MMA Combat - A Fighter at Heart? Griffin's Case

MMA Combat - A Fighter at Heart? Griffin's Case

When I had the opportunity to meet and briefly talk with Forrest Griffin early in 2006, I walked away from the encounter a bigger fan of the light heavyweight than when I first showed up to The Edge (102.1) studio in downtown Toronto, Canada. As I recall it, we were right down the road at a buddy's apartment and got wind that Griffin and Sam Stout would be there giving interviews to promote upcoming bouts and the sport itself on the back of the Ultimate Fighter's tremendous success not a year earlier.

When we showed up, there were maybe four or five other people present to take in the show live and as we stood outside on Yonge St. afterwards considering our next move, the two UFC talents came strolling out onto the sidewalk with a representative from the Fight Network and the six of us began to engage in conversation. Forrest's enthusiasm for the fight was contagious and he even joked, as he often did, that if anyone wanted to know what being a mixed martial artist was all about he'd be happy to show them later on outside the bar.

They extended an invitation our way to join them, but for reasons unknown to any of us we declined and parted ways. That was five years ago, but the landscape has shifted considerably since that time.

A mere two fights after winning the UFC light heavyweight championship, Griffin lost a bout to middleweight king, Anderson Silva, in a brutal display of speed and technical striking that sent the one-time fan favorite running distraught to his dressing room. Shortly after the event, Griffin did an interview in which he stated he did not want to be anyone's hero, seemingly unable to cope with the inevitability of disappointed fans after a loss; I can not recall the media outlet at this time, but my memory of the content is vivid.

In his latest submission of length, Griffin wrote in to Yahoo Sports discussing a number of topics, but primarily his believe that as a fighter he has plateaued in potential, does not enjoy the same escape from fighting he once did, and reiterates that his career has turned more a job than passion over the past few years.

"I’ve been in the UFC for more than six years, but I ain’t got it figured out when it comes to training and training camps. In fact, I think I’m doing everything wrong and I think for my next fight I’m gonna go somewhere for five or six weeks and see what they do. Maybe to AKA or somewhere where there are a lot of guys slightly smaller than me."

"You’d think me not having stuff figured out yet would keep it exciting. Not really. It ain’t been exciting, fresh or fun since 2008. It’s a job, it’s money, and I have a great job, I realize that. Just because it’s work doesn’t mean I’m not gonna do it. You man up and you do your job and I make a lot of money doing this, and I love money and I love the freedom and ability money gives you."

"It quit being fun when I realized I wasn’t getting better. I’m plateauing or almost getting worse sometimes. One of the essential elements to have in this is your perceived expectation of the future, and I’m a painful realist, so I realized that I’m not going to get better; this is it. It’s only gonna get worse from here on and you fight as much as you can, you fight until you don’t have it anymore, and then you fight a couple more times after that."

Despite coming off consecutive wins it seems Griffin's career has come full circle, perhaps sooner than most at just 32 years of age. It's hard to imagine that even a second victory against Rua would amount to much more than a brief period of elation and perhaps rejuvenation at this point; the man is simply losing his will to compete, or at least that's what his recent dialogue suggests, and this sport is not one that will let you down gently while attempting to do so at the highest of levels without being %100 in the game mentally. That time of reflection every fighter must under-go, at times, comes sooner than later. Is Griffin's looming on the not-so-distant horizon?


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MMA Combat - Dream 17 Official with New Rules in Place

MMA Combat - Dream 17 Official with New Rules in Place

Wednesday, July 27, DREAM officials confirmed the first bout for DREAM 17, scheduled to take place September 24 at Saitama Super Arena, in Saitama, Japan; UFC veteran Caol Uno (26-14-5) will test his might against two-time Shooto featherweight champ, Takeshi Inoue (20-5-0).

Representing Shooting Gym in Yokohama, Japan, Inoue has secured nearly half his wins by [T]KO stoppage with nine to-date. The 31 year old last appeared at DREAM - Fight for Japan, May 29, where he stopped Koichiro Matsumoto on punches at 6:51 of the first round.

A Freelance MMA fighter, Uno takes a more grappling intensive approach with 13 of 26 career victories coming by way of submission, while he has posted only 2 TKOs in 45 professional appearances. The 36 year old veteran recorded his first win in six attempts this past May 29 against Akiyo Nishiura, picking up a unanimous decision over 15 minutes.

Also in the news, DREAM event producer, Keiichi Sasahara revealing Wednesday that the promotion would be adjusting the format of their fights to three, five-minute rounds to fall in line with international norms.

Traditionally, DREAM bouts are contested over one, ten-minute round, with a second 5-minute frame to conclude non-title bouts. Title fights would follow 10, 5, 5, but will now see 5, 5-minute rounds as is common place in most promotions.

"While I believe that a 10-minute first round gives fighters a greater chance at finishing a fight, since we've lately been focusing on the lighter weight classes, for some reason the chances of them getting a finish like a knockout have been smaller," Sasahara explained. "Therefore, I've decided to take a proactive stance to reset things by changing round times. One of the reasons we adopted the five-minute round was to follow the international flow."

"I don't believe that changing all bouts to be three fives will somehow make all fights wonderful, but the change gives us a great chance to reset the fights themselves," he added.

Sasahara left those attending today's press-conference in suspense by adding that the promotion was actively pursuing a big-name, foreign opponent for promotion lightweight champion, Shinya Aoki, however nothing has been made official as those involved are locked in negotiations. Stay tuned for an announcement on that.

