TURTLE'S MMA Spot

Jessamyn Duke Signature T-shirt

2011-05-12T14:27:00.000-05:00

The hottest up and coming female fighter in the game now has her own shirt. Check out Jessamyn Duke's Signature T-shirt on cagepassion.com There is a tank for the ladies available.

UFC's New Insurance Policy Creates Influential Shift in Talent Acquisition

2011-05-12T14:17:00.000-05:00

(from Bloody Elbow)

On Monday, the UFC announced that all fighters under the Zuffa banner would be covered by accident insurance effective June 1st of this year. The policy has no restrictions on where a fighter resides, nor does it exclude fighters who do not have a signed fight contract for an upcoming event. Approximately 350 fighters will be covered under the new policy, giving them up to $50,000 per year with premiums being paid by Zuffa. The move is a monumental milestone in combat sports, making the UFC an even more prominent destination for aspiring stars of the cage.

Talent acquisition has been a topic of discussion among fans for years, mainly focusing on the up-and-coming talent that may have a shot at greatness in more prominent promotions. For many of those fighters, money is a significant reason why they may sign with one organization over another, but the UFC is typically the end game. Maximum Fighting Championships, Bellator, Shark Fights, Tachi Palace Fights, BAMMA, the list goes on of credible organizations who can shell out the cash to acquire the services of solid prospects or older veterans hoping to prove they can still hack it in the UFC.

Zuffa's new insurance policy may change the way in which prospects think about their future, specifically the loved ones they may be helping support or their own well-being. We've heard stories about the struggles of professional fighters in the past. Injuries can wreak havoc on families, putting extreme pressure on fighters to perform, work through injuries in training, and show up to fights less than 100%. Let's not forget the added stress of finding a way to pay for training camps and training partners that were brought in to help you succeed.

The UFC may not be paying what regional promotions are shelling out to lock up touted prospects, but the insurance policy is a security blanket that is worth a substantial amount. In my opinion, it should be a deciding factor for many prospects who are offered less money to fight for the UFC while being offered the potential of a Bellator payout or possibly higher payouts in their first fight by promotions like MFC or Shark Fights. In essence, the UFC may have caused an influential shift in how they acquire talent. Talent won't be waiting to be noticed. They'll be banging on the UFC's door to let them in.

A bargaining table that includes the UFC, Bellator, MFC, and various other organizations is now heavily lopsided in favor of the UFC. Even if they are offering $5,000 to show, $5,000 to win while MFC is offering up $10,000/$10,000 or even $15,000/$15,000, the UFC is the better deal. Why?

Fighters headlining regional cards aren't making a living on their wages alone. They are normally working as instructors at their gyms or working a regular blue-collar, or sometimes white-collar, regular paying job on the side. It may be slowing their progression in becoming top talents, but for now -- it's what needs to be done to support themselves and their families. Injuries can affect both their personal jobs, their fighting careers, and the loved ones they support. No other promotions can offer that kind of commitment. In my mind, the UFC just one-upped any promotion hoping to sign talent that has the UFC's watchful eye already interested

Absolute Action MMA offers ticket deals

2011-05-11T16:08:00.000-05:00

I spoke to the Absolute Action guys last night. They told me they were offering deals on pre-sale tickets to the shows on the 4th in Lexington and the 18th in Florence.

You can get general admission tickets to both shows for $45
or
A VIP ticket to both shows for only $60

The more pre-sale tickets you buy the more you save. Get yours now at aamma.net

Fighting Words With Mike Straka - Rich Franklin

2011-05-11T16:05:00.000-05:00

If you missed this when it aired on HDNet check it out.

AAMMA 13 Post fight

2011-05-11T15:15:00.000-05:00

This past Saturday night at the Midwest Sports complex was electric. All the fans rushed in from the rain and patiently waited in line for the doors to open. Once they got everyone in the door and the lights began to dim I started to get nervous. I was doing the commentary and post fight interviews. I never seem to worry about screwing that up until just before the show starts. The night of completion started off with the first three bouts not making it out of the first round. Then Skelton and tsunami went to war in what some people said was the fight of the night.
I think the show just kept getting better as the night went on. My Cage Passion Radio homies Mr. Billy Donovan and Dr.Parag Patel spared no expense on the production and the match making was top notch.
I want to thank Absolute Action MMA for allowing me to host the PPV broadcast. And I would like to thank my broadcast partner for most of the show pro fight Rob Nickerson. He did an awesome job and really knows his stuff. Also Cage Passion Fight wear of course for sponsoring the event. Also I want to give a shout out to Bluegrass MMA and Warcry Wear for sponsoring ammy fighters. Fighters at this level have a had time get sponsors so you guys stepping up is awesome in my book.

Fight of the night:

Robby Malof vs Chris Myers

I had to think long and hard on this because there were so many great bouts. I really enjoyed this fight not only because of the great BJJ on the part of Malof. But also because of the defense displayed by Myers. Robby was all over him in this fight and Chris refused to be finished. Myers took this fight on short notice but you couldn't tell. Robby Malof is yet another JG guy that is going places. I look forward to seeing both of these fighters in the cage again. Malof won by unanimous decision.

Submission of the night:

Doug Ballinger vs Jeremy Philpot

Lots of submissions happened Saturday night. Given that this bout was for the 145lb title and that these two had went to war so many times made this one stand out tho. Ballinger got a sweet armbar on Philpot at the 00:53 mark in the first round. Now both Ballinger's titles are vacant as he is making his pro debut June 4 in Lexington.

Knock out of the night:

George Oiler vs Dom Steele

This was not really a knock out it went down as a tap to strikes. From where I was sitting tho I seen it like this, Dom Steele was all over Oiler in this fight. During some ground and pound Oiler ended up with his nose busted and blood was covering both fighters. Dom clinched Oiler on the cage in front of our broadcast table and landed a high knee square in the face of Oiler. George fell to the ground and covered up and Steele was relentless with his stikes till Oiler tapped. I really feel it was the knee that did him in tho.

If you missed this show it sucks to be you. I had alot of fun and really enjoy seeing all my fight friends at these events. I look forward to AAMMA's summer tour and seeing new fighters and new fans. Be on the look out for new episodes of Cage Passion Radio because you never know when the dynamic duo are going to have another big announcement.

Steven Seagal talks about magical Black Box front kick

2011-05-01T13:12:00.001-05:00

Turtle's UFC 129 picks

2011-04-29T15:43:00.005-05:00

Ok so tomorrow is the big day UFC 129. This is the biggest UFC event ever really, with 55,000 seats sold. I had hoped to post my thoughts on all of these fights in detail,But I am really pressed for time today. So that being said Here are my picks for UFC 129.

Sean Pierson vs. Jake Ellenberger

I am going with Ellenberger on this. Dude is just crazy and I have never been a Pierson fan.

Nate Diaz vs. Rory MacDonald

I am torn on this one. Macdonald is a very talented fighter and so is Diaz. With Nick Diaz just havin a fight and Shields in this main event I am left to wonder how much of the camp was focused on Nate. I am going to go with Diaz by Sub. It would not surprise me if Rory takes this tho.

Mark Bocek vs. Ben Henderson

Henderson....next

Vladimir Matyushenko vs. Jason Brilz

Will somebody please tell me why this fight is on the main card? Do you care? Cause I don't. I am taking Brilz I do not believe Matyushenko should even be in the UFC.

Randy Couture vs. Lyoto Machida

So Randy says no matter what this will be his last UFC fight. I have to say I think Randy's style could be bad for Lyoto. In his fight with Rampage, Jackson got him on the cage but could not keep him there. I think Randy can. Machida's counter style is not going to work well against Couture. I think Randy will take it on the score cards.

José Aldo (c) vs. Mark Hominick

Kick kick boom. Aldo all day.

Georges St-Pierre (c) vs. Jake Shields

Ok so here it is the main event. I am a huge GSP fan and not a fan of Shields at all. That being said I think Shields will win this fight. I do not think that GSP has the power to finish Shields on his feet. And I also do not think he can stop Shields take downs. I question if Shields can make GSP tap tho. So I think this may be a rather boring fight for the casual fan with Shields winning the decision.

So thats what I think for whatever it's worth. Enjoy the fights everybody and I'll talk to you on Cage Passion Radio Sunday Night at 11pm for a recap.

Fighting Words with Mike Straka Preview - Rich Franklin

2011-04-26T17:06:00.000-05:00

This will finally air Friday night on HDNet.

Dana white video blog UFC 129 day 1

2011-04-26T16:21:00.000-05:00

UFC Officially Takes Steps To Improve MMA Judging

2011-04-26T15:42:00.002-05:00

Today in a report coming out of mmafighting.com, UFC Vice President of Regulatory Affairs, Marc Ratner confirmed that the UFC has officially petitioned the Nevada State Athletic Commission to revise their judging methods to include table top monitors for the judges to view the action inside the Octagon.

As seen in multiple UFC broadcasts, closed circuit televisions are used by both Joe Rogan and Mike Goldberg as well as UFC executives Lorenzo Fertitta and Dana White while they watch cage side.

In the report, it was disclosed that the petition to get this underway starts with UFC 130. Currently the commission in California is the only governing body that provides monitors to view in the cage contests using monitors.

The use of monitors gives judges angles and viewpoints that cannot be seen by merely sitting and observing from their bench. The implementation of monitors will greatly increase their ability to see all the action and hopefully translate into better decision making on the bouts that are determined by judges scoring.

If approved by the NSAC for UFC 130, it is almost certain to become the norm for the regulators inside of Nevada.
And it’s about time

Happy Easter everyone

2011-04-23T19:53:00.002-05:00

HOW EASTER EGGS ARE MADE.

Timbo and Ballinger exclusive T shirts

2011-04-22T21:26:00.005-05:00

On May 7th Aaron Webb aka Timbo Slice and Doug Ballinger both have fights at Absolute Action MMA 13. Cage Passion Fight wear has exclusive shirts for both fighters. Order yours now at cagepassion.com
Also be on the look out for a AAMMA female champion Jessamyn Duke shirt in the very near future.
So show your support May 7th as Timbo Slice fights AAMMA heavyweight champ Josh Franklin. And featherweight champ Doug Ballinger puts his title on the line against Jeremy Philpot.

Pay Up For Plenty

2011-04-22T20:44:00.002-05:00

I am reposting this information from the events Facebook page

Donna Messano Metz and her family are hosting a fundraising benefit in aid of Muscular Dystrophy. Please help this wonderful cause, by coming, donating, enjoying the silent auction prizes, split the pot & raffle & ' free buffet'! Thee Molly Wellman, Cincinnati Mixologist of the Year, will be doing what she does best, mixing delicious concoctions!, guest appearances include; @The Gold 45's and local DJ Grover Smith.

