PRIDE 34 and SHOCKWAVE 2006 DVD Reviews

Pride 34 and Shockwave 2006 Review

We take a look at some of the latest PRIDE FC releases by BCI. These are notable for the fact these are the first released by Zuffa, owners of the UFC, since the transfer of PRIDE from Dream Stage Entertainment to Zuffa. Fans have been worried that the DVD releases would be stopped or otherwise damaged because of a lack of interest by Zuffa. This early test indicates that the answer will be no.

Video: Both events are presented in 1:78:1 anamorphic widescreen. This is interesting because of the fact that PRIDE never released any of these events in Widescreen. However, as some will know often certain fights appeared in Widescreen on the Japanese Region 2 release of PRIDE DVDs. It seems Zuffa is simply using a widescreen master that Dream Stage had, but only used for certain fights. To the best of my knowledge none of the fights look cropped at all and in a more telling way, US announcer footage (produced by PRIDE USA) are in regular full screen (and presented the way ESPN does with certain non-widescreen ads or programs on its HD channel). The picture quality is great and it’s nice to see PRIDE events in Widescreen (and not cropped to achieve it).

Audio: The audio uses a standard stereo mix and sounds fine. It is important to note, as is somewhat obvious by the appearance of Kill The Messenger’s Music Supervisor credit, certain music has been replaced. The most notable example of this is the insane J-Pop song that played during the intro for Shockwave 2006 and replaced with a generic angry nu-metal sound. It’s a shame, but DSE routinely cut intros for rights reasons, and the costs to license the song and others may not have been in Zuffa budget for the DVD release (Zuffa does this with their own UFC releases). Still the fights sound great, so fans should still enjoy the contests themselves.

Extras: Each disc contains certain extra fights. PRIDE 34 has the only in the Japan match up of Butterbean vs Zulu’s son. It’s a shame the Japanese TV version couldn’t appear on the disc as the promotion of the Super Heavy-Weight Grand Prix is pretty funny. Essentially all fights that occurred at each event should be on the discs. There is a lot of editing on the PRIDE 34 DVD as the main feature is less than 90 minutes. The fights are uncut, but a lot of the closing events and waiting for the fight setup has been cut (PRIDE 34 was a long event live).

Overall: If you are looking for low-priced ways to view some of the last events PRIDE put on these DVDs are a great way besides importing the expensive Japanese DVDs. While some of the production end decision Zuffa made, but all the fights are present and they picture and audio quality are good. So I would recommend picking these DVDs up if you’re a fan of PRIDE events.

PRIDE 34 and SHOCKWAVE 2006 DVD Reviews

DREAM 1 and 2 Japanese R2 DVD Release Dates Set

Picked this up from CDJapan's website today.

This will be a big boon since a Japanese version of DREAM 1 that is not clipped has yet to appear.

These DVDs are Region 2, but they will be in anamorhpic widescreen. CDJapan claims they will only have Stereo audio, but this is most likely based on early information they received.

DREAM 1 July 23rd for around 43 USD.
http://www.cdjapan.co.jp/detailview.html?KEY=TCED-288

DREAM 2 July 23rd for around 43 USD
http://www.cdjapan.co.jp/detailview.html?KEY=TCED-290

Enjoy!

DREAM 1 and 2 Japanese R2 DVD Release Dates Set

Report From the NYC Affliction Banned MMA Press Conference and an Interview with Josh Barnett by Ian Friedman

by Ian Friedman

Today, I had the extreme pleasure of being able to cover the Affliction Banned Press Conference that was held at the Trump Tower in Manhattan at 57^th and 5 Avenue in Lower Manhattan. I also got the chance to talk with former UFC Heavyweight Champ former Pride, NJPW, and current Pancrase, World Victory Road, and IGF fighter Josh Barnett.

I arrived shortly before the press conference was about to start at the Trump Towers so I had a chance to get a free Affliction t-shirts, which was also given out to fans who were attending the press conference as it was open to the public. I have to say Affliction made a smart decision in giving out free shirts, as regardless of ones opinion on the brand, it is well known and highly regarded and a way to draw people to an event. Trump Tower was also an excellent location choice with its exquisite interiors which helped give the proceedings in New York a very refined and regal look. The interior and exterior was adorned with many posters inside and outside the building including a massive 3-5 floor banner setup behind the conference table. After collecting my t-shirt, I signed in at the press desk collecting my packet and badge id. I then took the escalator down to the first floor where the press conference was being held. Members of the public who were there were able to view the proceedings from the railings of the floor above.

The Press Conference itself including short speeches from all of the participants except for Ben Rothwell’s since he is still listed as fighting TBA and was joked about by Rothwell and some of the other fighters. Not much of substance was really discussed that has not been reported in the past, but I did have a chance to discuss HD coverage with Afflictions media people and they stated that since they will be with InDemand and Dish Network among others, that as long as you have an HD capable cable box your provider will have Banned available to purchase and view in HD. Banned will also be available in Russia and Japan to view which is quite amazing when you think this is the companies first event.

Affliction and their production team did a great job promoting the event even getting Donald Trump who was in attendance to give a small speech putting over Affliction.

After the Press Conference formally ended, the fighters themselves did interviews with members of the press. Because of time constraints I only had a chance to talk with Josh Barnett. I did accidentally nail Matt Lindland with my bookbag. Matt pointed out this out, too which I immediately apologized, and Matt responded with a hearty laugh and an “its ok”.

I figured since fight discussion would be what everyone else was going to be talking about with Josh, I would talk about some of the less beaten areas involving the Japanese fight scene and anime. We began talking about one of Josh’s favorite (along with mine too) anime Fist of the North Star. Josh himself told me that he had not had a chance yet to view some of the newer Gaiden’s yet, but that he really wants to as he is such a massive fan of the series. He has had heard very positive feedback on it from one of the fighters he works with. He also did not pick up the Japanese box sets that recently came out and retailed for over 100,000 yen, because he still relies on English subs. It may be a surprise too some, but Josh is not fully fluent in Japanese even though many think he is. He rates his skills as being able to pick it up and engage around conversational level Japanese, but that it comes and goes, and definitely would not describe himself as fluent by any means. He also was gracious enough to sign a box set of Fist of the North Star that I had and will now a fixture in the office. The music rights to use Fist of the North Star’s first theme, “Ai wo Torimodose!!” for Josh’s entrance have not yet been secured, but Josh is still not sure if he is going to use it or not as entrance music, pointing out Japan and America as different markets and if American fans would responds.

We discussed Josh’s plans for fighting in Japan, he stated that he had no plans for fighting in DREAM because of carry-over issues from PRIDE. He did wish the people fighting in the organization the best, but he did not plan on being involved with the organization in any capacity, so it will look like Josh will be with World Victory Road for the near future in terms of national MMA in Japan. Josh stated that he would love to keep fighting in Pancrase and defending his Open Weight King of Pancrase title, but that Pancrase is having trouble finding challengers that want to compete at Open Weight. He stated that Pancrase is trying and that the door is always open.

In terms of the Inoki Genome Federation, Josh is going to be back there in June and August and stated that “he wasn’t leaving until he had a belt”! I also asked him why does Inoki not just start an MMA group and why have the IGF. Josh felt it is because for Inoki he feels that wrestling and the skill involved is not fake (which is a view Josh holds) and that Inoki wants pro-wrestlers who can compete as if they were MMA fighters in a legit sense. I mentioned that this also seemed to be the goal with Inoki Bom-Ay-Ye and for example, the Yuji Nagata-Cro-Cop match. Josh agreed, but pointed out at the time that no one had truly known how powerful Cro-Cop was and it was not an even match up. IGF seems to have as a goal the evolution in the ideas of the Bom-Ay-Ye and having truly well rounded fighters in the legit and Puro sense.

I then thanked Josh for taking the time for the interview and snapped a quick photo and departed. One thing that was interesting to me was how I was similar in height to Fedor and at the other end of the stick how gigantic Tim Sylvia is, but as both men know and our readers do, size while important isn’t the end all. National Coverage in the forum of ESPN, NBC, and other major groups along with MMA press were present, including a great deal of Russian and European media.

I left shortly afterward, but not before seeing the huge throngs of fans waiting in line to get the signatures from the fighters. Affliction put on a great presentation for both the media and the fans today and I just cannot wait to see their first fight card July 19^th.

Report From the NYC Affliction Banned MMA Press Conference and an Interview with Josh Barnett by Ian Friedman

Help get more MMA on US TV: DREAM From the people who brought us Pride!

It's also good to get more MMA on use TV's and here is the chance to get the latest from Japan. It's from some of the same people who brought you PRIDE FC (yes, thats a very good thing). Also feel free to toss in a K-1 request also :)

Thanks to SonnyakaPig at Sherdog.

Here are the email addys and two form letters you can use.

Here's two general requests. One for HDNet and one for FEG.

FEG's email contact: official@feg-jp.com

HDNet's email contact: viewer@hd.net

HDNet

Dear Gentleperson,

I am very pleased with HDNet's interest in and coverage of the growing sport of MMA. I am a devoted fan of the sport and I enjoy watching a wide variety of MMA promotions.