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MMA Combat - Ahead of Bellator 47, Sandro Talks Malegarie

MMA Combat - Ahead of Bellator 47, Sandro Talks Malegarie

Bellator FC featherweight, Marlon Sandro (18-2-0), is one of the more exciting 145lbers you will find today, which is saying a lot considering the pace that typifies the division. The former King of Pancrase and Sengoku champion out of Nova Uniao has made his name primarily on the Japanese circuit, with his North American debut coming in the quarterfinals of the Bellator Summer Series featherweight tournament, June 25, where he defeated Genair da Silva via split decision, a result the Brazilian star was not content with.

“I don’t want to belittle anyone, but I was surprised when they called a split decision,” Sandro told Sherdog.com. “Me, Andre Pederneiras and Jose Aldo, who were in my corner, couldn’t understand how they decided that. I pressured him all fight, always moving forward. He was always walking backwards, and I hit him much more.”

Ahead of his Bellator FC 47 clash Saturday night with fellow Brazilian Jiu Jitsu black-belt Nazareno Malegarie (20-1-0), Sandro took a moment to discuss the bout and what he plans to do against the dangerous Argentinian, who bounced back from the first loss of his professional career with a submission victory over Jacob Devree in the quarterfinal match-ups.

“I’ve already seen some fights from Malegarie and I know he has a good BJJ background. He comes from a good school, he’s a Thiago Tavares pupil, but I’m going to fight MMA, and wherever the fight goes, I’ll be ready.”

“I believe he will exchange a little and try to put me down. “I’ve trained both on my feet and on the ground. I’m really confident that I’ll win.”

In 20 professional fights, Sandro (34) has never been stopped inside the distance, losing only to UFC talent Michihiro Omigawa via split decision in August of 2009, and most recently, newly acquired UFC featherweight, and world ranked Japanese star Hatsu Hioki this past December by unanimous decision. Sandro has a clear vision of his goals as he attempts to advance in the tournament bracket, Malegarie is merely another obstacle he must overcome to achieve them.

“I respect everyone, but my thoughts are always on being the champion,” said Sandro. “Every fight I have, I do it with the intention to be No. 1 in the promotion. To achieve that dream, I’ve gotta beat Malegarie, a very tough guy, but I’m ready for that.”


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MMA Combat - Penn vs. Condit at UFC 137?

MMA Combat - Penn vs. Condit at UFC 137?

Not long after UFC match-maker, Joe Silva, nixed a pending rematch between Jon Fitch (23-3-1) and B.J. Penn (16-7-2) due to a perceived lack of fan interest, multiple sources confirmed initial offers have been made by the promotion for a bout pitting the former welterweight and lightweight champion against surging Team Jackson stand-out Carlos Condit (27-5-0).

Although the contest has not yet been made official, both competitors have agreed to the match-up via their twitter accounts.

Carlos Condit: The people have spoken @bjpenndotcom, they want to see us scrap, let's give em what they asked for

B.J Penn: @CarlosCondit Yup. Let's do it! October 29th

October 29, as suggest by Penn, would have the fight featured as a part of the UFC 137 - St. Pierre vs. Diaz line-up, which is scheduled to take place at the Mandalay Bay Events Center in Las Vegas, Nevada. The only fight officially confirmed for the card, besides the main-event itself, is a 145lbs scrap between Japanese star Hatsu Hioki and TUF alumnus George Roop.

Condit has won four consecutive fights since losing to Martin Kampmann in his promotion debut. The former WEC welterweight champion has finished 26 opponents inside the distance in 27 career wins, with 13 [T]KOs and 13 submissions to his name. Penn meanwhile, battled world #2 welterweight Jon Fitch to a unanimous draw in his most recent appearance at UFC 127 - Penn vs. Fitch, February 27, 2011. The highly decorated fighter is 1-0-1 since returning to the welterweight ranks, but has only managed three wins in his past seven fights. If "The Natural Born Killer," Carlos Condit was to walk away victorious, it is widely believed he would become the #1 contender to teammate Georges St. Pierre's title.


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MMA Combat - Nogueira Eyes Knockout at UFC 133

MMA Combat - Nogueira Eyes Knockout at UFC 133

Ahead of his bout against former UFC middleweight champion Rich Franklin (28-6-0) at UFC 133 - Davis vs. Evans, Brazilian star Antonio Rogerio Nogueira realizes there are parts of his game that required tweaking since joining the UFC ranks, as well as a mental adaptation he must undergo with his promotion future hanging in the balance of his next performance. While "Minotoro's" takedown defense has shown signs of improvement of late, he's still adjusting to a state-side mentality and rule-set that has presented its challenges to the perennial top-ten light heavyweight.

In an interview with Sherdog.com, Nogueira had this to say:

“My camps and the way I prepare for fights doesn’t change much,” he said. “What really changed from Pride to the UFC was the style of the fighters, who are better prepared and have more power and physical potential. I think the rules are very different, as well. The UFC allows tighter fights, more ground fights. It’s different, but I’ve got to get used to these rules, or I can’t fight here [in the UFC].”

When discussing the challenge that stands before him in Franklin, Nogueira makes clear his intention on August 6 at the Wells Fargo Center in Philadelphia.

“It’s the most important fight of my career,” said Nogueira. “I have to walk through him and always move forward. I can’t accept his game. Franklin is a guy who likes to rush in, and I have to be careful with that. After these two losses, I’ve got to beat him in a good fight. I’ve got to knock him out and look for it from the first round.”

With little more than a month remaining to prepare, Nogueira vows to fans that they can expect to see a more aggressive "Minotoro" than the one who has been stifled by wrestling minded fighters in his previous two outings, resulting in the first two-fight losing streak in the ten-year veteran's career. Franklin has always been one to stand and bang when the opportunity presents itself, so the former PRIDE FC standout should get plenty of opportunities to execute his plan; whether or not Franklin obliges is another thing all together.