Its going to be from Sunday, May 1 at 2:00pm - May 2 at 2:00am

Place Rick's Tavern & Grille
5955 Boymel Dr
Fairfield, OH

Come see our Split the pot and raffle/silent auction items that are out of this world! Win a ringside table for TEN at Absolute Action MMA's next event May 7th, Rich Franklin's autographed gloves, a granite vanity and installation courtesy of JT Tile, 2 memberships to Jorge Gurgels Training Academy for Kickboxing (gloves supplied) and MMA training for one month, A Bottle of Utopias by Sam Adams!valued $600, (Sam Adams Ice Bucket, beer glasses, sipping glass, Tee, hat and keychains to compliment this awesome auction item), Fusion MMA one month membership, hair cuts/colors from Salon LA via Taylor Jameson, Identity Salon, Curl up & dye and Mitchells, We have $150 for Montgomery Inn, this prize can be shipped anywhere in the USA!, $200 for The Fox and Hound, Carpet cleaning (3 rooms), multiple massages, golf and more golf rounds including Shaker Run, Cin City Burlesque tickets, comedy clubs tickets, Shadow Box, Go Bananas, Funny bone, Reds Vs Brewers Tickets, ,with complimentary parking (behind Diamond!), Gift card for The Rusty Bucket, Pure Romance gift basket, Scentsy candles gift basket, haircare gift basket and $50 gift card, Bass Pro Shop gift card for $50, all Natural tolietries basket,Starbucks goodies, StarBonesdoggie treats, liquor via Carl at The Crazy Fox Saloon!, Walts BBQ gift card, NYPD gift cert,this could go on alllllll night lonnnnng. You just gotta come! Enjoy our complimentary buffet and wonderful entertainment, it's going to be quite the event!!!

Sneek peek at new American Fighter line.

2011-04-19T21:37:00.002-05:00

Rich Franklin is in California for an Affliction photo shoot. Earlier today American Fighter Tweeted some pics. Giving us the first look at the new AF line available soon at Buckle and Macy's.

Absolute Action MMA 13

2011-04-18T00:18:00.002-05:00

AND MANY MANY MORE TICKETS ON SALE NOW!

New UFC 129 trailer

2011-04-15T23:37:00.000-05:00

Family Fight Wear

2011-04-15T15:48:00.002-05:00

I wanted to kind of spotlight Family Fight Wear this week. It is a small local company owned by Regina Green and her husband Terry. They are both huge MMA fans and always on the scene at local events here in Kentucky. The biggest reason is that her son is the AAMMA Middleweight champ Shane McClain. They are strong supporters of MMA and her son, So much so that she started designing her own fight apparel. They have some great t shirts so check out the link to right of my page and show em some like and order a shirt or two. Also be sure to check out Shane in his first title defense Saturday May 7th as he fights Shaun Asher at AAMMA 13.

Cage Passion Radio

2011-04-12T20:20:00.000-05:00

Cage Passion Radio Highlighting upcoming Absolute Action MMA 04/12 by aamma | Blog Talk Radio

The latest episode airs LIVE at 11pm

Ryan Debelak vs Troy Bleviins 8/28/2010

2011-04-12T19:33:00.000-05:00

Absolute Action MMA has made the re-match between D-block and Hands of Stone official. The fight will take place June 4th. I had the honor of being cageside the first time these to met. And see for yourself it was one hell of a fight. This video is part one click part 2 to view the rest of the fight.

I don't want to see Silva vs GSP

2011-04-12T17:43:00.004-05:00

Ever since Zuffa bought Strikeforce people have been talking about the match ups that they would love to see. Up to this point GSP vs Anderson Silva was the Superfight people hoped to see in the near future. I have no desire to see that fight myself. I have seen both fighters up close and there is a huge size difference. Long story short, I think Silva would kill GSP. Don't get me wrong I love GSP he is one of the greatest champions of all time. That's why I do not want it to happen. It would tarnish the legacy of GSP.
I do however have some Superfights that I would love to see. I think some of these match ups make more sense than others, But none the less I love to see them.

GSP vs Nick Diaz
Jon Jones vs Anderson Silva
Randy Couture vs Fedor
Overreem vs Cain Velasquez
Jose Aldo vs Gilbert Melendez
Brock Lesnar vs Josh Barnett

Ok so flame me all you want I'd love to see any of these fights. What is your dream superfight?

Absolute Action 13

2011-04-11T14:59:00.001-05:00

Absolute Action MMA Back in Florence Ky Saturday May 7th at the Midwest Sports Complex. AAMMA.NET has all the details. Cant make it to the event watch it live on gofightlive.com!

Come out and see these fighters go to war inside the AAMMA Hexagon!

Here is the fight card as it is on this date.

Pro Matchup's
...Tom Hayden vs Harry Johnson
Christopher Bennett vs Anthony Jones
Marcus Finch vs Jamey Scruggs
George Oiler vs Dominique Steele

Ammy Matchup's
145-Jessamyn Duke vs Crystal Bentley (womens title)
155-Michael Morelli vs Robby Malof
185-William Underwood vs Justin Higdon
155-James Morton, II vs Luke Hoffman
170-Deric Reece vs TBD
145-Brandon Windisch vs Josh Foster
heavy-Adam Prince vs Michael Gay
145-Thomas Deinlein vs Matthew Tallon
135-Derek Angel vs Blake Askin
Heavy-Duprie Moon II vs John Buchanon
155-Brittany Skelton vs Rayshaun Allen
205-Robert Consorti vs Jaret Jetter
185-Jerry McClain vs Shaun Asher (185 title fight)
135-April Bowling vs TBD
135-Eric Moell vs Brandon Cawthorn
145-Doug Ballinger vs Jeremy Philpot (145 Title)
Heavy-Aaron Webb vs Josh Franklin
170-Dustin Lema vs TBD
125-Gina Begley vs TBD
155-Gerry Huber vs Nick Noe
155-Bryan Massong vs TBDSee More

American Fighter strikes a major deal

2011-04-11T13:08:00.002-05:00

Via the Dayton Daily News...

An area mixed-martial-arts company has scored a major licensing deal.

MMA apparel company American Fighter, which is based in Loveland and owned by Jeff Adler and UFC fighter Rich Franklin, has scored a deal with industry giant Affliction Clothing.

According to American Fighter spokesperson J.T. Stewart, Affliction has signed a licensing deal to put apparel in Buckle, Macy’s, Dillard’s and other “high-end stores.”

The deal runs for five years with an option for another five. Affliction, which is one of MMA’s biggest sponsors and a mainstream apparel brand, paid a “healthy” licensing fee upfront and will issue a royalty on all sales, according to Stewart.

“They deal with the fighters, marketing and distribution,” Stewart said. “They are a real player. In the time we met with them on a Thursday until the next Thursday, we had a deal done. They had already sold into four major retailers.”

Early in Franklin’s fighting career, he and Adler created the American Fighter brand from scratch. With Franklin as front man, the company has made solid strides in a crowded MMA-apparel space.

The company also sponsors many MMA fighters, including Loveland native Matt Hamill, Jeremy Stephens, Alan Belcher and Marcus Davis. American Fighter and Affliction now collectively will run the fighter-sponsorship program.

“They’ve been a great source to work with,” Stewart said. “Everyone is on the same page. It’s not real tough to do business with them.”

While most of the operations will move to Affliction’s California headquarters, the Loveland base will remain open to deal with wholesale orders and direct sales. Additionally, the American Fighter website (www.americanfighter.com) will undergo an overhaul.

“This was the right deal at the right time,” Stewart said. “They can focus on expanding the apparel, and we can focus on some other projects with the American Fighter brand.”

Nick Diaz vs Paul Daley Full Fight

2011-04-10T19:57:00.000-05:00

If you missed this last night it was a great fight. Diaz is a beast.

Business as usual.

2011-04-09T20:27:00.002-05:00

Strikeforce Diaz vs Daley: Turtle's picks

2011-04-09T16:07:00.003-05:00

So tonight on Showtime we get to see the first Strikeforce event since the Zuffa buyout. This is by far one of the best SF cards I have ever seen. I often complain about the matchmaking on SF cards,But no complaints out of me this time around. Anyway I thought I would post my picks for this fight card and try and redeem myself for the awful job I did on the last UFC Fight night. So here we go...

Shinya Aoki vs Lyle Beerbohm

I'll start with the first main card fight of the evening. First off let me say I am a huge Aoki fan. He is the submission machine. I personally think he fights better when he is pissed haha. It seems he has trouble fighting in the states tho. I do not know if it is the fact that he can't wear his tights of many colors or if its the cage or what. That being said I hope to see an angry ready to win Aoki. Beerbohn is no joke tho, He was undefeated until Febuary of this year when he suffered a Decision loss. Will Aoki be the first to finish him? I think so Aoki by sub in the 2nd.

Gegard Mousasi vs Keith Jardine

I almost don't want to watch this fight. I love the Dean of Mean and have seen him try and make his "comeback" more than once now. I find myself feeling sorry for the guy everytime I see him suffer another loss. On the other hand it would be nice to see the guy get a big win and that is just what Mousasi would be. Mousasi's only recent loss was to King Mo. Before that this guy was on a tear winning 15 straight fights. his last 2 fights were wins in Japan fighting for Dream. I think he will take Jardine down and finish with a choke in the 2nd or 3rd.

Gilbert Melendez vs Tatsuya Kawajiri

First title fight of the evening. Melendez is the best lightweight in the world in my opinion. If and when he ever gets a shot at the UFC champion Frankie Edgar I believe he would win easily. But on this night he faces Tatsuya Kawajiri. This is actually a rematch of a 2006 Pride bout that Melendez won by UD. But I think this time around will be diffrent. I see Melendez getting the finish this time. TKO punches in the 2nd

Nick Diaz vs Paul Daley

Two of the biggest arrogant attitudes in MMA clash for the SF Welterwieght title. I love Nick Diaz he is always exciting to watch with his punches in bunches style. I don't really think thats how to beat Daley tho. Daley has a lethel KO. Everyone who has beaten Daley has done so by taking him out of his comfort zone. If Diaz takes this to the ground his BJJ will cancel Daley out. Daley has a huge punchers chance here and if he won the title under the Zuffa umbrella it would make things interesting. I'm going with Diaz by sub in the latter rounds of the fight.

Well those are my thoughts for whatever they are worth. It should be a very entertaining card. Have a great night everybody!

Well wishes to the Irish Hand Grenade.

2011-04-08T18:39:00.004-05:00

Real quick I wanted to wish Marcus Davis all my best tonight as he makes his MFC debut. He is fighting Curtis Demarce and the card will be on HDNet at 10pm. Marcus is a great guy and JG Academy is his second home.

AAMMA XI Suber vs Bennett

2011-04-07T18:59:00.000-05:00

This is a great fight. These two met up at AAMMA XI. Bennett says he wants a re-match. I'd love to see it,What about you?

Yogi Bear vs. Ranger Smith

2011-04-07T18:50:00.000-05:00

Referee Boo Boo Bear stops this contest at 1:38 of the first round.

Cage Passion Radio

2011-04-04T20:30:00.000-05:00

http://www.blogtalkradio.com/cagepassion/2011/04/05/cage-passion-radio-sponsored-by-cage-passion-fight-wear

Join Billy D, Double P and myself tonight at 11pm. Big Big MMA news tonight.