As a continued show of support for MMA's growth, will you please consider looking into the possibility of broadcasting the new MMA promotion, Dream. Dream is the product of the FEG corporation and it possesses an extremely strong stable of world class fighters.

I have no doubt that the number of HDNet subscribers would increase if your channel carried the Dream events. Dream has the potential to be a very strong and entertaining MMA promotion and I am confident that fans of the sport would do everything in their power to watch the Dream promotion on your excellent high definition channel.

Thank you for considering my email. And please continue providing a great HD channel in HDNet.

Sincerely,

FEG

Dear Gentleperson,

Congratulations on the creation of your new and exciting MMA promotion Dream. You have done a wonderful job in obtaining world class fighters to fill your roster.

As a devoted MMA fan that does not live in Japan, I strongly desire the opportunity to view your Dream events. Please consider working with television companies that have the capability of broadcasting your Dream events outside of Japan.

The high definition channel HDNet made history when they broadcasted the NYE Yerrenoka event in high definition. Countless HDNet subscribers were elated with the opportunity to watch a fine Japanese MMA promotion in high definition.

Perhaps, HDNet would be an equally good home for Dream events.

In addition to HDNet, please consider broadcasting the Dream events on pay per view. I have no doubt that fans throughout the world would order the highly exciting events that you have lined up.

Thank you for considering my email, and again, congratulations on the creation of Dream.

Sincerely,

Help get more MMA on US TV: DREAM From the people who brought us Pride!

BCI's Pride Shockwave 2006 DVD Specs and Cover

Sorry for the watermark. I just need to get some new converting software.

Well the drought is over Pride is back on DVD, Starting May 6 from BCI! I cannot wait to get this disc in for review.

Enjoy!

BCI's Pride Shockwave 2006 DVD Specs and Cover

Cro-Cop Goes HD in BCI's Ultimate Force!

Buy it at Amazon.com Ultimate Force HD to help support HK and CULT FILM NEWS.

MIXED MARTIAL ARTS SUPERSTAR MIRKO “CRO COP” FILIPOVIC KICKS ACTION UP TO THE NEXT LEVEL – HIGH DEFINITION!

ULTIMATE FORCE STARRING

MIRKO “CRO COP” FILIPOVIC

BOWS ON HD-DVD AND BLU-RAY

NOVEMBER 13TH

Both HD releases with exclusive bonus feature content

Los Angeles, CA – On November 13th, BCI, a Navarre Corporation Company, gives the hard-hitting thrills of Mixed Martial Arts superstar Mirko “Cro Cop” Filipovic unprecedented clarity with the HD-DVD and Blu-ray high definition releases of Ultimate Force, the debut major motion picture of the renowned UFC and Pride Champion. An unstoppable barrage of cutting edge action and adventure, Ultimate Force is molded in the pulse-pounding tradition of Enter the Dragon and The Professional. In addition to the bonus features available on the standard DVD, the Ultimate Force HD-DVD and Blu-ray releases boast rare, behind-the-scenes training footage of Mirko Filipovic – available only on the high definition versions! SRP is $19.98 for the HD-DVD and $24.98 for the Blu-ray. Order date is October 5th.

In Ultimate Force, Filipovic stars as Axon Rey, a heavily decorated war hero and former tactical police officer who has been recruited by a covert government organization to fight enemies of the State. Schooled in martial arts and the latest high-tech weapons, Rey, now code named Sphinx, is an elite member of the Sanction Division of SATO (State Anti-Terrorist Organization), a clandestine collective of assassins under the direct control of SIN (State Intelligence Network).

Sphinx failed his last assassination mission. Normally, the state dealt with such a failure easily—it executed the executioner. Since Sphinx is their top assassin, his controller, Janus (Igor Galo), declines to eliminate him, sending him instead to a rehabilitation island called Gulag 7. Sphinx must now face 5 opponents: other government operatives who have been sent to the island for various reasons. Refusal to fight means death. Now, he must fight his way off the island. It’s kill or be killed….

Ultimate Force HD-DVD and Blu-ray Special Features:

* “Making of” Featurette
* Interview with Mirko “Cro Cop” Filipovic
* Theatrical Trailer
* HD-DVD and Blu-ray exclusive extra feature: Footage of Mirko training

Black Belt Magazine called Ultimate Force “Universal Soldier meets The Bourne Supremacy” and Jean-Claude Van Damme dubbed Filipovic “the new Charles Bronson.” Want non-stop bone-crunching action? Look no further than Mirko “Cro-Cop” Filipovic in Ultimate Force – now in crystal-clear 1080 high definition!

Cro-Cop Goes HD in BCI's Ultimate Force!

Left of Centre – MMA News from the Contenders

This is a monthly column that will address MMA news from organization other then the UFC.

By Mike S.

K1 Heroes Names Fighters for October 28^th Card

K1 recently announced nine fighters who will participate in the up coming October 28^th card originating from the Jangchung Gymnasium in Seoul South Korea.

Topping the company’s first Korean card is Korean / Canadian Middleweight standout Denis Kang. Kang is no stranger to the Korean fight scene having taken a title in the popular Spirit MC organization. It was thought by many fans that Kang would join the UFC, but after the American organization seemed less then interested in the former Pride fighter K1 proved to be a logical home for Kang.

Shamed Judoka Yoshihiro Akiyama makes his return to K1 after he apologized to FEG and MMA fans for resorting to less then honorable tactics in his December 31, 2006 fight with Kazushi Sakuraba. Before the Sakuraba fight Akiyama won the Heroes Light Heavyweight Tournament and will be looking to win back on the winning track and on the good side of MMA fans around the world.

The rest of the cast includes Jonnie Morton conqueror Bernard Ackah. Ackah will make his first appearance since his first round KO loss to Melvin Manhoef in July of this year. Brock Lesnar punching bag and international Judo star Min Soo Kim. Kim was recently victorious in his match with Korean K1 competitor Randy Kim via decision. Min Soo will look to keep his winning streak rolling as he enters this event on his home turf.

World #1 Decides to Stay Home

World pound for pound # 1 MMA fighter Fedor Emelianenko has reportedly signed with the Russian fight organization M-1. Reports have surfaced that the company has received a huge financial insurgence from and American entertainment company. M-1 reports that Fedor will headline their first event under new ownership in January or February 2008 which is reportedly taking place in America.

Babalu Using the Force

UFC cast away Renato “Babalu” Sobral has signed a multi-fight contract with the Strikeforce arm of the ProElite family. The signing was announced at the recent Strikeforce Playboy Mansion card when Babalu joined the broadcast team which included 185lb contender Frank Shamrock. This signing opens up a number of interesting light heavyweight match ups in the future for the Brazilian submission bad boy.

IFL Grandprix Not So Grand & Shamrock Released

The planned IFL Grandprix has lost some of its luster as two fighters set to participate were cut before the end. Fan favorites Ben Rothwell and Mike Whitehead were let go after both fighters could not come to a contractual agreement with the organization. This move may be an indication of the financial trouble the IFL is facing. Roy Nelson and Bryan Vetell have been tapped to replace Rothwell and Whitehead respectively.

Frank Shamrock has been released from his contract with the IFL and the San Jose Razorclawes will not be on the roster next year.

Kimbo vs. Tank Not Dead Just Yet

The fight that many MMA fans wish would just go away still has a pulse after being announced DOA only days ago. The original promoter Cage Fury Fighting Championships announced the fight was dead after and major investor had pulled out of a partnership. Fight is done right, not so…in steps the Palace Fighting Championships. The Lamoore California based company has extended the olive branch to both fighters and wants the fight to happen on their October 18^th card. No word as of yet if their has been an agreement with either fighter.

Left of Centre – MMA News from the Contenders

UFC Fight Night 11 Preview and Predictions: By Keith Shillan

UFC Fight Night 11 Preview and Predictions: By Keith Shillan

9 crazy days of MMA continues this Wednesday when the UFC Fight Night 11 airs on Spike TV followed by the season premier of The Ultimate Fighter Season 6. Thursday has the finals of the Internation Fight League. Pat Miletich’s Quad City Silverbacks tries to three peat when they meet Renzo Gracie’s New York Pitbulls( No Michael Vick jokes). Then on Saturday the UFC returns on PPV with UFC 76. It has 3 blockbuster fights as Chuck “the Iceman” Liddell starts his comeback trail for the UFC Light Heavyweight title when he takes on the very tough “Dean of Mean” Keith Jardine. The top Light Heavyweight fighter in the world Maurico “Shogun” Rua enters the octagon for the first time, when he fight the fan favorite Forrest Griffin. There is also a Welterweight showdown when Diego “the Nightmare” Sanchez takes on Jon Fitch. The nine days ends on Sunday, with UK’s fight organization Cage Rage. Yet, before I get to those fights, we should take a look at the fights that are going to be aired this Wednesday.