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MMA Combat - Strikeforce - Overeem vs. Werdum, Results

MMA Combat - Strikeforce - Overeem vs. Werdum, Results

Saturday June 18, 2011, Strikeforce - Overeem vs. Werdum went live from the American Airlines Center in Dallas, Texas, where promotion champion Alistair Overeem would get his shot at redemption against Brazilian Jiu Jitsu black-belt Fabricio Werdum; this time, the two met in the quarterfinals of the Strikeforce Heavyweight Grand Prix and the Golden Glory representative executed the game-plan most spectators had drawn up for him coming into the bout.

Possessing a clear strength advantage, Overeem was able to neutralize Werdum's sub-par wrestling ability to keep the fight where he felt most comfortable. Several times Werdum was able to use well-timed combinations to keep the massive striker on the defense, but strong counter shots would often result in the submission ace pulling guard, or at least attempting to do so. A gassed Overeem had slowed considerably by the third frame, which amounted to Werdum's best offense of the match - surprisingly on their feet; but it was too little too late, as the heavyweight champ earned a unanimous decision with more efficient striking and effective ring generalship. Alistair Overeem will now meet Antonio "Bigfoot" Silva in the tournament semi-finals, expected to take place later this year.

In the co-main event, Josh Barnett was simply too much for Brett Rogers to handle as his superior grappling ability made the bout seem like a walk in the park. Shooting in for the take-down almost immediately, Barnett slammed Rogers to the mat and went to work with smothering top control and well placed ground and pound. Surviving the first, Rogers fared no better in the second as Barnett used quick hips to ground his opponent once more. Mounting Rogers almost effortlessly, Barnett unleashed a series of strikes before securing an arm-triangle choke to end the bout at 1:17 of round two. Josh Barnett advances to the tournament semi-finals where he will face hard-hitting Russian Sergei Kharitonov.

Other results from the evening's card are found below:

1 Isaac Vallie-Flagg def Brian Melancon via Decision (Split) rd3 5:00
2 Nah-Shon Burrell def Joe Ray via Decision (Unanimous) rd3 5:00
3 Conor Heun def Magno Almeida via Decision (Unanimous) rd3 5:00
4 Justin Wilcox vs. Gesias Cavalcante ND (Wilcox Accidentally Poked in Eye) rd2 0:31
5 Chad Griggs def Valentijn Overeem via Submission (Punches) rd1 2:08
6 Daniel Cormier def Jeff Monson via Decision (Unanimous) rd3 5:00
7 Jorge Masvidal def K.J. Noons via Decision (Unanimous) rd3 5:00
8 Josh Barnett def Brett Rogers via Submission (Arm-Triangle Choke) rd2 1:17
9 Alistair Overeem def Fabricio Werdum via Decision (Unanimous) rd 3 5:00
10 Todd Moore def Mike Bronzoulis via Decision (Unanimous) rd3 5:00

MMA Combat - Velasquez to Defend Against dos Santos Nov 19

MMA Combat - Velasquez to Defend Against dos Santos Nov 19

UFC champion Cain Velasquez

The Los Angeles Times has reported that UFC heavyweight champion Cain Velasquez (9-0-0) is tabbed to defend his title against number-one contender Junior dos Santos (13-1-0) on November 19, 2011, at the HP Pavilion in San Jose, California, citing Zuffa chairman Lorenzo Fertitta as their source.

The bout will headline UFC 138 and garner a partisan crowd in support of the champion as American Kickboxing Academy has deep roots in the city, where Velasquez trains. Velasquez last appeared in October of 2010 when he defeated then champion Brock Lesner for the promotion strap at UFC 121. Undefeated in his professional career, the champion is a perfect 7-0 inside the octagon with notable wins over Ben Rothwell, Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira, and the aforementioned Lesner. After his latest victory, Velasquez was forced to undergo surgery to repair an injured rotator-cuff; and although it has taken longer than expected for All-American wrestler to heal, all reports suggest he'll be ready for action before year's end.

Challenger Junior dos Santos has been nothing short of brilliant throughout his UFC stint to-date. With a punishing victory over one-time title challenger Shane Carwin at UFC 131, June 11, in Vancouver, Canada, dos Santos solidified himself as the division's number one contender. With 8 [T]KOs in 13 career wins, "Cigano" showcases some of the most refined boxing skill in the heavyweight division today; besting Roy Nelson and Shane Carwin most recently via one-sided unanimous decisions, the Team Nogueira product stopped his first five opponents inside the octagon on punches and will look to complete his run to the top later this year against the formidable Velasquez.


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MMA Combat - Gracie vs. Lawal Official for Strikeforce, July 30

MMA Combat - Gracie vs. Lawal Official for Strikeforce, July 30

Roger Gracie (left) is top-class on the ground

Sunday, June 5, Showtime officials announced that two bouts have been added to the Strikeforce - Fedor vs. Henderson July 30 card in Chicago, Illinois. ADCC World champion Roger Gracie (4-0-0) will square off with once beaten, former 205lbs promotion champion Muhammed "King" Lawal (7-1-0), while Marloes Coenen (19-4-0) will put her 135lbs title on the line against Miesha Tate (11-2-0).

Gracie last competed for Strikeforce on January 29th of this year, submitting journeyman Trevor Prangley via rear naked choke at 4:19 of the first round; fighting in mixed-martial-arts competition only four times in nearly five years, the grappling ace owns each of his victories by way of submission. It will have been nearly a full year this July since the last time Lawal appeared inside the cage. The former light heavyweight champion was TKO'd by Team Nogueira representative Rafael Cavalcante in August of 2010 and will look to put himself back in title contention with a win against the Brazilian this summer.