Strikeforce Diaz vs Daley.

2011-04-04T20:20:00.000-05:00

This card looks pretty sick. Also on the card Gilbert Melendez vs Tatsuya Kawajiri for the title. And Gerard Mousasi is fighting UFC vet Keith Jardine. Shinya Aoki is also on the card. Damn I love Saturdays.

Absolute Action XII recap

2011-04-03T18:19:00.004-05:00

What an awesome night of mixed martial arts action April 2 was. I had the privilege of sitting cageside and doing commentary with the guru who knows more than you do Brian Furby. It was a fantastic night as AAMMA crowned 3 new champions and a few new contenders burned their names in people's minds. Your opinion may differ from mine,But this is how I seen some of the highlights of the evening.

Fight of the night - Derrick Weisenberger vs Nick Noe

I had said for weeks this would be a great fight and these 2 did not disappoint. Noe had Weisenberger mounted in the first round and was pounding him. He then went for a rear naked, But there was no quit in Weisenberger. He weathered the storm and in the next two rounds a beat up Derrick stuck it to Nick Noe winning by Unanimous Decision

Submission of the Night - Is a tie for me Jinny Skees was taking a ton of damage from Alisa Hauschild, But pulled off a sick armbar in the third round for the win.
Earlier in the night tho Luke Hoffman def Jerry Huber via a just as sick armbar only 25 seconds into the fight. So they both get my props.

Knock out of the night - Ok so this is also a tie sue me. My boy Shane McClain won the 185lb title with a sweet punch that knocked out Mike Marrapodi just 19 seconds into the first round. Then in the co-main event Jared "honey" Combs landed a very well timed head kick to knock Tyson Triplett slick out. Both were a sight to see.

In other highlights Jessamyn Duke wasted no time beating Sarah Cook to become the new AAMMA female champ and Josh Franklin Shocked alot of people by beating Dupri Moon via standing guillotine choke to become the new AAMMA heavyweight champ.
It was a great night I really enjoyed doing the post fight interviews. I would like to thank my homies Dr. Double P and VP Billy D for allowing me to be involved with a sport I love so much.

Here are the results of the entire card. I stole these from my friends at CageCraze. They do great event coverage so check them out.

Jakub Wethington def Chris McKenzie via TKO at 3:00 in Rd.1 (McKenzie could not answer the bell for Rd. 2)
Deric Reece def Travis Faulkner via Submission (choke) at 1:21 in Rd.1
Rogelio Garzon def Eric Price via TKO (strikes) at 2:07 in Rd.1
Levon Sackett def Rayshaun Allen via Submission (strikes) at 1:50 in Rd.2
Luke Hoffman def Jerry Huber via Submission (arm bar) at 0:25 in Rd.1
Lance VanHoosier def Lonnie Mosely via Verbal Submission (injury) at 2:43 in Rd.2
Gina Begley def Trinity Jostmeyer via Submission (Rear Naked Choke) at 1:16 in Rd.1
Chase Piatt def Brittany Skelton via Unanimous Decision (29-28 x 3)
Derrick Weisenberger def Nick Noe via Unanimous Decision (29-28 x 3)
Jinny Skees def Alisa Hauschild via Submission (arm bar) at 1:48 in Rd.3
Chancellor Edmonson def Jason Carrier via Submission (guillotine) at 2:00 in Rd.1
Josh Franklin def Duprie Moon via Submission (standing guillotine) at 2:29 in Rd.2 to win the AAMMA HW Championship
Jessamyn Duke def Sarah Cook via Submission (Rear Naked Choke) at 0:52 in Rd.1 to become the new AAMMA Female Champion
Shane McClain def Mike Marrapodi via KO (Punches) at 0:19 in Rd.1 to win the AAMMA MW Title
Kody Charlton def Matt Bell via KO (Knee) at 1:41 in Rd.2 to retain the AAMMA LHW Title
Jared Combs def Tyson Triplett via KO (head kick) at 2:11 in Rd.1
Dallas Woods def Chris Smith via Unanimous Decision (30-27 x 3)

IT'S TIME!

2011-04-01T22:03:00.002-05:00

So all the fighters have weighed in and are ready for war. Finally April 2 is here. So many fantastic fights on the card I do not know what fight I am most excited to see. Duprie Moon vs Josh Franklin is now for the AAMMA Heavyweight title.Female champ Sarah Cook defends her title vs Jessamyn Duke and both of these ladies are confident and ready. Jared Combs vs Tyson Triplett,Dereck Weisenburger vs Nick Noe, Chris Smith vs Dallas Woods the list goes on and on. I will be doing the play by play color commentary with my cageside homie Brian Furby. As well as post fight interviews with all the winners. Fights will be broadcast on www.gfl.tv for those who cant make it to Florence for this awesome mixed martial arts event. The wait is over the time has come, Lets do this shit!

AAMMA--APRIL 2ND Commercial.

2011-03-27T12:59:00.000-05:00

I can't wait!

UFC Fight Night 24 Post fight thoughts

2011-03-27T11:52:00.004-05:00

So nothing went down the way I thought it would at UFC Fight Night 24,But that is the story of my life. I am not entirely unhappy with the results tho. Aside from my friend Waylon Lowe getting caught in a third round choke of a fight he was winning.

I was very impressed with Morecraft. Mcorkle should have tapped and saved himself the embarrassment of being choked out on his feet.
The Korean Zombie made a statement against his old rival Leonard Garcia, beating him up on the feet and then scoring the first ever "twister" submission ever seen in the UFC. That shit was sweet too. It was the most exciting part of the night for me.

Amir Sadollah feasted on DaMarques Johnson not quite being in top competition after fighting on two weeks notice. The former The Ultimate Fighter winner outclassed Johnson by a wide margin in the second round after Johnson faded early. Whatever the reason tho Amir looked good in this fight. I have never really been a fan, But now I look forward to his next bout.

Anthony Johnson proved me wrong. Ring rust and the 40lb weight cut did not effect his performance. He layed on Hardy for 3 rounds and re-emerged as a potential contender in the UFC's welterweight division. I really do not ever see Dana giving him a shot tho unless he finishes fights.

To quote other sites Davis looked good not great last night. Davis took a unanimous decision 30-27 win over Antonio Rogerio Nogueira but looks less like a threat after the win.

It was the only fight I got right last night and I still was not happy with it. Davis could not even start to finish this fight. I do not think Nog was hurt at all after the fight. Lay and pray is killing our sport. There I said it.

MMA Live 3-25-11

2011-03-26T10:56:00.000-05:00

UFC Fight Night 24 weigh-in results

2011-03-25T18:42:00.002-05:00

MAIN CARD (Spike TV)

•Antonio Rogerio Nogueira (206) vs. Phil Davis (206)
•Dan Hardy (171) vs. Anthony Johnson (171)
•DaMarques Johnson (171) vs. Amir Sadollah (170)
•Leonard Garcia (145) vs. Chan Sung Jung (146)

PRELIMINARY CARD (Facebook)

•Jon Madsen (261) vs. Mike Russow (256)
•Alex Caceres (146) vs. Mackens Semerzier (146)
•John Hathaway (171) vs. Kris McCray (170)
•Edwin Figueroa (136) vs. Michael McDonald (135)
•Sean McCorkle (266) vs. Christian Morecraft (265)

PRELIMINARY CARD

•Johny Hendricks (170) vs. T.J. Waldburger (170)
•Mario Miranda (185) vs. Aaron Simpson (185)
•Nik Lentz (155) vs. Waylon Lowe (156)

2011-03-25T18:00:00.004-05:00

UFC Fight Night 24 picks and preview

2011-03-25T11:03:00.002-05:00

The UFC production team makes the cross-country trek for the second show in seven days as UFC Fight Night 24 hits Spike TV from the Pacific Northwest just a week after UFC 128 rocked New Jersey.
While the card has undergone a number of changes since the original lineup was announced, each shift has made the event better. I am going to give some quick thoughts on the match ups and my picks for the night. Here we go.

Waylon Lowe (10-3-0) vs. Nik Lentz (20-3-2)

Lentz is one of few fighters in the sport who actually fits his nickname to a tee; the dude looks like a “Carny,” which is probably where he got the name in the first place.
Waylon is a personal friend of mine tho, So I am bias here. Both are top-control wrestlers who don’t do much other than work for top control and stay in place once they’re there. But Waylon has some guns on him and that country boy hits HARD. I am hoping Lowe gets his first UFC knock out.

Sean McCorkle (10-1-0) vs. Christian Morecraft (6-1-0)

“Big Sexy” hasn’t been as prominent in the news since Stefan Struve handed him the first loss of his career back at UFC 124. He’s still offering up gold on Twitter and The UG pretty regularly, but the spotlight has faded and now he needs a win over Morecraft to keep his name in the news for more legitimate reasons.

Morecraft is the cousin of local ammy fighter Adam Prince. Morecraft lost to Struve last time out as well, though he acquitted himself quite well before catching the gigantic Dutchman’s fist with his face 21 seconds into the second round. The Massachusetts native dominated Struve in the opening frame, coming close to putting away the emerging heavyweight prospect with some heavy ground-and-pound. I don't really have a pick for this fight,But I can't wait to see it.

John Hathaway (14-1-0) vs. Kris McCray (5-2-0)

I don’t really agree with the thinking that you can learn more from a loss than you can a win, but I do believe that fading from the spotlight after his loss to Mike Pyle is a positive for Hathaway. Kinda a must win for both guys, But I'm going with Hathaway on this one.

Alex Caceres (4-2-0) vs. Mackens Semerzier (5-3-0)

With each passing fight, Semerzier’s upset win over Wagnney Fabiano is looking more and more like an aberration. He’s dropped three straight since catching the BJJ black belt in a triangle in his WEC debut, and is unquestionably looking at a must-win scenario as he officially welcomes “Bruce Leroy” to the UFC.

I’m really looking forward to this one because I’m always curious to see how kids like Caceres handle themselves inside the Octagon once the TUF cameras are done rolling. He earned himself a lot of prime time exposure with his “Bruce Leroy” stylings and acerbic way of interacting with is fellow cast mates, but now Caceres needs to show he’s more than just a persona. And even tho he is kind of a douche, I always find myself cheering for him. Leroy by sub in the 2nd.

Leonard Garcia (15-7-1) vs. Chan Sung Jung (10-3-0)

The first time these two met may have been one of the best fights I have ever seen.
Jung became an overnight sensation in North America with his truly zombie-like performance the first time around with Garcia, but followed it up by getting knocked out by a perfectly timed headkick from Roop. As cool as his nickname and walkout t-shirts may be, Jung is officially 1-3 in his last four fights, and has sworn to employ a more measured, less chaotic style moving forward. And even tho I think he should have won the first fight, I do not think he will this time around. I look for less fireworks this time and see Garcia getting the win.

Amir Sadollah (4-2-0) vs. DaMarques Johnson (8-3-0)

I really could care less about this fight. I always believed Johnson would end up being the best of the bunch coming out of the welterweight pack on TUF 9, and that seems to be the case.
Johnson gets the W here.