Nate “the Rock” Quarry vs Pete “Drago” Sell

It has been nearly two years since we last seen TUF 1 alumni Nate Quarry. Nate started his UFC career with a bash. He won his first 3 fights all by KO/TKO. He looked to have been on a steady road to the UFC Middleweight title. At that time, the UFC Middleweight picture was a mess. The then champion, Rich Franklin had no real contender to face. So the UFC decided to throw the very new Nate Quarry at him. Franklin proved that Quarry was not yet a top fighter, as Franklin annihilated him. He landed big left crosses at will, and then finished the fight with a KO that is just scary. The last image we have a Quarry is an unconscious body laying in the octagon canvas. Quarry would then suffer an very serious neck/back injury that threatened his fighting career. Many believed that Quarry would not be able to return.

Quarry’s last win in the UFC was a very quick TKO over Pete Sell. In the first, round of their matchup, Quarry landed a shot that dropped Sell and referee Cecil Peoples jumped in to stop the fight. It seemed though that Sell had recovered from the shot and was able to continue. This fight was a very controversial fight, which many fans (myself included) thought was stopped immaturely. Quarry will try to answer three questions with this fight. First, he can return from his past injury and be effective. Second, that he deserved the TKO win over Sell in the first fight. Third, that he deserved his title shot, and is a top fighter.

Pete Sell has redemption on his mind. He wants to show that he could have beaten Quarry the first time, if the fight wasn’t stopped early. He also wants to show that he belongs in the UFC. He has not been to impressive lately. First, he lost a unanimous decision to Travis Lutter on TUF 4. He would then get KO’d by Scott Smith. Finally he would then get smoked by Thales Leites, losing by unanimous decision.

The key to this fight for Quarry is to keep this fight standing and use his better striking. He may also want to use the clinch. Sell is a student under UFC Welterweight Champion Matt Serra, so he has a very good submission game. Sell does have heavy hands, but Quarry is the better striker. Look for Sell to try to take this fight to the ground. Though Quarry will probable have a lot of ring rust, I expect him to win a very close standup war. Quarry by unanimous decision.

Nate Diaz vs Junior Assuncao

Nate Diaz is very similar to his older brother Nick. They are charismatic, cocky, and tough. Nate became a big star during his run on TUF 5. His mouth talked a lot, and his fighting backed it up. During the show, he first won a tough fight over Rob Emerson, winning by decision. He then would go on to submit both Corey Hill and Gray Maynard. He would take on Manny Gamburyan for the season title. It seemed like Nate was having a tough time with Manny until Manny suffered a freak injury, that caused Nate to win the fight.

Nate has an awesome submission game. He is constantly looking for submissions while on his back. His striking is similar to his brother’s. It is very unorthodox. He uses small pitter pat shots that slowly adds up and damages his opponent. Assuncao is a BJJ expert with a UFC record of 1-1. He will be looking to take this fight to the ground and will be looking for a ground and pound submission or a submission. A win over Diaz would really help Assuncao propel his career in the UFC Lightweight rankings. However, I see Diaz damaging Assuncao on the feet and winning by decision.

Chris “ the Crippler” Leben vs Terry Martin

Leben started his UFC career with a bang. After his stint on the original season of TUF, he went on a 5 fight winning streak. He stopped three of those opponents by either TKO or submission. He would then hit a road block named Anderson Silva. Silva gave Leben a lesson in Muay Thai by knocking Leben out in only 49 seconds. Leben would then rebound with a KO over Jorge Santiago. He would then lose his last two fights. First being submitted Jason MacDonald and losing a unanimous decision to Kalib Starnes.

Leben has a very solid chin and loves to slug it out. He has very heavy hands and a very underrated submission game. He is in a desperate need for a win. A loss here would probable send Leben to the WEC.

Terry Martin career has been on the total opposite road then Leben. Martin started as a Light Heavyweight and lost his first two UFC fights. He would then move down to Middleweight and it has been all success since. He would first knockout out Jorge Rivera in only 14 seconds and then would knockout out Ivan Salaverry in the first round of their matchup, by a big slam. Martin has made himself a serious contender in the UFC. Martin has very heavy hands and a good wrestling. Look for this fight to be an absolute slugfest. Leben might have an advantage in the later rounds because Martin has gassed in the past. I however don’t expect this fight to go long. I see Martin winning by TKO in round one. I also expect him to call out the winner of Anderson Silva vs Rich Franklin.

Kenny “KenFlo” Florian vs Din “Dinyero” Thomas

I am very excited about the main event. It puts to top Lightweight contender against each other. Both fighters are very similar. Both are very well rounded fight games and really bad nicknames. However the winner here could possible be fighting BJ Penn for the UFC Lightweight title (If Sean Sherk is stripped for steroid use).

Kenny has really changed people’s opinions about him since his time on the Ultimate Fighter. Kenny was fighting at Middleweight on the show. He would be the smallest fighter in the house and it showed during the finals. Diego Sanchez overpowered the smaller Florian and ground and pounded Florian to a TKO win. Florian would then move to Lightweight and would achieve great success. Kenny would win his first three UFC lightweight fight, stopping all by either TKO or submissions. Kenny would be matched up against Sean Sherk for the vacant UFC Lightweight belt. Many (Myself included) didn’t think Kenny deserved the title shot and expect Sherk to easily beat Florian in the first round. Though Sherk won the fight failry easily, the fight went the entire 25 minutes. Kenny showed a great heart, strong cardio, and that he can take a beaten. Kenny would rebound from this lost with 2 submission victories, first over Dokonjonsuke Mishima and then Alvin Robinson.

Din Thomas has been a UFC Lightweight journey man for a while. He has many ups and downs over the years. Din would enter the UFC in June 2001. He lost by strikes to BJ Penn. He would bounce back from that lost with a win over Fabiano Iha. Din would then lose a decision to Caol Uno but win a decision over current UFC Welterweight Champion Matt Serra. Din would leave the UFC and fight in smaller organizations. Din seemed unfocused and struggled only going 3-3 in that span. Din would return to the UFC as a part of TUF 4. He would get a win over Mikey Burnett but would lose a close decision to Chris Lytle. Since the show, Din seemed like a top Lightweight contender again. He would enter this fight on a three straight UFC wins. He would beat Rich Clementi, Clay Guida, and Jeremy Stephens.

This fight is a extremely hard fight to pick. Both fighters seem to be on a roll right now. Both have awesome BJJ but I think the striking is what will make the difference. Din has faster hands and is better technically. Kenny has the better Muay Thai style. He uses great leg kicks and uses his razor elbows greatly. I have changed my mind many times on this fight. It could be an absolute war. I am taking Din in a razor close split decision.

Prelims:

Thiago Alves vs Kuniyoshi Hironake: Alves by split decision

Luke Cummo vs Edilberto Crocota: Cummo by 3^rd KO

Leonard Garcia vs Cole Miller: Garcia by decision

Gray Maynard vs JoeVeres: Maynard by 1rd TKO

Dustin Hazelett vs Jonathan Goulet: Goulet by decision

UFC Fight Night 11 Preview and Predictions: By Keith Shillan

If you were ever interested in K-1 Hero's, well now is the time to start watching.

The Return of Kid Yamamoto this September 17th.


Full Card From K-1's official language English page. (Click the image for a larger view)

If you were ever interested in K-1 Hero's, well now is the time to start watching.

UFC 75 Champion vs Champion Picks from Keith

UFC 75 Preview and Predictions : By Keith Shillan

UFC vs. Pride is finally here! The hardcore fans have been calling for the unification bout for years. Finally, we will all know who the best 205 pound fighter in the world is. Well, maybe not. This fight isn’t what the hardcore fans expected. Fans expected the super hyped fight that never took place when Dana White announced a fight between the then UFC Light Heavyweight Champion Chuck Liddell and the then Pride FC Middleweight Champion Wanderlei Silva. Dan “Hollywood” Henderson and Quinton “Rampage” Jackson had other plans. First, Dan Henderson knocked out Wanderlei Silva to take the Pride title and then Quinton Jackson ended Liddell’s impressive run as champ quickly with a left hook in the first round of the match in May. Quinton, who spent most of his career fighting for Pride, really doesn’t represent the UFC. It almost feels like a Pride vs. Pride fight. Also is the winner of this fight the undisputed best 205 pound fighter? Most hardcore fans would choose Maurico “Shogun” Rua, who has a quick TKO win over Quinton Jackson in the 2005 Grand Prix. Anyways, this fight might not be the UFC vs. Pride fight or the best 2 fighters in the light heavyweight division locking horns, but it is a great main event. Both fighters are top 5 fighters and it should be a great war.

The card also has the return of Mirko “Cro Cop” Filipovic vs. Cheick Kongo, and the TUF 3 grudge match between Michael Bisping and Matt Hamill. Let’s take a look at the main fight cards and get to my predictions. Being that this fight will be on Spike TV and be full of commercials, I will only break down the four fights, which are promised to be shown.

Houston Alexander vs. Alessio “Legionarius” Sakara

Houston Alexander became an instant star when he surprised everybody with his spectacular KO over the highly favored Keith Jardine. Most people (myself included) had never heard of Alexander before his fight with Jardine, and took it as a cakewalk for Jardine. Alexander landed some extremely powerful blows on Jardine and made a highlight reel KO that would be shown in UFC Unleashed for years. Jardine seems to have instantly gained a huge fan base, and have been marked as a top contender in the UFC division.