Coenen's last outing was a thriller against the hard-nosed Liz Carmouche who gave the champ all she could handle for three rounds before succumbing to a triangle choke early in the fourth. The Golden Glory fighter has posted a record of 3-1 inside the Strikeforce cage, losing only to 145lbs champion Cristiane Santos. Tate is a winner in five consecutive appearances, and in ten of her last eleven; the 24 year-old wrestler out of Tacoma, Washington, is 4-1 under the Strikeforce banner and will aspire to bring the 135lbs title stateside July 30.


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MMA Combat - The Ultimate Fighter 13 Finale - Results

MMA Combat - The Ultimate Fighter 13 Finale - Results

In a night filled by highlight-reel finishes and grueiling back and forth decisions, the Ultimate Fighter 13 Finale saw Tony Ferguson become the newest ultimate fighter and "The Carpenter" outpoint "Showtime," spoiling his UFC debut in the process.

The Season 13 finals featured Team Lesner's Tony Ferguson, who has since joined Lesner in full-time training at Team Deathclutch against Ramsey Nijem, a Team dos Santos representative that reportedly trained under John Hackleman leading up to the bout. Ferguson was able to use his size advantage early, sticking Nijem with long jabs while scoring the bout's only takedown; at 3:54 of the very first round, Ferguson leaped in with a left-hook that found its mark, tagging Nijem on the chin and putting the contest to rest after referee Josh Rosenthal stepped in to halt the action.

In the co-main event, the highly anticipated debut of Anthony "Showtime" Pettis was stifled by the workmanlike efforts of Clay "The Carpenter" Guida who brilliantly timed several takedowns, while controlling a threatening Pettis from the top. Although neither man tired, Pettis was unable to find his mark with dynamic standing and submission attacks throughout the bout, as Guida's energy proved too great an obstacle to overcome.

Late in the third frame and down two rounds to none, Pettis was able to gain top-control for the first time when both men fell to the ground off a hip-toss attempt. Quickly taking his opponent's back and sinking in the hooks, "Showtime" looked to secure the late come from behind finish, but with a quick explosion Guida found his way out the back door while taking Pettis' back in a scramble to finish the bout.

With Pettis promised a title-shot pending a victory on June 4th, it is unclear whether the same privilege will be extended to Guida with the win last night. The fan favorite was humble as always in his post-fight comments, but did ask for a chance at the belt while noting that he has "paid his dues" in his time with promotion.

Other results from the evening's card can be found below:

1 Reuben Duran def. Francisco Rivera via Submission (Rear-Naked Choke) rd3 1:57
2 Scott Jorgensen def. Ken Stone via KO (Punches) rd1 4:01
3 Clay Harvison def. Justin Edwards via Decision (Split) rd3 5:00
4 Shamar Bailey def. Ryan McGillivray via Decision (Unanimous) rd3 5:00
5 George Roop def. Josh Grispi via KO (Punch to the Body) rd3 3:14
6 Jeremy Stephens def. Daniel Downes via Decision (Unanimous) rd3 5:00
7 Chris Cope def. Chuck O'Neil via Decision (Unanimous) rd3 5:00
8 Kyle Kingsbury def. Fabio Maldonado via Decision (Unanimous) rd3 5:00
9 Ed Herman def. Tim Credeur via TKO (Punches) rd1 0:48
10 Clay Guida Anthony Pettis Decision (Unanimous) 3 5:00
11 Tony Ferguson Ramsey Nijem KO (Punches) 1 3:54

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Jon Fitch - Picky Picky Picky

Welterweight contender Jon Fitch

http://www.mmacombat.com/blogs/blog230-jon-fitch-picky-picky-picky.html

In a recent interview with mmaweekly.com, UFC welterweight veteran Jon Fitch (23-3-1) boldly stated that he was not interested in a match-up with rising star Rick Story. Story, who recently toppled Thiago Alves via unanimous decision at UFC 130, May 28, 2011, called out the division's #2 ranked fighter citing that Fitch made perfect sense after defeating a top 5 opponent in Alves (whom Fitch has also handily defeated in past competition). But those words fell on deaf ears at the AKA camp.

“I’m at a point in my career where I need to be fighting main events and main event fighters... If you don’t have a belt, currently, or you haven’t owned a belt in the UFC, I’m not really interested” said Fitch.

Although Fitch boasts one of the most impressive records in the UFC today, and since the formation of the organization for that matter, it is not the fighter's call to decide who he will and will not fight. With increasing pressure placed on promotions to make certain fights happen based on fan sentiment or 'twitter wars' between competitors, strengthening the bargaining power of the athlete will only leave mixed martial arts in a boxing-like conundrum; where the right fights simply do not take place based on individual and/or promoter disagreements. The champion has to take on all comers, contenders should not get to choose their path to the title either.

We now know that Rick Story has stepped in for the injured Anthony Johnson at UFC Live 4, and will take on former middleweight title challenger Nate Marquardt, June 26. What an opponent like Story would have brought to the table vs. Fitch are the same tools that get the Purdue alumnus through each of his fights, strong cardio and wrestling ability.

Waiting for the rematch against B.J. Penn isn't going to do anything to bolster Fitch's resume in this commentator's eyes. It's a fight he should control and win, and a second bout that looks any different from what the third round did in their first would be a disappointment.

