teammate and mentor, Urijah Faber, has long enjoyed, but "Money" said he's quickly adjusting.
"The other day, when the ball was dropping in Times Square in New York City, I got to see my big old poster in the background, and that was definitely something that was very surreal," Mendes said. "Just over three years ago, I was still in college, watching Urijah do all this. I knew that I could be good. I knew it was something that if I worked at, I could be there eventually, but it's crazy to be there this fast.
"I've never done anything like this on the beach. It's crazy to see this many people here just for the open workout. It's cool. You've got planes flying with banners behind it. It's awesome."
If there is a challenge for Mendes
View the Original article
So is Mendes perhaps a little nervous ahead of his first time in the pay-per-view spotlight?
Hardly.
"It's very special to me," Mendes told MMAjunkie.com (www.mmajunkie.com) at Wednesday's media workout session, which took place on the beaches of Barra da Tijuca in Rio. "This is something I'm definitely going to look back on when I have kids, telling them about when I was an athlete back in the day. It's something I'll never forget, and I'm just super-pumped to be a part of history."
It's been an astronomical ride to the top of the 145-pound division for Mendes, who just 27 months ago had yet to fight anywhere other than rural Lemoore, Calif., a town less than 10 miles from his hometown of Hanford.
Now Mendes' face is plastered on advertisements around the world. It's a position Mendes' Team Alpha Male teammate and mentor, Urijah Faber, has long enjoyed, but "Money" said he's quickly adjusting.
"The other day, when the ball was dropping in Times Square in New York City, I got to see my big old poster in the background, and that was definitely something that was very surreal," Mendes said. "Just over three years ago, I was still in college, watching Urijah do all this. I knew that I could be good. I knew it was something that if I worked at, I could be there eventually, but it's crazy to be there this fast.
"I've never done anything like this on the beach. It's crazy to see this many people here just for the open workout. It's cool. You've got planes flying with banners behind it. It's awesome."
If there is a challenge for Mendes
View the Original article
Sophomore edition of 'UFC Tonight' draws 20,000 FUEL TV viewers
The second episode of the UFC's new weekly news show, "UFC Tonight," averaged 20,000 viewers on the FOX-owned FUEL TV.
MMAjunkie.com (www.mmajunkie.com) confirmed Tuesday's (Jan. 10's) ratings with an industry source.
The Jan. 3 series debut of "UFC Tonight" scored 39,000 viewers, though UFC and FUEL TV officials caution that the entire cable channel is still a work in progress.
After all, FUEL TV averaged just 15,000 viewers in 2011. However, with the UFC's recent move from Spike TV to FUEL TV, the channel has become the hub for UFC programming. While available in just 25 million homes a few months ago, FUEL TV has used the added visibility of the UFC deal to get into approximately 36 million homes at last count.
For example, a New Year's Day marathon of UFC content resulted in the second most-watched day in FUEL TV history, and ratings for its primetime lineup were up a staggering 493 percent compared to 2011's averages.
"Those numbers will build," UFC president Dana White recently said. "We're going to build that network. ... As far as our fanbase goes and the amount of content we're going to have on FUEL TV, people are going to want it, and people are going to demand it.""
Former WEC broadcaster Todd Harris and UFC fighter Kenny Florian host "UFC Tonight," and journalists Jay Glazer and Ariel Helwani are contributors. UFC Tonight" airs each Tuesday at 10 p.m. ET (7 p.m. PT). If the ratings prove strong, officials have suggested new episodes could air more regularly.
For more on "UFC Tonight," including show highlights, go to fuel.tv/ufctonight.
(Pictured: Todd Harris and Kenny Florian)
» ReplyComments: 45 Related News Only on Junkie UFC Strikeforce champ Luke Rockhold mending broken hand, wants Tim Kennedy nextUFC officials and fighters cautiously enthused by Brazil's soccer sponsorshipsHDNet Fights Video Vault: Joey Villasenor vs. Jim Wallhead at BAMMA 8U.K. to get UFC event in late 2012, TV deal could prompt additional showWanderlei Silva says Vitor Belfort rematch was lone fight he wanted before retirementWith mom in new home, 'TUF 14' winner Diego Brandao channels inner Mike TysonJoyful Vitor Belfort says elephant not the king of UFC 142 jungleUFC 143's Diaz vs. Condit main event gets veteran ref Steve MazzagattiUFC 142's Edson Barboza says undefeated record already puts him 'in the mix' UFC officials and fighters cautiously enthused by Brazil's soccer sponsorshipsU.K. to get UFC event in late 2012, TV deal could prompt additional showWanderlei Silva says Vitor Belfort rematch was lone fight he wanted before retirementUFC's international schedule will slow in mid-2012, but expansion still a priority'TUF: Brazil' features featherweights and middleweights, tourney finals on PPVMMAjunkie.com Radio: Jim Miller, 'King Mo,' Joey Diaz and Joey OddessaWith mom in new home, 'TUF 14' winner Diego Brandao channels inner Mike TysonGray Maynard meant no disrespect in helping UFC 142's Jose AldoWatch today's UFC 142 press conference live on MMAjunkie.com at 10 a.m. ET
View the Original article
MMAjunkie.com (www.mmajunkie.com) confirmed Tuesday's (Jan. 10's) ratings with an industry source.
The Jan. 3 series debut of "UFC Tonight" scored 39,000 viewers, though UFC and FUEL TV officials caution that the entire cable channel is still a work in progress.
After all, FUEL TV averaged just 15,000 viewers in 2011. However, with the UFC's recent move from Spike TV to FUEL TV, the channel has become the hub for UFC programming. While available in just 25 million homes a few months ago, FUEL TV has used the added visibility of the UFC deal to get into approximately 36 million homes at last count.
For example, a New Year's Day marathon of UFC content resulted in the second most-watched day in FUEL TV history, and ratings for its primetime lineup were up a staggering 493 percent compared to 2011's averages.
"Those numbers will build," UFC president Dana White recently said. "We're going to build that network. ... As far as our fanbase goes and the amount of content we're going to have on FUEL TV, people are going to want it, and people are going to demand it.""
Former WEC broadcaster Todd Harris and UFC fighter Kenny Florian host "UFC Tonight," and journalists Jay Glazer and Ariel Helwani are contributors. UFC Tonight" airs each Tuesday at 10 p.m. ET (7 p.m. PT). If the ratings prove strong, officials have suggested new episodes could air more regularly.
For more on "UFC Tonight," including show highlights, go to fuel.tv/ufctonight.
(Pictured: Todd Harris and Kenny Florian)
» ReplyComments: 45 Related News Only on Junkie UFC Strikeforce champ Luke Rockhold mending broken hand, wants Tim Kennedy nextUFC officials and fighters cautiously enthused by Brazil's soccer sponsorshipsHDNet Fights Video Vault: Joey Villasenor vs. Jim Wallhead at BAMMA 8U.K. to get UFC event in late 2012, TV deal could prompt additional showWanderlei Silva says Vitor Belfort rematch was lone fight he wanted before retirementWith mom in new home, 'TUF 14' winner Diego Brandao channels inner Mike TysonJoyful Vitor Belfort says elephant not the king of UFC 142 jungleUFC 143's Diaz vs. Condit main event gets veteran ref Steve MazzagattiUFC 142's Edson Barboza says undefeated record already puts him 'in the mix' UFC officials and fighters cautiously enthused by Brazil's soccer sponsorshipsU.K. to get UFC event in late 2012, TV deal could prompt additional showWanderlei Silva says Vitor Belfort rematch was lone fight he wanted before retirementUFC's international schedule will slow in mid-2012, but expansion still a priority'TUF: Brazil' features featherweights and middleweights, tourney finals on PPVMMAjunkie.com Radio: Jim Miller, 'King Mo,' Joey Diaz and Joey OddessaWith mom in new home, 'TUF 14' winner Diego Brandao channels inner Mike TysonGray Maynard meant no disrespect in helping UFC 142's Jose AldoWatch today's UFC 142 press conference live on MMAjunkie.com at 10 a.m. ET
View the Original article
UFC 142's Edson Barboza says undefeated record already puts him 'in the mix'
Undefeated UFC lightweight prospect Edson Barboza (9-0 MMA, 3-0 UFC) already has a pair of "Fight of the Night" bonuses in his bank account, but paychecks aren't the reason he started fighting.
Championships are.
Barboza kicks off the pay-per-view portion of Saturday night's UFC 142 event at Rio de Janeiro's HSBC Arena by matching up with British fireplug Terry Etim (15-3 MMA, 6-3 UFC) in a bout that looks certain to entertain. Barboza hopes it also brings him the attention he's ready to receive.
"I think I'm already in the mix," Barboza told MMAjunkie.com (www.mmajunkie.com) in his native Portuguese.
It's hard to argue with the Brazilian native. After all, at just 25 years old, Barboza already holds victories over proven commodities like Ross Pearson and Anthony Njokuani. A win over Etim would likely command some real respect.
"Anyone who's in the UFC is there because they're very skilled," Barboza said. "That's a fact. With every opponent, the more difficult the fight, and I'm working hard so I can always meet new, more difficult challenges on equal terms. I know I have it me to do so."
To that end, Barboza currently splits his training time between Florida academies The Armory and Pablo Popovitch's Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Center, and he's recently spent some time with "The Blackzilians" of Imperial Athletics, as well.
"I had great support in preparing for this fight," Barboza said. "I've never had a camp as good as this. At Imperial, we have Rashad Evans and Anthony Johnson, who's going to fight Vitor Belfort. I go there two or three times a week to train standup, as well as wrestling with Mike Van Arsdale.
"The training was perfect. We did everything right, and now all that's left to do is the fight. I'm prepared."
The first eight professional contests of Barboza's MMA career took place in the U.S., but he's no stranger to fighting in his native country. The Muay Thai specialist most recently fought at this past August's UFC 134 event, which also took place in Rio de Janeiro.
"It was sensational," Barboza said of the experience, where he notched a three-round decision win over Pearson. "It was a great experience, and I enjoyed it very much. Now I get to fight in Brazil again. I'm very happy.
"I've fought in the U.S., and that's nice, but in our own country with our own crowd, that's very different. I've very happy for this."
Another key difference will be the type of opponent standing across from him in the octagon. Whereas both Pearson and Njokuani represented strike-first opponents
View the Original article
Championships are.
Barboza kicks off the pay-per-view portion of Saturday night's UFC 142 event at Rio de Janeiro's HSBC Arena by matching up with British fireplug Terry Etim (15-3 MMA, 6-3 UFC) in a bout that looks certain to entertain. Barboza hopes it also brings him the attention he's ready to receive.
"I think I'm already in the mix," Barboza told MMAjunkie.com (www.mmajunkie.com) in his native Portuguese.
It's hard to argue with the Brazilian native. After all, at just 25 years old, Barboza already holds victories over proven commodities like Ross Pearson and Anthony Njokuani. A win over Etim would likely command some real respect.
"Anyone who's in the UFC is there because they're very skilled," Barboza said. "That's a fact. With every opponent, the more difficult the fight, and I'm working hard so I can always meet new, more difficult challenges on equal terms. I know I have it me to do so."
To that end, Barboza currently splits his training time between Florida academies The Armory and Pablo Popovitch's Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Center, and he's recently spent some time with "The Blackzilians" of Imperial Athletics, as well.
"I had great support in preparing for this fight," Barboza said. "I've never had a camp as good as this. At Imperial, we have Rashad Evans and Anthony Johnson, who's going to fight Vitor Belfort. I go there two or three times a week to train standup, as well as wrestling with Mike Van Arsdale.
"The training was perfect. We did everything right, and now all that's left to do is the fight. I'm prepared."
The first eight professional contests of Barboza's MMA career took place in the U.S., but he's no stranger to fighting in his native country. The Muay Thai specialist most recently fought at this past August's UFC 134 event, which also took place in Rio de Janeiro.
"It was sensational," Barboza said of the experience, where he notched a three-round decision win over Pearson. "It was a great experience, and I enjoyed it very much. Now I get to fight in Brazil again. I'm very happy.
"I've fought in the U.S., and that's nice, but in our own country with our own crowd, that's very different. I've very happy for this."
Another key difference will be the type of opponent standing across from him in the octagon. Whereas both Pearson and Njokuani represented strike-first opponents
View the Original article
Giva 'The Arm Collector' Santana joins Bellator's season-six middleweight tourney
"The Arm Collector" is joining his first Bellator tournament.
Bellator officials today announced that Giva Santana (17-1 MMA, 1-0 BFC) has joined the eight-man field for the organization's season-six middleweight tourney.
The tourney kicks off in March on MTV2.
Santana is the second confirmed participant for the field. As MMAjunkie.com (www.mmajunkie.com) recently reported, knockout artist Brian Rogers (8-3 MMA, 1-1 BFC) also is slated for the field.
Additional tourney participants will be announced in the coming weeks.
Santana, a Brazilian jiu-jitsu black belt and former EliteXC fighter, made his promotional debut at Bellator 53 and submitted Darryl Cobb with
View the Original article
Bellator officials today announced that Giva Santana (17-1 MMA, 1-0 BFC) has joined the eight-man field for the organization's season-six middleweight tourney.
The tourney kicks off in March on MTV2.
Santana is the second confirmed participant for the field. As MMAjunkie.com (www.mmajunkie.com) recently reported, knockout artist Brian Rogers (8-3 MMA, 1-1 BFC) also is slated for the field.
Additional tourney participants will be announced in the coming weeks.
Santana, a Brazilian jiu-jitsu black belt and former EliteXC fighter, made his promotional debut at Bellator 53 and submitted Darryl Cobb with
View the Original article
UFC 145 in Montreal adds Anthony Njokuani vs. John Makdessi
UFC 145 has added a lightweight bout between two dynamic strikers.
UFC officials today announced that Anthony Njokuani (14-6 MMA, 1-2 UFC) and John Makdessi (9-1 MMA, 2-1 UFC) have verbally agreed to meet at the March event, which takes place in Montreal.
UFC 145, which is the first Canadian show of the year, takes place March 24 at Montreal's Bell Centre.
The night's main card airs on pay-per-view, and the preliminary card airs on FX. Njokuani vs. Makdessi likely will be part of the prelims.
Njokuani looks to rebound from a close UFC 141 split-decision loss to late replacement and wrestler Danny Castillo. Njokuani, a former WEC fighter who hasn't put together back-to-back wins since late 2009, is 2-4 since then, though he often puts on crowd-pleasing fights. Against Makdessi, he should be able to keep it standing.
Like Njokuani, the Canadian prefers to stand and bang. His quick hands allowed him to start his career with a 9-0 mark and seven knockouts, including a spinning-backfist KO of Kyle Watson at UFC 129 that was a 2011 World MMA Awards "KO of the Year" nominee. However, in his most recent bout, he suffered a submission loss to veteran Dennis Hallman at UFC 140.
The latest UFC 145 card includes:
Che Mills vs. Rory MacDonald Ben Rothwell vs. Brendan Schaub Mark Bocek vs. Matt Wiman Mark Hominick vs. Eddie Yagin Travis Browne vs. Chad Griggs Mac Danzig vs. Efrain Escudero John Makdessi vs. Anthony Njokuani Chris Clements vs. Keith WisniewskiFor more on UFC 145, stay tuned to the UFC Rumors section of the site.
(Pictured: Anthony Njokuani)
» ReplyComments: 24 Related News UFC 145 ... A. Njokuani J. Makdessi UFC Keith Wisniewski vs. Chris Clements slated for UFC 145 in MontrealMac Danzig meets Efrain Escudero at UFC 145 in Montreal (Updated)Matt Wiman vs. Mark Bocek added to UFC 145 in MontrealMark Hominick vs. Eddie Yagin on tap for UFC 145 in MontrealUFC 145 official for March 24, gets Ben Rothwell vs. Brendan ScahubTravis Browne meets Strikeforce import Chad Griggs at UFC 145UFC 145 official for Montreal in March, gets MacDonald vs. MillsRory MacDonald vs. Che Mills slated for UFC 145 in Montreal UFC 141 results: Castillo survives Njokuani's strikes, takes split decisionNew opponent, no changes for Njokuani heading into UFC 141 bout with CastilloMMAjunkie.com Radio: Anthony Njokuani, Anthony Johnson, Sergio Non, Joey OddessaMMAjunkie.com Radio: Anthony Njokuani, Ryan Martinez and Brett RobertsRamsey Nijem out, Danny Castillo in against Anthony Njoukani at UFC 141UFC 141 'UFC Prelims' special gets Njokuani-Nijem, Assuncao-Pearson on Spike TVWith sting of 'TUF' loss still fresh, 'Stripper' Ramsey Nijem looking for reasons to partyRamsey Nijem vs. Anthony Njokuani targeted for UFC 141 in Las VegasUFC 138 loses Taylor-Njokuani; Diabate-Perosh promoted to main card UFC 140 results: Dennis Hallman earns quick submission win over John MakdessiUFC 140 features four-bout preliminary broadcast on ION TelevisionMMAjunkie.com Radio: Pierce, Kampmann, Jabouin, Makdessi, Iole and WatsonDennis Hallman and John Makdessi agree to UFC 140 matchup in TorontoWith Makdessi injured, Cerrone faces Taylor at UFC on Versus 5John Makdessi injured, forced out of UFC on Versus 5 bout with Paul TaylorUFC on Versus 5 gets 12th fight with Paul Taylor vs. John MakdessiUFC 129 preliminary card results: MacDonald slams Diaz, Ellenberger cruisesFacing one-time sparring partner aided by former coach, UFC 129's Watson undeterred UFC officials and fighters cautiously enthused by Brazil's soccer sponsorshipsU.K. to get UFC event in late 2012, TV deal could prompt additional showWanderlei Silva says Vitor Belfort rematch was lone fight he wanted before retirementUFC's international schedule will slow in mid-2012, but expansion still a priority'TUF: Brazil' features featherweights and middleweights, tourney finals on PPVMMAjunkie.com Radio: Jim Miller, 'King Mo,' Joey Diaz and Joey OddessaWith mom in new home, 'TUF 14' winner Diego Brandao channels inner Mike TysonGray Maynard meant no disrespect in helping UFC 142's Jose AldoWatch today's UFC 142 press conference live on MMAjunkie.com at 10 a.m. ET
View the Original article
UFC officials today announced that Anthony Njokuani (14-6 MMA, 1-2 UFC) and John Makdessi (9-1 MMA, 2-1 UFC) have verbally agreed to meet at the March event, which takes place in Montreal.
UFC 145, which is the first Canadian show of the year, takes place March 24 at Montreal's Bell Centre.
The night's main card airs on pay-per-view, and the preliminary card airs on FX. Njokuani vs. Makdessi likely will be part of the prelims.
Njokuani looks to rebound from a close UFC 141 split-decision loss to late replacement and wrestler Danny Castillo. Njokuani, a former WEC fighter who hasn't put together back-to-back wins since late 2009, is 2-4 since then, though he often puts on crowd-pleasing fights. Against Makdessi, he should be able to keep it standing.
Like Njokuani, the Canadian prefers to stand and bang. His quick hands allowed him to start his career with a 9-0 mark and seven knockouts, including a spinning-backfist KO of Kyle Watson at UFC 129 that was a 2011 World MMA Awards "KO of the Year" nominee. However, in his most recent bout, he suffered a submission loss to veteran Dennis Hallman at UFC 140.
The latest UFC 145 card includes:
Che Mills vs. Rory MacDonald Ben Rothwell vs. Brendan Schaub Mark Bocek vs. Matt Wiman Mark Hominick vs. Eddie Yagin Travis Browne vs. Chad Griggs Mac Danzig vs. Efrain Escudero John Makdessi vs. Anthony Njokuani Chris Clements vs. Keith WisniewskiFor more on UFC 145, stay tuned to the UFC Rumors section of the site.
(Pictured: Anthony Njokuani)
» ReplyComments: 24 Related News UFC 145 ... A. Njokuani J. Makdessi UFC Keith Wisniewski vs. Chris Clements slated for UFC 145 in MontrealMac Danzig meets Efrain Escudero at UFC 145 in Montreal (Updated)Matt Wiman vs. Mark Bocek added to UFC 145 in MontrealMark Hominick vs. Eddie Yagin on tap for UFC 145 in MontrealUFC 145 official for March 24, gets Ben Rothwell vs. Brendan ScahubTravis Browne meets Strikeforce import Chad Griggs at UFC 145UFC 145 official for Montreal in March, gets MacDonald vs. MillsRory MacDonald vs. Che Mills slated for UFC 145 in Montreal UFC 141 results: Castillo survives Njokuani's strikes, takes split decisionNew opponent, no changes for Njokuani heading into UFC 141 bout with CastilloMMAjunkie.com Radio: Anthony Njokuani, Anthony Johnson, Sergio Non, Joey OddessaMMAjunkie.com Radio: Anthony Njokuani, Ryan Martinez and Brett RobertsRamsey Nijem out, Danny Castillo in against Anthony Njoukani at UFC 141UFC 141 'UFC Prelims' special gets Njokuani-Nijem, Assuncao-Pearson on Spike TVWith sting of 'TUF' loss still fresh, 'Stripper' Ramsey Nijem looking for reasons to partyRamsey Nijem vs. Anthony Njokuani targeted for UFC 141 in Las VegasUFC 138 loses Taylor-Njokuani; Diabate-Perosh promoted to main card UFC 140 results: Dennis Hallman earns quick submission win over John MakdessiUFC 140 features four-bout preliminary broadcast on ION TelevisionMMAjunkie.com Radio: Pierce, Kampmann, Jabouin, Makdessi, Iole and WatsonDennis Hallman and John Makdessi agree to UFC 140 matchup in TorontoWith Makdessi injured, Cerrone faces Taylor at UFC on Versus 5John Makdessi injured, forced out of UFC on Versus 5 bout with Paul TaylorUFC on Versus 5 gets 12th fight with Paul Taylor vs. John MakdessiUFC 129 preliminary card results: MacDonald slams Diaz, Ellenberger cruisesFacing one-time sparring partner aided by former coach, UFC 129's Watson undeterred UFC officials and fighters cautiously enthused by Brazil's soccer sponsorshipsU.K. to get UFC event in late 2012, TV deal could prompt additional showWanderlei Silva says Vitor Belfort rematch was lone fight he wanted before retirementUFC's international schedule will slow in mid-2012, but expansion still a priority'TUF: Brazil' features featherweights and middleweights, tourney finals on PPVMMAjunkie.com Radio: Jim Miller, 'King Mo,' Joey Diaz and Joey OddessaWith mom in new home, 'TUF 14' winner Diego Brandao channels inner Mike TysonGray Maynard meant no disrespect in helping UFC 142's Jose AldoWatch today's UFC 142 press conference live on MMAjunkie.com at 10 a.m. ET
View the Original article
UFC 143's Diaz vs. Condit main event gets veteran ref Steve Mazzagatti
You can almost hear the boos now.