Alessio Sakara is also known for his punches. He first hit the UFC scene at UFC 55 by smashing Ron Faircloth but the fight was ruled a no-contest when Faircloth hit Sakara with a low blow that Sakara couldn’t continue. Sakara then made a horror movie, with his pin-point striking over for three rounds over Elvis Sinosic, in which he hit Elvis with everything but the kitchen sink. Sakara then showed his weak ground game, when submission master Dean Lister triangle choked him in less than 3 minutes into the fight. He then took another step back when Drew McFedries outlasted Sakara in a slugfest eventually getting a TKO in the first round. He would then return with a first rd TKO over Victor Valimaki at UFC 70.

This fight is going to an absolute war on the feet. Both have shown KO power and great ability in their hands. Alexander will not have the element of surprise this time. I truly believe that Jardine toke Alexander lightly, and paid the price for them. Alexander seems to have the more striking power, but Sakara is probable the more technical striker. I see Sakara outlasting the early flurry by Alexander and Sakara eventually unloading a barrage of punches winning by TKO late in the first period.

Michael “the Count” Bisping vs. Matt “the Hammer” Hamill

I really loved season 3 of the Ultimate Fighter. I watched it when it first aired and then recently bought the season when it came out on DVD and watched it again. Yes, I need a life. These two fighters were training partners on the show and seemed to get under each others skin. It seemed like many times they were going to throw down. Many believe this would have been the finals of the show if Hamill didn’t get hurt. Bisping went on to win the contract and Hamill has kept reminding everybody that Bisping never beat him. With all due respect to finalist Josh Haynes, this was the fight everybody wanted to see.

Bisping has a huge following of fans, especially in England (where this fight is being held). Bisping is known for his standup. He has crisp hand striking but also has great high kicks and knees. His ground game is underrated and his wrestling has probable improved with training with Rampage. Since winning the contract, he has 2 TKO wins over Eric Schafer and Elvis Sinosic (though he was almost KO’d himself)

Matt Hamill is an amazing wrestler. He has won many gold medals during the deaf Olympics in wrestling. He is a little green, but is always trying to learn more. He is known for having a great work ethic, which made TUF coach Tito Ortiz really take an interest in him. Hamill’s striking is not good, though his striking from the clinch has shown signs of brilliance. Since the show, Hamill has looked impressive taking out Jesse Forbes, Seth Petruzelli and Rex Holman.

Both these fighters have undefeated records. Bisping has a lot more experience then Hamill has. A lot of so called experts have been taking Bisping, saying that the crowd will help Bisping. I do believe the crowd might influence the referee to stand the fight up, if Hamill takes down Bisping and is just holding him down, but I don’t take this to be a home town match for Bisping. The reason why: Hamill is deaf. He won’t even know that the crowd is booing him.

I expect Bisping to have some flurries on his feet that will hurt Hamill and many submission attempts, but I believe Hamill will take Bisping down easily and control him to a unanimous decision. If you remember on the show, Hamill was taking Bisping down, using no hands, imagine what he can do with both hands. Hamill in upset of the night.

Mirko “Cro Cop” Filipovic vs. Cheick Kongo

Before I get to this fight, I need to get a pet peeve off my chest. Attention UFC! His last name is not Cro Cop, its Filipovic. You don’t call Randy Couture, Randy the Natural; please call him Mirko “Cro Cop” Filipovic. Ok back to the article.

This was a hand picked fight for Cro Cop. The UFC wanted a fighter to stand up right in front of Cro Cop and just throw down. They might have found that guy in French Muay Thai fighter Cheick Kongo. Kongo is an athletic specimen. He is tall, ripped, and very explosive. He has precise striking. He has crisp hands, lightning fast kicks, and unloaded a barrage of knees when he has is opponent hurt. Kongo has TKO wins in the UFC over Gilbert Aldana (RIP), and Christian Wellisch. He would lose a decision to Carmelo Marrero in which Marrero wrestled Kongo to the ground and simply held him until it was over. Kongo would then rebound with a decision win over Assuerio Silva.

When Mirko “Cro Cop” Filipovic signed with the UFC, hardcore fans assumed he would steamroll all the Heavyweights in the division and would quickly become UFC Champion. Mirko’s resume is unbelievable. He has beaten a who’s who list of MMA fighters, with wins over the likes of Wanderlei Silva, Kazushi Sakuraba, Mark Coleman, Kevin Randleman, Josh Barnett, Igor Vovchanchyn, and many more top MMA fighters. Cro Cop is a K-1 level striker. He has smooth feet work, a string stiff left straight. His kicks to the legs and body is better then anybody in the business. Yet, it is his left high kick that gets all the talk. If you have never seen a Cro Cop left high kick KO, stop reading this right now and go on youtube and look up one of his many highlight videos. His high kick is probable the most feared strike in all combat sports. He usually peppers the body with his left leg, until his opponent drops his hands to defend it, and in an instant he snaps it up to their face. Next thing his opponent knows he is waking up with about a dozen doctors around his lifeless body. Yet Mirko is not just a striker. He is one of the toughest guys to take down in all of MMA and even has a submission victory over Kevin Randleman. Mirko made his presence in the UFC by beating Eddie Sanchez by TKO but was amazingly stopped by Gabriel Gonzaga. Gonzaga toke Cro Cop down and landed some devastating elbows. When the fight got back to the feet, Gonzaga did the unthinkable by knocking out Cro Cop by his own weapon, a high kick.

Kongo is a strong striker but he is not on Mirko’s level. I expect Kongo to want to get into a clinch and use his knees and strikes to try to stop Cro Cop. Cro Cop seems focused and ready to take his frustration out on Kongo. I expect Cro Cop to create the distance he needs to strike. Look for his straight left hand, and kicks to the legs and body to setup his left high kick to head for a first round KO.

Quinton “Rampage” Jackson vs Dan “Hollywood” Henderson

Though this fight isn’t the unification fight that many wanted, it is still a great fight. Quinton Jackson instantly became the celebrity in America by knocking out the UFC cover boy Chuck “the Iceman” Liddell to become the UFC Light Heavyweight Champion. Though Rampage is now known, Dan Henderson is not known to the casual American fan. Many casual fans think Pride is a second rate organization, which means Henderson must be a second rate champion. Hardcore fans know that both these fighters are as good as they come.

Not to long ago Rampage looked like a fighter heading to the close of his career. In a short time he was knocked out by Wanderlei Silva, looked sluggish against Murilo “Ninja” Rua and lost by TKO to Maurico “Shogun” Rua. He has then seemed to have did an absolute 180 degree turn. He became a student of Juanito Ibarra. He seems focused and disciplined which he has been accused of not being in the past. He won a very close decision over Matt Lindland (which I thought Lindland won) in the main event of the WEC. He then signed a contract with the UFC. He first avenged his first loss of his career against Marvin Eastman. Rampage looked crisp in the striking. He landed a nice uppercut that led to a flurry of punches that caused the referee to stop the fight. Rampage then faced his rival Chuck “the Iceman” Liddell for the UFC Light Heavyweight title. The fight was super hyped but didn’t live up to it. In less than two minutes into the fight, Rampage landed a huge right hook that sent Liddell to the canvas. Rampage followed with some ground and pound and forced referee John McCarthy to step in and stop the fight. Rampage would instantly become a MMA superstar.

Dan Henderson has been around the sport for quite some time. He has fought just about everywhere including the UFC before. He has been a top 10 fighter for many years now but never quite made it to the top. He was always an undersized fighter for the 205 pound weight class and eventually moved down to 183 pounds. Henderson would enter and win the Pride Welterweight Grand Prix to crown to become their first welterweight champion. While being champion, he would move back up to 205 pounds and challenge Wanderlei Silva for the Pride Middleweight Belt. Henderson would shock the world by knocking out Wanderlei Silva to become the first ever two weight class champion.

This is going to be a war. Rampage is known for his amazing strength, breathtaking double leg takdown slams, and vicious ground and pound. He also has very good striking. He stays in tight, and doesn’t really leave himself open. Henderson is an Olympic caliber Greco Roman Wrestler. He has one of the best clinch games. He can take you down from the clinch, or use it to dirty box. He also has a great overhand straight left and a looping left. Henderson has been able to take a beating and dish one right back.

Both their resumes are awesome. Rampage has wins over the likes of: Chuck Liddell, Matt Lindland, Kevin Randleman, Murilo Bustamante, Ricardo Arona, Igor Vovchanchyn, and Murilo Rua. While Henderson has wins over the likes of: Wanderlei Silva, Vitor Belfort, Murlio Rua, Murilo Bustamante, Antonio Rodrigo Nogueria, Kazuhiro Nakamura, and Renzo Gracie. A win for either of these would just further strength their resume

The key for Rampage in this fight is to use his size and strength advantage over Henderson. The key for Henderson is to use the clinch and keep Rampage guessing if he is going to use dirty boxing or take Rampage to the ground. It is really tough to pick a winner here. I do believe that Henderson training with Matt Lindland, who had some success against Rampage in the past will help him create a better game plan then Rampage and will win a razor close split decision.