Fitch has refused to fight fellow top-10 and teammate Josh Koscheck in the past, which is why I personally feel fighters shouldn't align themselves with training partners of similar size, in the same promotion, unless of course they're willing to put all that aside for sport. The last time Fitch fought a high-level wrestler was in his 2008 defeat to champion Georges St. Pierre. Prior to that, Diego Sanchez and Brock Larson are the only two names under the UFC Fitch has battle with any sort of wrestling credential.

At this point, Jake Shields is the man in the division that makes the most sense for each competitor. He owns a submission grappling victory over the AKA captain, has a solid wrestling base and is more than comfortable on his back regardless. Neither man is particularly threatening on the feet, and both cut considerably to get down to 170lbs. Give Penn a smaller welterweight in his next, and challenge the Indiana native with a skill-set more similar to his own; it's been a while.


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MMA Combat - Diaz vs. St. Pierre Headlines UFC 137

MMA Combat - Diaz vs. St. Pierre Headlines UFC 137

Instantly creating one of the year's biggest headlines in the world of mixed martial arts, Wednesday evening UFC president Dana White announced via his official twitter account that reigning welterweight champion Georges St. Pierre (22-2-0) will defend his place atop the 170lbs division against UFC veteran and Strikeforce champion Nick Diaz (25-7-0). The bout will be contested at UFC 137, which is slated to take place October 29, 2011, at the Mandalay Bay Events Center in Las Vegas, Nevada.

"U wanted it! U GOT IT!!! GSP vs DIAZ Oct 29th UFC 137 at Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas." stated White, who recently shot down a series of rumors that the highly anticipated bout would take place this coming December at UFC 140 in Montreal, Quebec.

This certainly is the fight fans have been calling for, particularly since the Zuffa acquisition of the Strikeforce brand. Although White initially declared that cross-promotional champion vs. champion super-fights were out of the question, it appears as though the company's upper brass has softened to the idea; and why not? Nick Diaz is a fan favorite from coast to coast, and is especially popular in the West where he wears his Stockton colors on his sleeve.

The outspoken Cesar Gracie disciple has posted ten consecutive victories with only one bout going to the judges cards during that time. He owns thirteen of his twenty-six career wins by way of [T]KO and has endeared himself to fans by way of his trash talking, 'punches in bunches' style that has stifled opponent after opponent for three years running. Recently, Diaz's boxing aspirations appeared to be taking priority in his professional life, but after Zuffa presented their offer, it's understandable that those same aspirations will see their way to the back-burner once more. The Gracie Jiu Jitsu black belt had asked for this fight after teammate and friend Jake Shields saw his streak snapped at the hands of the champion on April 29, at UFC 129, in Toronto, Canada; now he will get his crack without running the gauntlet that is the UFC welterweight division, and you can be sure he'll make the most of it.

Georges St. Pierre has simply been dominate since picking up the UFC welterweight championship for a second time. He is a winner in nine straight appearances, and has successfully defended his title six times while unanimously winning thirty-three consecutive rounds in that span. Taking out top-ten names like Fitch, Penn, Alves, Hardy, Koscheck, and Jake Shields, the level of competition these warriors have faced in the last five years is hardly comparable. That isn't to say that Diaz is not a dangerous match-up... St. Pierre has already proven he can out-grapple even the strongest wrestler in MMA competition, but Diaz presents an opponent that offers a furious number of combinations standing, while owning one of the better BJJ games in the sport without being hampered by a limited gas tank.

We can however, be mindful that Diaz has not faced an opponent with a strong wrestling base for nearly half a decade (Gleison Tibau being the last), and has dropped three of four bouts against such competition if you start with Diego Sanchez in 2005. Here lies the key to the match; can Nick Diaz develop his traditionally weak take-down-defense enough in the coming months to keep this fight standing?

Be sure to check back with MMA Combat for all the updates on UFC 137; with only one fight booked for the card at present, it already promises to be a great one!

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MMA Combat - Footnotes for May in the World of MMA

Rampage Jackson can still get it done!

MMA Combat - Footnotes for May in the World of MMA

Keeping in line with our monthly tradition MMA Combat presents to you the May addition of Footnotes for the Month, chronicling the major events and news that passed us by in the last 31 days. Please feel free to join the conversation, adding your own footnotes for anything that I may have missed, or was significant enough for you to feel it should be mentioned.

Footnotes for May in the World of MMA:

• A highly anticipated lightweight match-up pitting Evan Dunham vs. George Sotiropoulos at UFC 132 was thwarted when Dunham was forced to pull out due to an injury suffered while training; Dangerous Brazilian Rafael dos Anjos has replaced Dunham on the card.

• The Score Fighting Series announced its June 10, 2011, card in Mississauga, Ontario, Canada, which will feature Strikeforce and UFC veterans in Marius Zaromskis, Rameau Thierry Sokoudjou, and Canada's own, Joe “El Dirte” Doerksen.

• **Honorable mention, Manny Pacquiao easily defended his crown against Shane Mosley who threw 5 combinations in 12 rounds of action.... Yes, you heard it right, 5.

• At the Fighter's Summit in Las Vegas, Nevada, Zuffa announced it would be extending full medical insurance to all of its contracted fighters, 365 days a year.

• Both Frankie Edgar and challenger Gray Maynard pull out of their UFC 130 main-event, 155lbs championship bout, citing injuries sustained during training. Thank God for that insurance.

• Surging heavyweight Brendan Schaub will get his opportunity to add another PRICE FC legend's feather to his cap when he takes on former PRIDE and UFC champion Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira at UFC 134 in Rio, Brazil.

• Former MFC welterweight champion Douglas "The Phenom" Lima (18-4-0) signs with Bellator FC, joining their ever-deepening roster of 170lbs talent.