Dan Hardy (23-8-0, 1 NC) vs. Anthony Johnson (8-3-0)

Johnson is coming into this fight after a 16-month layoff that included knee surgery.
As always, the question of the hour with Johnson is his weight and conditioning; that’s what happens when you miss weight twice in a seven-fight span and walk around north of 220 pounds between fights. I’m no doctor, but cutting upwards of 23 percent of your body weight repeatedly can’t be easy and definitely isn’t good for you. Yet Johnson insists on fighting at the 170 pound limit. He has missed weight twice before. That along with the ring rust (That is a real thing) and the fact that he is fighting a very hungry Dan Hardy = a bad night for Johnson.

Antonio Rogerio Nogueira (19-4-0) vs. Phil Davis (8-0-0)

I met little Nog once. It was the day before his bout with Ryan Bader. I remember thinking how beat up he looked. His brother is a legend in the sport and I believe that is the only reason Lil Nog is in the UFC. I think Davis is one of the most under rated fighters in the 205 div. And I think this will be the night he becomes a star. Mark my words Davis is going places.

Well there you have it kids. Thanks for reading my shit and please give me some feedback. Enjoy the fights everybody!

Cage Passion Radio 3-25-11

2011-03-25T02:40:00.002-05:00

Did Cage passion Radio with Billy Donovan and Parag Patel from Absolute Action MMA last night. Fighters Derrick Weisenberger and Jessamyn Duke both on the show.
Check it out.

http://www.blogtalkradio.com/cagepassion.rss

2011-03-25T02:21:00.005-05:00

I'm Back

2011-03-24T21:09:00.003-05:00

Ok guys so about 1 year ago I lost interest in blogging, But now I'm back! I will use this blog as a place to rant about all things MMA. I will Tweet links to posts via my Twitter account and look forward to getting feedback. Thanks everyone.

My picks for UFC on Versus

2010-03-19T18:32:00.002-05:00

I was going to post my picks for UFC 111 today also. 111 is such an awesome card I will have to ponder it some more and post later this week.
The card for UFC on Versus is pretty damn good too. I'm going to jump right in and talk about the main event. Brandon the Truth Vera meets John Bones Jones at 205.
Brandon Vera is a tough guy, But to be honest most the time he bores the hell out of me. Jones on the other hand has always been exciting to watch so far. Jones has also teamed up with Greg Jackson so you know he is going in with a good game plan.
My pick John Jones TKO

Junior Dos Santos vs Gabriel Gonzaga

Junior is on a roll. Gonzaga has ko power when he can land,But Dos Santos is much more acurate. I don't see this lasting long.
My pick Junior Dos Santos KO

Cheick Kongo vs Paul Buentello

First off let me say Cheick Kongo is a dick. Haha Anyway.. Kongo's ground game sucks. I think Buentello has the better hands also. That being said this could turn into a long boring war. They both need the win tho so who knows.

My pick Paul Buentello decision

Alessio Sakara vs James Irvin

Irvin has had to much time off. I also hear he is havin a hard time cutting the weight. This is his first fight at 185.

My pick Alessio Sakara

Clay Guida vs Shannon Gugerty

My man Guida all day long. He needs the win and I think Gugerty is going down.

My pick Clay Guida

Ok so there it is. I look forward to watching this card Sunday. Sunday? Wow will be wierd to watch a live UFC on a Sunday. I LOVE IT

You know you want one.

2010-02-27T20:38:00.000-06:00

I really really want this for Christmas!!

UFC 110 Post fight thoughts

2010-02-21T12:10:00.003-06:00

Last nights UFC 110 card lived up to the hype. What a great night of fights this was. I had picked Bisping to win even, But I cheered for Wandy the fight. It was a great fight with both guys banging the whole time, But in the end the judges gave it to Silva and rightfully so. Go Wandy!

Cain and big Nog didn't turn out to be the war I thought it would be. Cain made short work of the legend with a big KO. The rest of the big boys should take notice Cain is not going anywhere.

Now bear with me cuz I'm about to go on a rant. Bonner was robbed last night.
Bonnar and Soszynski had engaged in two tightly contested rounds when an early exchange in the final frame saw the fighters clash heads. A gaping wound opened up on Bonnar's forehead, and referee John Sharp halted the contest on the advice of the cageside physician.

"It was a headbutt, and you know what the worst part is?" Bonnar asked in the post-fight press conference. "Take a close-up on this head. This cut is actually shaped like a 'K' for Krzysztof, so I now I've got to walk around with a scar in the shape of a 'K' on it.

"So yeah, I'm pissed off."

The bout was ruled a TKO as Sharp incorrectly determined that the laceration was caused from a legal strike.

This ref was awful from the start when Krzysztof was poked in the eye and made to just fight through it. Alot of people are saying it should have been ruled a NC.
That is not the case tho.

An appeal to the New South Wales Combat Sports Authority could result in a different ruling for Bonnar, as an inadvertent foul in the final round that leads directly to the end of the bout should be decided by the judges' scores through two rounds.

One more thing bothering me about this fight. At the end Krzysztof was wearing a brand of shirt called Skin.
I had never seen this brand on a fighter before. And the fact that Krzysztof is bald and covered in tattoos made me think skinhead.
I looked into the brand online. there are no hate messages on their site, But some of the shirts to have images of iron crosses.
I'm just saying the UFC should look into this. We cannot have hate groups advertising on the chests of pro fighters.
Also check out the pic of Krzysztof's eye at the post fight presser. OUCH

My picks for UFC 110

2010-02-19T14:09:00.003-06:00

Not the greatest card in the world,But some hard fights to pick none the less. I think I have to go with Cain Velasquez over Nogueira. That is a hard one to pick and I could be wrong. I can't wait to see it.
As for the rest of the card I see it like this Bisping, Stevenson, Bader and I hope Bonner. I'd love to see Wandy win cuz I'm not a big Bisping fan. Bonner and Silva both need wins to stay relevant. I'll post my thoughts on the fights Tomorrow. And I'll be at The ICF 19 show in Florence Ky tomorrow before UFC goes live.

Franklin vs Couture at UFC 115?

2010-02-19T14:02:00.002-06:00

As I stated earlier this week on Twitter there are reports that Rich will be fighting Couture at UFC 115 in Vancouver. ESPN finally said the same thing yesterday a full week after I broke the news. But we were both wrong it seems. I was told Randy is looking to fight in August so that would mean 115 is a no go. I do know Rich wants the fight with Randy. This fight IS going to happen but we will have to wait to see when.

My picks for UFC 109

2010-02-06T15:14:00.003-06:00

I have not been blogging at all. I have been so busy so with UFC 109 being tonight and I snowed in here in Kentucky now is a good time.

There is a really good card tonight. The casual fan may see the fights as being one sided, But us hardcore guys know these are going to be some close fights tonight.

My picks for tonight's main fights are Couture,Marquardt,Thiago,Maia and Serra.

That being said I am rooting for Coleman tonight.

The prelims will aire on Spike TV tonight at 9pm and the big show starts at 10 on PPV.
Well thats it short and sweet. I'll be posting some of my articles on my blog here this week since I have some down time. Follow me on Twitter for updates or if you know me add me on facebook. Enjoy the fights.

RIP Bob Shamrock

2010-01-14T20:05:00.003-06:00

I found this pic online of Bob Shamrock with 19-year-old Ken on his 1st day at college in front Bob's '57 El Dorado Barritz. There were only 800 models of the car made.

Bob Shamrock, the adopted father of famed MMA legends Frank and Ken Shamrock died today following a long-term battle with various health complications due to diabetes.

News of Shamrock's passing was announced this evening by a representative of Ken's famed Lion's Den academy in Reno, Nev.

Shamrock was 68 years old.

Brock Lesnar very ill

2009-11-16T20:58:00.002-06:00

Brock Lesnar is so sick, he'll be going to the Mayo Clinic so doctors can figure out what to do -- but it will probably require major surgery ... UFC Prez Dana White tells TMZ.

White tells us Lesnar -- the UFC heavyweight champ -- is "very, very sick" with some sort of intestinal disorder, although listening to White, it sounds a lot more serious than that. White says the condition will require "major surgery."

White is going to visit Lesnar in the hospital and is trying to get him transferred to the Mayo Clinic, one of the most renowned medical facilities in the world.

White says Lesnar -- formerly of the WWE -- was diagnosed with mono more than a week ago and was "bummed out" that he had to cancel the fight and went to Canada to rest. White says Lesnar collapsed in Canada a week ago today and has been hospitalized ever since.

White acknowledges the current condition is not mono but he will not be specific. White says the condition is not HIV or cancer.

And, White tells TMZ, "There's a possibility Lesnar will never fight again.

This was reported on TMZ today. Saying prayers for the big guy.

Henderson says it should be him or Nate not Belfort for the title

2009-10-27T22:31:00.002-05:00

He also says UFC or no UFC, He plans to fight in February.

The Machida error

2009-10-25T15:11:00.003-05:00

I wasn't going to buy UFC 104. I thought it was kind of a lame card but, I bought it anyway. The card had some good fights blah blah blah then the main event.
I told everyone Shogun did not deserve this title shot. That Machida was going to murder him. Machida had never even lost a round before nobody could even hit him.
Shogun proved me wrong.
He went in with a solid strategy that picked Machida apart. His leg and body kicks slowly broke down Machida. At the end of five rounds Machida was beaten and bruised and Shogun looked as if he could go 5 more rounds.
I was SURE Shogun was the new champ.
When the judges gave the win to Machida myself and every other person in the entire MMA world was shocked.
But not Machida.
He acted as if he won the fight from the sound of the final bell.
It was a sad sad night for MMA.
Shogun worked his ass off and won that title. He was robbed and as long as Machida holds that belt the title is a complete joke.

ICF Fight Club brings the pain.

2009-10-25T14:18:00.004-05:00

I live near Cincinnati OH. Earlier this year a local promotion Intimidation cage fighting ICF held a show at US Bank arena. The same venue the UFC held their event at when they came to town. I was there with Rich Franklin and met the promoter Steve Stanton. I was impressed with how well it was all done.
Stanton then went on to buy his own venue, a nightclub that he calls Fight Club. This is the nation's first MMA themed night spot.
Once a month Steve holds an ICF event at the club. When I heard about this and that it was in my home town I was stoked.
Friday night I attended my first ICF event at Fight Club. There were 10 fights on the card 3 pro bouts. I was impressed with the fights and the turnout.
The set up of the venue is kinda odd most the people had to stand. the VIP area is a very cramped balcony and the ringside seating was very limited. On the plus side there are Huge video screens and flat screen tvs everywhere you look. There is a bar close to you no matter where you are and there are a ton of hot girls. I'd really like to see more MMA memorabilia around the place. And perhaps a mini amateur card every weekend would keep people coming.
Overall the place rocks. I will be going back and if you are an MMA fan this is the place for you.

Fedor is coming

2009-10-19T19:25:00.002-05:00

In case you missed it CBS has started hyping Fedor during football games.

Hendo needs a new agent.