Prelims:

Marcus Davis vs Paul Taylor: Davis by 2rd TKO

Gleison Tibai vs Terry Etim: Tibau by UD

Tomasz Drwal vs Thiago Silva: Silva by 2rd TKO

Naoyuki Kotani vs Denis Siver: Kotani by UD

Anthony Torres vs Jess Liaudin: Torres by UD

UFC 75 Champion vs Champion Picks from Keith

UFC 73 Stacked Preview and Predictions

UFC 73 Stacked Preview and Predictions:

Hard core fans have been calling for it forever. They wanted a fight card with a bunch of headlining fights in the UFC. UFC President Dana White has finally granted the request. Saturday night fight fans will be entertained with 4 fights that could easily be a main event on most fight cards.
“Stacked” is a great name for the card. Two titles will be on the line. Middleweight Champion Anderson “the Spider” Silva will face former King of Pancrase Nate “the Great” Marquardt, and Lightweight Champion “The Muscle Shark” Sean Sherk will defend his title against Hermes Franca. Also on the card is a grudge match between former UFC Poster boy Tito Ortiz vs. the undefeated reality show star Rashad “Sugar” Evans, and the UFC debut of Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira against his long time rival Heath Herring. Let’s get into the card.

Antonio Rodrigo “Minotauro” Nogueira vs. “The Texas Crazy Horse” Heath Herring

Hardcore fans have waited a long time to see former Pride Heavyweight Champion Nogueira fight in the octagon. What most didn’t expect to see is him face the man he has beaten twice before. If you haven’t seen Nogueira before then you are in for a treat. He is a submission master with great boxing skills and possible the biggest heart in the game. Nogueira has been widely regarded as one of the top Heavyweight fighters for some time. Nogueira has beaten a who’s who list of fighters including Mark Coleman, Mirko Filipovic, Josh Barnett, Fabricio Werdum, Ricco Rodriguez, Dan Henderson, Gary Goodridge, Bob Sapp, Pawel Nastula, Semmy Schilt, Sergei Kharitnov, Enson Inoue, and Jeremy Horn. He has only 1 thorn in his side which is the number 1 fighter in the world named Fedor Emelianenko.
Herring has been a big disappointment since entering the UFC. In his first UFC fight, Herring was taken down at ease by wrestler Jake O’Brien and held down for a decision lost. In his second fight, Herring won a lackluster decision against reality show competitor Brad Imes. Herring does have an impressive resume for himself with wins of top fighters including, Mark Kerr, Igor Vovchanchyn, Evan Tanner, Gary Goodridge, Enson Inoue, Gan Mcgee, and Tom Erikson. Herring has heavy hands and a great ground and pound game but has had a questionable gas tank and his best weapon knees on the ground are not allowed in the UFC.
I really don’t understand why the UFC decided to put this fight together. I am assuming they are trying to guarantee a win for Nogueira considering he has already beaten Herring. Yet, if Nogueira beats Herring then Herring is probable done in the UFC and his acquisition was a waste, yet in the same time if Nogueira loses to Herring then another top Pride fighter doesn’t live up to expectation. It really seems like a no win situation. Anyways as for a prediction, I have Nogueira winning easily. Nogueira is just better in every area of the game. He has better standup, way better BJJ, and a better cardio game. Expect to see Nogueira catch Herring in a submission in the third period.

“The Huntington Beach Bad Boy” Tito Ortiz vs. Rashad “Sugar” Evans

First if this was a battle between nicknames then Tito wins. Anyways it isn’t. Tito Ortiz knows how to sell a fight. Usually if Tito’s match isn’t in the main event, it is still the most intriguing and talked about fight. This one isn’t any different. Tito has had many grudge matches with fighters including Guy Mezger, Ken Shamrock, Chuck Liddell, and even UFC President Dana White. Rashad Evans is just the newest foe. Tito doesn’t just talk. He has been a great fighter for a long time. During the UFC “dark ages”, it was Tito that was the poster boy and kept the organization a float. In the ring Tito has many skills. He has a great clinch game, and one of the best ground and pound games in all of MMA. His elbows from the guard has stopped many opponents. Tito has an underrated striking and BJJ game but his best weapons is probable his strength and cardio. Tito usually overpowers his smaller opponent and uses his cardio game to wear down his foes throughout the rounds. A classic example is his win over Vitor Belfort at UFC 51.
Rashad fighting style is very similar to Tito. He has a great wrestling game (NCAA wrestler at Michigan St.) and a stellar ground and pound. Rashad made his name known to MMA fans while on the second season of the reality TV show the Ultimate Fighter. Rashad would end up winning the Heavyweight contract by winning an absolute war against the much bigger Brad Imes. Rashad would make the transition from heavyweight to light heavyweight with two decisions over former reality stars Sam Hoger and Stephan Bonnar. These wins would label Rashad as a boring fighter who couldn’t end fights. Rashad proved those critics wrong in his last two fights. Rashad would get the biggest win of his career by pounding light heavyweight contender Jason Lambert by vicious ground and pound in their first round match. Rashad would then display his much improved stand up game with a highlight reel high kick KO over Sean Salmon.
These two guys really don’t like each other. The have already had a battle of words over the internet, and even got into a shoving match at a prior UFC event. Tito has to use these emotions to his advantage. Tito has been in these kinds of matches before and needs to keep getting under Rashad’s skin to try and take Rashad off his game plan. It will be difficult because Rashad trains with Greg Jackson’s submission fighting team, which is one of the best camps in all MMA, so he should have a good game plan. Tito is going to be the bigger fighter in this fight and needs to overpower Rashad. Get into clinch, press Rashad against the fence, and take Rashad down. If Tito can get there, elbows will be huge, and even a possible submission if the inexperience Rashad panics. It will be tough though because Rashad might be the better wrestler of the two. He also is more explosive fighter with better hands and he should be able to match Tito’s gas tank. As for a prediction, expect a war. I see Tito passing the torch to Rashad and setting the undefeated fighter up for a title shot. Evans wins by split decision.

Sean “the Muscle Shark” Sherk vs. Hermes Franca

Since the UFC brought back the lightweight division, it has pleased the crowds with amazing fights (Fisher/Stout 1, Griffin/Edgar, and Griffin/Guida are a few examples). This fight should be no exception. Both fighters bring high intensity and a fast pace to fights. Sherk has been in the fight game a very long time. He is a well rounded fighter, with a great wrestling background, short straight boxing skills, and freakish strength. He originally fought as a welterweight and had a ton of success but when he lost 2 marquee matches to much bigger fighters (Matt Hughes and Georges St. Pierre), Sherk decided to move down to the lightweight division. The decision proved to be a good one for Sherk, as he used his strength advantage over Kenny Florian to win the vacant UFC lightweight belt. Sherk is known for his strength. His physique is not matched by anybody in the lightweight division. He looks like the Nintendo character Mega Man. Sherk has good standup technique and awesome double leg takedown slams followed by devastating ground and pound. He has tons of experience and his cardio is second to none. His work out routine is just insane, I challenge everybody to watch his “UFC All Access” episode.
Hermes Franca is known for his wild looping punches and submission game. Hermes Franca has also been around for a long time. He first boosted onto the UFC scene with a bang in 2004. He first beat Rich Crunkilton by unanimous decision and then followed it up with a first round knockout over the then favorite Caol Uno. Franca would then fall short in back to back matches losing two razor shaper decisions in a row to Josh Thomson and Yves Edwards. The UFC would then drop the lightweight division and things would get worse for Franca, when dropped three fights in a row in 2005. Hermes would then go on to win 8 fights in a row, including three in the UFC, when the division returned. First he beat Joe Jordan by third round submission. Next, he would get a come from behind armbar submission win against Jamie Varner. Hermes would then get his most impressive victory in the UFC this past January with a second round TKO win over Spencer Fisher.
The key to victory for Sherk is to over power Franca and uses his ground and pound while avoiding the submission from Franca while in Franca’s guard. The key for Franca is to try to avoid Sherk’s takedown and land one of his bombs on his feet for a KO. Franca is a BJJ black belt but Sherk will be tough to submit because of his short arms and giant neck. I expect this fight to be not as close as people think. I just think Sherk is going to be a monster in the lightweight division. He should be too strong for Franca and his pace will be too hard for Franca to handle. Sherk wins by decision. If the rumors that BJ Penn is moving back up to the welterweight division, then I expect Sherk to be the UFC lightweight champion for a very long time.