MMAjunkie.com (www.mmajunkie.com) today obtained from the Nevada State Athletic Commission the referee and judges' assignments for UFC 143, which takes place Feb. 4 at Mandalay Bay Events Center in Las Vegas.
Oft-criticized referee Steve Mazzagatti has been assigned to oversee the event's interim welterweight title fight between Nick Diaz and Carlos Condit.
Judging the headliner is Patricia Morse-Jarman, Junichiro Kamijo and Cecil Peoples.
Despite his status among fans as a favorite whipping boy, Mazzagatti brings a wealth of experience to the event and has overseen countless high-profile fights. Famously, former UFC heavyweight champ Brock Lesnar specifically requested he not referee the main at UFC 116, which featured Lesnar vs. Shane Carwin.
According to MMADecisions.com, a website that tracks fight decisions by judge, Morse-Jarman served as a judge at this past Saturday's "Strikeforce: Rockhold vs. Jardine" event, and this past year, she oversaw 27 bouts held on 10 major events, including five UFC pay-per-view cards. This past month at UFC 141, she scored a lightweight bout between Anthony Nkjokuani and Danny Castillo two rounds to one in favor of Njokuani, which resulted in a split-decision win for Castillo.
Notably, she scored the UFC 125 headliner between lightweight champ Frankie Edgar and Gray Maynard a draw.
Kamijo also worked this past weekend's Strikeforce event and oversaw 25 bouts held on 11 major events this past year, including six UFC pay-per-view cards. Notably, he scored a lightweight bout between Clay Guida and Anthony Pettis three rounds to none in favor of Guida at The Ultimate Fighter 13 Finale, which resulted in a unanimous-decision win for Guida.
Peoples, whose critics also are numerous, is a referee and judge who oversaw 20 bouts this past year in seven major events, including four UFC pay-per-view cards. He notably scored a light-heavyweight bout between Brandon Vera and Eliot Marshall two rounds to one in favor of Vera, which resulted in a unanimous-decision win for Vera.
For more on UFC 143, stay tuned to the UFC Rumors section of the site.
(Pictured: Steve Mazzagatti)» ReplyComments: 79 Related News UFC 143 N. Diaz C. Condit UFC Stumpf injured, replacement Thompson meets Edwards at UFC 143UFC 143 pay-per-view main card set, prelims headed to FXNewcomer Max Holloway steps in to meet Dustin Poirer at UFC 143 (Updated)Amir Sadollah out, Matt Riddle in against Jorge Lopez at UFC 143'Countdown to UFC 143' preview show debuts Jan. 10 on FUEL TV'UFC Primetime' debuts on FX for 'UFC 143: Diaz vs. Condit'Mike Brown scratches from UFC on FX 1, Ricardo Lamas out of UFC 143Ed Herman vs. Clifford Starks added to UFC 143 on Super Bowl weekendJustin Edwards vs. Mike Stumpf added to UFC 143 in Las Vegas UFC 143 pay-per-view main card set, prelims headed to FX'UFC Primetime' debuts on FX for 'UFC 143: Diaz vs. Condit'UFC 140 notebook: White on St-Pierre, 'Mayhem,' Emelianenko, Penn, 'TUF: Brazil'GSP to undergo surgery, Diaz camp says Condit tougher in certain areas at UFC 143Champ St-Pierre injured, Diaz vs. Condit for interim title at UFC 143UFC 143's Nick Diaz tells 'Inside MMA' villain role effective, not necessarily comfortableAgent: Carlos Condit did 'not step aside' for Nick Diaz's UFC title shotUFC 137 medical suspensions: Palaszewski and Vera suspended up to six monthsDespite lopsided UFC 137 win, Diaz unhappy with performance, training, finances UFC 143 pay-per-view main card set, prelims headed to FX'UFC Primetime' debuts on FX for 'UFC 143: Diaz vs. Condit'UFC 140 notebook: White on St-Pierre, 'Mayhem,' Emelianenko, Penn, 'TUF: Brazil'GSP to undergo surgery, Diaz camp says Condit tougher in certain areas at UFC 143Champ St-Pierre injured, Diaz vs. Condit for interim title at UFC 143Condit vs. Koscheck, Kuiper vs. Natal confirmed for UFC 143Carlos Condit vs. Josh Koscheck in the works for UFC 143 in Las VegasAgent: Carlos Condit did 'not step aside' for Nick Diaz's UFC title shotWith UFC champ St-Pierre livid, Condit gives way to Diaz for Super Bowl weekend fight UFC officials and fighters cautiously enthused by Brazil's soccer sponsorshipsU.K. to get UFC event in late 2012, TV deal could prompt additional showWanderlei Silva says Vitor Belfort rematch was lone fight he wanted before retirementUFC's international schedule will slow in mid-2012, but expansion still a priority'TUF: Brazil' features featherweights and middleweights, tourney finals on PPVMMAjunkie.com Radio: Jim Miller, 'King Mo,' Joey Diaz and Joey OddessaWith mom in new home, 'TUF 14' winner Diego Brandao channels inner Mike TysonGray Maynard meant no disrespect in helping UFC 142's Jose AldoWatch today's UFC 142 press conference live on MMAjunkie.com at 10 a.m. ET
View the Original article
MMAjunkie.com (www.mmajunkie.com) today obtained from the Nevada State Athletic Commission the referee and judges' assignments for UFC 143, which takes place Feb. 4 at Mandalay Bay Events Center in Las Vegas.
Oft-criticized referee Steve Mazzagatti has been assigned to oversee the event's interim welterweight title fight between Nick Diaz and Carlos Condit.
Judging the headliner is Patricia Morse-Jarman, Junichiro Kamijo and Cecil Peoples.
Despite his status among fans as a favorite whipping boy, Mazzagatti brings a wealth of experience to the event and has overseen countless high-profile fights. Famously, former UFC heavyweight champ Brock Lesnar specifically requested he not referee the main at UFC 116, which featured Lesnar vs. Shane Carwin.
According to MMADecisions.com, a website that tracks fight decisions by judge, Morse-Jarman served as a judge at this past Saturday's "Strikeforce: Rockhold vs. Jardine" event, and this past year, she oversaw 27 bouts held on 10 major events, including five UFC pay-per-view cards. This past month at UFC 141, she scored a lightweight bout between Anthony Nkjokuani and Danny Castillo two rounds to one in favor of Njokuani, which resulted in a split-decision win for Castillo.
Notably, she scored the UFC 125 headliner between lightweight champ Frankie Edgar and Gray Maynard a draw.
Kamijo also worked this past weekend's Strikeforce event and oversaw 25 bouts held on 11 major events this past year, including six UFC pay-per-view cards. Notably, he scored a lightweight bout between Clay Guida and Anthony Pettis three rounds to none in favor of Guida at The Ultimate Fighter 13 Finale, which resulted in a unanimous-decision win for Guida.
Peoples, whose critics also are numerous, is a referee and judge who oversaw 20 bouts this past year in seven major events, including four UFC pay-per-view cards. He notably scored a light-heavyweight bout between Brandon Vera and Eliot Marshall two rounds to one in favor of Vera, which resulted in a unanimous-decision win for Vera.
For more on UFC 143, stay tuned to the UFC Rumors section of the site.
(Pictured: Steve Mazzagatti)» ReplyComments: 79 Related News UFC 143 N. Diaz C. Condit UFC Stumpf injured, replacement Thompson meets Edwards at UFC 143UFC 143 pay-per-view main card set, prelims headed to FXNewcomer Max Holloway steps in to meet Dustin Poirer at UFC 143 (Updated)Amir Sadollah out, Matt Riddle in against Jorge Lopez at UFC 143'Countdown to UFC 143' preview show debuts Jan. 10 on FUEL TV'UFC Primetime' debuts on FX for 'UFC 143: Diaz vs. Condit'Mike Brown scratches from UFC on FX 1, Ricardo Lamas out of UFC 143Ed Herman vs. Clifford Starks added to UFC 143 on Super Bowl weekendJustin Edwards vs. Mike Stumpf added to UFC 143 in Las Vegas UFC 143 pay-per-view main card set, prelims headed to FX'UFC Primetime' debuts on FX for 'UFC 143: Diaz vs. Condit'UFC 140 notebook: White on St-Pierre, 'Mayhem,' Emelianenko, Penn, 'TUF: Brazil'GSP to undergo surgery, Diaz camp says Condit tougher in certain areas at UFC 143Champ St-Pierre injured, Diaz vs. Condit for interim title at UFC 143UFC 143's Nick Diaz tells 'Inside MMA' villain role effective, not necessarily comfortableAgent: Carlos Condit did 'not step aside' for Nick Diaz's UFC title shotUFC 137 medical suspensions: Palaszewski and Vera suspended up to six monthsDespite lopsided UFC 137 win, Diaz unhappy with performance, training, finances UFC 143 pay-per-view main card set, prelims headed to FX'UFC Primetime' debuts on FX for 'UFC 143: Diaz vs. Condit'UFC 140 notebook: White on St-Pierre, 'Mayhem,' Emelianenko, Penn, 'TUF: Brazil'GSP to undergo surgery, Diaz camp says Condit tougher in certain areas at UFC 143Champ St-Pierre injured, Diaz vs. Condit for interim title at UFC 143Condit vs. Koscheck, Kuiper vs. Natal confirmed for UFC 143Carlos Condit vs. Josh Koscheck in the works for UFC 143 in Las VegasAgent: Carlos Condit did 'not step aside' for Nick Diaz's UFC title shotWith UFC champ St-Pierre livid, Condit gives way to Diaz for Super Bowl weekend fight UFC officials and fighters cautiously enthused by Brazil's soccer sponsorshipsU.K. to get UFC event in late 2012, TV deal could prompt additional showWanderlei Silva says Vitor Belfort rematch was lone fight he wanted before retirementUFC's international schedule will slow in mid-2012, but expansion still a priority'TUF: Brazil' features featherweights and middleweights, tourney finals on PPVMMAjunkie.com Radio: Jim Miller, 'King Mo,' Joey Diaz and Joey OddessaWith mom in new home, 'TUF 14' winner Diego Brandao channels inner Mike TysonGray Maynard meant no disrespect in helping UFC 142's Jose AldoWatch today's UFC 142 press conference live on MMAjunkie.com at 10 a.m. ET
View the Original article
Joyful Vitor Belfort says elephant not the king of UFC 142 jungle
Seemingly lost among the build-up to Saturday's UFC 142 event is that despite a frustrating loss to Anderson Silva earlier this year, MMA superstar Vitor Belfort (20-9 MMA, 9-5 UFC) is 6-1 in his past seven fights and still extremely relative in the UFC's middleweight division.
Instead, the primary focus seems to center around how Belfort will deal with the massive 6-foot-2 frame of opponent Anthony Johnson (10-3 MMA, 7-3 UFC).
The Brazilian slugger said he's relying on Simba for inspiration at Rio de Janeiro's HSBC Arena.
"The king of the jungle is the lion
View the Original article
Instead, the primary focus seems to center around how Belfort will deal with the massive 6-foot-2 frame of opponent Anthony Johnson (10-3 MMA, 7-3 UFC).
The Brazilian slugger said he's relying on Simba for inspiration at Rio de Janeiro's HSBC Arena.
"The king of the jungle is the lion
View the Original article
Watch today's UFC 142 press conference live on MMAjunkie.com at 10 a.m. ET
The traditional pre-event press conference for this week's UFC 142 show takes place today, and you can watch a live video stream of the festivities here on MMAjunkie.com.
Today's event takes place in the Crystal Room of Rio de Janeiro's iconic Copacabana Palace Hotel with UFC exec Marhsall Zelaznik hosting a panel scheduled to include UFC 142 fighters Jose Aldo, Chad Mendes, Vitor Belfort and Anthony Johnson.
The video stream begins at 10 a.m. ET (1 p.m. BRST local time).
For more on UFC 142, stay tuned to the UFC Rumors section of the site.
View the Original article
Today's event takes place in the Crystal Room of Rio de Janeiro's iconic Copacabana Palace Hotel with UFC exec Marhsall Zelaznik hosting a panel scheduled to include UFC 142 fighters Jose Aldo, Chad Mendes, Vitor Belfort and Anthony Johnson.
The video stream begins at 10 a.m. ET (1 p.m. BRST local time).
For more on UFC 142, stay tuned to the UFC Rumors section of the site.
View the Original article
Gray Maynard meant no disrespect in helping UFC 142's Jose Aldo
Understandably, Chad Mendes was irritated by the suggestion that he isn't ready to fight UFC featherweight champ Jose Aldo.
But the owner of that suggestion, Gray Maynard, said he isn't out to get the featherweight challenger.
"It's not like I'm flying over here because I want Chad to lose and there's a grudge and I want him to lose," he told MMAjunkie.com (www.mmajunkie.com). "Not at all."
Mendes (11-0 MMA, 2-0 UFC) takes on Aldo (20-1 MMA, 2-0 UFC) in the main event of Saturday's UFC 142 event, which takes place at HSBC Arena in Rio de Janeiro. It's main card airs live on pay-per-view while preliminary-card fights air on FX and stream on Facebook.
The appearance of a grudge seemed clear when Maynard weighed in on the featherweight title fight, but he said too much has been made of it.
The two-time lightweight challenger left his Las Vegas gym, Xtreme Couture, in the middle of camp for UFC 136 and had been looking for a new home in the wake of his loss to Frankie Edgar. Behind the scenes at the fall pay-per-view event, he was struck by the humility of Aldo, who went on to defend his title against Kenny Florian.
So when Maynard heard Aldo was to fight Mendes in Rio de Janeiro, he called up Aldo's manager, Ed Soares, and volunteered to help.
"For the longest time, I never traveled anywhere," Maynard said. "I stayed at Xtreme Couture, which played a huge part in my career, and I appreciate them. But it's time for me to take a step and experience more MMA."
Maynard trained with Aldo for the past three weeks and grew extremely fond of the champ and his camp, Nova Uniao. During that time, he gave an interview to Brazilian website Tatame in which he said he didn't think Mendes was ready.
Mendes fired back in the press and said Maynard had little basis to make such a call.
Maynard, though, said no disrespect was intended.
"I like Chad; I met him a couple of times," he said. "But I like Jose, how he trains, where he's from
View the Original article
But the owner of that suggestion, Gray Maynard, said he isn't out to get the featherweight challenger.
"It's not like I'm flying over here because I want Chad to lose and there's a grudge and I want him to lose," he told MMAjunkie.com (www.mmajunkie.com). "Not at all."
Mendes (11-0 MMA, 2-0 UFC) takes on Aldo (20-1 MMA, 2-0 UFC) in the main event of Saturday's UFC 142 event, which takes place at HSBC Arena in Rio de Janeiro. It's main card airs live on pay-per-view while preliminary-card fights air on FX and stream on Facebook.
The appearance of a grudge seemed clear when Maynard weighed in on the featherweight title fight, but he said too much has been made of it.
The two-time lightweight challenger left his Las Vegas gym, Xtreme Couture, in the middle of camp for UFC 136 and had been looking for a new home in the wake of his loss to Frankie Edgar. Behind the scenes at the fall pay-per-view event, he was struck by the humility of Aldo, who went on to defend his title against Kenny Florian.
So when Maynard heard Aldo was to fight Mendes in Rio de Janeiro, he called up Aldo's manager, Ed Soares, and volunteered to help.
"For the longest time, I never traveled anywhere," Maynard said. "I stayed at Xtreme Couture, which played a huge part in my career, and I appreciate them. But it's time for me to take a step and experience more MMA."
Maynard trained with Aldo for the past three weeks and grew extremely fond of the champ and his camp, Nova Uniao. During that time, he gave an interview to Brazilian website Tatame in which he said he didn't think Mendes was ready.
Mendes fired back in the press and said Maynard had little basis to make such a call.
Maynard, though, said no disrespect was intended.
"I like Chad; I met him a couple of times," he said. "But I like Jose, how he trains, where he's from
View the Original article
With mom in new home, 'TUF 14' winner Diego Brandao channels inner Mike Tyson
Diego Brandao's mom has her house.
The featherweight winner of "The Ultimate Fighter 14" went back to his hometown of Manaus, Brazil, to buy his life's guiding light what he promised her.
Mom had already started partying when he called her the day after submitting Dennis Bermudez in the reality-show's finale.
"I can tell she's drunk," Brandao (14-7 MMA, 1-0 UFC) joked while talking to MMAjunkie.com (www.mmajunkie.com) as he hung out on the beaches of Barra da Tijuca in Rio de Janeiro. "She's completely drunk. My friends told me, 'Eeesh, it was crazy during the fights in Manaus. Everything stopped.'"
Over in the U.S., where Brandao had isolated himself for years in order to take his fighting skill to the next level, things were moving very fast.
A little more than a month after his triumph, Brandao's career has legs. He's a known commodity. A lot of people think he's going to be a serious threat to featherweight champ Jose Aldo's crown.
"This big thing is growing every minute," Brandao said. "This is my job. I want to have a good life. To fight in the UFC and give my mom a house, this is a good enough life. So now I'm going to help people get to the top."
That includes his Brazilian brethren fighting at Saturday's UFC 142 event. After the show, he'll head back to Team Jackson-Winkeljohn in Albuquerque, N.M., where he'll be "training light" in anticipation of his next booking.
"I'm here to give energy for the guys," he said.
When he gets his next fight, he plans to bring the same intensity to the cage that won him such rapid notice on "TUF."
"I want to be a killer," Brandao said. "I want to be a Mike Tyson. I want to kill the guys."
That means leaving home again, of course. But Brandao sees the reward ahead.
"Greg Jackson talked to me and said it's time to come back," he said. "I listen to my coach. When Mike Tyson said he listened to his coaches, he was champion for five years. When he stopped listening, he was done. So I'm going to listen to my coaches."
And from the finishes he's posted so far in his time with the UFC, Brandao is a scary prospect when he's doing that.
For the latest on UFC 142, stay tuned to the UFC Rumors section of the site.» ReplyComments: 54 Related News UFC 142 D. Brandao Only on Junkie UFC UFC officials and fighters cautiously enthused by Brazil's soccer sponsorshipsWanderlei Silva says Vitor Belfort rematch was lone fight he wanted before retirementUFC's international schedule will slow in mid-2012, but expansion still a priorityGray Maynard meant no disrespect in helping UFC 142's Jose AldoWatch today's UFC 142 press conference live on MMAjunkie.com at 10 a.m. ETJoyful Vitor Belfort says elephant not the king of UFC 142 jungleUFC 142's Edson Barboza says undefeated record already puts him 'in the mix'UFC 142's Chad Mendes enjoying Brazil, excited for first career main eventVideo: 'Countdown to UFC 142' full episode TUF 14 Finale drug tests come back cleanTUF 14 Finale medical suspensions: Miller possibly out six months with broken noseWith 'TUF 14' mission complete, Diego Brandao now hoping to save ChristmasThe Ultimate Fighter 14 Finale bonuses: Dodson, Brandao, Bermudez get $40KTUF 14 Finale results: Brandao stuns Bermudez with slick submission, wins 'TUF 14'TUF 14 Finale preview: Coaches clash for contendership, cast members for 'TUF' crownsDespite beatdown, 'TUF 14' finalist Diego Brandao says opponents shouldn't be fooledFinalists announced, voting underway for $25,000 'TUF 14' bonusesMMAjunkie.com Radio: Bermudez, Brandao, Dodson, Dillashaw, Dean, Cormier, Gomez Strikeforce champ Luke Rockhold mending broken hand, wants Tim Kennedy nextUFC officials and fighters cautiously enthused by Brazil's soccer sponsorshipsHDNet Fights Video Vault: Joey Villasenor vs. Jim Wallhead at BAMMA 8U.K. to get UFC event in late 2012, TV deal could prompt additional showWanderlei Silva says Vitor Belfort rematch was lone fight he wanted before retirementJoyful Vitor Belfort says elephant not the king of UFC 142 jungleUFC 143's Diaz vs. Condit main event gets veteran ref Steve MazzagattiUFC 142's Edson Barboza says undefeated record already puts him 'in the mix'Sophomore edition of 'UFC Tonight' draws 20,000 FUEL TV viewers UFC officials and fighters cautiously enthused by Brazil's soccer sponsorshipsU.K. to get UFC event in late 2012, TV deal could prompt additional showWanderlei Silva says Vitor Belfort rematch was lone fight he wanted before retirementUFC's international schedule will slow in mid-2012, but expansion still a priority'TUF: Brazil' features featherweights and middleweights, tourney finals on PPVMMAjunkie.com Radio: Jim Miller, 'King Mo,' Joey Diaz and Joey OddessaGray Maynard meant no disrespect in helping UFC 142's Jose AldoWatch today's UFC 142 press conference live on MMAjunkie.com at 10 a.m. ETJoyful Vitor Belfort says elephant not the king of UFC 142 jungle
View the Original article
The featherweight winner of "The Ultimate Fighter 14" went back to his hometown of Manaus, Brazil, to buy his life's guiding light what he promised her.
Mom had already started partying when he called her the day after submitting Dennis Bermudez in the reality-show's finale.
"I can tell she's drunk," Brandao (14-7 MMA, 1-0 UFC) joked while talking to MMAjunkie.com (www.mmajunkie.com) as he hung out on the beaches of Barra da Tijuca in Rio de Janeiro. "She's completely drunk. My friends told me, 'Eeesh, it was crazy during the fights in Manaus. Everything stopped.'"
Over in the U.S., where Brandao had isolated himself for years in order to take his fighting skill to the next level, things were moving very fast.