2009-10-18T14:55:00.005-05:00

He is not a 500k a fight bad mother fucka tho.
So Dan Henderson is trying to milk his KO of Bisping for all its worth. I can't blame the guy but, He is going about it all wrong.
First off Bisping beat his own self by walking into that right hand. Dan has not been able to drop anybody else he has fought in the UFC in such fashion.
Unless you want to count his bullshit eye poke of Rich Franklin. Dan should push for a short 2 fight contract with the UFC. Take the fight with Marquardt,win,get the title shot, and win,then ask for the big bucks.
But it seems Henderson lacks the confidence.
If he goes to Strikeforce just to earn more money it will be a sad way to go.
Dan Henderson Strikeforce champion lol. who cares?

UPDATE: Hendo recently told HDNet's "Inside MMA" that he won't be heading to a rival organization.

"I don't plan on fighting anywhere else," said Henderson, who reportedly met with Strikeforce officials, during the Sept. 18 edition of the show. "It never even entered my mind that I'd be anywhere else. It's just something myself, Dana (White) and the other guys over there at the UFC, we need to sit down and figure it out for my next fight."

"But my guess is my next two fights will be Marquardt and Anderson Silva. It doesn't matter to me which order they're in."

Dana says part of the UFC may be for sale.

2009-10-18T14:49:00.001-05:00

If I can just get 100 million of my friends to chip in I'll be all over this.

Should Junie Browning be fighting?

2009-10-18T14:33:00.002-05:00

November 28th, Browning & Cornwell will meet in the MMA Big Show cage at the Belterra Casino Resort in Indiana very close to where I live.
Browning was recently released from the UFC after he assulted 3 nurses trying to help him after he overdosed on pills. I think he is taking this fight for a payday and nothing more. But is he ready?
The video above shows a dude with issues he had the shot of a lifetime and he blew it.
I personally have no intrest in watching him attempt to climb the ladder again. On the plus side Browning could be a great stepping stone for Cornwell. I'm sure when he gets his time to shine he won't waste it.

The blog is back

2009-10-18T14:28:00.002-05:00

Ok ok I know I have not blogged since Rich lost to Belfort. The reason really is nothing in MMA the last few weeks has excited me.
The next 2 UFC events are not really huge events in my opinon. But alot of things are coming up locally here and I thank god for that hehe.
Anyway there are some things going on in the world of MMA and I plan to voice my opinon on them for whatever its worth.

What just happened?

2009-09-20T17:05:00.003-05:00

Ok so Franklin lost in a big way last night. All I can say is WTF?
It appeared Belfort grazed Rich behind his right ear wich threw off his equalibrium. Franklin ended up on all fours where his was struck with what looked like 2 illegal blows to head. I do think the stoppage was just before those shots landed tho.
It was just a lame performance by Rich in my opinion.

I also would like to state that I don't think Belfort should get a title shot based on that win.
Lets not forget Henderson also beat Franklin and then Bisbing too. With Henderson being a free agent at the moment I wonder if this is a smart move by the UFC to pass him over in favor of the more marketable Belfort/Silva fight.

As for Rich I think the next fight will be Forrest Griffin. Both lost in the same fashion and now need a win. I also think its a fight people would pay to see.

WE ARE FRANKLIN FANS BITCHES!

2009-09-18T20:05:00.005-05:00

Ok ok here are my UFC 103 predictions short and sweet. Franklin is my boy I have NO DOUBT he will win this fight. And I am so fucking sick of hearing the old Belfort is back.
His 2 fights in the past 2 years were against easy opponents. I'm not saying Lindland is a chump but compared to the 2 opponents Franklin has fought THIS year he is a nobody.

Belfort is by no means an easy opponent for Franklin but Rich wouldn't have it any other way.

I also think Cro cop may still not be use to the cage. I am interested in how he will perform come Saturday night.

So its like this

Franklin
Cro cop
Kampmann
Koscheck

Koscheck looked in good shape at the weigh-in today. Enjoy the fights guys

Update: Well I fucked that on up lol. Sad day at the Spot

Franklin preps for Belfort

2009-09-16T09:04:00.001-05:00

Rich "Ace" Franklin works on his leg kicks with Muay Thai instructor Neal Rowe in preparation for his UFC 103 battle against Vitor Belfort.

Lack of posts

2009-09-15T21:41:00.002-05:00

You would think with Rich's fight this weekend I'd be posting all kinds of things. But thats why I have not posted actually.
His fight is the only one on my mind this week to be honest. Rich is like family to me and his family is my second family.
I have no doubt in his ability to win but, in this business you never know. Our prayers are that god keeps Rich and Vitor both safe. I'm sure it will be a great fight and I'll be posting more later this week.

PS I am hearing rumors that Belfort has ringworm.Whats up with that?

Rich Franklin in his second film.

2009-09-11T19:38:00.002-05:00

Rich just shot a movie between training sessions for this upcoming fight. The movie called "Genesis Code" shot in
Grand Rapids, Michigan last month. It features Academy Award winners Louise Fletcher and Ernest Borgnine, as well as actor and former presidential candidate, Fred Thompson.
Rich plays the part of a hockey coach.
He is currently reviewing 4 different movie scripts for 2010.

Mike Swick Injured, Paul Daley Steps in to Face Martin Kampmann at UFC 103

2009-09-04T15:57:00.002-05:00

MIKE SWICK is OUT of UFC 103 following a training accident suffered while sparring against Josh Koscheck.
Kos swept the American — nicknamed 'Quick' — causing him to land on his head.

His injuries are not serious but we can reveal he will be unable to face Martin Kampmann on September 19.

Instead, rising British star Paul 'Semtex' Daley will step in to face the Dutchman on the televised card of the showpiece event, which airs live on ESPN.

Daley was initially scheduled to make his UFC debut against fellow newcomer Brian Foster on the event's preliminary card, but the Brit will now step into the spotlight in a co-headlining bout against a very tough Martin Kampmann. The Kampmann-Swick fight was intended to determine a number one contender for Georges St. Pierre's welterweight title, but it's likely that those same stakes are no longer on the line. Nonetheless, with an impressive showing against Kampmann, Daley can certainly make much more of an impact on the UFC's 170-lb ladder than he would have with a win over Foster.

All I can say is WTF? I was really looking forward to that fight.

Former Power Ranger coming to the UFC?

2009-09-02T21:36:00.002-05:00

I'm not making this shit up.
The guy who used to play the Green and White Ranger on the Mighty Morphin Power Rangers is trying to fight with creatures from this planet -- dude is an MMA fighter now.

35-year-old Jason David Frank -- who used to fight inside a friggin' Dragonzord -- just told MMAweekly.com he's hoping to fight inside the UFC octagon.

The 6th degree Black Belt just signed a deal with a new management team and hopes to get in the ring pretty soon. We'll let you know when he actually schedules a fight.

Miguel Torres highlight video

2009-09-02T16:46:00.002-05:00

Miguel Torres has always been one of my favorite fighters. I'm sure he will be the champ again soon.

Henderson says he will NOT fight Marquardt

2009-09-02T13:01:00.002-05:00

Henderson said if the UFC came to him with a bout against Marquardt, he would turn it down and seek challenges at light heavyweight.

"I think Marquart's right in line for a title shot as well, but I feel I've earned that already," Henderson said. "That's a fight that more than likely will happen in the future, but I think right now, from the UFC's standpoint, they shouldn't be having me and Nate fight each other. They're going to get stuck without any new opponents for Anderson Silva. Silva is the only fight that interests me at 185."

I agree he has earned the shot but,So has Nate. Since a fight with Hendo and Silva has not yet been signed I think Henderson vs Marquardt is logical.
I also think Hendo going to 205 would suck. It's stacked already and I think there are great match ups for him at 185.
But what do I know.

Chuck Liddell on TMZ

2009-09-01T14:54:00.000-05:00

Chuck Liddell Stops By TMZ (MySpace Exclusive)

Turtle's picks for UFC 102

2009-08-29T13:15:00.002-05:00

I am posting this alittle late so I'll be short and sweet. My picks are as follows..

Nogueira
Silva
Leben
Maia
Vera

I know some of you are looking at my main event picks like, Really? But,thats how I see it. I really hate going against Marquardt that fight is what I look forward to the most. Enjoy the fights guys.

Anderson Silva Sparring at Wild Card Boxing Club

2009-08-28T22:16:00.002-05:00

Anderson Silva shows off his boxing skills against a local pugilist at Freddie Roach's boxing club.
This segment is from "Training at Wild Card", an exclusive 40-minute documentary found only on Anderson's "Boxing for MMA". Thanks Cagepotato

Are the days of WEC numbered?

2009-08-27T18:28:00.002-05:00

During todays UFC 102 pre fight presser Dana White was asked about the addition of new weight classes in the UFC. His reply was that lower weight classes would be added.
When asked when he replied soon.

He was also asked about a merger between WEC and the UFC, He repeatedly avoided the question with a laugh.
This brings me and everyone that seen the press conference to believe that the two will merge soon.
I believe that you will hear about this for sure sometime before UFC 103.

Randy Couture UFC 102 Vlog

2009-08-26T15:24:00.000-05:00

If you have not already seen it here it is. Sorry I'm late lol

Keith Jardine's first loss

2009-08-26T14:30:00.001-05:00

Keith Jardine's first loss came in his third pro fight back in February 2002, against MMA ironman Travis Wiuff in the quarterfinals of an Extreme Challenge eight-man heavyweight tournament in Iowa. Coincidentally, it was Wiuff's third fight as well, and it took Diesel just six seconds to claim a victory via straight-right directly on Jardine's off-button. The video is above, and the action starts at the 2:18 mark. Wiuff would go on to lose to Mike Radnov in the semis, while Radnov lost to tournament-winner Ben Rothwell in the finals.

Following the Wiuff fight, Jardine went on a 6-0-1 run, joined the second season of The Ultimate Fighter, and quickly found himself in marquee fights against Forrest Griffin, Chuck Liddell, Wanderlei Silva, and Quinton Jackson. This Saturday, he'll take on Thiago Silva at UFC 102. If you believe in streaks, then the Dean of Mean has this one wrapped up. And of course, if he ever decides to walk out to the cage as Techno Viking, he'll be unstoppable.

A-Team movie casts Rampage Jackson as B.A. Baracus

2009-08-26T14:18:00.004-05:00

Former UFC light heavyweight champion Quinton “Rampage” Jackson has landed the role of B.A. Baracus in the upcoming feature film “The A-Team,” which is currently in production and tentatively scheduled for 2010 release.

He will share the silver screen with Liam Neeson (Col. John “Hannibal”) and Bradley Cooper (Lt. Templeton “Faceman” Peck) in the 20th Century Fox-produced movie. The “Murdock” character has yet to be cast.

“A-Team,” while certainly the most high profile, is not the first acting gig for Jackson. He has appeared in “Confessions of a Pit Fighter,” “Bad Guys” and “The Midnight Meat Train,” as well as an episode of “The King of Queens.”