Anderson “the Spider” Silva vs. Nate “the Great” Marquardt

In the other title fight, UFC Middleweight Champion Anderson Silva will defend his belt for the first time (because his last challenger didn’t make weight) against seven time King of Pancrase Champion Nate Marquardt, with the winner facing former middleweight champion Rich “Ace” Franklin later this year. This fight pits the striking standout Anderson Silva against the technician Nate Marquardt.
Anderson Silva has entered the UFC with thunder and lightning. He is a Muay Thai kick boxer who originally made his name in Pride and Cage Rage with knockouts over game fighters like Carlos Newton, Alex Steibling, Jeremy Horn (in Gladiator FC), Jorge Rivera, Lee Murray, Curtis Stout and Tony Fryklund (One if the best KO’s ever). Silva would make a big splash in the UFC middleweight division in his UFC debut by giving a free Muay Thai clinic to Chris Leben. He knocked out Leben in just 49 seconds and immediately was granted a title shot against champion Rich Franklin. Silva was the underdog entering the fight but showed the world how dangerous a Muay Thai clinch can be. He blasted Franklin with countless knees to the body and the head until Franklin was knockout in the first round. In Silva’s last fight, he toke on Season 4 of the Ultimate Fighter reality show champion Travis Lutter. This was the first time in the UFC that Silva looked human. He was taken down by Lutter in the first period and was eventually mounted and was close to losing via TKO. In the second round Lutter toke Silva down again. This time Silva would show his BJJ black belt skills off by catching Lutter in a triangle choke and dropped vicious elbows to Lutter’s head, forcing the second round tap out.

Nate Marquardt is not a house hold name to average MMA fans though he sports a perfect 4-0 UFC record and is a seven time King of Pancrase Champion. He debuted in the UFC in the main event of the very first Ultimate Fight Night against Ivan Salaverry. Marquardt was victories in an uneventful match. Marquardt would return at UFC 58 in which he out pointed Joe Doerksen to a unanimous decision. He would then be subjected to unaired prelim fights for his last two fights. First, he scored a second round submission victory over late replacement Crafton Wallace and then won a unanimous decision over Dean Lister. Marquardt is a decent striker but excels in the ground game in which he has fourteen submission victories.
The keys to victory for Anderson Silva is to keep this fight on his feet and land his trademark punches, kicks, knees, and elbows. He also needs to use his clinch but avoid the takedown. The keys to Marquardt’s victory is to by all means take the fight to the ground as quick as possible and avoid any clinch. He needs to overpower Silva and do some damage from the top position on the ground and look for a submission.
I have changed my mind about a dozen times on who is going to win this fight. I am finally picking Marquardt in an upset. As easy as Lutter toke Silva down, I expect Marquardt to do the same and win a unanimous decision.

Other fights on the card predictions:
Kenny Florian vs Alvin Robinson – Florian by submission
Stephan Bonnar vs Mike Nickels – Bonnar by TKO
Chris Lytle vs Jason Gilliam – Lytle by TKO
Frank Edgar vs Matt Bocek – Edgar by decision
Jorge Gurgel vs Diego Saraveia – Gurgel by submission

UFC 73 Stacked Preview and Predictions

K1 Grand Prix Holland Play by Play

Melvin Manhoef vs. Ruslan Karaev - K1 Rules Bout

Round One

Manhoef bullies Karaev to the canvas after catching a kick. Ref steps in and restarts the match. Manhoef throws a beautiful hooking left right left combo and absolutely cleans Karaev’s clock. Karaev is on the canvas for several minutes and looks like he has no idea what happened.

Winner Melvin Manhoef by KO RD 1

Bjorn Bregy vs. Brencht Wallis - K1 Rules Bout (Quarter Final Tournament Fight)

Round One

Both fighters come out with aggression. Wallis gets caught by a Bregy right hand and sits down. Wallis is back up and both fighters are trading leather. Round ends with both fighters slugging away. 10 - 8 Bregy.

Round Two

Both fighter come out firing, Wallis is the more aggressive of the two and lands some good shots. It is clear both fighters are worn out. Both fighters take turns pushing the pace of the bout but it is Bregy who steals the round in the last few seconds. 10 - 9 Bregy. Wallis needs a KO to win.

Round Three

Wallis comes out with fire in his eyes knowing he has to get the KO to win. Bregy seems happy to fight backing up and landing some sloppy leg kicks. Wallis is pushing the pace but it is not enough to get to the chin of Bregy. Wallis takes the round but loses the fight. 10-9 Wallis

Winner Bjorn Bregy Unanimous Decision 29 - 27

Maksym Melevda vs. Magomed Magomedov - K1 Rules Bout (Quarter Final Tournament Fight)

Round One

Round starts out like a feeling out process. Magomedov lands some nice leg kicks and glancing punches. Melevda turns it on in the second half of the round and steals the round with accurate punches and knees to the body. 10 - 9 Melevda.

Round Two

Magomedov looks a lot better this round and is almost landing at will in the first half of the round. Melevda turns up the heat in the second half of the round but catches a straight kick to the face for his trouble. Magomedov lands some great body shots and take the round. 10 - 9 Magomedov.

Round Three

The fight is to be won or lost in this round and both fighters know it. They exchange in the corner and it appears that Melevda is cut over his left eye. The doctor is called in to take a look at the gash. Action is restarted. Magomedov lands a text book high kick and lands straight kicks to the face of Melevda at will. Round and fight goes to Magomedov. 10 - 9 Magomedov.

Winner Magomedov Unanimous Decision 29 -28

Paul Slowinski - Hiromi Amada - K1 Rules Bout (Quarter Final Tournament Fight)

Round One

Slowinski comes out firing some brutal leg kicks which go totally unchecked by Amada. Amada is wobbled by a hard leg kick and given a standing eight count. Slowinski attacks with some more hard leg kicks and stops Amada dead in his tracks.

Winner Paul Slowinski RD 1 TKO

James Phillips vs. Zabit Samedov - K1 Rules Bout (Quarter Final Tournament Fight)

Round One

Both fighters throw some hard leg kicks. Samedov is landing some brutal body shots and following up with leg kicks. Phillips is cut and the doctor is called in to check it out. After the break Phillips starts landing some hard accurate leg kicks. 10 - 9 Samedov.

Round Two

Phillips comes out firing more of his hard low kicks. It is clear that Samedov is feeling those kicks and he is getting winded. Samedov is throwing one punch at a time and lands a Superman punch at the end of the round. Phillips takes the round with combos and low kicks. 10 - 9 Phillips.

Round Three

Samedov comes out throwing some vicious body punches. Phillips is not doing much and eats not one but two Superman punches from Samedov. Round ends with Samedov landing the cleaner shots. 10 - 9 Samedov. I scored the fight 29 - 28 for Samedov.

Winner Samedov Unanimous Decision 30 - 27 x 2 & 29 - 28

Roy Tan vs. Hiroya - K1 Special Rules Match 3 rds 2mins

Round One

These young warriors came to fight. Tan (18) and Hiroya (15) are throwing fast hard combinations. This round is a real “see-saw” battle. Hiroya finishes the round with a flurry of punches and kicks. 10 - 9 Hiroya.

Round Two

Hiroya is throwing accurate combinations in the first half of this round. He stalks Tan around the ring and doesn’t give him much room to breath. This kid can fight. 10 - 9 Hiroya.

Round Three

Sharp combos and hard kicks from Hiroya open the round. Tan looks desperate and is getting beat to the punch every time by Hiroya. Hiroya finishes the fight throwing bombs at Tan. 10 - 9 Hiroya

Winner Hiroya Winner Unanimous Decision 30 - 27

Bjorn Bregy vs. Magomed Magomedov - K1 Rules Bout (Tournament Semi - Finals Bout)

Round One

Magomedov is looking to keep his distance from the much larger Bregy. Magomedov is leaping in to the bigger opponent and is now looking to engage in a slugfest. Bregy catches Magomedov with a knee and the slugfest plan is left in the dust as the smaller man keeps the distance. 10 - 9 Bregy.

Round Two

Bregy is looking to bully the smaller man and he is successful as he catches Magomedov with a wild hook and floors him. The action is restarted with Magomedov looking shaky and tired. Bregy pounces on his injured counterpart and bludgeons him in the corner until the ref stops the action. Bregy wins but he looks gassed and will be at a stamina disadvantage during the final bout.

Winner Bjorn Bregy RD 2 TKO

Paul Slowinski vs. Zabit Samedov K1 Rules Bout (Tournament Semi - Finals Bout)

Round One

Slowinski sticks to his strategy of throwing hard low kicks but he is eating some big over hand rights. Samedov lands a huge over hand right and puts Slowinski on the mat. Slowinski is back up and he keeps throwing the low kicks, this time he puts Samedov on the canvas, not once but twice. Two knock downs in one round and the ref stops the fight. The crowd is not pleased with the stoppage. Paul Slowinski will be the fresher man coming into the final bout.

Winner Paul Slowinski RD 1 TKO

Nicolas Vermont vs. Junichi Sawayashiki - K1 Rules Bout

Round One

Both fighters throw some viscous leg kicks with Sawayashiki getting the better of the two. Vermont is keeping up with his opponent but Sawayashiki is landing crisper combos and harder shots. 10 - 9 Sawayashiki.

Round Two

Vermont is fading fast and he is getting hammered with hard leg kicks. Sawayashiki takes advantage of the situation and knocks Vermont down three times, fight is over.