A little more than a month after his triumph, Brandao's career has legs. He's a known commodity. A lot of people think he's going to be a serious threat to featherweight champ Jose Aldo's crown.
"This big thing is growing every minute," Brandao said. "This is my job. I want to have a good life. To fight in the UFC and give my mom a house, this is a good enough life. So now I'm going to help people get to the top."
That includes his Brazilian brethren fighting at Saturday's UFC 142 event. After the show, he'll head back to Team Jackson-Winkeljohn in Albuquerque, N.M., where he'll be "training light" in anticipation of his next booking.
"I'm here to give energy for the guys," he said.
When he gets his next fight, he plans to bring the same intensity to the cage that won him such rapid notice on "TUF."
"I want to be a killer," Brandao said. "I want to be a Mike Tyson. I want to kill the guys."
That means leaving home again, of course. But Brandao sees the reward ahead.
"Greg Jackson talked to me and said it's time to come back," he said. "I listen to my coach. When Mike Tyson said he listened to his coaches, he was champion for five years. When he stopped listening, he was done. So I'm going to listen to my coaches."
And from the finishes he's posted so far in his time with the UFC, Brandao is a scary prospect when he's doing that.
For the latest on UFC 142, stay tuned to the UFC Rumors section of the site.» ReplyComments: 54 Related News UFC 142 D. Brandao Only on Junkie UFC UFC officials and fighters cautiously enthused by Brazil's soccer sponsorshipsWanderlei Silva says Vitor Belfort rematch was lone fight he wanted before retirementUFC's international schedule will slow in mid-2012, but expansion still a priorityGray Maynard meant no disrespect in helping UFC 142's Jose AldoWatch today's UFC 142 press conference live on MMAjunkie.com at 10 a.m. ETJoyful Vitor Belfort says elephant not the king of UFC 142 jungleUFC 142's Edson Barboza says undefeated record already puts him 'in the mix'UFC 142's Chad Mendes enjoying Brazil, excited for first career main eventVideo: 'Countdown to UFC 142' full episode TUF 14 Finale drug tests come back cleanTUF 14 Finale medical suspensions: Miller possibly out six months with broken noseWith 'TUF 14' mission complete, Diego Brandao now hoping to save ChristmasThe Ultimate Fighter 14 Finale bonuses: Dodson, Brandao, Bermudez get $40KTUF 14 Finale results: Brandao stuns Bermudez with slick submission, wins 'TUF 14'TUF 14 Finale preview: Coaches clash for contendership, cast members for 'TUF' crownsDespite beatdown, 'TUF 14' finalist Diego Brandao says opponents shouldn't be fooledFinalists announced, voting underway for $25,000 'TUF 14' bonusesMMAjunkie.com Radio: Bermudez, Brandao, Dodson, Dillashaw, Dean, Cormier, Gomez Strikeforce champ Luke Rockhold mending broken hand, wants Tim Kennedy nextUFC officials and fighters cautiously enthused by Brazil's soccer sponsorshipsHDNet Fights Video Vault: Joey Villasenor vs. Jim Wallhead at BAMMA 8U.K. to get UFC event in late 2012, TV deal could prompt additional showWanderlei Silva says Vitor Belfort rematch was lone fight he wanted before retirementJoyful Vitor Belfort says elephant not the king of UFC 142 jungleUFC 143's Diaz vs. Condit main event gets veteran ref Steve MazzagattiUFC 142's Edson Barboza says undefeated record already puts him 'in the mix'Sophomore edition of 'UFC Tonight' draws 20,000 FUEL TV viewers UFC officials and fighters cautiously enthused by Brazil's soccer sponsorshipsU.K. to get UFC event in late 2012, TV deal could prompt additional showWanderlei Silva says Vitor Belfort rematch was lone fight he wanted before retirementUFC's international schedule will slow in mid-2012, but expansion still a priority'TUF: Brazil' features featherweights and middleweights, tourney finals on PPVMMAjunkie.com Radio: Jim Miller, 'King Mo,' Joey Diaz and Joey OddessaGray Maynard meant no disrespect in helping UFC 142's Jose AldoWatch today's UFC 142 press conference live on MMAjunkie.com at 10 a.m. ETJoyful Vitor Belfort says elephant not the king of UFC 142 jungle
View the Original article
MMAjunkie.com Radio: Jim Miller, 'King Mo,' Joey Diaz and Joey Oddessa
MMAjunkie.com Radio today welcomes to the show UFC on FX 1 headliner Jim Miller, who discusses next week's bout with Melvin Guillard.
We also break down Saturday's UFC 142 card with Strikeforce contender Muhammed "King Mo" Lawal, MMA oddsmaker Joey Oddessa, and comedian/MMA fan Joey "Coco' Diaz.
MMAjunkie.com Radio airs from noon to 2 p.m. ET (9-11 a.m. PT) live fromMandalay Bay Resort & Casino in Las Vegas. Listen to andwatch a video stream of the two-hour show at www.mmajunkie.com/radio, or watch it live on select television markets as part of Fight Now TV.
MMAjunkie.com Radio listener guide:
HOW TO LISTEN: Go to www.mmajunkie.com/radio and choose a streaming option (such as Windows Media Player or Quicktime) to listen to the show live. A countdown clock appears when the show is offline. HOW TO WATCH (ON WEB): Check out a live webcam of the studio while there. You can also listen to a live audio stream of the show when you activate the video feed. HOW TO WATCH (ON TV): MMAjunkie.com Radio is simulcast live on the upstart Fight Now TV cable station. Watch "MMAjunkie.com Radio Live" in New York, New Jersey and Connecticut as part of Cablevision's iO Sports & Entertainment Pak on channel 464. (More cable partners will be added in the coming months.) HOW TO CALL: MMAjunkie.com Radio takes phone calls from listeners throughout the show. Call into the MMAjunkie.com Radio hotline at (702) 736-9461 or (702) 736-9463. HOW TO CHAT: To chat with the show's hosts, guests and other MMAjunkie.com Radio listeners, launch the "Combat Chat" feature, which is available on the main radio page. You can discuss the show and even submit a question for the day's guests while there. HOW TO DISCUSS: The MMAjunkie.com MMA Forums has a new section devoted solely to MMAjunkie.com Radio. Stop by the MMAjunkie.com Radio forum to discuss the show, interact with the hosts, suggest future guests and catch up on the latest MMAjunkie.com Radio news. HOW TO VISIT THE SHOW: You can watch MMAjunkie.com Radio live and in person at the Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino on the world-famous Las Vegas Strip. The booth is located in the resort's Race & Sports Book next to the Mandalay Bay poker room. To plan a trip to Sin City and MMAjunkie.com Radio, go to www.mandalaybay.com. » ReplyComments: 3 Related News UFC on F... J. Miller M. Lawal Strikeforce MMAjunkie.com Radio: Melvin Guillard, Fabricio Camoes, Bjorn Rebney, Jimmy JonesUFC on FX 1 adds Easton vs. Papazian, Schilling vs. PinedaBrenneman focused on striking for UFC on FX 1, but odometer pays the priceMMAjunkie.com Radio: UFC on FX 1's Duane Ludwig and Charlie BrennemanKamal Shalorus' key to UFC on FX 1 success: Stop eatingUFC on FUEL TV 1 adds Dillashaw vs. Watson, Brookins vs. RochaMMAjunkie.com Radio: Keith Jardine, Jordan Mein and Kamal ShalorusKen Stone out of UFC on FX 1 main-card bout due to injuryMike Easton vs. Ken Stone completes UFC on FX 1 main card Melvin Guillard vs. Jim Miller headlines UFC on FX 1 eventUFC on Versus 5 medical suspensions: Indefinite suspensions go to six fightersUFC on Versus 5 main-card results: Lytle retires in vintage form, Bendo upsets MillerUFC on Versus 5 preview: Miller vs. Henderson trumps headliners in significanceUFC on Versus 5's Jim Miller uncertain of title status but confident victory awaitsFans invited to Friday's UFC on Versus 5 open workouts in MilwaukeeUFC boss: Jim Miller, Chael Sonnen, Brian Stann all likely on verge of title shotsDespite UFC boss' nod, Jim Miller not promised title shot with UFC on Versus 5 winMMAjunkie.com Radio: Gesias Cavalcante, Jim Miller, Keith Berry and Joe Soto Is teammate-vs.-teammate fight on horizon for Strikeforce's 'King Mo' Lawal?Strikeforce's Lawal rips on 'Kermit' Mousasi, sub-par actor Jackson, bad ref Winslow'Strikeforce: Rockhold vs. Jardine' results: 'King Mo' stops Larkin with ground and pound'Strikeforce: Rockhold vs. Jardine' preview: Fighters jockey for position in new eraStrikeforce's 'King Mo' on opponent Larkin: 'Flashy isn't always effective'Muhammed 'King Mo' Lawal targeted for 'Strikeforce: Rockhold vs. Jardine'MMAjunkie.com Radio: Eddie Alvarez, 'King Mo,' Ron Foster, Joey Oddessa, Joey DiazMMAjunkie.com Radio: Strikeforce's Lawal, UFC 139 Baczynski, Bellator's LimaMo Lawal on Strikeforce: Seems like Dr. Kevorkian is waiting to pull the plug Strikeforce champ Luke Rockhold mending broken hand, wants Tim Kennedy next'Strikeforce: Rockhold vs. Jardine' ratings: Event draws 344,000 viewers'Strikeforce: Rockhold vs. Jardine' medical suspensions: Four out up to six monthsTrevor Smith's camp plans appeal of 'Strikeforce: Rockhold vs. Jardine' lossWomen's MMA Report: Strikeforce's Santos suspended, Fujii dominant in DREAM debutIs teammate-vs.-teammate fight on horizon for Strikeforce's 'King Mo' Lawal?'Strikeforce: Rockhold vs. Jardine' salaries: Lawler and Lawal top $566K payrollAsk the Fight Doc: What do you make of Cris Santos' failed drug test?Fedor Emelianenko possible as Strikeforce's 'plus-one' heavyweight for new champ
View the Original article
We also break down Saturday's UFC 142 card with Strikeforce contender Muhammed "King Mo" Lawal, MMA oddsmaker Joey Oddessa, and comedian/MMA fan Joey "Coco' Diaz.
MMAjunkie.com Radio airs from noon to 2 p.m. ET (9-11 a.m. PT) live fromMandalay Bay Resort & Casino in Las Vegas. Listen to andwatch a video stream of the two-hour show at www.mmajunkie.com/radio, or watch it live on select television markets as part of Fight Now TV.
MMAjunkie.com Radio listener guide:
HOW TO LISTEN: Go to www.mmajunkie.com/radio and choose a streaming option (such as Windows Media Player or Quicktime) to listen to the show live. A countdown clock appears when the show is offline. HOW TO WATCH (ON WEB): Check out a live webcam of the studio while there. You can also listen to a live audio stream of the show when you activate the video feed. HOW TO WATCH (ON TV): MMAjunkie.com Radio is simulcast live on the upstart Fight Now TV cable station. Watch "MMAjunkie.com Radio Live" in New York, New Jersey and Connecticut as part of Cablevision's iO Sports & Entertainment Pak on channel 464. (More cable partners will be added in the coming months.) HOW TO CALL: MMAjunkie.com Radio takes phone calls from listeners throughout the show. Call into the MMAjunkie.com Radio hotline at (702) 736-9461 or (702) 736-9463. HOW TO CHAT: To chat with the show's hosts, guests and other MMAjunkie.com Radio listeners, launch the "Combat Chat" feature, which is available on the main radio page. You can discuss the show and even submit a question for the day's guests while there. HOW TO DISCUSS: The MMAjunkie.com MMA Forums has a new section devoted solely to MMAjunkie.com Radio. Stop by the MMAjunkie.com Radio forum to discuss the show, interact with the hosts, suggest future guests and catch up on the latest MMAjunkie.com Radio news. HOW TO VISIT THE SHOW: You can watch MMAjunkie.com Radio live and in person at the Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino on the world-famous Las Vegas Strip. The booth is located in the resort's Race & Sports Book next to the Mandalay Bay poker room. To plan a trip to Sin City and MMAjunkie.com Radio, go to www.mandalaybay.com. » ReplyComments: 3 Related News UFC on F... J. Miller M. Lawal Strikeforce MMAjunkie.com Radio: Melvin Guillard, Fabricio Camoes, Bjorn Rebney, Jimmy JonesUFC on FX 1 adds Easton vs. Papazian, Schilling vs. PinedaBrenneman focused on striking for UFC on FX 1, but odometer pays the priceMMAjunkie.com Radio: UFC on FX 1's Duane Ludwig and Charlie BrennemanKamal Shalorus' key to UFC on FX 1 success: Stop eatingUFC on FUEL TV 1 adds Dillashaw vs. Watson, Brookins vs. RochaMMAjunkie.com Radio: Keith Jardine, Jordan Mein and Kamal ShalorusKen Stone out of UFC on FX 1 main-card bout due to injuryMike Easton vs. Ken Stone completes UFC on FX 1 main card Melvin Guillard vs. Jim Miller headlines UFC on FX 1 eventUFC on Versus 5 medical suspensions: Indefinite suspensions go to six fightersUFC on Versus 5 main-card results: Lytle retires in vintage form, Bendo upsets MillerUFC on Versus 5 preview: Miller vs. Henderson trumps headliners in significanceUFC on Versus 5's Jim Miller uncertain of title status but confident victory awaitsFans invited to Friday's UFC on Versus 5 open workouts in MilwaukeeUFC boss: Jim Miller, Chael Sonnen, Brian Stann all likely on verge of title shotsDespite UFC boss' nod, Jim Miller not promised title shot with UFC on Versus 5 winMMAjunkie.com Radio: Gesias Cavalcante, Jim Miller, Keith Berry and Joe Soto Is teammate-vs.-teammate fight on horizon for Strikeforce's 'King Mo' Lawal?Strikeforce's Lawal rips on 'Kermit' Mousasi, sub-par actor Jackson, bad ref Winslow'Strikeforce: Rockhold vs. Jardine' results: 'King Mo' stops Larkin with ground and pound'Strikeforce: Rockhold vs. Jardine' preview: Fighters jockey for position in new eraStrikeforce's 'King Mo' on opponent Larkin: 'Flashy isn't always effective'Muhammed 'King Mo' Lawal targeted for 'Strikeforce: Rockhold vs. Jardine'MMAjunkie.com Radio: Eddie Alvarez, 'King Mo,' Ron Foster, Joey Oddessa, Joey DiazMMAjunkie.com Radio: Strikeforce's Lawal, UFC 139 Baczynski, Bellator's LimaMo Lawal on Strikeforce: Seems like Dr. Kevorkian is waiting to pull the plug Strikeforce champ Luke Rockhold mending broken hand, wants Tim Kennedy next'Strikeforce: Rockhold vs. Jardine' ratings: Event draws 344,000 viewers'Strikeforce: Rockhold vs. Jardine' medical suspensions: Four out up to six monthsTrevor Smith's camp plans appeal of 'Strikeforce: Rockhold vs. Jardine' lossWomen's MMA Report: Strikeforce's Santos suspended, Fujii dominant in DREAM debutIs teammate-vs.-teammate fight on horizon for Strikeforce's 'King Mo' Lawal?'Strikeforce: Rockhold vs. Jardine' salaries: Lawler and Lawal top $566K payrollAsk the Fight Doc: What do you make of Cris Santos' failed drug test?Fedor Emelianenko possible as Strikeforce's 'plus-one' heavyweight for new champ
View the Original article
'TUF: Brazil' features featherweights and middleweights, tourney finals on PPV
The first international edition of "The Ultimate Fighter" reality series, "TUF: Brazil," will feature featherweight and middleweight competitors.
MMAjunkie.com (www.mmajunkie.com) today confirmed the plans with Marshall Zelaznik, the UFC's managing director of international development, at a pre-UFC 142 press conference in Rio de Janeiro.
The finals of the tournament, as well as the coaches' fight between Vitor Belfort and Wanderlei Silva, then will be part of a major June pay-per-view card.
That event is expected to take place in Brazil, possibly in Sao Paulo. A likely title fight and rematch between UFC middleweight champ Anderson Silva and Chael Sonnen (if he can get by Mark Munoz later this month at UFC on FOX 2) also could be part of the card.
According to Zelaznik, filming for "TUF: Brazil" begins next month in the country. The show then airs on Globo in Brazil and on FUEL TV in the U.S. As with our "TUF" seasons, the fighters compete in a tournament format, and the winners are guaranteed UFC contracts.
Each division features 16 fighters to start, and an elimination episode will narrow the field down to eight fighters in each bracket, who will then move into a "TUF: Brazil" house. The organization will not disclose the location of either the house or the training facility.
"TUF," which debuted on Spike TV in 2005 and quickly became a driving force for the UFC's move into the mainstream, has launched the careers of more than 100 UFC fighters and has produced past champions such as Rashad Evans, Forrest Griffin and Matt Serra. While all seasons to date have filmed in Las Vegas, the UFC is planning additional international editions of "TUF" in Canada, Australia, the Philippines and the U.K.
For the latest on "The Ultimate Fighter: Brazil" and UFC in Brazil (June), stay tuned to the UFC Rumors section of the site.
(Pictured: Vitor Belfort)» ReplyComments: 71 Related News "The Ult... UFC in B... V. Belfort UFC 'The Ultimate Fighter: Brazil' expected to air on FUEL TVUFC 140 notebook: White on St-Pierre, 'Mayhem,' Emelianenko, Penn, 'TUF: Brazil''The Ultimate Fighter: Brazil' hosts tryouts in December, series debuts in 2012UFC officials shoot down Silva-Belfort 'TUF: Brazil' coaching reportsWhite says 'TUF: Brazil' a done deal, will hold 'as many events as possible' in country White: Silva vs. Sonnen II would likely take place in Brazilian soccer stadium Wanderlei Silva says Vitor Belfort rematch was lone fight he wanted before retirementJoyful Vitor Belfort says elephant not the king of UFC 142 jungleVideo: 'Countdown to UFC 142' full episodeVitor Belfort, Wanderlei Silva named coaches of 'The Ultimate Fighter: Brazil'UFC 142 main card set with five boutsVitor Belfort vs. Anthony Johnson slated for UFC 142 in BrazilUFC officials shoot down Silva-Belfort 'TUF: Brazil' coaching reportsMMAjunkie.com's John Morgan on pre-UFC 137 'Fight Day' show at 5 p.m. ETUFC 136 winner Chael Sonnen offers Anderson Silva rematch, calls Vitor Belfort a fool UFC officials and fighters cautiously enthused by Brazil's soccer sponsorshipsU.K. to get UFC event in late 2012, TV deal could prompt additional showWanderlei Silva says Vitor Belfort rematch was lone fight he wanted before retirementUFC's international schedule will slow in mid-2012, but expansion still a priorityMMAjunkie.com Radio: Jim Miller, 'King Mo,' Joey Diaz and Joey OddessaWith mom in new home, 'TUF 14' winner Diego Brandao channels inner Mike TysonGray Maynard meant no disrespect in helping UFC 142's Jose AldoWatch today's UFC 142 press conference live on MMAjunkie.com at 10 a.m. ETJoyful Vitor Belfort says elephant not the king of UFC 142 jungle
View the Original article
MMAjunkie.com (www.mmajunkie.com) today confirmed the plans with Marshall Zelaznik, the UFC's managing director of international development, at a pre-UFC 142 press conference in Rio de Janeiro.
The finals of the tournament, as well as the coaches' fight between Vitor Belfort and Wanderlei Silva, then will be part of a major June pay-per-view card.
That event is expected to take place in Brazil, possibly in Sao Paulo. A likely title fight and rematch between UFC middleweight champ Anderson Silva and Chael Sonnen (if he can get by Mark Munoz later this month at UFC on FOX 2) also could be part of the card.
According to Zelaznik, filming for "TUF: Brazil" begins next month in the country. The show then airs on Globo in Brazil and on FUEL TV in the U.S. As with our "TUF" seasons, the fighters compete in a tournament format, and the winners are guaranteed UFC contracts.
Each division features 16 fighters to start, and an elimination episode will narrow the field down to eight fighters in each bracket, who will then move into a "TUF: Brazil" house. The organization will not disclose the location of either the house or the training facility.
"TUF," which debuted on Spike TV in 2005 and quickly became a driving force for the UFC's move into the mainstream, has launched the careers of more than 100 UFC fighters and has produced past champions such as Rashad Evans, Forrest Griffin and Matt Serra. While all seasons to date have filmed in Las Vegas, the UFC is planning additional international editions of "TUF" in Canada, Australia, the Philippines and the U.K.
For the latest on "The Ultimate Fighter: Brazil" and UFC in Brazil (June), stay tuned to the UFC Rumors section of the site.
(Pictured: Vitor Belfort)» ReplyComments: 71 Related News "The Ult... UFC in B... V. Belfort UFC 'The Ultimate Fighter: Brazil' expected to air on FUEL TVUFC 140 notebook: White on St-Pierre, 'Mayhem,' Emelianenko, Penn, 'TUF: Brazil''The Ultimate Fighter: Brazil' hosts tryouts in December, series debuts in 2012UFC officials shoot down Silva-Belfort 'TUF: Brazil' coaching reportsWhite says 'TUF: Brazil' a done deal, will hold 'as many events as possible' in country White: Silva vs. Sonnen II would likely take place in Brazilian soccer stadium Wanderlei Silva says Vitor Belfort rematch was lone fight he wanted before retirementJoyful Vitor Belfort says elephant not the king of UFC 142 jungleVideo: 'Countdown to UFC 142' full episodeVitor Belfort, Wanderlei Silva named coaches of 'The Ultimate Fighter: Brazil'UFC 142 main card set with five boutsVitor Belfort vs. Anthony Johnson slated for UFC 142 in BrazilUFC officials shoot down Silva-Belfort 'TUF: Brazil' coaching reportsMMAjunkie.com's John Morgan on pre-UFC 137 'Fight Day' show at 5 p.m. ETUFC 136 winner Chael Sonnen offers Anderson Silva rematch, calls Vitor Belfort a fool UFC officials and fighters cautiously enthused by Brazil's soccer sponsorshipsU.K. to get UFC event in late 2012, TV deal could prompt additional showWanderlei Silva says Vitor Belfort rematch was lone fight he wanted before retirementUFC's international schedule will slow in mid-2012, but expansion still a priorityMMAjunkie.com Radio: Jim Miller, 'King Mo,' Joey Diaz and Joey OddessaWith mom in new home, 'TUF 14' winner Diego Brandao channels inner Mike TysonGray Maynard meant no disrespect in helping UFC 142's Jose AldoWatch today's UFC 142 press conference live on MMAjunkie.com at 10 a.m. ETJoyful Vitor Belfort says elephant not the king of UFC 142 jungle
View the Original article
четвртак, 12. јануар 2012.