Jackson recently completed taping for the upcoming season of The Ultimate Fighter (10) on Spike TV, which is set to debut after UFC Fight Night 19 on Sept. 16. He served as a coach opposite his new-found arch enemy, Rashad Evans. He will then have the opportunity to settle his score with “Sugar” at UFC 107 in Memphis, Tenn., on Dec 12.

UPDATE:It seems this report was bullshit. Sorry guys I just post what I read and it seems alot of MMA blogs and sites were fooled by this.

Unfortunately, this means that the role of B.A. Baracus will probably go to a rapper like 50 Cent or The Game, who just don't have the same gruff, opinionated vibe as Mr. T. Not casting Rampage feels like a missed opportunity. Anybody want to launch a petition to convince The A-Team's producers to give him the role?

New WWE Champ?

2009-08-24T20:25:00.002-05:00

Floyd Mayweather was not the only celeb on WWE tonight. Vince McMahan announced the WWE has signed former Sesame Street alum Cookie Monster.
The Cookie Monster could be just what the WWE needs to bolster PPV buys. A match could be in the works against the 8 ft 550lb Big Bird. We will keep you posted.

Diego Sanchez Offered UFC 105 Title Fight With BJ Penn

2009-08-23T22:29:00.002-05:00

With the UFC headed back to the UK for UFC 105 in October, the card is beginning to take shape and it appears a lightweight title fight between Diego Sanchez and BJ Penn could be headlining the event.

A source close to Diego Sanchez has confirmed to Fighters Only that he has been offered a fight with BJ Penn at UFC 105.

“The fight has been put on the table,” the source said last night. “But nothing has been signed and nothing is confirmed at this stage.”

Sanchez is the top contender in the lightweight division following Kenny Florian’s unsuccessful title challenge earlier this month.

Florian lasted four rounds before being taken down and eventually submitted by Penn, who has not lost at lightweight since 2002.

Belfort looks past Franklin

2009-08-21T09:26:00.003-05:00

Although former UFC light heavyweight champion Vitor Belfort is slated to take on Rich Franklin at UFC 103 on September 19th, he’s already looking forward to a potential showdown with the baddest 185-pounder to ever set foot in an Octagon in middleweight king Anderson Silva.

“Anderson is a great friend of mine and a big champion but I’m looking for this [fight to happen],” Belfort told OUL Esporte of Brazil. “I cannot comment much on this right now but yeah, I always want to fight the best fighters. Of course it won’t be a pleasure [being Silva’s friend] but there isn’t another way at all in the sport. Kaka and Ronaldinho (Brazilian soccer players) are friends and have faced each other many times. It is part of my work and I need it to afford milk to the children at home.”

Belfort hasn’t set foot inside an Octagon since he dropped a split decision to Tito Ortiz at UFC 51 back in February of 2005, however that didn’t stop UFC president Dana White from wanting to bring back one of the most talented fighters they have employed.

Silva is fresh off his dominating 3:23 second knockout of former champ Forrest Griffin at UFC 101 in a light heavyweight affair. After that performance, there aren’t many jumping at the chance to take on MMA’s most efficient striker, however Belfort says that he is down.

“It would be a great honor to fight Anderson,” Belfort respectfully stated. “He’s one of the best to ever fight and I want to test my skills against the world’s best.”

Well Belfort is about to fight one of the world's best in Franklin. Franklin has become a master of killing people's dreams of fighting Silva.
You are back in the big leagues now Belfort. Nobody rides for free.

Nevada Athletic Commission Approves Instant Replay for MMA

2009-08-19T16:07:00.002-05:00

According to a new rule passed by the Nevada State Athletic Commission Wednesday, referees in Nevada now have the opportunity to get a second look at a fight's end to determine its legality.

The final wording as passed: "A referee at the conclusion of a contest or exhibition stopped immediately due to an injury to an unarmed combatant pursuant to NAC 467.718 and after making a decision, may view a replay if available in order to determine whether the injury in question was caused a legal blow or a foul."

The rule addresses several controversial stoppages in recent history where a fighter lost a contest because the referee couldn't see an injury that forced a bout's stoppage.

A referee may now use instant replay to determine whether the action that caused the injury was legal or a foul and make a decision on the fight's result. Only a referee can decide whether to order a replay
The ruling could take effect in as little as 30 days.

This is something that I personally have worked hard to make happen thru letters,e-mails and signed petitions. So it feels like a personal victory for me.
Not the point deduction for eye pokes I wanted but still nice.

Fans will remember the controversy that followed the first Kevin Burns vs Anthony Johnson bout at UFC Fight Night 14 in July 2008. Burns repeatedly poked Johnson in the eye and ultimately was awarded a TKO win immediately after a brutal poke right in the eye that necessitated surgery for a detached retina. The NSAC ruled shortly afterwards that they had no mechanism in place for overturning a fight outcome in such an instance.

Happily Johnson got his revenge with a KO victory at the TUF 8 season finale.

*note Thanks to Vaila Heideman "Rich Franklin's mom" and Intimidation cage fighting.

He is coming

2009-08-16T17:39:00.001-05:00

Strikeforce does a good job.

2009-08-16T11:42:00.003-05:00

Sorry Dana but I watched every second of Strikeforce: Carano vs. Cyborg last night. I must say I liked what I saw.
I didn't care much for the people doing color or for the lack of Bruce Buffer. On the other hand I liked the way they brought the fighters in and I am a huge fan of the post fight stats.

They did the best they could promoting Fedor considering they don't own the rights to any fight footage of him.

As for the fights what was billed as the biggest fight in female MMA history didn't disappoint.
With a live Showtime audience and unparalleled media attention, Santos took control in the striking department early in the fight. Carano hung tough for the first few minutes of the scheduled five-rounder and landed more than a couple solid shots. She also masterfully escaped from ankle-lock and keylock submission attempts but couldn't maintain the few times she garnered dominant ground positions.

Carano, though, turned up the power late in the round.

After Carano landed on her back, Santos stood over her opponent and rained down a series of blows. While initially covering up, Carano's defenses weakened as the timekeeper signaled the 10-second warning. With the seconds ticking by, referee Josh Rosenthal warned Carano to fight back as she absorbed a steady stream of punches. But a split second before the round ended, he waved off the fight and awarded Santos the TKO victory.

The official stoppage came at 4:59 of that opening frame.

While there was some initial confusion over whether or not Carano had been saved by the bell, the end was evident when her corner man, UFC legend Randy Couture, entered the cage to tend to the fighter.

In the night's co-main event, which featured two of the sport's most successful fighters of late, few could have predicted such a lopsided and swift finish. But for those who have seen Gegard Mousasi in recent action, another dominating performance probably won't come as much of a surprise.
Mousasi never broke a sweat after taking Sobral to the mat and unloading a dozen blows, each of which connected flush. Sobral was knocked out cold midway through the barrage and re-awoke from another blow just before the referee called a stop to the fight.

The TKO stoppage came just 60 seconds into the first round.

Overall I thought it was a good show and very well done.

"Strikeforce: Carano vs. Cyborg" official weigh-in results

2009-08-15T01:40:00.001-05:00

Most notably, headliners and championship hopefuls Gina Carano and Cristiane "Cyborg" Santos, who both have struggled making weight in the past, comfortably made the 145-pound limit. Santos weighed 144.5 pounds, and Carano tipped the scale at 143.
In fact, the only fighter who didn't initially make weight was late substitute Jesse Taylor, who replaced Nick Diaz (in a fight with Jay Hieron) on just a week's notice. He weighed 172 pounds on his first attempt but successfully got down to 169.5 pound on his second try.

The full weigh-in results included:

MAIN CARD
Gina Carano (143) vs. Cristiane "Cyborg" Santos (144.5)
Champ Renato "Babalu" Sobral (201) vs. Gegard Mousasi (204)
Champ Gilbert Melendez (155) vs. Mitsuhiro Ishida (155)
Mike Kyle (219) vs. Fabricio Werdum (228)
Jay Hieron (169) vs. Jesse Taylor (169.5)*
PRELIMINARY CARD (un-aired)

Mike Cook (205) vs. Scott Lighty (202)
David "Tarzan" Douglas (156) vs. Justin Wilcox (154)
Zak Bucia (170) vs. James Terry (169)
Isaiah Hill (156) vs. Alex Trevino (156)

UFC fighter Matt Brown hosts Saturday fundraiser in Ohio for ailing father

2009-08-13T20:00:00.000-05:00

UFC fighter and Ohio native Matt Brown is hosting a pig-roast fundraiser in Jamestown, Ohio, on Saturday for the James Brown Medical Fund.

James Brown, Matt's father, is struggling with acute myeloid leukemia, complicated by diabetes and heart failure from a recent chemotherapy session. His health insurance ended last year.

Saturday's event, which is open to the public, includes a full slate of activities as well as an auction with UFC-related items, including some autographed by Brown and fellow UFC fighter Forrest Griffin.

The event takes place from noon to 10 p.m. at Morris' Pond on Cottonwood Road in Jamestown with food (two pigs will be roasted), six live bands, kids games, pony rides, a cornhole tournament, bikini carwash and other activities. Alcoholic beverages will not be provided, so the event is BYOB. Attendees don't need to bring anything, though everyone is welcome to bring a favorite dish to share with fellow partygoers.

Brown simply hopes the small-town event can bring some much-needed help to the family.

"It's been tough," said Brown, who learned his father was seriously ill just a week after a scheduled June bout with Anthony Johnson fell through. "It worked out well that the fight didn't take place."

Brown said his dad has always been proud of his fighting career, which included a successful stint on "The Ultimate Fighter 7" and a 3-1 record in the UFC.

"He was really happy I was doing something with my life besides going to jail and getting drunk everyday," Brown said. "He was supportive ... and saw the positive impact it had (on me)."

He's now hoping the fight community can rally around his father, a former machine-shop owner who initially was told he had only two weeks to live. Now slowly doing better, though, the medical bills are starting to mount.

Donations can be made at the event or at any area Security National Bank or Huntington Bank. (Ask for the "James Brown Medical Fund.) Paypal donations can also be made to the_immortal_matt_brown@yahoo.com or at www.paypal.com.

Brown, who recently returned from his new home in Las Vegas to be with his father, said he continues to train and anticipates a return to the octagon this fall.

The ladies get ready to hit the scale

2009-08-13T11:24:00.001-05:00

Weigh-ins for Saturday's "Strikeforce: Carano vs. Cyborg" event take place Friday at the San Jose Marriott Hotel in downtown San Jose, Calif..

As with most Strikeforce events, the weigh-ins are free and open to the public. Additionally, HDNet's "Inside MMA" will broadcast live from the event.

The first fighter is slated to hit the scale Friday at 4 p.m. PT.

The proceeding will take place in Salons I, II and III at the Marriott, which is located at 301 S. Market St. in downtown San Jose, Calif. For more information, call (408) 280-1300.

While Saturday's Strikeforce fight card has undergone a rash of changes in the weeks leading up to the event, the Showtime-televised event will still feature three world title fights, including the organization's first-ever women's championship between main-event fighters Gina Carano and Cristiane "Cyborg" Santos.