• Top 10 lightweights Benson Henderson and Dan Miller sign on the dotted line to face each other at UFC Live 5, August 14, at the Bradley Center in Milwaukee, Wisconsin; this match-up will have title-shot implications.

• Reports surface regarding a conflict between sister of Charles "Mask" Lewis and TapouT apparel executives over the distribution of some cremated remains of the late TapouT co-founder at a service held in his memory.

• It is announced that UFC 131 in Vancouver, Canada will feature ringside monitors for judges to use as an alternative vantage point. The NSAC would follow-suit shortly after granting permission to use them at UFC 130.

• Zuffa announces that they will begin to award fighters with "twitter bonuses" who meet a certain criteria with concern to creativity, followship, and increase in followship quarterly. Read more: http://www.mmacombat.com/content/294...%94-zuffa.html

• Former UFC heavyweight champion Brock Lesner pulls out of his UFC 131 title eliminator against Junior dos Santos as he underwent a second bout with diverticulitis, again requiring surgery. Shane Carwin steps into the main-event vs. dos Santos.

• Bellator 44, Hector Lombard extends his unbeaten streak to 23 appearances with a third round knockout over Falaniko Vitale, while All-American wrestler Michael Chandler was victorious over Patricky "Pitbull" Freire in the Season 4 Lightweight Tournament Finals

• Consequently, we now know Michael Chandler will be Eddie Alvarez's next test for the promotion's 155lbs title

• After a number of options fell through including Shane Nelson, Jamie Varner, and Antonio McKee, Dream - Fight for Japan finally secured UFC veteran Rich Clementi as a short notice opponent for promotion lightweight champion Shinya Aoki.

• Antonio "Big Foot" Silva was in the news when he had critical words for fellow Strikeforce heavyweight Josh Barnett; Silva believes Barnett has always slighted Brazilian fighters, and looks to face him at some point during the Strikeforce HWGP.

• B.J. Penn calls out Jake Shields via twitter; Shields welcomes the challenge

• One-time UFC middleweight title challenger Chael Sonnen receives an indefinite suspension from the NSAC for testing positive for excessively high testosterone levels during his fight with Anderson Silva at UFC 117. The penalty would later be reduced to a 12 month suspension.

• Rumors swirl that Nick Diaz will face Georges St. Pierre at UFC 140, in Montreal, Quebec, Canada later this year. UFC preseident Dana White would later deny there is any truth to the speculation.

• Hermes Franca turns himself in on charges of sexual abuse in the State of Oregon and is released by MFC; Franca used to operate a BJJ facility out of Oregon, but now makes his home in Florida.

• Canadian Ryan Ford deals UFC veteran Karo Parisyan another disappointing loss after stopping the Armenian Judo ace at MMA Live 1 in London, Ontario, Canada via doctor stoppage when a thudding knee opened a severe gash on Parisyan's forehead.

• Quinton "Rampage" Jackson, despite sporadic activity of late remains in the title picture at 205lbs with an easy decision victory over Matt "The Hammer" Hamill at UFC 130. Rampage was tabbed to fight Jon Jones this fall for the title, but may face a 6-month medical suspension for a fractured hand (pending x-ray results).

• Brian Stann spoiled Jorge Santiago's return to the octagon with a second round TKO stoppage at UFC 130; Stann continues his march up the 185lbs ladder.

• Rick Story also climbed into the welterweight top-five with a solid decision victory over a game Thiago Alves. Story called out Jon Fitch immediately afterward, but Fitch has maintained he's not interested in the match-up (curiously)

• Frank Mir also stayed relevant in the heavyweight division with his second consecutive victory at UFC 130 when he defeated Roy Nelson via unanimous decision

• Dream 17, Shinya Aoki defeats Rich Clementi via neck-crank, while Masakazu Imanari and Hideo Tokoro advance to the Dream Bantamweight Tournament Final.

• Strikeforce announces Dan Henderson vs. Fedor Emelianenko for their July 30, 2011 card. The highly anticipated match-up which has been rumored for months will be contested at heavyweight

• Dream announces that promotion champions Gegard Mousasi and Hiroyuki Takaya will defend their titles at Dream 17, July 16, 2011

• Shooto and Sengoku 143lbs champion Hatsu Hioki announces that he will relinquish his titles under the Japanese promotions to pursue accolades on a 'new stage'. As well, the grappling ace will attend UFC 131 in Vancouver, Canada, hint hint**

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MMA Combat - Top-Five Featherweight Hatsu Hioki to UFC?

MMA Combat - Top-Five Featherweight Hatsu Hioki to UFC?

On Tuesday, May 31, Shooto 143lbs champion Hatsu Hioki officially relinquished his promotion title to pursue accolades on a new stage within the sport of MMA. Hioki (24-4-2), is a nine-year veteran of the sport and is widely considered a World top-five featherweight on most accredited ranking outlets.

Hatsu Hioki is a top-five featherweight world-wide

A native of Nagoya, Aichi, Japan, the 27-year old grappling ace is a winner in four straight appearances and holds notable victories over Jeff Curran, Mark Hominick, Takeshi Inoue, and Marlon Sandro whom he defeated in December of 2010 for the Sengoku RC 143lbs title.

In a statement released by the fighter on Tuesday, Hioki was slightly ambiguous in his words, although a move to the UFC has been rumored for some time now:

“At this time, I’ve returned the Shooto world lightweight title... There is a pride in wearing the Shooto world title, but I think that in the near future I would like to challenge a new stage of pride.”

When speaking with mmafighting.com, UFC match-maker Sean Shelby indicated he would welcome the Japanese star with open arms should the opportunity for negotiations ever present itself. “If Hioki wanted in the UFC, I would be happy to have him.” stated Shelby.