MMAjunkie.com's Joshua Carey on 'The Fight Club Chicago' at 2:30 p.m. ET
MMAjunkie.com contributor Joshua Carey is a guest on today's edition of "The Fight Club Chicago" at 2:30 p.m. ET (11:30 a.m. PT).
Carey and hosts Steven Muehlhausen and Antoine Wade look ahead to this weekend's UFC 142 event and featherweight title fight between champion Jose Aldo and Chad Mendes.
Catch the show live at www.sportstownchicago.com/fightclub.
Off Related News
View the Original article
Carey and hosts Steven Muehlhausen and Antoine Wade look ahead to this weekend's UFC 142 event and featherweight title fight between champion Jose Aldo and Chad Mendes.
Catch the show live at www.sportstownchicago.com/fightclub.
Off Related News
View the Original article
UFC's international schedule will slow in mid-2012, but expansion still a priority
In the 13 weeks between Saturday and April 14, the UFC will leave North America for events in Brazil, Japan, Australia and Sweden.
Throw in March's UFC 145 in Montreal, and you have a staggering five international shows in just three months.
The international schedule will slow later this year, UFC executive Marshall Zelaznik today told MMAjunkie.com (www.mmajunkie.com), but it won't stop.
"I do expect after that first quarter that there is going to be a little more of a slow international initiative," the UFC's managing director of international development said while in Rio De Janeiro for Saturday's UFC 142 event.
While most of the remaining international shows are slotted for later this year or early 2013, there is an exception: the UFC's June return to Brazil.
As MMAjunkie.com reported earlier today, "The Ultimate Fighter: Brazil," which is the UFC's first international edition of its long-running competition/reality series, will conclude in June. But rather than a live finale of its own, the series' two tournaments will conclude on a large pay-per-view event in Brazil, possibly Sao Paulo. In addition to the "TUF" fights, the event will feature coaches Vitor Belfort vs. Wanderlei Silva, and UFC middleweight champion Anderson Silva is expected to headline, possibly in a rematch against Chael Sonnen if he gets by Mark Munoz later this month at UFC on FOX 2.
Better yet? It could take place in a soccer stadium, which could push toward a six-figure attendance mark.
"June's (event) will be off the charts if we can get Anderson, as (UFC president) Dana (White) mentioned, and get 'The Ultimate Fighter' finales in the stadium," Zelaznik said. "It's going to be a world event that will rival F1 (racing) in this country."
Although Canada and Brazil present few problems, other international events aren't so convenient for the UFC. The organization is committed to airing pay-per-view events in live Saturday-night timeslots in North America, but overseas locales present problems with the time differences. However, this weekend's Brazil event is being used as a sort of test run.
The UFC recently moved its PPV start times back an hour to 10 p.m. ET (7 p.m. PT). That means Rio, which is three hours ahead of U.S. East Coast time, won't see Saturday's UFC 142 event conclude until about 4 a.m. local time.
If successful this weekend, that could be good news for the U.K., which has seen its number of annual UFC shows dwindle over the years.
"The challenge with the U.K. is the time," Zelaznik said. "
View the Original article
Throw in March's UFC 145 in Montreal, and you have a staggering five international shows in just three months.
The international schedule will slow later this year, UFC executive Marshall Zelaznik today told MMAjunkie.com (www.mmajunkie.com), but it won't stop.
"I do expect after that first quarter that there is going to be a little more of a slow international initiative," the UFC's managing director of international development said while in Rio De Janeiro for Saturday's UFC 142 event.
While most of the remaining international shows are slotted for later this year or early 2013, there is an exception: the UFC's June return to Brazil.
As MMAjunkie.com reported earlier today, "The Ultimate Fighter: Brazil," which is the UFC's first international edition of its long-running competition/reality series, will conclude in June. But rather than a live finale of its own, the series' two tournaments will conclude on a large pay-per-view event in Brazil, possibly Sao Paulo. In addition to the "TUF" fights, the event will feature coaches Vitor Belfort vs. Wanderlei Silva, and UFC middleweight champion Anderson Silva is expected to headline, possibly in a rematch against Chael Sonnen if he gets by Mark Munoz later this month at UFC on FOX 2.
Better yet? It could take place in a soccer stadium, which could push toward a six-figure attendance mark.
"June's (event) will be off the charts if we can get Anderson, as (UFC president) Dana (White) mentioned, and get 'The Ultimate Fighter' finales in the stadium," Zelaznik said. "It's going to be a world event that will rival F1 (racing) in this country."
Although Canada and Brazil present few problems, other international events aren't so convenient for the UFC. The organization is committed to airing pay-per-view events in live Saturday-night timeslots in North America, but overseas locales present problems with the time differences. However, this weekend's Brazil event is being used as a sort of test run.
The UFC recently moved its PPV start times back an hour to 10 p.m. ET (7 p.m. PT). That means Rio, which is three hours ahead of U.S. East Coast time, won't see Saturday's UFC 142 event conclude until about 4 a.m. local time.
If successful this weekend, that could be good news for the U.K., which has seen its number of annual UFC shows dwindle over the years.
"The challenge with the U.K. is the time," Zelaznik said. "
View the Original article
Wanderlei Silva says Vitor Belfort rematch was lone fight he wanted before retirement
With the exception of injuries or an act of God, Wanderlei Silva and Vitor Belfort will fight after Belfort meets Anthony Johnson on Saturday at UFC 142.
How much does Silva want to fight Belfort?
"A lot," he told MMAjunkie.com (www.mmajunkie.com) during open workouts for the pay-per-view event, which takes place at HSBC Arena in Rio de Janeiro. "This is one fight I really, really want to do before I retire. I'm so happy for a fight with this guy in Brazil."
Silva (34-11-1 MMA, 4-6 UFC), who coaches opposite Belfort (20-9 MMA, 9-5 UFC) in the first Brazil-based edition of "The Ultimate Fighter," said the two will fight in Sao Paulo, where the two met some 14 years ago at "UFC Brazil: Ultimate Brazil" (UFC 17.5) and tryouts for the reality show recently took place.
Rumor has it a soccer stadium might host the coaches' fight, which is a long way from the venue that hosted their first meeting. Silva said all the fight teams were crammed into the same dressing room at "UFC Brazil," so he warmed up in the restrooms as people relieved themselves nearby.
Quite a long way, indeed.
There are now queues of fans lined up to get the autographs of fighters in Brazil. The sport wasn't outlaw back then
View the Original article
How much does Silva want to fight Belfort?
"A lot," he told MMAjunkie.com (www.mmajunkie.com) during open workouts for the pay-per-view event, which takes place at HSBC Arena in Rio de Janeiro. "This is one fight I really, really want to do before I retire. I'm so happy for a fight with this guy in Brazil."
Silva (34-11-1 MMA, 4-6 UFC), who coaches opposite Belfort (20-9 MMA, 9-5 UFC) in the first Brazil-based edition of "The Ultimate Fighter," said the two will fight in Sao Paulo, where the two met some 14 years ago at "UFC Brazil: Ultimate Brazil" (UFC 17.5) and tryouts for the reality show recently took place.
Rumor has it a soccer stadium might host the coaches' fight, which is a long way from the venue that hosted their first meeting. Silva said all the fight teams were crammed into the same dressing room at "UFC Brazil," so he warmed up in the restrooms as people relieved themselves nearby.
Quite a long way, indeed.
There are now queues of fans lined up to get the autographs of fighters in Brazil. The sport wasn't outlaw back then
View the Original article
U.K. to get UFC event in late 2012, TV deal could prompt additional show
To all the MMA fans in the U.K., get ready: August is a big month for you.
That's when the UFC's deal with ESPN expires, and that's when the UFC could score a new TV contract that could significantly impact the number of events the regions hosts.
Right now, the U.K. is promised one event in 2012. But depending on the TV negotiations, a second could happen before year's end.
"We know fans there are eager," Marshall Zelaznik, the UFC's managing director of international development, today told MMAjunkie.com while in Rio De Janeiro for Saturday's UFC 142 event. "We're working on it."
The U.K. hosted three events in both 2007 and 2008, and it became the first real international-expansion target for Zuffa. But the number dwindled to just two shows in 2009, and a single event in both 2010 and 2011.
While the U.K. shows fewer and farther between, countries such as Canada and Australia hosted more. But Zelaznik said the U.K. could get a reprieve in late summer. One show is already promised for the third or fourth quarter (details TBA), but he said there could be a second.
"The thing that's happening in the U.K. is that our ESPN rights expire in August, so we're in deep negotiations with television networks, and depending on where those go, there might be a real interest in the new partner to say, 'Bring another event,'" said Zelaznik, who recently relocated from the U.K. to the UFC's Las Vegas headquarters. "We're committed to making that mark bigger and bigger (in the U.K.)."
And though some fans have taken the limited offerings as a sign the UFC is ditching the U.K.'s expansion plans, Zelaznik said that's not the case.
"The U.K. can easily take three or four events per year," he said. "We have no doubt it."
For the latest on the UFC's upcoming schedule, stay tuned to the UFC Rumors section of the site.
(Pictured: Marshall Zelaznik)» ReplyComments: 36 Related News Only on Junkie UFC Strikeforce champ Luke Rockhold mending broken hand, wants Tim Kennedy nextUFC officials and fighters cautiously enthused by Brazil's soccer sponsorshipsHDNet Fights Video Vault: Joey Villasenor vs. Jim Wallhead at BAMMA 8Wanderlei Silva says Vitor Belfort rematch was lone fight he wanted before retirementWith mom in new home, 'TUF 14' winner Diego Brandao channels inner Mike TysonJoyful Vitor Belfort says elephant not the king of UFC 142 jungleUFC 143's Diaz vs. Condit main event gets veteran ref Steve MazzagattiUFC 142's Edson Barboza says undefeated record already puts him 'in the mix'Sophomore edition of 'UFC Tonight' draws 20,000 FUEL TV viewers UFC officials and fighters cautiously enthused by Brazil's soccer sponsorshipsWanderlei Silva says Vitor Belfort rematch was lone fight he wanted before retirementUFC's international schedule will slow in mid-2012, but expansion still a priority'TUF: Brazil' features featherweights and middleweights, tourney finals on PPVMMAjunkie.com Radio: Jim Miller, 'King Mo,' Joey Diaz and Joey OddessaWith mom in new home, 'TUF 14' winner Diego Brandao channels inner Mike TysonGray Maynard meant no disrespect in helping UFC 142's Jose AldoWatch today's UFC 142 press conference live on MMAjunkie.com at 10 a.m. ETJoyful Vitor Belfort says elephant not the king of UFC 142 jungle
View the Original article
That's when the UFC's deal with ESPN expires, and that's when the UFC could score a new TV contract that could significantly impact the number of events the regions hosts.
Right now, the U.K. is promised one event in 2012. But depending on the TV negotiations, a second could happen before year's end.
"We know fans there are eager," Marshall Zelaznik, the UFC's managing director of international development, today told MMAjunkie.com while in Rio De Janeiro for Saturday's UFC 142 event. "We're working on it."
The U.K. hosted three events in both 2007 and 2008, and it became the first real international-expansion target for Zuffa. But the number dwindled to just two shows in 2009, and a single event in both 2010 and 2011.
While the U.K. shows fewer and farther between, countries such as Canada and Australia hosted more. But Zelaznik said the U.K. could get a reprieve in late summer. One show is already promised for the third or fourth quarter (details TBA), but he said there could be a second.
"The thing that's happening in the U.K. is that our ESPN rights expire in August, so we're in deep negotiations with television networks, and depending on where those go, there might be a real interest in the new partner to say, 'Bring another event,'" said Zelaznik, who recently relocated from the U.K. to the UFC's Las Vegas headquarters. "We're committed to making that mark bigger and bigger (in the U.K.)."
And though some fans have taken the limited offerings as a sign the UFC is ditching the U.K.'s expansion plans, Zelaznik said that's not the case.
"The U.K. can easily take three or four events per year," he said. "We have no doubt it."
For the latest on the UFC's upcoming schedule, stay tuned to the UFC Rumors section of the site.
(Pictured: Marshall Zelaznik)» ReplyComments: 36 Related News Only on Junkie UFC Strikeforce champ Luke Rockhold mending broken hand, wants Tim Kennedy nextUFC officials and fighters cautiously enthused by Brazil's soccer sponsorshipsHDNet Fights Video Vault: Joey Villasenor vs. Jim Wallhead at BAMMA 8Wanderlei Silva says Vitor Belfort rematch was lone fight he wanted before retirementWith mom in new home, 'TUF 14' winner Diego Brandao channels inner Mike TysonJoyful Vitor Belfort says elephant not the king of UFC 142 jungleUFC 143's Diaz vs. Condit main event gets veteran ref Steve MazzagattiUFC 142's Edson Barboza says undefeated record already puts him 'in the mix'Sophomore edition of 'UFC Tonight' draws 20,000 FUEL TV viewers UFC officials and fighters cautiously enthused by Brazil's soccer sponsorshipsWanderlei Silva says Vitor Belfort rematch was lone fight he wanted before retirementUFC's international schedule will slow in mid-2012, but expansion still a priority'TUF: Brazil' features featherweights and middleweights, tourney finals on PPVMMAjunkie.com Radio: Jim Miller, 'King Mo,' Joey Diaz and Joey OddessaWith mom in new home, 'TUF 14' winner Diego Brandao channels inner Mike TysonGray Maynard meant no disrespect in helping UFC 142's Jose AldoWatch today's UFC 142 press conference live on MMAjunkie.com at 10 a.m. ETJoyful Vitor Belfort says elephant not the king of UFC 142 jungle
View the Original article
HDNet Fights Video Vault: Joey Villasenor vs. Jim Wallhead at BAMMA 8
by MMAjunkie.com Staff on Jan 12, 2012 at 3:30 pm ETFor seven years, "Judo" Jim Wallhead has been a fixture on his home country's regional MMA circuit.
Aside from a Bellator tournament entry, all of his work has taken place overseas, where he's become one of England's most successful fighters.
But with a slot on the HDNet-televised BAMMA 8 card and a booking with American big-show veteran Joey Villasenor, Wallhead had an opportunity to gain some international recognition back in December.
Each week HDNet and MMAjunkie.com release a new and exclusive fight fromthe ever-growing HDNet Fights video library. Stunning knockouts, slicksubmissions, shocking finishes and legendary brawls are the norm forthis weekly feature.
Wallhead vs. Villsenor is no exception.
In his previous bout, Villasenor (28-9 at the time) snapped a three-fight losing streak and handed Chuck Parmelee a TKO loss at a Jackson's MMA Series event. The bout marked his welterweight debut, and he remained in his new weight class against Wallhead (23-6), a well-rounded competitor who was searching for his 10th win in 11 fights.
Would Villasenor continue his rebound, or would Wallhead claim one of his biggest wins to date?
Check out the embedded clip for the answer.
Each week MMAjunkie.com (www.mmajunkie.com) and HDNet Fights (www.hdnetfights.com) team up for "HDNet Fights Vault," which offer a new and unique video from the organization's ever-growing fight library. The weekly feature is a continuation of a long-standing partnership between MMAjunkie.com and HDNet. For more information on HDNet, which broadcasts more MMA events than any other TV outlet, visit www.hd.net.» ReplyComments: 7 Related News J. Villasenor J. Wallhead Only on Junkie HDNet announces four-bout main card for Dec. 10 live broadcast of BAMMA 8Daley, Villasenor, Miranda and Manuwa among weekend winnersChris Camozzi now victorious after New Mexico Athletic Commission overturns drawTrigg vs. Watson title fight, Villasenor vs. Mills co-headline BAMMA 7 on Sept. 10New Mexico commission reevaluating Shark Fights 15's Villasenor vs. Camozzi draw"Shark Fights 15: Camozzi vs. Villasenor" lineup nearly complete with 11 boutsVillasenor vs. Camozzi set as Shark Fights 15 headliner in AlbuquerqueShark Fights 13 recap: Prangley outlasts Jardine; Alexander stuns SokoudjouVillasenor vs. Villefort, Darabedyan vs. Straus official for Shark Fights 13 MMAjunkie.com Radio: Dann Stupp, Jim Wallhead, Cody Gibson, Marc FioreHDNet announces four-bout main card for Dec. 10 live broadcast of BAMMA 8BAMMA 7 results: Wallhead downs Trigg in split, Daley wins decisionChamp Watson out, Wallhead in against Trigg in BAMMA 7 headlinerBellator 35 resuts: Good, Hieron, Hawn, Weedman advance to semifinalsBellator 35 weigh-in results: Welterweight quarterfinals officialBellator 35 kicks off welterweight tourney, four quarterfinal pairings announcedBrit "Judo" Jim Wallhead joins Bellator's season-four welterweight tourneyBellator 32 recap: Konrad takes title with sub; new champ Makovsky earns decision Strikeforce champ Luke Rockhold mending broken hand, wants Tim Kennedy nextUFC officials and fighters cautiously enthused by Brazil's soccer sponsorshipsU.K. to get UFC event in late 2012, TV deal could prompt additional showWanderlei Silva says Vitor Belfort rematch was lone fight he wanted before retirementWith mom in new home, 'TUF 14' winner Diego Brandao channels inner Mike TysonJoyful Vitor Belfort says elephant not the king of UFC 142 jungleUFC 143's Diaz vs. Condit main event gets veteran ref Steve MazzagattiUFC 142's Edson Barboza says undefeated record already puts him 'in the mix'Sophomore edition of 'UFC Tonight' draws 20,000 FUEL TV viewers
View the Original article
Aside from a Bellator tournament entry, all of his work has taken place overseas, where he's become one of England's most successful fighters.
But with a slot on the HDNet-televised BAMMA 8 card and a booking with American big-show veteran Joey Villasenor, Wallhead had an opportunity to gain some international recognition back in December.
Each week HDNet and MMAjunkie.com release a new and exclusive fight fromthe ever-growing HDNet Fights video library. Stunning knockouts, slicksubmissions, shocking finishes and legendary brawls are the norm forthis weekly feature.
Wallhead vs. Villsenor is no exception.
In his previous bout, Villasenor (28-9 at the time) snapped a three-fight losing streak and handed Chuck Parmelee a TKO loss at a Jackson's MMA Series event. The bout marked his welterweight debut, and he remained in his new weight class against Wallhead (23-6), a well-rounded competitor who was searching for his 10th win in 11 fights.
Would Villasenor continue his rebound, or would Wallhead claim one of his biggest wins to date?
Check out the embedded clip for the answer.
Each week MMAjunkie.com (www.mmajunkie.com) and HDNet Fights (www.hdnetfights.com) team up for "HDNet Fights Vault," which offer a new and unique video from the organization's ever-growing fight library. The weekly feature is a continuation of a long-standing partnership between MMAjunkie.com and HDNet. For more information on HDNet, which broadcasts more MMA events than any other TV outlet, visit www.hd.net.» ReplyComments: 7 Related News J. Villasenor J. Wallhead Only on Junkie HDNet announces four-bout main card for Dec. 10 live broadcast of BAMMA 8Daley, Villasenor, Miranda and Manuwa among weekend winnersChris Camozzi now victorious after New Mexico Athletic Commission overturns drawTrigg vs. Watson title fight, Villasenor vs. Mills co-headline BAMMA 7 on Sept. 10New Mexico commission reevaluating Shark Fights 15's Villasenor vs. Camozzi draw"Shark Fights 15: Camozzi vs. Villasenor" lineup nearly complete with 11 boutsVillasenor vs. Camozzi set as Shark Fights 15 headliner in AlbuquerqueShark Fights 13 recap: Prangley outlasts Jardine; Alexander stuns SokoudjouVillasenor vs. Villefort, Darabedyan vs. Straus official for Shark Fights 13 MMAjunkie.com Radio: Dann Stupp, Jim Wallhead, Cody Gibson, Marc FioreHDNet announces four-bout main card for Dec. 10 live broadcast of BAMMA 8BAMMA 7 results: Wallhead downs Trigg in split, Daley wins decisionChamp Watson out, Wallhead in against Trigg in BAMMA 7 headlinerBellator 35 resuts: Good, Hieron, Hawn, Weedman advance to semifinalsBellator 35 weigh-in results: Welterweight quarterfinals officialBellator 35 kicks off welterweight tourney, four quarterfinal pairings announcedBrit "Judo" Jim Wallhead joins Bellator's season-four welterweight tourneyBellator 32 recap: Konrad takes title with sub; new champ Makovsky earns decision Strikeforce champ Luke Rockhold mending broken hand, wants Tim Kennedy nextUFC officials and fighters cautiously enthused by Brazil's soccer sponsorshipsU.K. to get UFC event in late 2012, TV deal could prompt additional showWanderlei Silva says Vitor Belfort rematch was lone fight he wanted before retirementWith mom in new home, 'TUF 14' winner Diego Brandao channels inner Mike TysonJoyful Vitor Belfort says elephant not the king of UFC 142 jungleUFC 143's Diaz vs. Condit main event gets veteran ref Steve MazzagattiUFC 142's Edson Barboza says undefeated record already puts him 'in the mix'Sophomore edition of 'UFC Tonight' draws 20,000 FUEL TV viewers
View the Original article
UFC officials and fighters cautiously enthused by Brazil's soccer sponsorships
While Brazil may indeed be the spiritual birthplace of mixed martial arts, the combat sport is hardly the national pastime.
That honor belongs to soccer, a sport in which Brazil has won more world championships (five) than any other nation.