Strikeforce lightweight champion Josh Thomson and MMA pioneer Frank Shamrock will join "Inside MMA" hosts Bas Rutten, Kenny Rice and Ron Kruck to analyze the "Carano vs. Cyborg" event and witness the weigh-ins.

MAIN CARD
Gina Carano vs. Cristiane "Cyborg" Santos (for Strikeforce women's 145-pound title)
Jay Hieron vs. Jesse Taylor
Champ Renato "Babalu" Sobral vs. Gegard Mousasi (for Strikeforce light heavyweight title)
Champ Gilbert Melendez vs. Mitsuhiro Ishida (for Strikeforce interim lightweight title)
PRELIMINARY CARD (un-aired)
Mike Kyle vs. Fabricio Werdum
Mike Cook vs. Scott Lighty
David "Tarzan" Douglas vs. Justin Wilcox
Zak Bucia vs. James Terry
Isaiah Hill vs. Alex Trevino

Turtle's MMA Spot will post the weigh-in results tomorrow night.

Florian says he was one mistake away from the win.

2009-08-12T17:23:00.000-05:00

UFC 101: Kenny Florian believes that he was in the fight against B.J. Penn. If not for the crucial fourth round takedown Penn scored, Florian could've won the fight.

Summer 2009 best lb.4 lb.

2009-08-12T10:11:00.004-05:00

After a crazy weekend of fights this is my up to date best pound for pound fighter list.

1.)Georges St. Pierre
2.)Anderson Silva
3.)BJ Penn
4.)Lyoto Machida
5.)Fedor Emelianenko

I know alot of you do not agree with me so go ahead and flame me. This is how I see it.

New champ Brian Bowles

2009-08-12T09:53:00.003-05:00

LAS VEGAS – Unfortunately for Miguel Torres, the debate over his standing in the worldwide pound-for-pound fighter rankings, a potential move up in weight class, and fantasy matchmaking with other WEC champs have been put on ice.

Challenger Brian Bowles derailed the former bantamweight kingpin's future plans with a stunning first-round knockout in the main event of Sunday's WEC 42 event.

The upset special snapped Torres' impressive 17-fight win streak and shocked me Torres is one of my favorite fighters and I looked for him to shine in this fight.

But despite the lowkey fighter's undefeated record and knack for finishing opponents, few gave Bowles much of a chance heading into Sunday's event. Oddsmakers tapped him a 3-to-1 underdog, and many fight fans were already discussing Torres potential next opponent before the Bowles fight, originally scheduled for April but postponed because of a back injury sustained by the challenger, even took place.

But the 29-year-old Hardcore Gym fighter needed less than four minutes to topple the mighty ex-champ.

Bowles, who traded big blows with the champ in the opening minutes of the bout, struck early with a right hand that wobbled Torres. The champ recovered, but Bowles struck again later in the round while countering a flurry. Torres hit the mat, and Bowles unloaded a barrage of blows until referee Josh Rosenthal could allow no more and awarded the TKO victory.

Thats why I love this sport, You never know what can happen on any given night.

UFC 101 Results

2009-08-09T11:26:00.003-05:00

Anderson Silva vs. Forrest Griffin

HOLY PHUCKIN CHYT

Round 1

Griffin tries for the promised head kick to start, and misses by a mile. They’re both feeling each other out and taking it easy. Silva catches a Griffin kick and almost puts him on his ass afterwards. Silva bobs and weaves his way in and drops Forrest with a right hand. Griffin gets back up and Silva is damn near mocking him now. He drops Griffin again and adds a few strikes on the ground, then offers his hand to help him up just like he did with Patrick Cote. Now Silva has his hands by his waist, imploring Griffin to come in and attack him. Griffin seems displeased with being somewhat mocked. Silva avoids all his punches and backpedals away, catching Forrest with a short right in response that drops him. That’s it, Griffin is done. He wants no more of this Anderson Silva Jedi striking attack, and you can’t blame him.

Silva runs around celebrating his most dominant victory in recent memory, while Griffin immediately gets up and leaves the cage. I am told Griffin had his jaw dislocated early in the fight and left cuz he needed medical attention asap.
Silva is a scary dude bottem line.

BJ Penn vs. Kenny Florian

Round 1

Penn starts fast, coming right after KenFlo. A right from Penn briefly drops Florian. Kenny keeps circling around the perimeter and Penn keeps cutting him off. They clinch against the cage and Penn seems much stronger than Florian. Florian tries for a body lock takedown but Penn avoids it easily. Florian shoots for a single-leg, and already we’re talking about whether Penn is gassed. He isn’t. Everyone calm down. Penn drops Florian again with a punch and follows with a knee. He barely lasts through the round.

Round 2

Florian tries some leg kicks to start the second and then presses Penn against the fence. He’s not really working for a takedown, and not doing a lot of striking. It’s like he’s just trying to stay out of punching range. Penn gets warned for a punch to the back of Florian’s head. Florian tries for a single-leg and they’re back in the clinch. Penn lands a good uppercut that wobbles Florian. Florian finishes the round with a few decent leg kicks. Is it possible he won that round?

Round 3

Florian throws out a couple head kicks with nothing to show, then it’s back to the clinch against the fence. Florian seems to be working a little more diligently for the takedown, but Penn is completely unconcerned. They separate and Penn unleashes a few hard punches. Whenever they begin to trade Florian seems like he’s always one punch away from getting KO’d. At the moment, however, Florian is the one who’s dictating the pace. Penn seems increasingly frustrated. Florian tries two straight Superman punches and gets tagged for his trouble at the end of the round.

Round 4

Penn hurts Florian with a left hand in close and Florian responds by clinching again. Now Penn turns the takedown attempt on Florian, scooping him up and slamming him down. Penn works out of Florian’s half-guard and lands some decent elbows. Penn passes and gets to mount. Florian gives up his back and Penn softens him up with some heel strikes to the gut. Penn sinks in the rear naked choke and Florian can’t fight it off. He taps with just over a minute left in the fourth.

BJ Penn def. Kenny Florian via submission (rear naked choke) to retain his UFC lightweight title and regains my respect in the cage. Now if he can just keep his mouth shut outside the cage.

The crowd in Philly

2009-08-09T11:11:00.001-05:00

"90% of the crowd is watching a fight in the crowds"

-- Joe Rogan during Aaron Riley vs. Shane Nelson

The "Strikefarce" video

2009-08-08T07:59:00.001-05:00

UFC 101 weigh-in results

2009-08-07T16:16:00.002-05:00

B.J. Penn (155) vs. Kenny Florian (155)
Anderson Silva (205) vs. Forrest Griffin (205)
Amir Sadollah (166.5) vs. Johny Hendricks (171)
Kendall Grove (185.5) vs. Ricardo Almeida (185)
Kurt Pellegrino (154.5) vs. Josh Neer (155.5)
Shane Nelson (156) vs. Aaron Riley (154)
Tamdan McCrory (170) vs. John Howard (169.5)
Thales Leites (185) vs. Alessio Sakara (185.5)
Matt Riddle (170) vs. Dan Cramer (169.5)
George Sotiropoulos (155) vs. George Roop (154)
Jesse Lennox (171) vs. Danillo Villefort (170.25)

UFC 101 Turtle's picks

2009-08-07T07:04:00.002-05:00

Overall UFC 101 is not a spectacular card. The 2 main event fights are worth the PPV buy tho.

I'll start with the main event for the welterweight title. Let me first say I think BJ Penn is a douche. Don't get me started on greasegate and now it seems he still has GSP on the brain claiming GSP does steroids (but that is just his opinion) and just days before his title defense with Ken-Flo.
The pressure is on Penn in this fight and I think you may see the end of the Penn era at 101. I'm going with Ken-Flo by sub in the 3rd.

Now the fight that is really making you buy the PPV.

I think we all know this fight boils down to what Anderson Silva shows up. Is it me or has Silva become kinda cocky as of late?
I mean he is now calling himself the best fighter in the world. Well if he beats Griffin I just may agree but thats a big IF.
I know you hear this every Silva fight but if Forrest can keep this fight on the ground and stay out of the guard I see him getting the win.
I can also see Anderson overwhelming forrest very quikly too.

I am cheering for Griffin all night but, my pick is Anderson by TKO in the 2nd.

My other picks are Sadollah,Grove and Pellegrino

All I have to say about Fedor

2009-08-05T17:59:00.003-05:00

I guess to make up for all the “Fedor / the UFC is gonna kill Strikeforce” talk, some outlets have been running the interesting idea that upon closer inspection, Strikeforce’s heavyweight division is just as stacked as the UFC’s. Here’s Jake Rossen again:

"Setting aside interdivisional fights with Anderson Silva or Lyoto Machida — which would be lots of fun for spectators — the UFC really has only three upper-tier heavyweights with the skills to potentially give Emelianenko a hard time: Lesnar, Shane Carwin and Cain Velasquez. Three.

Strikeforce can match the ante with Alistair Overeem, Brett Rogers and some kind of wild-card entrant: Bobby Lashley, Blagoi Ivanov, perhaps even Josh Barnett.

The notion that Strikeforce employs air-conditioning repairmen and the UFC enlists only Olympic-caliber athletes is pushing the envelope; I’d almost sooner see Emelianenko go on a free-agent tear for a year or two before settling in with the UFC, considering that the promotion’s asphyxiating contracts invite retirement at their conclusions."

The problem here is that Rossen only lists UFC fighters he thinks has a chance of beating Fedor while his Strikeforce list happily features not only fighters Fedor would starch, but fighters Fedor would starch that aren’t even in the promotion. And you start to realize how thin the free agent situation is when the best Rossen can think of is Blobby Lay’n'Pray, Broken Hands Blagoi, and Juice Barnett.

The idea that Fedor fights against Alistair Overeem or Brett Rogers are equal to Fedor bouts against Brock, Randy, and even Mirko is laughable. Fedor is the best so of course he’s going to be the favorite in most fights. Past that all you can do is find interesting and compelling competition that people give a shit about. I give a shit about Alistair Overeem and Brett Rogers, but I’m an MMA blogger. And even then, these fights excite me about as much as seeing some fat chick’s muffin top oozing over her stretch pants. I’ll take a look because I’m desperate and horny, but it really doesn’t do much for me.

Let’s face it: Right now all the boner inducing Fedor fights are in the UFC. Even if you buy into the idea that the UFC only has as many good fights as Strikeforce does, the UFC’s good fights make Strikeforce’s good fights look like shit fights. That’s not to say Strikeforce can’t turn things around … Cris Cyborg busted outta nowhere to become Gina Carano’s perfect opponent, and one epic performance from Overeem or Rogers or hey even Arlovski (a Strikeforce heavyweight that didn’t make it on anyone’s potential opponent list) could do the same. But it’s gonna take a whole lot of building and some miracles in the cage before anyone really gives a shit about the competition Fedor could face in Strikeforce.I think Fedor is an overated douche who chose to sign with Strikeforce simply cuz there is a better chance of him winning there. And thats all I have to say about Fedor.