While neither side has confirmed talks at this time, sherdog.com was able to verify from a source close to the fighter that he will be in attendance at UFC 131 - Carwin vs. dos Santos, in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada, June 11, 2011; a sure sign of where Hioki's intent lies for the future, an intent that would represent a much needed infusion into the promotion's 145lbs division.


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MMA Combat - Silva Gives Thoughts on Okami, Sonnen Partnership

MMA Combat - Silva Gives Thoughts on Okami, Sonnen Partnership

In a recent interview with O Globo, a Brazilian news publication, UFC middleweight champion Anderson Silva (28-4-0) gave his thoughts on the training partnership between number one contender Yushin Okami (26-5-0) and former 185lbs title challenger Chael Sonnen. The Brazilian was critical of the Japanese stand-out for aligning himself with the Team Quest representative, a relationship that was established prior to the recent convictions that have shamed Sonnen's public profile.

“You have to find the best people to train with, and I think [Okami] chose wrong,” Silva said. “I’d never align myself with a loser, a loser in every sense. He didn’t win the fight [between us] and got caught doping. You want to be a champion? Get with good people, with winners. Moreover, Sonnen wasn’t a tough opponent for me. I was injured with cracked ribs and fought five rounds. If I hadn’t been injured, the fight would have been different.”

The reigning UFC champion will defend his promotion title against Okami on August 27, 2011 at the HSBC Arena in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Okami represents a rare opportunity for the Team Nogueira fighter; a chance to avenge a previous defeat - the most recent on his record - which dates back to January of 2006, over half a decade ago when "The Spider" was disqualified for hitting Okami with an illegal up-kick, one that would render him unable to continue resulting in the loss.

For Okami, the contest provides him with a stage to prove the doubters wrong. The Judoka out of Kanagawa, Japan who now utilizes a more greco-roman wrestling style, has ran through the majority of the 185lbs division on the back of superior strength and grappling technique. Since their last encounter, Okami has posted a 12-3-0 record, including three consecutive victories over Linhares, Munoz, and Marquardt respectively. His only losses came at the hands of Jake Shields, Chael Sonnen, and Rich Franklin (a bout that he arguably won); the Team Quest alignment makes sense for the perennial top-ten, as out-wrestling the champion is likely to be his only path to victory, and despite their recent troubles, the pedigree in the discipline is everywhere you look at the Portland, Oregon camp.

Be sure to tune-in on PPV or UFC.tv, August 27, 2011, to witness this highly anticipated rematch.


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MMA Combat - White Retracts Recent Criticism of Mir

MMA Combat - White Retracts Recent Criticism of Mir

After the dust settled and another successful Vegas event was in the books, UFC president Dana White took some time to reflect on Saturday night's show and particularly the performance of former heavyweight champion, Frank Mir.

White was critical when speaking to the media about the UFC 130 co-main event, in short, concluding that he was frustrated Mir didn't perform up-to-par; however, on Sunday morning White took some time to talk with mmajunkie.com where he recanted some of those remarks:

"I think I was a little harsh on Mir," White admitted. "He came into that fight with the perfect gameplan, and he nailed Roy with some big shots. Mir dominated that fight from start to finish, and he deserves some credit for that."

Mir (15-5-0), with the win over Nelson Saturday has now posted consecutive victories for the first time since 2008. When he'll appear next and against who is anyone's guess, as the heavyweight division has been a bit of a juggling act of late; with Velasquez recovering from injury, while awaiting the winner of dos Santos vs. Carwin at UFC 131, and Lesner coming out of another surgery, the top of the division is tied up for the time being.

Match-ups against a blossoming Brendan Schaub (should he get through Nogueira first), or Travis Browne would prove solid tests as both men possess great power in their hands, but if this past weekend showed us anything it's that Mir is capable of, and willing to re-invent himself for success. He has, and will hover around the top of the division for some time to come, which is why White expects more from him, simply because he holds him in high-regard.

"Frank Mir has been a two-time world champion," White said on Saturday. "He's been around a long time. He's a super-talented guy. I expect more of him."


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MMA Combat - Dream 17 - Fight for Japan

MMA Combat - Dream 17 - Fight for Japan

May 29, 2011, the Saitama Super Arena, in Saitama, Japan hosted Dream 17 - Fight for Japan. The event featured the promotion's Bantamweight Tournament Quarterfinal and Semifinal match-ups, as well as a highly publicized appearance for Shinya Aoki who's opponent for the evening was uncertain until a mere 10 days ago when UFC veteran Rich Clementi took the fight on short notice.

Reports from the event, which did not air live in Japan or the United States, speak of Aoki (28-5-0) utilizing his superior grappling ability, achieving a back-mount on his opponent for nearly the duration of the first round, while peppering Clementi (40-20-1) with shots. "No Love" survived the first frame but experienced much of the same in the second when Aoki took his back once more; softening the American with blows, the Dream lightweight ace stopped Clementi at 2:32 of the second round via neck-crank.

In tournament action, Masakazu Imanari (23-8-2) and Hideo Tokoro (29-23-1) saw their way through to Bantamweight Grand Prix Finals defeating Kenji Osawa and Atsushi Yamamoto respectively in the semifinals.