But while Brazilians specialize in playing a version of soccer known as "the beautiful game," off-pitch clashes between fans can sometimes turn violent. So with many of the nation's soccer clubs now supporting UFC athletes, is the promotion asking for trouble?
"It's very delicate for us to talk about a sport in which there have been several deaths in the crowds," Belfort said through an interpreter at Thursday's UFC 142 pre-event press conference. "This is serious."
Domestically, the Brazilian Football Confederation boasts more than 400 registered teams at various skill levels, and Rio de Janeiro
View the Original article
That honor belongs to soccer, a sport in which Brazil has won more world championships (five) than any other nation.
But while Brazilians specialize in playing a version of soccer known as "the beautiful game," off-pitch clashes between fans can sometimes turn violent. So with many of the nation's soccer clubs now supporting UFC athletes, is the promotion asking for trouble?
"It's very delicate for us to talk about a sport in which there have been several deaths in the crowds," Belfort said through an interpreter at Thursday's UFC 142 pre-event press conference. "This is serious."
Domestically, the Brazilian Football Confederation boasts more than 400 registered teams at various skill levels, and Rio de Janeiro
View the Original article
Strikeforce champ Luke Rockhold mending broken hand, wants Tim Kennedy next
Middleweight champ Luke Rockhold is in a cast for a month after suffering a broken right hand this past Saturday at "Strikeforce: Rockhold vs. Jardine."
He then moves on to rehab, where he anticipates he'll be able to punch things in a few weeks.
"I imagine I'm looking at eight weeks before I'm back in the gym," Rockhold today told MMAjunkie.com (www.mmajunkie.com).
It's an optimistic assessment considering the uncertainty surrounding the return of his teammate, heavyweight Daniel Cormier, who broke his hand this past September and still hasn't signed off on an expected fight in March in the conclusion of the Strikeforce heavyweight grand prix.
Then again, different brokes for different folks. The realization of an injured hand didn't come until Rockhold (9-1 MMA, 8-0 SF) shook the hand of Keith Jardine (17-10-2 MMA, 0-1-1 SF) moments after he earned a first-round TKO victory over the UFC vet with a flurry of punches.
"I can work on other techniques," Rockhold said. "Healing from broken bones, I've always come back stronger, and that's exactly what I plan on doing for this one."
Rockhold won the middleweight title from Ronadlo "Jacare" Souza on the same show that Cormier broke his hand. Rockhold emerged unscathed after a grueling five-round fight.
This time around, however, he faces a medical suspension of up to six months unless a doctor gives him the OK to compete.
Rockhold's time on the bench should give him some perspective on the state of his division. He made headlines by wondering aloud why Strikeforce's parent company, Zuffa, couldn't export a few UFC middleweights to the Strikeforce to keep him busy as Showtime settles in to a new broadcast deal through 2012 with the smaller promotion.
The reaction to his statement may be more of a disappointment than being forced to sit on the bench.
"People are just writing it off like it's not going to happen," Rockhold said. "I'm still hoping. I'm still asking for it. I'm happy with the good challengers we have in Strikeforce. It's just a matter of those guys stepping up.
"Right now, I think Tim Kennedy is the only guy that really makes sense right now. If 'Jacare' or Robbie (Lawler) could win another one, I think they could be in line. But I just want to fight those guys, the guys that make sense."
Rockhold isn't sure whether Kennedy, who was heavily rumored to have signed with the UFC before the deal between Showtime and Zuffa, will wait to fight him or take another booking as he recovers. But he hopes patience will prevail.
"I'm 100 percent ready for that fight, and that's what I want," Rockhold said.
Of course, that's not entirely true. Eight weeks stand between Rockhold's desire and readiness to actually fight.
But optimism runs deep in the champ.
For the latest on "Strikeforce: Rockhold vs. Jardine," check out the MMA Events section of MMAjunkie.com.
(Pictured: Luke Rockhold)» ReplyComments: 17 Related News Strikefo... L. Rockhold Only on Junkie Strikeforce 'Strikeforce: Rockhold vs. Jardine' ratings: Event draws 344,000 viewers'Strikeforce: Rockhold vs. Jardine' medical suspensions: Four out up to six monthsTrevor Smith's camp plans appeal of 'Strikeforce: Rockhold vs. Jardine' lossIs teammate-vs.-teammate fight on horizon for Strikeforce's 'King Mo' Lawal?'Strikeforce: Rockhold vs. Jardine' salaries: Lawler and Lawal top $566K payroll'Strikeforce: Rockhold vs. Jardine' notebook: Woodley demands title shotDespite UFC challenge, Rockhold says he's comfortable with Strikeforce optionsStrikeforce's Lawal rips on 'Kermit' Mousasi, sub-par actor Jackson, bad ref Winslow'Strikeforce: Rockhold vs. Jardine' results: Champ Rockhold defends, TKOs Jardine 'Strikeforce: Rockhold vs. Jardine' medical suspensions: Four out up to six monthsDespite UFC challenge, Rockhold says he's comfortable with Strikeforce options'Strikeforce: Rockhold vs. Jardine' results: Champ Rockhold defends, TKOs Jardine'Strikeforce: Rockhold vs. Jardine' preview: Fighters jockey for position in new eraStrikeforce champ Rockhold: Despite recent bumps, AKA poised for breakout yearMMAjunkie.com: Strikeforce champ Luke Rockhold, UFC's Ross Pearson in studio'Strikeforce: Rockhold vs. Jardine' adds Lawler-Amagov, Lawal-Larkin, Saffiedine-StinsonLuke Rockhold vs. Keith Jardine title fight targeted for Jan. 7 Strikeforce eventAKA's Cormier, Fitch, Koscheck, Rockhold lead UFC's San Jose community initiative UFC officials and fighters cautiously enthused by Brazil's soccer sponsorshipsHDNet Fights Video Vault: Joey Villasenor vs. Jim Wallhead at BAMMA 8U.K. to get UFC event in late 2012, TV deal could prompt additional showWanderlei Silva says Vitor Belfort rematch was lone fight he wanted before retirementWith mom in new home, 'TUF 14' winner Diego Brandao channels inner Mike TysonJoyful Vitor Belfort says elephant not the king of UFC 142 jungleUFC 143's Diaz vs. Condit main event gets veteran ref Steve MazzagattiUFC 142's Edson Barboza says undefeated record already puts him 'in the mix'Sophomore edition of 'UFC Tonight' draws 20,000 FUEL TV viewers MMAjunkie.com Radio: Jim Miller, 'King Mo,' Joey Diaz and Joey Oddessa'Strikeforce: Rockhold vs. Jardine' ratings: Event draws 344,000 viewers'Strikeforce: Rockhold vs. Jardine' medical suspensions: Four out up to six monthsTrevor Smith's camp plans appeal of 'Strikeforce: Rockhold vs. Jardine' lossWomen's MMA Report: Strikeforce's Santos suspended, Fujii dominant in DREAM debutIs teammate-vs.-teammate fight on horizon for Strikeforce's 'King Mo' Lawal?'Strikeforce: Rockhold vs. Jardine' salaries: Lawler and Lawal top $566K payrollAsk the Fight Doc: What do you make of Cris Santos' failed drug test?Fedor Emelianenko possible as Strikeforce's 'plus-one' heavyweight for new champ
View the Original article
He then moves on to rehab, where he anticipates he'll be able to punch things in a few weeks.
"I imagine I'm looking at eight weeks before I'm back in the gym," Rockhold today told MMAjunkie.com (www.mmajunkie.com).
It's an optimistic assessment considering the uncertainty surrounding the return of his teammate, heavyweight Daniel Cormier, who broke his hand this past September and still hasn't signed off on an expected fight in March in the conclusion of the Strikeforce heavyweight grand prix.
Then again, different brokes for different folks. The realization of an injured hand didn't come until Rockhold (9-1 MMA, 8-0 SF) shook the hand of Keith Jardine (17-10-2 MMA, 0-1-1 SF) moments after he earned a first-round TKO victory over the UFC vet with a flurry of punches.
"I can work on other techniques," Rockhold said. "Healing from broken bones, I've always come back stronger, and that's exactly what I plan on doing for this one."
Rockhold won the middleweight title from Ronadlo "Jacare" Souza on the same show that Cormier broke his hand. Rockhold emerged unscathed after a grueling five-round fight.
This time around, however, he faces a medical suspension of up to six months unless a doctor gives him the OK to compete.
Rockhold's time on the bench should give him some perspective on the state of his division. He made headlines by wondering aloud why Strikeforce's parent company, Zuffa, couldn't export a few UFC middleweights to the Strikeforce to keep him busy as Showtime settles in to a new broadcast deal through 2012 with the smaller promotion.
The reaction to his statement may be more of a disappointment than being forced to sit on the bench.
"People are just writing it off like it's not going to happen," Rockhold said. "I'm still hoping. I'm still asking for it. I'm happy with the good challengers we have in Strikeforce. It's just a matter of those guys stepping up.
"Right now, I think Tim Kennedy is the only guy that really makes sense right now. If 'Jacare' or Robbie (Lawler) could win another one, I think they could be in line. But I just want to fight those guys, the guys that make sense."
Rockhold isn't sure whether Kennedy, who was heavily rumored to have signed with the UFC before the deal between Showtime and Zuffa, will wait to fight him or take another booking as he recovers. But he hopes patience will prevail.
"I'm 100 percent ready for that fight, and that's what I want," Rockhold said.
Of course, that's not entirely true. Eight weeks stand between Rockhold's desire and readiness to actually fight.
But optimism runs deep in the champ.
For the latest on "Strikeforce: Rockhold vs. Jardine," check out the MMA Events section of MMAjunkie.com.
(Pictured: Luke Rockhold)» ReplyComments: 17 Related News Strikefo... L. Rockhold Only on Junkie Strikeforce 'Strikeforce: Rockhold vs. Jardine' ratings: Event draws 344,000 viewers'Strikeforce: Rockhold vs. Jardine' medical suspensions: Four out up to six monthsTrevor Smith's camp plans appeal of 'Strikeforce: Rockhold vs. Jardine' lossIs teammate-vs.-teammate fight on horizon for Strikeforce's 'King Mo' Lawal?'Strikeforce: Rockhold vs. Jardine' salaries: Lawler and Lawal top $566K payroll'Strikeforce: Rockhold vs. Jardine' notebook: Woodley demands title shotDespite UFC challenge, Rockhold says he's comfortable with Strikeforce optionsStrikeforce's Lawal rips on 'Kermit' Mousasi, sub-par actor Jackson, bad ref Winslow'Strikeforce: Rockhold vs. Jardine' results: Champ Rockhold defends, TKOs Jardine 'Strikeforce: Rockhold vs. Jardine' medical suspensions: Four out up to six monthsDespite UFC challenge, Rockhold says he's comfortable with Strikeforce options'Strikeforce: Rockhold vs. Jardine' results: Champ Rockhold defends, TKOs Jardine'Strikeforce: Rockhold vs. Jardine' preview: Fighters jockey for position in new eraStrikeforce champ Rockhold: Despite recent bumps, AKA poised for breakout yearMMAjunkie.com: Strikeforce champ Luke Rockhold, UFC's Ross Pearson in studio'Strikeforce: Rockhold vs. Jardine' adds Lawler-Amagov, Lawal-Larkin, Saffiedine-StinsonLuke Rockhold vs. Keith Jardine title fight targeted for Jan. 7 Strikeforce eventAKA's Cormier, Fitch, Koscheck, Rockhold lead UFC's San Jose community initiative UFC officials and fighters cautiously enthused by Brazil's soccer sponsorshipsHDNet Fights Video Vault: Joey Villasenor vs. Jim Wallhead at BAMMA 8U.K. to get UFC event in late 2012, TV deal could prompt additional showWanderlei Silva says Vitor Belfort rematch was lone fight he wanted before retirementWith mom in new home, 'TUF 14' winner Diego Brandao channels inner Mike TysonJoyful Vitor Belfort says elephant not the king of UFC 142 jungleUFC 143's Diaz vs. Condit main event gets veteran ref Steve MazzagattiUFC 142's Edson Barboza says undefeated record already puts him 'in the mix'Sophomore edition of 'UFC Tonight' draws 20,000 FUEL TV viewers MMAjunkie.com Radio: Jim Miller, 'King Mo,' Joey Diaz and Joey Oddessa'Strikeforce: Rockhold vs. Jardine' ratings: Event draws 344,000 viewers'Strikeforce: Rockhold vs. Jardine' medical suspensions: Four out up to six monthsTrevor Smith's camp plans appeal of 'Strikeforce: Rockhold vs. Jardine' lossWomen's MMA Report: Strikeforce's Santos suspended, Fujii dominant in DREAM debutIs teammate-vs.-teammate fight on horizon for Strikeforce's 'King Mo' Lawal?'Strikeforce: Rockhold vs. Jardine' salaries: Lawler and Lawal top $566K payrollAsk the Fight Doc: What do you make of Cris Santos' failed drug test?Fedor Emelianenko possible as Strikeforce's 'plus-one' heavyweight for new champ
View the Original article
Victor O'Donnell slotted for Bellator's season-six middleweight tournament
Ohio fighter Victor O’Donnell has joined his second Bellator tournament.
Bellator officials today announced that O’Donnell (11-3 MMA, 0-1 BFC), who had a brief appearance in a season-five tournament, has joined the eight-man field for the organization's season-six middleweight tourney.
The tourney kicks off in March on MTV2.
O'Donnell is the third confirmed participant for the field. As MMAjunkie.com (www.mmajunkie.com) recently reported, knockout artist Brian Rogers (8-3 MMA, 1-1 BFC) also is slated for the field, as is Giva "The Arm Collector" Santana (17-1 MMA, 1-0 BFC).
Additional tourney participants will be announced in the coming weeks.
O’Donnell's lone Bellator performance came this past year at Bellator 50, where he suffered a TKO loss to fellow Ohio fighter Brian Rogers in an opening-round tourney bout. It was the first time O'Donnell had ever been stopped during his four-year pro career.
Prior to joining the tournament, the well-rounded O'Donnell, who had a brief stint on "The Ultimate Fighter 11," was on a 4-1 run. Eight of his 10 career wins have come via submission, and he holds wins over notables such as Rafael Natal, Forrest Petz and Isaiah Larson.
In addition to the middleweight tournament, Bellator is hosting season-six tourneys in the bantamweight, featherweight, lightweight and welterweight divisions. Each tourney winner gets $100,000 in total pay and a guaranteed title shot.
For more on Bellator's upcoming season, stay tuned to the MMA Rumors section of the site.
(Pictured: Victor O’Donnell)» ReplyComments: 9 Related News V. O'Donnell Bellator Bellator 50 results: Middleweights Baker, Rogers, Shlemenko, Vianna advance in tourneyBellator 50: Baker vs. Hess, Galesic vs. Shlemenko, Alvey vs. Vianna, O'Donnell vs. RogersHDNet airs XFC 11 live on July 9 with Miller vs. Connors, Couture vs. KheyfetsEpisode No. 1 recap: "The Ultimate Fighter 11: Team Liddell vs. Team Ortiz""The Ultimate Fighter 11" exclusive photo gallery of all 28 cast members"The Ultimate Fighter 11" cast unveiled with 28 middleweight fighters Giva 'The Arm Collector' Santana joins Bellator's season-six middleweight tourneyEx-champ Alvarez not joining season-six Bellator tourney, targeted for Aoki fightMMAjunkie.com Radio: Melvin Guillard, Fabricio Camoes, Bjorn Rebney, Jimmy JonesBrian Rogers joins Bellator's season-six middleweight tourneyBellator inks Russian welterweight standout Andrey KoreshkovSaunders, Rickels and Amaya fill Bellator's season-six welterweight tourney fieldLloyd Woodard joins Bellator's season-six lightweight tournamentBryan Baker joins Bellator's season-six welterweight tourneyHeavyweight Jon Madsen signs with Bellator for upcoming tourney
View the Original article
Bellator officials today announced that O’Donnell (11-3 MMA, 0-1 BFC), who had a brief appearance in a season-five tournament, has joined the eight-man field for the organization's season-six middleweight tourney.
The tourney kicks off in March on MTV2.
O'Donnell is the third confirmed participant for the field. As MMAjunkie.com (www.mmajunkie.com) recently reported, knockout artist Brian Rogers (8-3 MMA, 1-1 BFC) also is slated for the field, as is Giva "The Arm Collector" Santana (17-1 MMA, 1-0 BFC).
Additional tourney participants will be announced in the coming weeks.
O’Donnell's lone Bellator performance came this past year at Bellator 50, where he suffered a TKO loss to fellow Ohio fighter Brian Rogers in an opening-round tourney bout. It was the first time O'Donnell had ever been stopped during his four-year pro career.
Prior to joining the tournament, the well-rounded O'Donnell, who had a brief stint on "The Ultimate Fighter 11," was on a 4-1 run. Eight of his 10 career wins have come via submission, and he holds wins over notables such as Rafael Natal, Forrest Petz and Isaiah Larson.
In addition to the middleweight tournament, Bellator is hosting season-six tourneys in the bantamweight, featherweight, lightweight and welterweight divisions. Each tourney winner gets $100,000 in total pay and a guaranteed title shot.
For more on Bellator's upcoming season, stay tuned to the MMA Rumors section of the site.
(Pictured: Victor O’Donnell)» ReplyComments: 9 Related News V. O'Donnell Bellator Bellator 50 results: Middleweights Baker, Rogers, Shlemenko, Vianna advance in tourneyBellator 50: Baker vs. Hess, Galesic vs. Shlemenko, Alvey vs. Vianna, O'Donnell vs. RogersHDNet airs XFC 11 live on July 9 with Miller vs. Connors, Couture vs. KheyfetsEpisode No. 1 recap: "The Ultimate Fighter 11: Team Liddell vs. Team Ortiz""The Ultimate Fighter 11" exclusive photo gallery of all 28 cast members"The Ultimate Fighter 11" cast unveiled with 28 middleweight fighters Giva 'The Arm Collector' Santana joins Bellator's season-six middleweight tourneyEx-champ Alvarez not joining season-six Bellator tourney, targeted for Aoki fightMMAjunkie.com Radio: Melvin Guillard, Fabricio Camoes, Bjorn Rebney, Jimmy JonesBrian Rogers joins Bellator's season-six middleweight tourneyBellator inks Russian welterweight standout Andrey KoreshkovSaunders, Rickels and Amaya fill Bellator's season-six welterweight tourney fieldLloyd Woodard joins Bellator's season-six lightweight tournamentBryan Baker joins Bellator's season-six welterweight tourneyHeavyweight Jon Madsen signs with Bellator for upcoming tourney
View the Original article
уторак, 10. јануар 2012.
UFC 141 officially draws 13,793 attendance for $3.1 million live gate
This past month's UFC 141 event officially drew an attendance of 13,793 and a live gate of $3,101,000.
Nevada State Athletic Commission Executive Director Keith Kizer today emailed the figures to MMAjunkie.com (www.mmajunkie.com).
UFC 141 took place Dec. 30 at MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas andfeatured former Strikeforce champion Alistair Overeem earning afirst-round TKO finish of former UFC heavyweight champ Brock Lesnar inthe pay-per-view headliner.
Officials initially announced an estimated attendance of 12,158 and a live gate of $3.1 million. According to the NSAC, only 137 tickets went unsold. The average paid ticket price was $238.54.
The figures fell well short of the MGM Grand Garden Arena's top-five UFCattendance and live-gate figures. However, in live-gate terms, the showgreatly outperformed UFC 125, which took place early in 2011 and drew just $2,174,780.
MGM Grand Garden Arena's all-time top UFC gates as compiled by MMAjunkie.com include:
UFC 66 (Liddell vs. Ortiz II): $5,397,300 gate (13,761 attendance) UFC 91 (Couture vs. Lesnar): $4,815,675 (14,272) UFC 71 (Liddell vs. Jackson): $4,304,000 (14,728) UFC 94 (St. Pierre vs. Penn II): $4,290,000 (14,885) UFC 116 (Lesnar vs. Carwin): $4,053,990 (12,740)For more on UFC 141, stay tuned to the UFC Events section of MMAjunkie.com.
(Pictured: Alistair Overeem)
» ReplyComments: 24 Related News UFC 141 UFC UFC 141's Volkmann takes media and school board to task, done with Obama calloutsUFC 141 drug tests come back cleanUFC 141 'UFC Prelims' ratings: Final Spike TV special earns 1.8 million viewersUFC 141 medical suspensions: Lesnar, Diaz, Matyushenko, Gamburyan out six monthsMMAjunkie.com: Strikeforce champ Luke Rockhold, UFC's Ross Pearson in studioGolden Glory reps still going after Overeem, look to get pay-per-view bonusesBond not deposited, Alistair Overeem receives full UFC 141 purseMMAjunkie.com Radio: Ross Pearson, "Stitch" Duran, Eric Del FierroUnconcerned with doubters, UFC 141's Jimy Hettes knows he belongs UFC 142's Anthony Johnson out to see if middleweights are the 'real deal'Photo gallery: Champ Jose Aldo the star of today's UFC 142 open workouts in RioRefocused Rousimar Palhares ready to put oddities behind him at UFC 142MMAjunkie.com Radio: Melvin Guillard, Fabricio Camoes, Bjorn Rebney, Jimmy JonesRoss Pearson vs. Dennis Siver rematch added to UFC on FUEL TV 2Akira Corassani vs. Jason Young added to UFC on FUEL TV 2UFC's Rich Franklin on 'The Doctors' talk show todayUFC 142's Ricardo Funch happy to replace fellow lawman, eyes octagon redemptionUFC returns to Atlanta on April 21 for UFC 146
View the Original article
Nevada State Athletic Commission Executive Director Keith Kizer today emailed the figures to MMAjunkie.com (www.mmajunkie.com).
UFC 141 took place Dec. 30 at MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas andfeatured former Strikeforce champion Alistair Overeem earning afirst-round TKO finish of former UFC heavyweight champ Brock Lesnar inthe pay-per-view headliner.
Officials initially announced an estimated attendance of 12,158 and a live gate of $3.1 million. According to the NSAC, only 137 tickets went unsold. The average paid ticket price was $238.54.