GSP: “I Put My Money on [Kenny Florian] Against BJ Penn”

2009-08-05T17:22:00.002-05:00

UFC welterweight champion Georges St-Pierre has gone on the record with his prediction for the lightweight title match between champion BJ Penn and challenger Kenny Florian at UFC 101 this weekend inside the Wachovia Center in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

“I put my money on [Kenny Florian] against BJ Penn,” GSP stated.

It’s no secret that St-Pierre isn’t Penn’s biggest fan as they have squared off against one another twice inside the UFC’s Octagon.

Although GSP beat Penn both times, including a thrashing at UFC 94 earlier this year, the Hawaiian was still calling for a third bout between the pair after controversy ensued after their 5Round affair.

Penn told the media that it was Florian who first put him onto St-Pierre’s usage of Vaseline to gain an advantage over his opponents during fights. And it was that reason, and pretty much that reason alone, that Penn felt he lost the highly publicized match-up.

GSP didn’t believe a word Penn was saying, and felt disrespected that Penn would try to tarnish such a magical moment with false accusations.

So St-Pierre got back at Penn the best way that he knew how, show the light heavyweight top contender the tricks of the trade when it comes to fighting BJ.

“Kenny Florian is a great training partner, and is going to be a great champion, and he’s also a greater person and human being,” St-Pierre went on to say.

Although this will be Florian’s second 155-pound title fight, it will be his first against a fighter the caliber of Penn. The Bostonian will need all the support he can get, so don’t be surprised to see St-Pierre front and center, cheering his new training partner on. I myself will also be cheering on Ken-Flo just cuz I think Penn is an ass clown.

Joachim Hansen vs. Shinya Aoki III Officially Announced for Dream.11

2009-08-05T17:08:00.001-05:00

Fresh off his Dream.10 win, Shinya Aoki will get first crack at Dream lightweight champion Joachim Hansen’s title. With each holding an impressive win over the other, Dream.11 just got very interesting.

This should come as no surprise as Aoki pretty much announced the figth following his unexpected stand-up battle against Vitor Ribeiro last month.

“In October, I’ll have a title fight and…I will have my revenge,” stated the crafty grappler.

Hansen captured the lightweight crown when he slapped the Brazilian Jiu Jitsu wizard silly in their most recent tussle at Dream.5 last July. However, Aoki had the upper hand going into that scrap after he caught Hansen in a wicked gogoplata at “Pride: Shockwave 2006.”

Hansen was set to pop the cherry on his belt against Gesias “JZ” Cavalcante last December, however was forced to pull out at the 11th hour after he was hospitalized for concussions.

Word on the street is that he’s good to go now and has been training with his team in Norway.

Turtle is back

2009-08-05T17:01:00.002-05:00

I have not posted on this blog for some time now. I have been posting MMA updates on Twitter. With everything that has gone on recently in the world of MMA I figure this blog will go hand in hand with my Twitter posts. I am just one guy who is a huge MMA fan and this is my blog. Enjoy

UFC vets set for Cincinnati ICF show

2009-02-20T01:22:00.000-06:00

The young Intimidation Cage Fighting organization is coming to Cincinnati with a lineup full of former UFC fighters.

"ICF: Breakout," which takes place April 11 at U.S. Bank Arena in downtown Cincinnati, is headlined by former UFC competitor and "The Ultimate Fighter 4" cast member Shonie Carter (46-18-7) vs. undefeated Cincinnati fighter Victor O'Donnell (5-0).

Fellow UFC vets Dan Christison, Marcio "Pe de Pano" Cruz, Luke Zachrich and Jeff Cox are also booked for the event.

Carter, who went 3-3 during five different stints with the UFC, is 7-2 since his last fight with the organization (a unanimous-decision loss to Marcus Davis in December 2006). "Mr. International" now faces O'Donnell, who's 5-0 as a pro following a 4-0 mark as an amateur. The bout will take place at a catch-weight of 175 pounds.

In the night's heavyweight co-main-event attraction, Christison (13-6), a cast member from "The Ultimate Fighter 2" who's 5-0 since late 2007, meets Cruz (4-2), a jiu-jitsu ace who scored a first-round TKO victory over Frank Mir during a 2-2 stretch in the UFC.

Also in action is "The Ultimate Fighter 7" cast member (and former MMAjunkie.com "TUF" blogger) Zachrich (8-1), who looks for his sixth straight win when he takes on fellow middleweight Jonathan Hines (0-0).

In a lightweight match-up, Cox (10-6), who's fought with the UFC, EliteXC, King of the Cage and Adrenaline MMA, takes on Cincinnati fighter Chad Hinton (4-0), who's undefeated since turning pro last year.

The show is scheduled to feature a total of seven amateur fights and eight pro bouts.

The ICF event is another major one for Ohio, whose athletic commission regulated more MMA shows in 2008 than any other state. It also marks the first Ohio show for the ICF, which to date, has held six events in Kentucky at Turfway Park.

U.S. Bank Arena hasn't hosted a major MMA event since UFC 77, an October 2007 event headlined by Anderson Silva vs. Rich Franklin II. The event drew 16,054 fans for a $2.5 million gate.

"We are thrilled to be hosting 'ICF: Breakout,'" stated U.S. Bank Arena Vice President and General Manager Kristin Ropp. "The Tri-State region, particularly Cincinnati, has proven to be a strong hotbed of MMA fans. We were honored to host UFC 77 and feel that ICF will pick up right where the UFC left off."

Tickets for "ICF: Breakout," which range from $38 to $78, are now on sale through Ticketmaster.

Diaz vs. Shamrock to Headline April 11th Strikeforce Event

2009-02-10T16:47:00.002-06:00

Sorry I didn't post for a few days guys. Anyway I'm very hyped to see this fight and here is why, Both these guys are assholes.They will meet each other at a catch weight of 179 pounds. Diaz has fought as high as the 170-pound division in years past.

Shamrock confirmed the bout on today’s joint conference call hosted by Showtime and Strikeforce.

This will mark Shamrock’s first bout since losing his Strikeforce middleweight title to Cung Le last March. Shamrock sustained a broken arm while checking one of Le’s deadly high kicks and was forced to concede the fight as he was unable to make the call to start the 4thRound.

Shamrock received medical clearance to fight again last fall, however has chosen not to compete since the loss.

Diaz has primarily been competing in the lightweight division for the past few years, however has stated in the past that if the right opportunity presented itself, he would have no issues moving up in weight to accept the challenge.

He is currently riding a three-fight winning streak, with his most recent coming via TKO against Thomas Denny last July.

Penn talks retirement

2009-02-03T19:57:00.002-06:00

Also in other hate on GSP news. Matt Hughes king of the Gsp haters had this to say....

I was also surprised by the final match, I thought BJ would have put on a better performance. BJ Penn is coming from a lighter weight class, but he took the fight at 170. That’s the bottom line. I knew it was going to come down to who had the better cardio and even at the end of the first round BJ looked tired. Now, on to what everybody is talking about, the greasing. I’m not the only one who has said that GSP felt greasy during a fight. I know Matt Serra has mentioned it and, even in their first fight, I think BJ said something. I’m not saying GSP did something wrong and I’m not saying that it would have changed any outcomes of any fights; but what I am saying is, for my last two fights against Georges, he felt greasy.

Ice fights in da Nati this weekend

2009-02-03T01:25:00.001-06:00

UFC 94 Turtle's thoughts

2009-02-01T11:09:00.002-06:00

Georges St. Pierre put on one of the most dominating performances I've seen in my life. Sure, there have been other guys who have dominated their opponents in the past but this was a four round destruction of a top five pound for pound fighter in arguably the "biggest fight" in the history of the UFC.

I think it is apposite to stop here and address the opinions that this fight somehow loses significance because of the outcome. I've been saying in comment sections lately that it needs to be understood that historical significance can be achieved in two ways for a fight. 1) It is an obvious historic fight in its matchmaking. This is not a function of the outcome of a fight, it is a function of the factors involved in the fight prior to it taking place. 2) The aftermath creates a historic situation. This was the case with Griffin vs. Bonnar where it provided its own hype. It was the finish to a significant television show in the show but it provided its own significance via the action in the fight. This was a clearly historic fight from the moment it was announced.

But the amazing thing in the actual outcome of the fight was that St. Pierre dominated Penn in the stand-up despite all the talk of Penn having the best boxing in the sport, he got takedowns with frequency despite Penn's reputation as a very hard guy to put on his back, and he dominated on the ground even passing Penn's notoriously great guard with ease on several occasions. After the first few times where Penn threw his legs up to get a high guard and GSP was able to shrug them back down and do damage Penn looked worried and the first time that GSP passed to side control and started landing blows BJ looked downright chapfallen.

I sincerely believe that there is not a man on this earth who can beat the St. Pierre who showed up tonight in a welterweight fight. Thiago Alves is going to get thrashed if St. Pierre shows up motivated when the two clash. There was talk of GSP and Anderson Silva. That is the fight Turtle wants to see not Alves but hey whatcha going to do?

Let's also not diminish BJ Penn's place in the world of fighting. He is a guy who won the 170 lb. championship from Matt Hughes during the height of Hughes' dominance so I refuse to accept the idea that he is unable to compete at an elite level at 170. Despite this fight's outcome there is no doubt in my mind that Penn is still the best lightweight in the world.

Lyoto Machida is a beast. There was nothing different in his approach to this fight from any other. This was not a case of him trying to finish a fight to impress the fans. He used the normal footwork and legerity to force Silva to chase him and eat carefully chosen shots. When Silva was able to close distance Machida used simple foot sweeps to put him down and not be forced outside of his comfort zone. He put the stout Thiago down on THREE occasions with the final being as decisive as it gets. This man is not boring, this man is as legitimate as it gets.

Jon Jones - The man simply proved me wrong. I thought that Bonnar would survive an early flurry and catch the younger Jones as he overextended and gassed out. He did gas but he had built up a very big lead and Bonnar kept clinching in the 3rd round when he clearly was catching the tired "Bones" with strikes. Why he chose to do that, I don't know. But I can't take anything away from Jones. For as young as he is, his skill level and potential is amazing.

On a final note, while I enjoyed the fights it did start to feel a little like the magical "UFC Returns to PPV" card where every single fight was going to a decision. It was a fun night of fights but the more casual fans I've heard feedback from found some of the fights (especially Karo/Stun Gun) to be pretty boring. Lucky for everyone the show closed very strong with the Jones/Machida/St. Pierre putting on great fights.

MMA Fans Should Watch MMA Live tonight

2009-01-31T11:03:00.002-06:00

MMA Live is doing hour-long pre and post-show episodes live from Las Vegas, and I hope everyone tunes in. I almost never respond to getting these kinds of things in my email, but there is a good reason for fans to tune in here. The first show is on at 9 eastern, and then back again after the show.

The people at MMA Live are working hard to get their show on the air on ESPN 2, but they face an uphill battle because the brass at the station doesn't necessarily love the sport. The only way this show will ever get on the air is if the online viewing numbers are so impressive that the people in charge there have no choice but to put it on.