Other results from the evening can be found below:

Bantamweight Tournament Semifinals
Masakazu Imanari def. Kenji Osawa via submission (Achilles lock) - Round 2, 0:58
Bantamweight Tournament Semifinals
Hideo Tokoro def. Atsushi Yamamoto via split decision

Shinya Aoki def. Rich Clementi via submission (neck crank) - Round 2, 2:17
Katsunori Kikuno def. Daisuke Nakamura via unanimous decision
Caol Uno def. Akiyo "Wicky" Nishiura via unanimous decision
Takeshi Inoue def. Koichiro Matsumoto via TKO (strikes) - Round, 6:51
Joachim Hansen def. Mitsuhiro Ishida via split decision

Bantamweight Tournament Quarterfinals
Kenji Osawa def. Takafumi Otsuka via split decision
Bantamweight Tournament Quarterfinals
Masakazu Imanari def. Keisuke Fujiwara via unanimous decision
Bantamweight Tournament Quarterfinals
Hideo Tokoro def. Yoshiro Maeda via TKO (corner's stoppage) - Round 2, 0:43
Bantamweight Tournament Quarterfinals
Atsushi Yamamoto def. Yusaku Nakamura via TKO (strikes) - Round 1, 8:43


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MMA Combat - Hermes Franca Arrested, Released by MFC

MMA Combat - Hermes Franca Arrested, Released by MFC

One-time UFC lightweight title challenger and nine-year veteran of sport, Hermes Franca (22-12-0), has been arrested in the State of Oregon on alleged charges of sexual abuse.

Franca formerly owned and operated a Brazilian Jiu Jitsu school out of Clackamas, Oregon, which is where the charges were laid; he turned himself into state authorities on Monday, May 16. Examiner.com broke the news on Thursday, and it has since been reported that the 36-year old had bail set at $250 000 with a trial scheduled for July 12 at 9 am PST in the Clackamas County Courthouse in Oregon City, Ore.

Maximum Fighting Championship had matched up Franca with fellow UFC veteran Drew Fickett (41-13-0) for their June 10 event, where the two would contest the promotion's lightweight title. Plans have since changed; MFC Owner and President Mark Pavelich had the following remarks regarding Franca's pending charges, and his relationship with the organization after competing three times in the month of April:

“Mr. Franca’s legal situation is a matter in the hands of law enforcement officials and soon to be going before the courts... Because of that, there will not be any further comment on those allegations, but I have taken immediate action to indicate that he is no longer going to be part of my organization.”

“Mr. Franca breached his contract by fighting outside of the organization only 15 days after his bout at MFC 29, and then he fought again six days after that in Brazil and lost,” said Pavelich. “I find these actions to be incredibly disrespectful to my company and Mr. Franca is no longer welcome as part of the Maximum Fighting Championship.”


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MMA Combat - St. Pierre vs. Diaz at UFC 140?

MMA Combat - St. Pierre vs. Diaz at UFC 140?

Montreal’s David Simon, host of Ringside Report Radio on ‘The Team’ 990 AM and owner/writer for www.ringsidereport.net posted yesterday on his official twitter account that not only would the UFC return to “La Belle Province” for UFC 140 – expected to take place December 10, 2011 – but that UFC welterweight champ Georges St. Pierre (22-2-0) would likely defend his belt at the event, most probably, against Stockton, California’s favorite son, Nick Diaz (25-7-0).

“#UFC140 December 10 at the Bell Centre. Get ready #Montreal. The #UFC is coming back!!!!”

“Nick Diaz vs. GSP is a possibility for the main event of #UFC140 on December 10 in #Montreal.”

The speculation comes on the heels of a radio interview Simon conducted with UFC Director of Operations Tom Wright on Wednesday, May 18. The promotion has achieved great successes in Montreal thus far, and looks to maintain close ties with the city and market going forward.

“We know how important this market is to us and putting on great fights,” Wright said. “It’s a great venue (Bell Centre), it’s a great fan-base, it’s a great environment. The energy in that building is as good as any building in North America. We’ll always have a soft spot for Montreal.”


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MMA Combat - UFC's Chael Sonnen Suspended Indefinitely

MMA Combat - UFC's Chael Sonnen Suspended Indefinitely


On Wednesday, May 18, the California State Athletic Commission by a vote of 4-1 decided to uphold the suspension of one-time UFC middleweight title challenger, Chael Sonnen (25-11-1). The promotion had plans to feature Sonnen as a coach opposite Michael Bisping on the next season of The Ultimate Figther reality series, but yesterday's ruling has effectively put an end to that agenda, and potentially the 34 year old, Oregon native's career.

Sonnen's nine-month journey with the CSAC began last August when his pre-fight sample was flagged for elevated testosterone levels; Sonnen took four hard-fought rounds from champion, Anderson Silva on August 7, 2010, before succumbing to an arm-bar submission in round five.

The California Code of Regulations explicitly states that licensees for boxing and mixed martial arts may have their licenses revoked for conduct which discredits their sport. One month ago, the CSAC announced that Sonnen would be suspended indefinitely on the back on two violations; one, that Sonnen was found to have made untruthful statements under oath at a December 2nd hearing, and two, for pleading guilty to money-laundering on April 8, 2011, in his home state of Oregon.

“I’ve worked for this chance my whole life, since I was nine, and I don’t want to retire today,” Sonnen stated at yesterday's hearing. “I volunteered in my community 18 hours a week the last decade. Never had a drop of alcohol in my life. Never smoked anything... I’m truly embarrassed from the last hearing and until now... I will not make these mistakes again. I will not ask for forgiveness again. Please just let me go back to work.”

Those words fell on deaf ears; as the common sentiment held by CSAC officials could be summed up in the remarks of Commissioner Eugene Hernandez: “Past actions are the best indicator of future performance.”

A formal announcement has not been made regarding Sonnen's future with the UFC and his career in general; tune in for updates as this story continues to unfold.


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MMA Combat - A -250 Favorite, dos Santos Predicts Knockout

Shane Carwin has big KO power

MMA Combat - A -250 Favorite, dos Santos Predicts Knockout