The figures fell well short of the MGM Grand Garden Arena's top-five UFCattendance and live-gate figures. However, in live-gate terms, the showgreatly outperformed UFC 125, which took place early in 2011 and drew just $2,174,780.
MGM Grand Garden Arena's all-time top UFC gates as compiled by MMAjunkie.com include:
UFC 66 (Liddell vs. Ortiz II): $5,397,300 gate (13,761 attendance) UFC 91 (Couture vs. Lesnar): $4,815,675 (14,272) UFC 71 (Liddell vs. Jackson): $4,304,000 (14,728) UFC 94 (St. Pierre vs. Penn II): $4,290,000 (14,885) UFC 116 (Lesnar vs. Carwin): $4,053,990 (12,740)For more on UFC 141, stay tuned to the UFC Events section of MMAjunkie.com.
(Pictured: Alistair Overeem)
» ReplyComments: 24 Related News UFC 141 UFC UFC 141's Volkmann takes media and school board to task, done with Obama calloutsUFC 141 drug tests come back cleanUFC 141 'UFC Prelims' ratings: Final Spike TV special earns 1.8 million viewersUFC 141 medical suspensions: Lesnar, Diaz, Matyushenko, Gamburyan out six monthsMMAjunkie.com: Strikeforce champ Luke Rockhold, UFC's Ross Pearson in studioGolden Glory reps still going after Overeem, look to get pay-per-view bonusesBond not deposited, Alistair Overeem receives full UFC 141 purseMMAjunkie.com Radio: Ross Pearson, "Stitch" Duran, Eric Del FierroUnconcerned with doubters, UFC 141's Jimy Hettes knows he belongs UFC 142's Anthony Johnson out to see if middleweights are the 'real deal'Photo gallery: Champ Jose Aldo the star of today's UFC 142 open workouts in RioRefocused Rousimar Palhares ready to put oddities behind him at UFC 142MMAjunkie.com Radio: Melvin Guillard, Fabricio Camoes, Bjorn Rebney, Jimmy JonesRoss Pearson vs. Dennis Siver rematch added to UFC on FUEL TV 2Akira Corassani vs. Jason Young added to UFC on FUEL TV 2UFC's Rich Franklin on 'The Doctors' talk show todayUFC 142's Ricardo Funch happy to replace fellow lawman, eyes octagon redemptionUFC returns to Atlanta on April 21 for UFC 146
View the Original article
Ex-champ Alvarez not joining season-six Bellator tourney, targeted for Aoki fight
Former champion Eddie Alvarez won't be fighting for a chance to reclaim his Bellator lightweight title anytime soon.
Bellator chairman and CEO Bjorn Rebney today told MMAjunkie.com Radio (www.mmajunkie.com/radio) that Alvarez won't take the final slot in the organization's season-six lightweight tournament.
Instead, he's working to book Alvarez for a rematch with DREAM champion Shinya Aoki.
Alvarez, a season-one tourney winner who held the title for two-and-a-half years, lost the belt to Michael Chandler in November at Bellator 58. The spirited and back-and-forth bout, which proved one of 2011's best, ended in a fourth-round submission victory for new champ and still-undefeated Alvarez.
In Bellator, the only way to earn a title shot is to win a tournament, and ultimately, Rebney and Alvarez decided the timing wasn't right for him to enter the season-six tourney, which kicks off in March.
"Ed won't be part of the next tournament during the March kickoff," Rebney said. "The decision was reached between us that the next right step wouldn't be to jump back in the season-tournament right now."
Instead, Rebney is talking to DREAM officials about doing a cross-promotion fight with Aoki (30-5 MMA, 0-0 BFC), who submitted Alvarez (22-3 MMA, 6-1 BFC) at DREAM "Dynamite!! 2008." Up until the Chandler loss, it was Alvarez's only defeat in a 13-fight span. Rebney talked about the possibility of the fight before that loss. And even after the fight, Rebney said Alvarez vs. Aoki II was still the fight they wanted.
"We're still talking very regularly about the Aoki fight," he said. "We've been talking to DREAM about making it happen, so it could still happen as his next fight."
It's not clear if the fight would take place under the Bellator or DREAM banner, though.
Currently, the season-six lightweight tourney field includes J.J. Ambrose (17-3 MMA, 0-0 BFC), Lloyd Woodard (11-1 MMA, 1-1 BFC), Thiago Michel (9-2 MMA, 0-0 BFC), Patricky "Pitbull" Freire (10-2 MMA, 3-1 BFC), Brent Weedman (18-7-1 MMA, 4-2 BFC), Rick Hawn (11-1 MMA, 3-1 BFC) and Ricardo Tirloni (14-1 MMA, 1-0 BFC).
As for the eighth and final spot?
"We've got a question mark next to that slot," Rebney said. "We've got the list down to three (candidates), and that was from a very big list. ... We'll decide soon."
The tournament, which takes place during the 12-week season, awards the winner a total of $100,000 in pay. He also gets a shot at Chandler's title.
For more on Bellator's upcoming season, stay tuned to the MMA Rumors section of the site.
MMAjunkie.com Radio broadcasts Monday-Friday at noon ET (9 a.m. PT) live from the Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino's Race & Sports Book. The show is hosted by Gorgeous George, MMAjunkie.com lead staff reporter John Morgan and producer Goze. For more information or to download past episodes, go to www.mmajunkie.com/radio.» ReplyComments: 58 Related News E. Alvarez Only on Junkie Bellator Video: Michael Chandler vs. Eddie Alvarez full fight at Bellator 58Bellator 58 results: Chandler blasts Alvarez in thriller to earn lightweight crownMMAjunkie.com Radio: Eddie Alvarez, Bjorn Rebney, Andre Winner, UFC 139 tix giveawayMMAjunkie.com Radio: Eddie Alvarez, 'King Mo,' Ron Foster, Joey Oddessa, Joey DiazBellator 58's Eddie Alvarez knows Michael Chandler is a real threatWith 'Pitbull' injured, Pat Curran gets Bellator champ Joe Warren in FebruaryChamp Eddie Alvarez meets Michael Chandler at November's Bellator 58Eddie Alvarez injured, Bellator 54 title fight with Michael Chandler delayedAgent: With world ranking in mind, Bellator's Alvarez aiming for Aoki rematch UFC 142's Anthony Johnson out to see if middleweights are the 'real deal'Photo gallery: Champ Jose Aldo the star of today's UFC 142 open workouts in RioRefocused Rousimar Palhares ready to put oddities behind him at UFC 142UFC 142's Ricardo Funch happy to replace fellow lawman, eyes octagon redemptionUFC 141's Volkmann takes media and school board to task, done with Obama callouts'Strikeforce: Rockhold vs. Jardine' ratings: Event draws 344,000 viewersBrenneman focused on striking for UFC on FX 1, but odometer pays the priceSaturday's UFC 142 bout order includes Arantes vs. Carvalho on FacebookEx-champ Sean Sherk aims for spring UFC return, wants to solidify HOF credentials MMAjunkie.com Radio: Melvin Guillard, Fabricio Camoes, Bjorn Rebney, Jimmy JonesBrian Rogers joins Bellator's season-six middleweight tourneyBellator inks Russian welterweight standout Andrey KoreshkovSaunders, Rickels and Amaya fill Bellator's season-six welterweight tourney fieldLloyd Woodard joins Bellator's season-six lightweight tournamentBryan Baker joins Bellator's season-six welterweight tourneyHeavyweight Jon Madsen signs with Bellator for upcoming tourneyBrian Foster joins Bellator's season-six welterweight tournamentKarl Amoussou joins Bellator's season-six welterweight tournament
View the Original article
Bellator chairman and CEO Bjorn Rebney today told MMAjunkie.com Radio (www.mmajunkie.com/radio) that Alvarez won't take the final slot in the organization's season-six lightweight tournament.
Instead, he's working to book Alvarez for a rematch with DREAM champion Shinya Aoki.
Alvarez, a season-one tourney winner who held the title for two-and-a-half years, lost the belt to Michael Chandler in November at Bellator 58. The spirited and back-and-forth bout, which proved one of 2011's best, ended in a fourth-round submission victory for new champ and still-undefeated Alvarez.
In Bellator, the only way to earn a title shot is to win a tournament, and ultimately, Rebney and Alvarez decided the timing wasn't right for him to enter the season-six tourney, which kicks off in March.
"Ed won't be part of the next tournament during the March kickoff," Rebney said. "The decision was reached between us that the next right step wouldn't be to jump back in the season-tournament right now."
Instead, Rebney is talking to DREAM officials about doing a cross-promotion fight with Aoki (30-5 MMA, 0-0 BFC), who submitted Alvarez (22-3 MMA, 6-1 BFC) at DREAM "Dynamite!! 2008." Up until the Chandler loss, it was Alvarez's only defeat in a 13-fight span. Rebney talked about the possibility of the fight before that loss. And even after the fight, Rebney said Alvarez vs. Aoki II was still the fight they wanted.
"We're still talking very regularly about the Aoki fight," he said. "We've been talking to DREAM about making it happen, so it could still happen as his next fight."
It's not clear if the fight would take place under the Bellator or DREAM banner, though.
Currently, the season-six lightweight tourney field includes J.J. Ambrose (17-3 MMA, 0-0 BFC), Lloyd Woodard (11-1 MMA, 1-1 BFC), Thiago Michel (9-2 MMA, 0-0 BFC), Patricky "Pitbull" Freire (10-2 MMA, 3-1 BFC), Brent Weedman (18-7-1 MMA, 4-2 BFC), Rick Hawn (11-1 MMA, 3-1 BFC) and Ricardo Tirloni (14-1 MMA, 1-0 BFC).
As for the eighth and final spot?
"We've got a question mark next to that slot," Rebney said. "We've got the list down to three (candidates), and that was from a very big list. ... We'll decide soon."
The tournament, which takes place during the 12-week season, awards the winner a total of $100,000 in pay. He also gets a shot at Chandler's title.
For more on Bellator's upcoming season, stay tuned to the MMA Rumors section of the site.
MMAjunkie.com Radio broadcasts Monday-Friday at noon ET (9 a.m. PT) live from the Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino's Race & Sports Book. The show is hosted by Gorgeous George, MMAjunkie.com lead staff reporter John Morgan and producer Goze. For more information or to download past episodes, go to www.mmajunkie.com/radio.» ReplyComments: 58 Related News E. Alvarez Only on Junkie Bellator Video: Michael Chandler vs. Eddie Alvarez full fight at Bellator 58Bellator 58 results: Chandler blasts Alvarez in thriller to earn lightweight crownMMAjunkie.com Radio: Eddie Alvarez, Bjorn Rebney, Andre Winner, UFC 139 tix giveawayMMAjunkie.com Radio: Eddie Alvarez, 'King Mo,' Ron Foster, Joey Oddessa, Joey DiazBellator 58's Eddie Alvarez knows Michael Chandler is a real threatWith 'Pitbull' injured, Pat Curran gets Bellator champ Joe Warren in FebruaryChamp Eddie Alvarez meets Michael Chandler at November's Bellator 58Eddie Alvarez injured, Bellator 54 title fight with Michael Chandler delayedAgent: With world ranking in mind, Bellator's Alvarez aiming for Aoki rematch UFC 142's Anthony Johnson out to see if middleweights are the 'real deal'Photo gallery: Champ Jose Aldo the star of today's UFC 142 open workouts in RioRefocused Rousimar Palhares ready to put oddities behind him at UFC 142UFC 142's Ricardo Funch happy to replace fellow lawman, eyes octagon redemptionUFC 141's Volkmann takes media and school board to task, done with Obama callouts'Strikeforce: Rockhold vs. Jardine' ratings: Event draws 344,000 viewersBrenneman focused on striking for UFC on FX 1, but odometer pays the priceSaturday's UFC 142 bout order includes Arantes vs. Carvalho on FacebookEx-champ Sean Sherk aims for spring UFC return, wants to solidify HOF credentials MMAjunkie.com Radio: Melvin Guillard, Fabricio Camoes, Bjorn Rebney, Jimmy JonesBrian Rogers joins Bellator's season-six middleweight tourneyBellator inks Russian welterweight standout Andrey KoreshkovSaunders, Rickels and Amaya fill Bellator's season-six welterweight tourney fieldLloyd Woodard joins Bellator's season-six lightweight tournamentBryan Baker joins Bellator's season-six welterweight tourneyHeavyweight Jon Madsen signs with Bellator for upcoming tourneyBrian Foster joins Bellator's season-six welterweight tournamentKarl Amoussou joins Bellator's season-six welterweight tournament
View the Original article
Photo gallery: Champ Jose Aldo the star of today's UFC 142 open workouts in Rio
On Tuesday night, the beaches of Barra da Tijuca in Rio de Janeiro were pelted with a pouring rain, even as workers diligently constructed the setting for the week's UFC 142 open-workout event.
But on Wednesday, the clouds parted
View the Original article
But on Wednesday, the clouds parted
View the Original article
Keith Wisniewski vs. Chris Clements slated for UFC 145 in Montreal
A welterweight bout between Keith Wisniewski (28-13-1 MMA, 0-2 UFC) and promotional newcomer Chris Clements (10-4 MMA, 0-0 UFC) is slated for March's UFC 145 event.
UFC officials recently confirmed the matchup.
UFC 145, which is the first Canadian show of the year, takes place March 24 at Bell Centre in Montreal, Quebec.
The night's main card airs on pay-per-view, and the preliminary card, including Wisniewski vs. Clements, airs on FX.
Wisniewski gets a third shot at a first UFC win. The Indiana-based fighter suffered a decision loss to Nick Thompson at UFC 56 back in 2005, which kicked off a five-fight losing streak. However, the 30-year-old rebounded with six consecutive victories that earned him a ticket back into the UFC. However, in October at UFC on Versus 6, he suffered a TKO defeat to veteran Josh Neer.
He now takes on Clements, a Canadian fighter and onetime IFL competitor who's won four straight fights (all via knockout). Two of the wins came over notables and former UFC fighter Jonathan Goulet and Rich Clementi. The 35-year-old fighter, who trained under the late Shawn Tompkins, has won all 10 of his career bouts via knockout.
The latest UFC 145 card includes:
Che Mills vs. Rory MacDonald Ben Rothwell vs. Brendan Schaub Mark Bocek vs. Matt Wiman Mark Hominick vs. Eddie Yagin Travis Browne vs. Chad Griggs Mac Danzig vs. Efrain Escudero Chris Clements vs. Keith WisniewskiFor more on UFC 145, stay tuned to the UFC Rumors section of the site.
(Pictured: Keith Wisniewski)
» ReplyComments: 2 Related News UFC 145 ... K. Wisniewski C. Clements UFC Mac Danzig meets Efrain Escudero at UFC 145 in Montreal (Updated)Matt Wiman vs. Mark Bocek added to UFC 145 in MontrealMark Hominick vs. Eddie Yagin on tap for UFC 145 in MontrealUFC 145 official for March 24, gets Ben Rothwell vs. Brendan ScahubTravis Browne meets Strikeforce import Chad Griggs at UFC 145UFC 145 official for Montreal in March, gets MacDonald vs. MillsRory MacDonald vs. Che Mills slated for UFC 145 in Montreal UFC on Versus 6 preliminary-card results: Edwards romps, Sass wins via heel hookJosh Neer vs. Keith Wisniewski official for UFC on Versus 6 prelimsJosh Neer vs. Keith Wisniewski targeted for UFC on Versus 6 on Oct. 1 No Results Available Brenneman focused on striking for UFC on FX 1, but odometer pays the priceSaturday's UFC 142 bout order includes Arantes vs. Carvalho on FacebookWhite: Silva vs. Sonnen II would likely take place in Brazilian soccer stadiumUFC 142 extended video previewMMAjunkie.com Radio: UFC on FX 1's Duane Ludwig and Charlie BrennemanEx-champ Sean Sherk aims for spring UFC return, wants to solidify HOF credentialsFive fights confirmed for UFC on FUEL TV 2 in SwedenUFC 142's Sam Stout doubtful that Thiago Tavares will trade punchesOfficial UFC 142 fighter weigh-ins take place Friday in Rio
View the Original article
UFC officials recently confirmed the matchup.
UFC 145, which is the first Canadian show of the year, takes place March 24 at Bell Centre in Montreal, Quebec.
The night's main card airs on pay-per-view, and the preliminary card, including Wisniewski vs. Clements, airs on FX.
Wisniewski gets a third shot at a first UFC win. The Indiana-based fighter suffered a decision loss to Nick Thompson at UFC 56 back in 2005, which kicked off a five-fight losing streak. However, the 30-year-old rebounded with six consecutive victories that earned him a ticket back into the UFC. However, in October at UFC on Versus 6, he suffered a TKO defeat to veteran Josh Neer.
He now takes on Clements, a Canadian fighter and onetime IFL competitor who's won four straight fights (all via knockout). Two of the wins came over notables and former UFC fighter Jonathan Goulet and Rich Clementi. The 35-year-old fighter, who trained under the late Shawn Tompkins, has won all 10 of his career bouts via knockout.
The latest UFC 145 card includes:
Che Mills vs. Rory MacDonald Ben Rothwell vs. Brendan Schaub Mark Bocek vs. Matt Wiman Mark Hominick vs. Eddie Yagin Travis Browne vs. Chad Griggs Mac Danzig vs. Efrain Escudero Chris Clements vs. Keith WisniewskiFor more on UFC 145, stay tuned to the UFC Rumors section of the site.
(Pictured: Keith Wisniewski)
» ReplyComments: 2 Related News UFC 145 ... K. Wisniewski C. Clements UFC Mac Danzig meets Efrain Escudero at UFC 145 in Montreal (Updated)Matt Wiman vs. Mark Bocek added to UFC 145 in MontrealMark Hominick vs. Eddie Yagin on tap for UFC 145 in MontrealUFC 145 official for March 24, gets Ben Rothwell vs. Brendan ScahubTravis Browne meets Strikeforce import Chad Griggs at UFC 145UFC 145 official for Montreal in March, gets MacDonald vs. MillsRory MacDonald vs. Che Mills slated for UFC 145 in Montreal UFC on Versus 6 preliminary-card results: Edwards romps, Sass wins via heel hookJosh Neer vs. Keith Wisniewski official for UFC on Versus 6 prelimsJosh Neer vs. Keith Wisniewski targeted for UFC on Versus 6 on Oct. 1 No Results Available Brenneman focused on striking for UFC on FX 1, but odometer pays the priceSaturday's UFC 142 bout order includes Arantes vs. Carvalho on FacebookWhite: Silva vs. Sonnen II would likely take place in Brazilian soccer stadiumUFC 142 extended video previewMMAjunkie.com Radio: UFC on FX 1's Duane Ludwig and Charlie BrennemanEx-champ Sean Sherk aims for spring UFC return, wants to solidify HOF credentialsFive fights confirmed for UFC on FUEL TV 2 in SwedenUFC 142's Sam Stout doubtful that Thiago Tavares will trade punchesOfficial UFC 142 fighter weigh-ins take place Friday in Rio
View the Original article
Ex-champ Sean Sherk aims for spring UFC return, wants to solidify HOF credentials
Sean Sherk, UFC Hall of Famer?
With the UFC entering a new era and veterans such as Tito Ortiz, B.J. Penn and Rich Franklin in the homestretch of their careers, former UFC lightweight champ Sherk is hoping to cement his place in a crowded field of HOF candidates.
Inactive since a September 2010 win over Evan Dunham, the oft-injured Sherk (36-4-1 MMA, 8-4 UFC) now is planning for a spring or early-summer return to the octagon.
"I wanted to fight
View the Original article
With the UFC entering a new era and veterans such as Tito Ortiz, B.J. Penn and Rich Franklin in the homestretch of their careers, former UFC lightweight champ Sherk is hoping to cement his place in a crowded field of HOF candidates.
Inactive since a September 2010 win over Evan Dunham, the oft-injured Sherk (36-4-1 MMA, 8-4 UFC) now is planning for a spring or early-summer return to the octagon.
"I wanted to fight
View the Original article
MMAjunkie.com Radio: UFC on FX 1's Duane Ludwig and Charlie Brenneman
MMAjunkie.com Radio today welcomes to the show Duane "Bang" Ludwig, who meets Josh Neer in next week's UFC on FX 1 co-headliner.
We also chat with Charie Brenneman, who meets Daniel Roberts on the event's preliminary card.
MMAjunkie.com Radio airs from noon to 2 p.m. ET (9-11 a.m. PT) live fromMandalay Bay Resort & Casino in Las Vegas. Listen to andwatch a video stream of the two-hour show at www.mmajunkie.com/radio, or watch it live on select television markets as part of Fight Now TV.