Winner Junichi Sawayashiki RD 2 TKO

Bob Sapp vs. Peter Aerts - K1 Rules Bout

Round One

Sapp charges out of his corner and takes Aerts to the ground. Aerts is back on his feet and he blasts Sapp with a body kick and knee that looks like it half landed at best. Sapp goes down like he was shot; Sapp is done…what a joke this guy has become.

Winner Peter Aerts RD 1 KO

Paul Slowinski vs. Bjorn Bregy - K1 Rules Bout (Tournament Finals)

Round One

Slowinski loves the leg kicks and he is using them again. Bregy is doing a good job of checking the kicks and countering with punches. Bregy takes control of the round and lands some good shots. Bregy lands a flying knee at the end of the round. 10 - 9 Bregy.

Round Two

Slowinski comes out with some hard leg kicks. Bregy is caught with a huge over hand right and is walking around the ring like he has no idea where he is, he drops to the canvas but gets back to his feet. Slowinski jumps on Bregy and knocks him out with a flurry of shots.

Winner & K1 Grand Prix Holland Winner Paul Slowinski RD 2 KO

Semmy Schilt vs. Mighty Mo - K1 Super Heavyweight Title Bout

Round One

Schilt is trying to keep his distance by throwing low kicks and front kicks. Mo gets in with a big overhand right and makes Schilt take a big step back. Semmy continues with the low kicks. 10 - 9 Schilt.

Round Two

Schilt is still keeping his distance and fighting a safe fight. Mo is getting hurt by the leg kicks and front kicks to the body. Mo is deducted a point for holding. Mo is hurt by another body kick at the end of the round. 10 - 8 Schilt.

Round Three

Schilt starts to open up with high kicks and low kicks. Mo has no game plan and looks very bad out there. Mo is deducted another point for lack of aggression and holding. Mo is getting beaten up and the fight really is not is questions at this point. Schilt wins the round 10 - 8.

Winner and K1 Super Heavyweight Champion Semmy Schilt Unanimous Decision 30 - 26

K1 Grand Prix Holland Play by Play

MMA Rankings as of 6/13/07 by Keith Shillan

Before I give my predictions, please know my philosophy with rankings. I believe you are only as good as your last fight. So drumroll please!

Heavyweight:

1. Fedor Emelianenko
2. Antonio Rodrigo Nogueria
3. Josh Barnett
4. Randy Couture
5. Gabriel Gonzaga
6. Mirko Filipovic
7. Tim Sylvia
8. Andrei Arlovski
9. Mark Hunt
10. Fabrico Werdum

Light Heavyweights:

1. Maurico Rua
2. Dan Henderson
3. Wanderlei Silva
4. Quinton Jackson
5. Chuck Liddell
6. Rameau Thierry Sokodjou
7. Ricardo Arona
8. Antonio Rogerio Nogueria
9. Tito Ortiz
10. Rashad Evans

Middleweights:

1. Dan Henderson
2. Matt Lindland
3. Paulo Filho
4. Anderson Silva
5. Rich Franklin
6. Denis Kang
7. Nathan Marquardt
8. Kazuo Misaki
9. Ryo Chonan
10. Murilo Bustamante

Welterweights:

1. Matt Serra
2. Georges St. Pierre
3. Matt Hughes
4. BJ Penn
5. Josh Koscheck
6. Diego Sanchez
7. Karo Parisyan
8. Jon Fitch
9. Jake Shields
10. Akira Kikuchi

Lightweights: (By far the hardest to rank)

1. Takanori Gomi
2. Hayato Sakurai
3. Sean Sherk (yes, I do count his wins at welterweight)
4. Nick Diaz (also count his wins at welterweight, and still count his win over Gomi as legit)
5. Gilbert Melendez
6. Shinya Aoki
7. Tatsuyo Kawajiri
8. Vitor Riberio
9. Joe Stevenson
10. Joaquim Hansen


Please send all your questions, comments, and hate mail to ShilltheThrill2000@yahoo.com

MMA Rankings as of 6/13/07 by Keith Shillan

K1 Heavyweights Invade the Amsterdam Arena!

On June 23, 2007 The K1 World Grand Prix comes to the Amsterdam Arena with some of the biggest names in the sport. Topping the card will be current K1 Grand Prix Champ Semmy Schilt, Mighty Mo, Peter Aerts and the colossal Bob Sapp.

The card will feature K1 super fights, a three fight MMA card and an eight man tournament. The MMA card will feature former Pride contenders Allistair Overeem and Gilbert Yvel.

As of right now there is no televised North American coverage of this event but we will have the results from this show shortly after the show.


K1 Super Fights

Peter Aerts vs Bob Sapp
Semmy Schilt vs Mighty Mo
Melvin Manhoef vs Ruslan Karaev
Gokhan Saki vs Mourad Bouzidi
Joerie Mes vs Murat Direkci
Tarik el Iddrisi vs Pajonsuk

MMA Rules

Allistair overeem vs Micheal Knaap
Vincent Latoel vs Sahin”Kaas” Yakut
Gilbert Yvel vs Hakim Gouram

K1 Tournament

Bjorn Bregy vs Maxim Neledva
Cyril Abidi vs Brecht Wallis
Muhammad Magomedov vs James Philips
Zabit Samedov vs TBA

K1 Heavyweights Invade the Amsterdam Arena!

K1 Dynamite! MMA Card Breakdown

After much drama and a revolving door of replacement fighters the first K1 Dynamite USA card has been finalized. I have taken a closer look at each fighter and offered my picks. Please feel to email your picks or flame me for the ones you don’t agree with (mike.squier@gmail.com).

Undercard Bouts
JZ Calvan (11 – 1 – 1) vs. Nam Phan (12 – 3 – 0)

On paper this is a fairly even match up but as most of us know records don’t count for much in MMA. JZ has faced the harder competition and recently won the K1 Hero’s Welterweight Tournament in 2006. The American Top Team fighter took out Rani Yahya and veteran Caol Uno on his way to the tournament win. Calvan is currently on a ten fight unbeaten streak with his last loss coming to PrideFC 160lb contender and Shooto champion Joachim Hansen.

Nam Phan has mainly fought in the smaller organizations across the United States. The K1 Dynamite card will indubitably be the largest stage Phan has fought on at this point in his career. Nam is coming off of a decision loss to Josh Thomson at the December Strike Force event and seems to come up short when he faces upper level opponents. Pham has also picked up losses against “Razor” Rob McCullough and Nick Ertl, with wins coming against nondescript competition.

JZ Calvan by Submission RD 2

Hideo Tokoro (17 – 11 – 1) vs. Brad “One Punch” Pickett (10 – 3 – 0)

Hideo Tokoro is a veteran of Rings, Shooto, ZST and K1, just to name a few. The 31 year old Tokoro is one of those Japanese fighters who has a less then stellar record but is very competitive and always puts on a great show. Hideo is a true test to any fighter with wins over Royler Gracie, Pequeno Nogueira and a draw against Royce Gracie. Tokoro has been defeated by the likes of Ivan Menjivar and Caol Uno among others. Hideo is very tricky on the ground and has a fairly decent stand up game that has given opponents trouble in the past.

Brad Pickett can be described in one word, “explosive”. He can win by KO or by submission and he can do it at any time, although most of his victories have come against lower level opposition. The UK native is a fan favorite in the Cage Rage organization and is looking to come off a disappointing decision loss to Alex Owen at Cage Rage 21. Pickett will be in tough against the Japanese MMA veteran and will have to use a quick pace and bring the fight to Tokoro if he hopes to get back on the winning track.

Tokoro by Unanimous Decision


Jake Shields (17 – 4 – 1) vs. Ido Parientes (4 – 2 – 0)

Jake Shields is ranked 9th in the world out of all 170lb fighters and has victories over Carlos Condit, Yushin Okami and the current number one lightweight in the world Hayato Sakurai. Shields has been very impressive since his last loss in 2004 at the hands of world class fighter Akira Kikuchi. Jake has gone 6 – 0 since that loss and he has not looked back. The only knock on Shields is that he is not a fighter that looks for a chance to finish the fight, most of his wins have come by decision with only two wins coming by the way of the knockout.

Ido Parientes is a Rumble on the Rock veteran with a limited experience when compared to his opponent. If Parientes can survive to take this fight the distance it will be an accomplishment unto itself.

Shields by Submission RD 1

Tim Persey (8 – 1 – 0 – 1 NC) vs. Jonathan Wiezorek (10 – 1 – 0)

Tim “Big Perm” Persey has been quietly building a promising career as a heavyweight in smaller MMA organizations and is coming off of two huge KO wins. Perm has been very active over the past year and will use this to his advantage as he tries to extent his KO win streak, which has reached five in a row. Persey has a ton of power but he could afford to come into his fights in better shape. If this fight goes past the first round look for Tim to gas out and leave himself open for a submission.

Jonathan Wiezorek has an impressive record and holds a win over MMA legend Dan Severn and has fought in the UFC where he viciously stopped Wade Shipp via strikes at UFC 47.His only loss came to IFL heavyweight king Ben Rothwell via TKO in 2004. Since then Jonathan is on a four fight win streak but has not fought in almost a year. I don’t think Persey will give Wiezorek time to shake off the ring rust when they lock horn on June 2nd.