MMAjunkie.com Radio listener guide:
HOW TO LISTEN: Go to www.mmajunkie.com/radio and choose a streaming option (such as Windows Media Player or Quicktime) to listen to the show live. A countdown clock appears when the show is offline. HOW TO WATCH (ON WEB): Check out a live webcam of the studio while there. You can also listen to a live audio stream of the show when you activate the video feed. HOW TO WATCH (ON TV): MMAjunkie.com Radio is simulcast live on the upstart Fight Now TV cable station. Watch "MMAjunkie.com Radio Live" in New York, New Jersey and Connecticut as part of Cablevision's iO Sports & Entertainment Pak on channel 464. (More cable partners will be added in the coming months.) HOW TO CALL: MMAjunkie.com Radio takes phone calls from listeners throughout the show. Call into the MMAjunkie.com Radio hotline at (702) 736-9461 or (702) 736-9463. HOW TO CHAT: To chat with the show's hosts, guests and other MMAjunkie.com Radio listeners, launch the "Combat Chat" feature, which is available on the main radio page. You can discuss the show and even submit a question for the day's guests while there. HOW TO DISCUSS: The MMAjunkie.com MMA Forums has a new section devoted solely to MMAjunkie.com Radio. Stop by the MMAjunkie.com Radio forum to discuss the show, interact with the hosts, suggest future guests and catch up on the latest MMAjunkie.com Radio news. HOW TO VISIT THE SHOW: You can watch MMAjunkie.com Radio live and in person at the Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino on the world-famous Las Vegas Strip. The booth is located in the resort's Race & Sports Book next to the Mandalay Bay poker room. To plan a trip to Sin City and MMAjunkie.com Radio, go to www.mandalaybay.com. » ReplyComments: 4 Related News UFC on F... D. Ludwig C. Brenneman UFC Brenneman focused on striking for UFC on FX 1, but odometer pays the priceKamal Shalorus' key to UFC on FX 1 success: Stop eatingUFC on FUEL TV 1 adds Dillashaw vs. Watson, Brookins vs. RochaMMAjunkie.com Radio: Keith Jardine, Jordan Mein and Kamal ShalorusKen Stone out of UFC on FX 1 main-card bout due to injuryMike Easton vs. Ken Stone completes UFC on FX 1 main cardMike Brown's UFC on FX 1 withdrawal due to knee surgery, expects quick returnMike Brown scratches from UFC on FX 1, Ricardo Lamas out of UFC 143Replacement Fabricio Camoes steps in to fight Reza Madadi at UFC on FX 1 Video: UFC boss Dana White shows why 'Bang' Ludwig deserves fastest-KO recordWhite says Ludwig now UFC record-holder; NSAC contends quick KO still 11 secondsFX airs first UFC event in January with Neer vs. Ludwig, Barry vs. MorecraftDid "Bang" Ludwig score UFC's fastest knockout? NSAC seeks legal opinion"Bang" Ludwig goes into surgery next week, stumps for UFC's fastest-KO recordMMAjunkie.com Radio: "King Mo" Lawal, Duane "Bang" Ludwig and Monte CoxMMAjunkie.com Radio: Duane Ludwig, Mike Constantino and Joey VarnerUFC on Versus 5 main-card results: Lytle retires in vintage form, Bendo upsets MillerUFC on Versus 5 preview: Miller vs. Henderson trumps headliners in significance Brenneman focused on striking for UFC on FX 1, but odometer pays the priceUFC on FX 1 adds Sandoval vs. Denis, Roberts vs. Brenneman confirmedCharlie Brenneman vs. Daniel Roberts targeted for UFC on FX 1Charlie Brenneman camp takes no issue with stoppage at UFC on Versus 6UFC on Versus 6 main-card results: Spirited 'Mighty Mouse' can't dethrone champ CruzUFC on Versus 6's Charlie Brenneman ready for his latest big challengeMMAjunkie.com Radio: Charlie Brenneman, Mike Swick, Bjorn Rebney, Gerald HarrisUFC on Versus 6 preview: Can 'Mighty Mouse' catch champ Dominick Cruz?UFC on Versus 6's four-fight main card set Brenneman focused on striking for UFC on FX 1, but odometer pays the priceSaturday's UFC 142 bout order includes Arantes vs. Carvalho on FacebookWhite: Silva vs. Sonnen II would likely take place in Brazilian soccer stadiumUFC 142 extended video previewEx-champ Sean Sherk aims for spring UFC return, wants to solidify HOF credentialsKeith Wisniewski vs. Chris Clements slated for UFC 145 in MontrealFive fights confirmed for UFC on FUEL TV 2 in SwedenUFC 142's Sam Stout doubtful that Thiago Tavares will trade punchesOfficial UFC 142 fighter weigh-ins take place Friday in Rio
View the Original article
We also chat with Charie Brenneman, who meets Daniel Roberts on the event's preliminary card.
MMAjunkie.com Radio airs from noon to 2 p.m. ET (9-11 a.m. PT) live fromMandalay Bay Resort & Casino in Las Vegas. Listen to andwatch a video stream of the two-hour show at www.mmajunkie.com/radio, or watch it live on select television markets as part of Fight Now TV.
MMAjunkie.com Radio listener guide:
HOW TO LISTEN: Go to www.mmajunkie.com/radio and choose a streaming option (such as Windows Media Player or Quicktime) to listen to the show live. A countdown clock appears when the show is offline. HOW TO WATCH (ON WEB): Check out a live webcam of the studio while there. You can also listen to a live audio stream of the show when you activate the video feed. HOW TO WATCH (ON TV): MMAjunkie.com Radio is simulcast live on the upstart Fight Now TV cable station. Watch "MMAjunkie.com Radio Live" in New York, New Jersey and Connecticut as part of Cablevision's iO Sports & Entertainment Pak on channel 464. (More cable partners will be added in the coming months.) HOW TO CALL: MMAjunkie.com Radio takes phone calls from listeners throughout the show. Call into the MMAjunkie.com Radio hotline at (702) 736-9461 or (702) 736-9463. HOW TO CHAT: To chat with the show's hosts, guests and other MMAjunkie.com Radio listeners, launch the "Combat Chat" feature, which is available on the main radio page. You can discuss the show and even submit a question for the day's guests while there. HOW TO DISCUSS: The MMAjunkie.com MMA Forums has a new section devoted solely to MMAjunkie.com Radio. Stop by the MMAjunkie.com Radio forum to discuss the show, interact with the hosts, suggest future guests and catch up on the latest MMAjunkie.com Radio news. HOW TO VISIT THE SHOW: You can watch MMAjunkie.com Radio live and in person at the Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino on the world-famous Las Vegas Strip. The booth is located in the resort's Race & Sports Book next to the Mandalay Bay poker room. To plan a trip to Sin City and MMAjunkie.com Radio, go to www.mandalaybay.com. » ReplyComments: 4 Related News UFC on F... D. Ludwig C. Brenneman UFC Brenneman focused on striking for UFC on FX 1, but odometer pays the priceKamal Shalorus' key to UFC on FX 1 success: Stop eatingUFC on FUEL TV 1 adds Dillashaw vs. Watson, Brookins vs. RochaMMAjunkie.com Radio: Keith Jardine, Jordan Mein and Kamal ShalorusKen Stone out of UFC on FX 1 main-card bout due to injuryMike Easton vs. Ken Stone completes UFC on FX 1 main cardMike Brown's UFC on FX 1 withdrawal due to knee surgery, expects quick returnMike Brown scratches from UFC on FX 1, Ricardo Lamas out of UFC 143Replacement Fabricio Camoes steps in to fight Reza Madadi at UFC on FX 1 Video: UFC boss Dana White shows why 'Bang' Ludwig deserves fastest-KO recordWhite says Ludwig now UFC record-holder; NSAC contends quick KO still 11 secondsFX airs first UFC event in January with Neer vs. Ludwig, Barry vs. MorecraftDid "Bang" Ludwig score UFC's fastest knockout? NSAC seeks legal opinion"Bang" Ludwig goes into surgery next week, stumps for UFC's fastest-KO recordMMAjunkie.com Radio: "King Mo" Lawal, Duane "Bang" Ludwig and Monte CoxMMAjunkie.com Radio: Duane Ludwig, Mike Constantino and Joey VarnerUFC on Versus 5 main-card results: Lytle retires in vintage form, Bendo upsets MillerUFC on Versus 5 preview: Miller vs. Henderson trumps headliners in significance Brenneman focused on striking for UFC on FX 1, but odometer pays the priceUFC on FX 1 adds Sandoval vs. Denis, Roberts vs. Brenneman confirmedCharlie Brenneman vs. Daniel Roberts targeted for UFC on FX 1Charlie Brenneman camp takes no issue with stoppage at UFC on Versus 6UFC on Versus 6 main-card results: Spirited 'Mighty Mouse' can't dethrone champ CruzUFC on Versus 6's Charlie Brenneman ready for his latest big challengeMMAjunkie.com Radio: Charlie Brenneman, Mike Swick, Bjorn Rebney, Gerald HarrisUFC on Versus 6 preview: Can 'Mighty Mouse' catch champ Dominick Cruz?UFC on Versus 6's four-fight main card set Brenneman focused on striking for UFC on FX 1, but odometer pays the priceSaturday's UFC 142 bout order includes Arantes vs. Carvalho on FacebookWhite: Silva vs. Sonnen II would likely take place in Brazilian soccer stadiumUFC 142 extended video previewEx-champ Sean Sherk aims for spring UFC return, wants to solidify HOF credentialsKeith Wisniewski vs. Chris Clements slated for UFC 145 in MontrealFive fights confirmed for UFC on FUEL TV 2 in SwedenUFC 142's Sam Stout doubtful that Thiago Tavares will trade punchesOfficial UFC 142 fighter weigh-ins take place Friday in Rio
View the Original article
UFC 142 extended video preview
by MMAjunkie.com Staff on Jan 10, 2012 at 12:15 pm ETThe returns to Brazil this week for Saturday's UFC 142 event.
The show, which is the UFC's first of 2012, takes place at HSBC Arena in Rio de Janeiro.
In an extended video preview of the show, we take a look at the championship headliner between Brazilian featherweight titleholder Jose Aldo and undefeated title challenger Chad Mendes.
We also get a look at the night's middleweight co-headliner, which pits former champ Vitor Belfort against longtime welterweight and debuting middleweight Anthony Johnson.
UFC 142's main card, including the co-headliners, airs on pay-per-view. The prelims air on FX. Despite Brazil being three hours ahead of the U.S. East Coast, the event airs live in its normal Saturday-night timeslot with prelims at 8 p.m. ET (5 p.m. PT) and the main card at 10 p.m. ET.
Check out the video preview above, and stay tuned to MMAjunkie.com throughout the week for full on-site event coverage.
The full UFC 142 card includes:
MAIN CARD (Pay-per-view) Champ Jose Aldo vs. Chad Mendes (for featherweight title) Vitor Belfort vs. Anthony Johnson Mike Massenzio vs. Rousimar Palhares Carlo Prater vs. Erick Silva Edson Barboza vs. Terry EtimPRELIMINARY CARD (FX)
Sam Stout vs. Thiago Tavares Gabriel Gonzaga vs. Ednaldo Oliveira Yuri Alcantara vs. Michihiro Omigawa Ricardo Funch vs. Mike Pyle Felipe Arantes vs. Antonio "Pato" CarvalhoFor the latest on UFC 142, stay tuned to the UFC Rumors section of the site.» ReplyComments: 13 Related News UFC 142 UFC Saturday's UFC 142 bout order includes Arantes vs. Carvalho on FacebookUFC 142's Sam Stout doubtful that Thiago Tavares will trade punchesOfficial UFC 142 fighter weigh-ins take place Friday in RioFabio Maldonado injured in training, UFC 142 fight with Caio Magalhaes scratchedChamp Aldo says lifelong wrestler Maynard has him well-prepared for UFC 142UFC 142's Mendes more than ready for champ Aldo, no matter what Maynard saysUFC 142's Anthony Johnson done for now with welterweight divisionMMAjunkie.com Radio: Strikeforce's Tyler Stinson (in studio), UFC 142's Sam StoutVeteran ref Mario Yamasaki wants to see more regulation in native Brazil Brenneman focused on striking for UFC on FX 1, but odometer pays the priceSaturday's UFC 142 bout order includes Arantes vs. Carvalho on FacebookWhite: Silva vs. Sonnen II would likely take place in Brazilian soccer stadiumMMAjunkie.com Radio: UFC on FX 1's Duane Ludwig and Charlie BrennemanEx-champ Sean Sherk aims for spring UFC return, wants to solidify HOF credentialsKeith Wisniewski vs. Chris Clements slated for UFC 145 in MontrealFive fights confirmed for UFC on FUEL TV 2 in SwedenUFC 142's Sam Stout doubtful that Thiago Tavares will trade punchesOfficial UFC 142 fighter weigh-ins take place Friday in Rio
View the Original article
The show, which is the UFC's first of 2012, takes place at HSBC Arena in Rio de Janeiro.
In an extended video preview of the show, we take a look at the championship headliner between Brazilian featherweight titleholder Jose Aldo and undefeated title challenger Chad Mendes.
We also get a look at the night's middleweight co-headliner, which pits former champ Vitor Belfort against longtime welterweight and debuting middleweight Anthony Johnson.
UFC 142's main card, including the co-headliners, airs on pay-per-view. The prelims air on FX. Despite Brazil being three hours ahead of the U.S. East Coast, the event airs live in its normal Saturday-night timeslot with prelims at 8 p.m. ET (5 p.m. PT) and the main card at 10 p.m. ET.
Check out the video preview above, and stay tuned to MMAjunkie.com throughout the week for full on-site event coverage.
The full UFC 142 card includes:
MAIN CARD (Pay-per-view) Champ Jose Aldo vs. Chad Mendes (for featherweight title) Vitor Belfort vs. Anthony Johnson Mike Massenzio vs. Rousimar Palhares Carlo Prater vs. Erick Silva Edson Barboza vs. Terry EtimPRELIMINARY CARD (FX)
Sam Stout vs. Thiago Tavares Gabriel Gonzaga vs. Ednaldo Oliveira Yuri Alcantara vs. Michihiro Omigawa Ricardo Funch vs. Mike Pyle Felipe Arantes vs. Antonio "Pato" CarvalhoFor the latest on UFC 142, stay tuned to the UFC Rumors section of the site.» ReplyComments: 13 Related News UFC 142 UFC Saturday's UFC 142 bout order includes Arantes vs. Carvalho on FacebookUFC 142's Sam Stout doubtful that Thiago Tavares will trade punchesOfficial UFC 142 fighter weigh-ins take place Friday in RioFabio Maldonado injured in training, UFC 142 fight with Caio Magalhaes scratchedChamp Aldo says lifelong wrestler Maynard has him well-prepared for UFC 142UFC 142's Mendes more than ready for champ Aldo, no matter what Maynard saysUFC 142's Anthony Johnson done for now with welterweight divisionMMAjunkie.com Radio: Strikeforce's Tyler Stinson (in studio), UFC 142's Sam StoutVeteran ref Mario Yamasaki wants to see more regulation in native Brazil Brenneman focused on striking for UFC on FX 1, but odometer pays the priceSaturday's UFC 142 bout order includes Arantes vs. Carvalho on FacebookWhite: Silva vs. Sonnen II would likely take place in Brazilian soccer stadiumMMAjunkie.com Radio: UFC on FX 1's Duane Ludwig and Charlie BrennemanEx-champ Sean Sherk aims for spring UFC return, wants to solidify HOF credentialsKeith Wisniewski vs. Chris Clements slated for UFC 145 in MontrealFive fights confirmed for UFC on FUEL TV 2 in SwedenUFC 142's Sam Stout doubtful that Thiago Tavares will trade punchesOfficial UFC 142 fighter weigh-ins take place Friday in Rio
View the Original article
White: Silva vs. Sonnen II would likely take place in Brazilian soccer stadium
by MMAjunkie.com Staff on Jan 10, 2012 at 1:00 pm ETIf Chael Sonnen gets by Mark Munoz later this month at UFC on FOX 2, his next bout could be a huge one.
UFC president Dana White recently joined "UFC Tonight" on FUEL TV to discuss potential plans for a long-awaited rematch.
In the segment, which ultimately didn't make it to air, White said that if Sonnen gets his rematch with UFC middleweight champion Anderson Silva, it'll likely take place in Silva's home country of Brazil
View the Original article
UFC president Dana White recently joined "UFC Tonight" on FUEL TV to discuss potential plans for a long-awaited rematch.
In the segment, which ultimately didn't make it to air, White said that if Sonnen gets his rematch with UFC middleweight champion Anderson Silva, it'll likely take place in Silva's home country of Brazil
View the Original article
Saturday's UFC 142 bout order includes Arantes vs. Carvalho on Facebook
The finalized lineup for the UFC's first Brazilian event of 2012 is complete, and Facebook is once again a part of the broadcast plan.
MMAjunkie.com (www.mmajunkie.com) today confirmed with UFC officials that in addition to the previously announced pay-per-view and FX portions of Saturday's UFC 142 broadcasts, Facebook also will stream the night's first fight between featherweights Felipe Arantes (13-4 MMA, 0-1 UFC) and Antonio Carvalho (13-4 MMA, 0-0 UFC).
Featuring a headliner of featherweight champion Jose Aldo vs. undefeated challenger Chad Mendes, UFC 142 event takes place at HSBC Arena in Rio de Janeiro.
The Facebook stream is currently scheduled to begin at 7:30 p.m. ET (4:30 p.m. PT). FX then broadcasts four preliminary-card bouts beginning at 8 p.m. ET before the night's pay-per-view main card kicks off at 10 p.m. ET.
The recently scratched contest between Fabio Maldonado (18-4 MMA, 1-1 UFC) and Caio Magalhaes (5-0 MMA, 0-0 UFC) was also expected to stream on Facebook, but the late cancellation leaves the stream with just one bout.
To access the preliminary card stream, viewers must visit the UFC's official Facebook profile (www.facebook.com/ufc) and push the "Like" button for the page.
The UFC first began to stream select fights live on Facebook at January 2011's "UFC Fight Night 23: UFC Fight for the Troops 2" event. Back in November, UFC and FOX officials suggested fights would no longer would be streamed and that all bouts would be televised in some form, but as MMAjunkie.com recently reported, the social-networking website will remain a part of future UFC broadcasts for the time being.
The finalized UFC 142 lineup includes:
MAIN CARD (Pay-per-view) Champ Jose Aldo vs. Chad Mendes (for featherweight title) Vitor Belfort vs. Anthony Johnson Mike Massenzio vs. Rousimar Palhares Carlo Prater vs. Erick Silva Edson Barboza vs. Terry EtimPRELIMINARY CARD (FX)
Sam Stout vs. Thiago Tavares Gabriel Gonzaga vs. Ednaldo Oliveira Yuri Alcantara vs. Michihiro Omigawa Ricardo Funch vs. Mike PylePRELIMINARY CARD (Facebook) Felipe Arantes vs. Antonio "Pato" CarvalhoFor the latest on UFC 142, stay tuned to the UFC Rumors section of the site.
(Pictured: Felipe Arantes)» ReplyComments: 9 Related News UFC 142 A. Carvalho F. Arantes UFC UFC 142 extended video previewUFC 142's Sam Stout doubtful that Thiago Tavares will trade punchesOfficial UFC 142 fighter weigh-ins take place Friday in RioFabio Maldonado injured in training, UFC 142 fight with Caio Magalhaes scratchedChamp Aldo says lifelong wrestler Maynard has him well-prepared for UFC 142UFC 142's Mendes more than ready for champ Aldo, no matter what Maynard saysUFC 142's Anthony Johnson done for now with welterweight divisionMMAjunkie.com Radio: Strikeforce's Tyler Stinson (in studio), UFC 142's Sam StoutVeteran ref Mario Yamasaki wants to see more regulation in native Brazil UFC 142 prelims to air on FXAlcantara vs. Omigawa, Arantes vs. Carvalho added to UFC 142 in BrazilFelipe Arantes vs. Antonio 'Pato' Carvalho targeted for UFC 142 in BrazilSource: Antonio Carvalho out, Felipe Arantes in against Yuri Alcantara at UFC 134Featherweight Antonio Carvalho meets Yuri Alcantara at UFC 134 in Brazil UFC 142 prelims to air on FXAlcantara vs. Omigawa, Arantes vs. Carvalho added to UFC 142 in BrazilFelipe Arantes vs. Antonio 'Pato' Carvalho targeted for UFC 142 in BrazilUFC 134 medical suspensions: Griffin, Nedkov, Assuncao and Loveland out up to six monthsUFC 134 preliminary-card results: Tavares stops Fisher, Palhares survives mental gaffe"UFC 134: Silva vs. Okami" official with 12 boutsSource: Antonio Carvalho out, Felipe Arantes in against Yuri Alcantara at UFC 134 Brenneman focused on striking for UFC on FX 1, but odometer pays the priceWhite: Silva vs. Sonnen II would likely take place in Brazilian soccer stadiumUFC 142 extended video previewMMAjunkie.com Radio: UFC on FX 1's Duane Ludwig and Charlie BrennemanEx-champ Sean Sherk aims for spring UFC return, wants to solidify HOF credentialsKeith Wisniewski vs. Chris Clements slated for UFC 145 in MontrealFive fights confirmed for UFC on FUEL TV 2 in SwedenUFC 142's Sam Stout doubtful that Thiago Tavares will trade punchesOfficial UFC 142 fighter weigh-ins take place Friday in Rio
View the Original article
MMAjunkie.com (www.mmajunkie.com) today confirmed with UFC officials that in addition to the previously announced pay-per-view and FX portions of Saturday's UFC 142 broadcasts, Facebook also will stream the night's first fight between featherweights Felipe Arantes (13-4 MMA, 0-1 UFC) and Antonio Carvalho (13-4 MMA, 0-0 UFC).
Featuring a headliner of featherweight champion Jose Aldo vs. undefeated challenger Chad Mendes, UFC 142 event takes place at HSBC Arena in Rio de Janeiro.
The Facebook stream is currently scheduled to begin at 7:30 p.m. ET (4:30 p.m. PT). FX then broadcasts four preliminary-card bouts beginning at 8 p.m. ET before the night's pay-per-view main card kicks off at 10 p.m. ET.
The recently scratched contest between Fabio Maldonado (18-4 MMA, 1-1 UFC) and Caio Magalhaes (5-0 MMA, 0-0 UFC) was also expected to stream on Facebook, but the late cancellation leaves the stream with just one bout.
To access the preliminary card stream, viewers must visit the UFC's official Facebook profile (www.facebook.com/ufc) and push the "Like" button for the page.
The UFC first began to stream select fights live on Facebook at January 2011's "UFC Fight Night 23: UFC Fight for the Troops 2" event. Back in November, UFC and FOX officials suggested fights would no longer would be streamed and that all bouts would be televised in some form, but as MMAjunkie.com recently reported, the social-networking website will remain a part of future UFC broadcasts for the time being.
The finalized UFC 142 lineup includes:
MAIN CARD (Pay-per-view) Champ Jose Aldo vs. Chad Mendes (for featherweight title) Vitor Belfort vs. Anthony Johnson Mike Massenzio vs. Rousimar Palhares Carlo Prater vs. Erick Silva Edson Barboza vs. Terry EtimPRELIMINARY CARD (FX)
Sam Stout vs. Thiago Tavares Gabriel Gonzaga vs. Ednaldo Oliveira Yuri Alcantara vs. Michihiro Omigawa Ricardo Funch vs. Mike PylePRELIMINARY CARD (Facebook) Felipe Arantes vs. Antonio "Pato" CarvalhoFor the latest on UFC 142, stay tuned to the UFC Rumors section of the site.
(Pictured: Felipe Arantes)» ReplyComments: 9 Related News UFC 142 A. Carvalho F. Arantes UFC UFC 142 extended video previewUFC 142's Sam Stout doubtful that Thiago Tavares will trade punchesOfficial UFC 142 fighter weigh-ins take place Friday in RioFabio Maldonado injured in training, UFC 142 fight with Caio Magalhaes scratchedChamp Aldo says lifelong wrestler Maynard has him well-prepared for UFC 142UFC 142's Mendes more than ready for champ Aldo, no matter what Maynard saysUFC 142's Anthony Johnson done for now with welterweight divisionMMAjunkie.com Radio: Strikeforce's Tyler Stinson (in studio), UFC 142's Sam StoutVeteran ref Mario Yamasaki wants to see more regulation in native Brazil UFC 142 prelims to air on FXAlcantara vs. Omigawa, Arantes vs. Carvalho added to UFC 142 in BrazilFelipe Arantes vs. Antonio 'Pato' Carvalho targeted for UFC 142 in BrazilSource: Antonio Carvalho out, Felipe Arantes in against Yuri Alcantara at UFC 134Featherweight Antonio Carvalho meets Yuri Alcantara at UFC 134 in Brazil UFC 142 prelims to air on FXAlcantara vs. Omigawa, Arantes vs. Carvalho added to UFC 142 in BrazilFelipe Arantes vs. Antonio 'Pato' Carvalho targeted for UFC 142 in BrazilUFC 134 medical suspensions: Griffin, Nedkov, Assuncao and Loveland out up to six monthsUFC 134 preliminary-card results: Tavares stops Fisher, Palhares survives mental gaffe"UFC 134: Silva vs. Okami" official with 12 boutsSource: Antonio Carvalho out, Felipe Arantes in against Yuri Alcantara at UFC 134 Brenneman focused on striking for UFC on FX 1, but odometer pays the priceWhite: Silva vs. Sonnen II would likely take place in Brazilian soccer stadiumUFC 142 extended video previewMMAjunkie.com Radio: UFC on FX 1's Duane Ludwig and Charlie BrennemanEx-champ Sean Sherk aims for spring UFC return, wants to solidify HOF credentialsKeith Wisniewski vs. Chris Clements slated for UFC 145 in MontrealFive fights confirmed for UFC on FUEL TV 2 in SwedenUFC 142's Sam Stout doubtful that Thiago Tavares will trade punchesOfficial UFC 142 fighter weigh-ins take place Friday in Rio
View the Original article
Brenneman focused on striking for UFC on FX 1, but odometer pays the price
Charlie Brenneman used to drive 500 miles a week between Pennsylvania and New Jersey in part to find the solution to his striking deficiencies.
A short spell from his Garden State pizzeria, Mark Henry, Frankie Edgar's coach, taught him the finer points of boxing.
Lately, though, Brenneman has eased back to 300 miles. A shorter drive away, he spends more time with AMA Fight Club's Muay Thai coach, Kaensak Sor Ploenjit. His feet hurt from kicking so many elbows and knees.
Trading one ouch for another is just your usual day-in, day-out for a fighter, but Brenneman still has his most recent fight in mind. One victory away from an improbable jump to the top-10 of the welterweight class, Brenneman took an Anthony Johnson kick to the head this past October and deflated the momentum he'd built four months prior with an upset victory over Rick Story.
"I've questioned myself and said, 'Why is that?'" he today told MMAjunkie.com Radio (www.mmajunkie.com/radio). "What's the deal there?"
Brenneman (14-3 MMA, 3-2 UFC) faces Daniel Roberts (12-3 MMA, 3-3 UFC) on the preliminary card of UFC on FX 1, which takes place Jan. 20 at Bridgestone Arena in Nashville. The main card airs on FX while prelims air on FUEL TV.
While it's not a matchup that necessarily promises a striking clinic, Brenneman still is looking for answers to his problem.
The easy answer is his background. Brenneman did not get into the sport with world-class striking credentials to his name. Like others, he transitioned into fighting through the world of amateur wrestling, and learning to punch was a part of the job. But he also brought a physical aggression with that innate skill, and while it served him against those with inferior mat credentials, it hastened his demise against those on his level.
Take Johny Hendricks, who knocked him out in the second round of his second UFC fight. Brenneman committed the sin of standing toe to toe too long.
"With the Hendricks fight, I just attribute it to going balls to the wall," he said. "It's kind of like do or die. That's the mentality I took into that fight that ultimately ended up with me getting TKOd. There's a difference between getting hit and cowering and retreating versus firing right back. And while that's not always the correct answer, that's what I did there."
Johnson was different altogether.
"When you take one of his kicks to the head, there's not much you can do," Brenneman said. "I just put myself in a bad position there. But it's kind of like, 'Live by the sword; die by the sword.' Obviously, I don't want to get TKOd or KOd, but at the same time, my tempo is in your face. And unfortunately, sometimes that's a drawback."
In learning to manage that aggression, he's gravitated closer to home. He might also be running at cross purposes.
Ploenjit is always telling Brenneman to take a strong stance. At face value, it's a command that perfectly describes the Thai style of fighting, which places a great emphasis in standing in front of opponents and out-toughing them using the most devastating strikes possible. Boxing, on the other hand, emphasizes more footwork, agility, grace
View the Original article
A short spell from his Garden State pizzeria, Mark Henry, Frankie Edgar's coach, taught him the finer points of boxing.
Lately, though, Brenneman has eased back to 300 miles. A shorter drive away, he spends more time with AMA Fight Club's Muay Thai coach, Kaensak Sor Ploenjit. His feet hurt from kicking so many elbows and knees.
Trading one ouch for another is just your usual day-in, day-out for a fighter, but Brenneman still has his most recent fight in mind. One victory away from an improbable jump to the top-10 of the welterweight class, Brenneman took an Anthony Johnson kick to the head this past October and deflated the momentum he'd built four months prior with an upset victory over Rick Story.
"I've questioned myself and said, 'Why is that?'" he today told MMAjunkie.com Radio (www.mmajunkie.com/radio). "What's the deal there?"
Brenneman (14-3 MMA, 3-2 UFC) faces Daniel Roberts (12-3 MMA, 3-3 UFC) on the preliminary card of UFC on FX 1, which takes place Jan. 20 at Bridgestone Arena in Nashville. The main card airs on FX while prelims air on FUEL TV.
While it's not a matchup that necessarily promises a striking clinic, Brenneman still is looking for answers to his problem.
The easy answer is his background. Brenneman did not get into the sport with world-class striking credentials to his name. Like others, he transitioned into fighting through the world of amateur wrestling, and learning to punch was a part of the job. But he also brought a physical aggression with that innate skill, and while it served him against those with inferior mat credentials, it hastened his demise against those on his level.
Take Johny Hendricks, who knocked him out in the second round of his second UFC fight. Brenneman committed the sin of standing toe to toe too long.
"With the Hendricks fight, I just attribute it to going balls to the wall," he said. "It's kind of like do or die. That's the mentality I took into that fight that ultimately ended up with me getting TKOd. There's a difference between getting hit and cowering and retreating versus firing right back. And while that's not always the correct answer, that's what I did there."
Johnson was different altogether.
"When you take one of his kicks to the head, there's not much you can do," Brenneman said. "I just put myself in a bad position there. But it's kind of like, 'Live by the sword; die by the sword.' Obviously, I don't want to get TKOd or KOd, but at the same time, my tempo is in your face. And unfortunately, sometimes that's a drawback."
In learning to manage that aggression, he's gravitated closer to home. He might also be running at cross purposes.
Ploenjit is always telling Brenneman to take a strong stance. At face value, it's a command that perfectly describes the Thai style of fighting, which places a great emphasis in standing in front of opponents and out-toughing them using the most devastating strikes possible. Boxing, on the other hand, emphasizes more footwork, agility, grace
View the Original article
недеља, 8. јануар 2012.
The Sunday Junkie: Jan. 8 edition
A new Strikeforce era kicked off on Saturday, and the organization's 2012 season is underway with the recent "Strikeforce: Rockhold vs. Jardine" event.
While the new Strikeforce-Showtime deal kept the promotion alive, contributors to this week's edition of The Sunday Junkie have some obvious concerns.
The winner of our weekly reader-feedback feature, Canada's Alex Giardini, thinks main-event winner and champion Luke Rockhold did the right thing by expressing some of his own concerns about the future of Strikeforce and has ability to move up the middleweight rankings.
For his winning entry, Alex wins a free one-year subscription to "Fighters Only" magazine, the world's leading MMA and lifestyle magazine.
Want to submit to next week's edition of The Sunday Junkie? Scroll to the bottom of the page for instructions.
Also, as a reminder, please be sure to include your hometown and stickwithin the 150-word limit. Many quality submissions this week didn'tmeet those minimum guidelines and couldn't be considered forpublication.
(Pictured: Luke Rockhold)
View the Original article
While the new Strikeforce-Showtime deal kept the promotion alive, contributors to this week's edition of The Sunday Junkie have some obvious concerns.
The winner of our weekly reader-feedback feature, Canada's Alex Giardini, thinks main-event winner and champion Luke Rockhold did the right thing by expressing some of his own concerns about the future of Strikeforce and has ability to move up the middleweight rankings.
For his winning entry, Alex wins a free one-year subscription to "Fighters Only" magazine, the world's leading MMA and lifestyle magazine.
Want to submit to next week's edition of The Sunday Junkie? Scroll to the bottom of the page for instructions.
Also, as a reminder, please be sure to include your hometown and stickwithin the 150-word limit. Many quality submissions this week didn'tmeet those minimum guidelines and couldn't be considered forpublication.
(Pictured: Luke Rockhold)
View the Original article
Fedor Emelianenko possible as Strikeforce's 'plus-one' heavyweight for new champ
Soon, the Strikeforce heavyweight grand prix will come to a conclusion, and the entire division then will be sent to the UFC.
But first, the tournament champion
View the Original article
But first, the tournament champion
View the Original article
Could Santos' failed test actually save Strikeforce's women's 145-pound division?
In MMA, especially with smaller promotions, an entire division can be propped up by a single dominant fighter.
However, with Strikeforce's women's 145-pound division, could the loss of its champion and pound-for-pound queenpin actually save it?
On Saturday Strikeforce CEO Scott Coker said Cristiane "Cyborg" Santos' yearlong suspension for a failed drug test could actually result in an influx of talent and perhaps event a brighter future for the division.
Santos, of course, was suspended a year and fined $2,500 after testing positive for an anabolic steroid at a Dec. 17 Strikeforce event in San Diego. Although she blamed the test on a dietary supplement that unknowingly contained stanozolol, she's been stripped of the title, and UFC president Dana White initially suggested the entire division could be trashed.
Strikeforce CEO Scott Coker, though, sees things a bit differently, and once the dust settles, he thinks the division could actually be deeper in talent.
"The 145-pound weight class, I don't think it's time to throw that out to the garbage," Coker said. "I feel we still have some great fighters at 145, and a lot of girls who maybe haven't been around for a while are going to be motivated to come back because 'Cyborg' isn't going to be there.
"I heard that
View the Original article
However, with Strikeforce's women's 145-pound division, could the loss of its champion and pound-for-pound queenpin actually save it?
On Saturday Strikeforce CEO Scott Coker said Cristiane "Cyborg" Santos' yearlong suspension for a failed drug test could actually result in an influx of talent and perhaps event a brighter future for the division.
Santos, of course, was suspended a year and fined $2,500 after testing positive for an anabolic steroid at a Dec. 17 Strikeforce event in San Diego. Although she blamed the test on a dietary supplement that unknowingly contained stanozolol, she's been stripped of the title, and UFC president Dana White initially suggested the entire division could be trashed.
Strikeforce CEO Scott Coker, though, sees things a bit differently, and once the dust settles, he thinks the division could actually be deeper in talent.
"The 145-pound weight class, I don't think it's time to throw that out to the garbage," Coker said. "I feel we still have some great fighters at 145, and a lot of girls who maybe haven't been around for a while are going to be motivated to come back because 'Cyborg' isn't going to be there.
"I heard that
View the Original article
'Strikeforce: Rockhold vs. Jardine' results: Striker Payan shuts down wrestler Martinez
Within a few minutes of their 160-pound catchweight affair, Estevan Payan found a way to avoid the ground game of former state high-school wrestling champion Alonzo Martinez.
He simply wore Martinez down with punches and made him hesitant to close the distance in a lopsided unanimous-decision loss.
The preliminary-card fight kicked off "Strikeforce: Rockhold vs. Jardine" and aired on Showtime Extreme. It took place at The Joint at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas and preceded the night's Showtime-televised main card.
In a striker vs. wrestler matchup, the boxer reigned supreme.
The fighters traded heavy punches and kicks early in the fight, though Payan got the better of it with countershots and a good takedown defense. Additionally, once he cut off corners, Payan landed multiple combinations and a good mixture of body punches and kicks. Martinez was never truly hurt, but Payan clearly won the first round.
Martinez opened the second round with some solid kicks, but Payan's hands were more active. He then stunned Martinez with a knee to the head during an ill-advised takedown attempt. Martinez slowed as the round wore on, and his face became a bloodied and swollen mess.
The third round offered little new, and and Payan continued connecting on more than half his punches while shutting down a half-dozen takedown attempts throughout the fight.
The performance earned him a unanimous-decision victory via 30-27 scores.
"I felt great out there," he said. "I work with so many tough guys. I've been trying to get here for such a long time, and now that I'm here, I plan on staying. ... I got the fight on Monday, so on short notice I didn't have great conditioning. Hopefully now I will get a couple of weeks' notice to show my full game out there."
Payan (13-3 MMA, 1-0 SF), a veteran of the Rage in the Cage promotion, now has won seven straight fights. Martinez (35-15-1 MMA, 0-1 SF), meanwhile, suffers just his second loss in 10 fights.
Up-to-the-fight results include:
Estevan Payan def. Alonzo Martinez via unanimous decision (30-27, 30-27, 30-27) For the latest on "Strikeforce: Rockhold vs. Jardine," check out the MMA Events section of MMAjunkie.com.
(Pictured: Estevan Payan)» ReplyComments: 0 Related News Strikefo... E. Payan A. Martinez Strikeforce 'Strikeforce: Rockhold vs. Jardine' notebook: Woodley demands title shotDespite UFC challenge, Rockhold says he's comfortable with Strikeforce optionsStrikeforce's Lawal rips on 'Kermit' Mousasi, sub-par actor Jackson, bad ref Winslow'Strikeforce: Rockhold vs. Jardine' results: Champ Rockhold defends, TKOs Jardine'Strikeforce: Rockhold vs. Jardine' results: Lawler scores flying-knee TKO over Amagov'Strikeforce: Rockhold vs. Jardine' results: 'King Mo' stops Larkin with ground and pound'Strikeforce: Rockhold vs. Jardine' results: Woodley's wrestling shuts down Mein'Strikeforce: Rockhold vs. Jardine' results: Saffiedine takes split decision over Stinson'Strikeforce: Rockhold vs. Jardine' results: Burrell edges Terry via split decision Estevan Payan replaces Bobby Green, completes 'Strikeforce: Rockhold vs. Jardine'"The Ultimate Fighter 13" tryouts draw several notables including Galvao, Amoussou, ToneyFeatherweight tourney finals decided at Bellator's Week 6 event in TexasBellator's featherweight semifinals set for May 8 in TexasBellator Week 1 salaries: Alvarez, Masvidal, four others earn $25KMasvidal cruises, Alvarez survives scare at Bellator's debut eventBellator debuts April 3 in Florida with Alvarez vs. Morales, Masvidal vs. GarijoESPN-backed Bellator bolsters lineup with five exclusive signings Estevan Payan replaces Bobby Green, completes 'Strikeforce: Rockhold vs. Jardine'Bobby Green scratches; replacement sought for 'Strikeforce: Rockhold vs. Jardine'Bobby Green vs. Alonzo Martinez added to 'Strikeforce: Rockhold vs. Jardine'Jamie Varner vs. Alonzo Martinez headlines HDNet's Titan Fighting 20 on Sept. 23HDNet Fights Video Vault: Alonzo Martinez vs. Deryck Ripley at Titan FC 16Full card released for Bellator Fighting Championships Week 7 in ChicagoBellator Week 1 salaries: Alvarez, Masvidal, four others earn $25KMasvidal cruises, Alvarez survives scare at Bellator's debut event Strikeforce confirms four bouts for March 3, says main event still undeterminedDespite UFC challenge, Rockhold says he's comfortable with Strikeforce optionsStrikeforce's Lawal rips on 'Kermit' Mousasi, sub-par actor Jackson, bad ref Winslow'Strikeforce: Rockhold vs. Jardine' results: Champ Rockhold defends, TKOs Jardine'Strikeforce: Rockhold vs. Jardine' results: Lawler scores flying-knee TKO over Amagov'Strikeforce: Rockhold vs. Jardine' results: 'King Mo' stops Larkin with ground and pound'Strikeforce: Rockhold vs. Jardine' results: Woodley's wrestling shuts down Mein'Strikeforce: Rockhold vs. Jardine' results: Saffiedine takes split decision over Stinson'Strikeforce: Rockhold vs. Jardine' results: Burrell edges Terry via split decision
View the Original article
He simply wore Martinez down with punches and made him hesitant to close the distance in a lopsided unanimous-decision loss.
The preliminary-card fight kicked off "Strikeforce: Rockhold vs. Jardine" and aired on Showtime Extreme. It took place at The Joint at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas and preceded the night's Showtime-televised main card.
In a striker vs. wrestler matchup, the boxer reigned supreme.
The fighters traded heavy punches and kicks early in the fight, though Payan got the better of it with countershots and a good takedown defense. Additionally, once he cut off corners, Payan landed multiple combinations and a good mixture of body punches and kicks. Martinez was never truly hurt, but Payan clearly won the first round.
Martinez opened the second round with some solid kicks, but Payan's hands were more active. He then stunned Martinez with a knee to the head during an ill-advised takedown attempt. Martinez slowed as the round wore on, and his face became a bloodied and swollen mess.
The third round offered little new, and and Payan continued connecting on more than half his punches while shutting down a half-dozen takedown attempts throughout the fight.
The performance earned him a unanimous-decision victory via 30-27 scores.
"I felt great out there," he said. "I work with so many tough guys. I've been trying to get here for such a long time, and now that I'm here, I plan on staying. ... I got the fight on Monday, so on short notice I didn't have great conditioning. Hopefully now I will get a couple of weeks' notice to show my full game out there."
Payan (13-3 MMA, 1-0 SF), a veteran of the Rage in the Cage promotion, now has won seven straight fights. Martinez (35-15-1 MMA, 0-1 SF), meanwhile, suffers just his second loss in 10 fights.
Up-to-the-fight results include:
Estevan Payan def. Alonzo Martinez via unanimous decision (30-27, 30-27, 30-27) For the latest on "Strikeforce: Rockhold vs. Jardine," check out the MMA Events section of MMAjunkie.com.
(Pictured: Estevan Payan)» ReplyComments: 0 Related News Strikefo... E. Payan A. Martinez Strikeforce 'Strikeforce: Rockhold vs. Jardine' notebook: Woodley demands title shotDespite UFC challenge, Rockhold says he's comfortable with Strikeforce optionsStrikeforce's Lawal rips on 'Kermit' Mousasi, sub-par actor Jackson, bad ref Winslow'Strikeforce: Rockhold vs. Jardine' results: Champ Rockhold defends, TKOs Jardine'Strikeforce: Rockhold vs. Jardine' results: Lawler scores flying-knee TKO over Amagov'Strikeforce: Rockhold vs. Jardine' results: 'King Mo' stops Larkin with ground and pound'Strikeforce: Rockhold vs. Jardine' results: Woodley's wrestling shuts down Mein'Strikeforce: Rockhold vs. Jardine' results: Saffiedine takes split decision over Stinson'Strikeforce: Rockhold vs. Jardine' results: Burrell edges Terry via split decision Estevan Payan replaces Bobby Green, completes 'Strikeforce: Rockhold vs. Jardine'"The Ultimate Fighter 13" tryouts draw several notables including Galvao, Amoussou, ToneyFeatherweight tourney finals decided at Bellator's Week 6 event in TexasBellator's featherweight semifinals set for May 8 in TexasBellator Week 1 salaries: Alvarez, Masvidal, four others earn $25KMasvidal cruises, Alvarez survives scare at Bellator's debut eventBellator debuts April 3 in Florida with Alvarez vs. Morales, Masvidal vs. GarijoESPN-backed Bellator bolsters lineup with five exclusive signings Estevan Payan replaces Bobby Green, completes 'Strikeforce: Rockhold vs. Jardine'Bobby Green scratches; replacement sought for 'Strikeforce: Rockhold vs. Jardine'Bobby Green vs. Alonzo Martinez added to 'Strikeforce: Rockhold vs. Jardine'Jamie Varner vs. Alonzo Martinez headlines HDNet's Titan Fighting 20 on Sept. 23HDNet Fights Video Vault: Alonzo Martinez vs. Deryck Ripley at Titan FC 16Full card released for Bellator Fighting Championships Week 7 in ChicagoBellator Week 1 salaries: Alvarez, Masvidal, four others earn $25KMasvidal cruises, Alvarez survives scare at Bellator's debut event Strikeforce confirms four bouts for March 3, says main event still undeterminedDespite UFC challenge, Rockhold says he's comfortable with Strikeforce optionsStrikeforce's Lawal rips on 'Kermit' Mousasi, sub-par actor Jackson, bad ref Winslow'Strikeforce: Rockhold vs. Jardine' results: Champ Rockhold defends, TKOs Jardine'Strikeforce: Rockhold vs. Jardine' results: Lawler scores flying-knee TKO over Amagov'Strikeforce: Rockhold vs. Jardine' results: 'King Mo' stops Larkin with ground and pound'Strikeforce: Rockhold vs. Jardine' results: Woodley's wrestling shuts down Mein'Strikeforce: Rockhold vs. Jardine' results: Saffiedine takes split decision over Stinson'Strikeforce: Rockhold vs. Jardine' results: Burrell edges Terry via split decision
View the Original article
Пријавите се на:
Постови (Atom)