Big Perm by KO RD 1

Johnnie Morton (0 – 0 – 0) vs. Bernard Ackah (1 – 0 – 0)

Johnnie Morton is better known as a star receiver for the Detroit Lions, Kansas City Chiefs and San Francisco 49ers of the NFL. Since the end of his football career Morton has periodically trained in boxing and jiu jitsu. For the last ten months Morton has been training full time in anticipation of making his MMA debut and judging from his comments leading up to the fight he feels fit and ready. Being that this is Johnnie’s MMA debut it is hard to say how he will look in this fight and if he is cut out to be a fighter at all. The one intangible when it comes to Morton is his athletic ability. He has competed at a high level of athletics all his life and may be a natural when he steps in the ring.

Bernard Ackah is making his second appearance in the K1 ring on the June 2nd card. Ackah’s debut came on the March 2007 K1 Hero’s show against Shin Hyun Pyo in which he stopped his opponent in the first round via TKO. Ackah is extremely fit and will not likely give Morton much respect or space in their fight. If he has continued his training since his last fight I can see Bernard being successful against the debuting Morton

Ackah by TKO RD 2

Mighty Mo Siliga (1- 0 - 0) vs. Rubin “Warpath” Villareal (11 - 12 - 3)

Mighty Mo Siliga has one of the most powerful right hands in all of K1 and he has showcases this time and time again. Mo’s dynamite over hand right has knocked out Scott Lighty, François Botha and Hong Man-Choi just to name a few, but in his only MMA bout he showed some ground skills a picked up a win via armbar in the first round. Mo has a definite advantage in power which will only be enhanced with the use of 4oz MMA gloves.

Do you need a replacement fighter? Do you need someone to fight on ultra short notice? If sounds like you then you need to call Ruben “Warpath” Villareal. This perennial replacement will once again take up the call as he fills in for Korean Olympic medalist Choi Mu-Bae. Villareal is a tough fighter who has fought the best of the best, mostly on very short notice. Some of his opponents include Bas Rutten, Ricco Rodriguez and Antonio Silva. I really don’t see Warpath being prepared enough to even put up a serious challenge to Mighty Mo in this fight and will, more then likely, be stopped very early into the fight.

Mighty Mo by KO RD 1

Melvin Manhoef (16 – 3 – 1) vs. Dong Sik Yoon (0 – 4 – 0)

Melvin Manhoef is one of those guys you really want to see fight top competition but unfortunately he never does. He has racked up wins against Ian Freeman, Crosley Gracie and Cyborg Santos to name some of the more noteworthy. A veteran of Cage Rage and K1 Hero’s, Manhoef will look to make a big impact with the American fans by adding to his 15 KO stoppages. Melvin will have a decided advantage in the striking department and should look to keep this fight off the mat as much as possible.

Dong Sik Yoon is a world class judokas and is a veteran of well over fifty international judo competitions. Unfortunately Yoon has not been very successful in his new found career as an MMA fighter. Since taking up the sport he has had four fights and he has had four losses. Granted all of his losses have come against the likes of Sakuraba, Rampage Jackson and Murilo Bustamante which shows he has only stepped into the ring with the best in the game. Yoon will look to stay out of Manhoef’s line of fire and take this fight to the ground where he can search for a submission.

Manhoef by KO RD 2

Brock Lesnar (0 – 0 – 0) vs. Min Soo Kim (2 – 5 – 0)

What can we say about Brock Lesnar that has not already been said? The man is a former WWE Champion and a NCAA Division One Heavyweight Wrestling Champion. This will be Lesnar’s first appearance in the MMA ring and he is hoping to make it a successful one. Brock began his MMA journey with Pat Miletich, but since then has been training out of Sean Sherk’s gym in Minnesota. Trainer Greg Nelson will have Brock in top shape when he enters the ring and, with this change of opponent, he has to be a favored to emerge with his first MMA victory.

Moo Soo Kim is a veteran on the K1 Hero’s organization have fought all seven of his fights under the FEG banner. Kim has fought some very big names in his short career and, as his record shows, he has lost a majority of those fights. The only strength that Kim brings into this fight is that he has a win over Sean O’Haire who is also a former WWE star. Kim will look to become the “pro wrestler hunter” but will probably emerge with the sixth loss of his career.

Lesnar by Submission RD 1

Kazushi Sakuraba (21 – 9 – 1 – 2 NC) vs. Royce Gracie (13 – 3 – 3)

After a great deal of speculation the Sakuraba vs. Royce Gracie bout is on! Earlier in the week Sakuraba received two abnormal EKG tests and was called back for extensive testing this past Wednesday. After receiving a battery of tests the California State Athletic Commission cleared him to fight and gave North American MMA fans a chance to see this Japanese MMA legend fight on US soil.

Sakuraba and Gracie will look to repeat the legendary battle they had in the opening round of the PrideFC 2000 Grand Prix. In that fight this duo did battle for 90 minutes leaving Royce broken, beaten and forced to throw in the towel giving the victory to Sakuraba. Gracie left the sport for three years and Sakuraba went on to face some of the sports best, taking many one-sided beatings and further elevating himself to the status of national hero. Royce returned to the ring in 2003 and has gone 1 – 1 – 2 with his most recent fight being a very embarrassing beating at the hands of former 170lb king Matt Hughes.

These two legends are far past their prime but I have a feeling we will see a little bit of MMA magic in the ring on Saturday night. Both fighters have nothing to prove to the fan and everything to prove to themselves. Sakuraba has to prove that he still has enough left in him to beat the best known of all the Gracie family and Royce has to prove that Gracie Jiu Jitsu is still relevant in the next generation of MMA.

Royce is definitely the fresher of the two men but he has a style that is very one dimensional which made him very vulnerable to strikes in his fight with Matt Hughes. Sakuraba is not know for his striking ability but he could use this strategy to break down the 41 year old Gracie and make him quit once again or catch the BJJ master in a submission of his own. Royce on the other hand has one magic bullet to end this fight and that is by submission. All of Royce’s 13 wins have come by the way of tap out and I am sure we won’t see a spectacular KO win coming from the hands of this submission expert. When all is said and done this shadow of the original Kazushi Sakuraba has far too many tools for the one dimensional Royce Gracie to deal with. Sakuraba will come out of this fight with his 22nd victory and then, I hope and pray, will announce his retirement from MMA. These two proud warriors and true legends and North American fans should feel lucky to see these two men do battle for one final time.

Sakuraba by Split Decision

K1 Dynamite! MMA Card Breakdown

UFC 71 Preview and Predictions: By Keith Shillan

It is about time. It feels like ages since we had a UFC main event that I got this excited for. It was probable UFC 65 when Matt Hughes fought Georges St. Pierre for the second time, that made me this excited. On Saturday night, the UFC's posterboy Chuck "the Iceman" Liddell tries to avenge his only lost in his career that hasn't been avenged. The man standing in his way is the charismatic body slamming machine called Quinton "Rampage" Jackson. Lets take a closer look at the UFC's PPV card.

Chris "the Crippler" Leben vs Kalib Starnes

Both these fighters became popular by their stints on the Ultimate Fighter reality show. Leben on the debut season and Starnes on the third seaon. Both fighters are coming of disappointing loses. Leben known for his confidence (almost cocky) personality became a household name and his hands also made him a fan favorite. Leben was a disappointing on the show. Losing a decision to the then inexperienced Josh Koscheck and then losing on a cut to Kenny Florian (a fight that Leben was easily winning). Since the show Leben has had his ups and downs. He first beat Jason Thacker by first round TKO and then won a split decision slugfest against Patrick Cote. His wins would get even more impressive with first round submission (armbar) victory over Edwin Dewees, first round TKO victory over Jorge Rivera, and a unamious decision over Luigi Fiorvanti. Yet as of late times have been different. First, Leben was given a Muay Thai Kickboxing 101 lesson from current middleweight champion Anderson Silva, which made Leben look like an amateur. Leben would recover with a second round KO over Jorge Santiago, but was submitted by Jason MacDonald in their matchup.

As for Starnes, he also was disappointing on his stint on the reality show. He was the early favorite on the show. He made short work of boxer Mike Stine but lost to the show champion Kendell Grove when the fight was stopped due to Starnes receiving a rib injury. Starnes would make his actually debut in the UFC by making short work of Danny Abbadi by first round submission. He would then lose a uninspring third round TKO lost to Yushin Okami.

The key to Starnes victory is to take Leben down, where he holds an advantage in the submission game. I just don't see this happening. I believe Leben has a good enough take down defense (due to having trained in the past with top wrestlers like Randy Couture, Matt Lindland, and Dan Henderson). Leben clearly has the advantage in the hands. Every throw he makes has knockout written all over it. Leben has a head made off cement (Yes, Anderson Silva breaks cememt) and can take a beaten. This fight is probable due or die for both fighters, with their future with the UFC in jeopardy. I expect Kalib to try to take it to the ground but being unsuccessful, and see Leben landing a huge shot late in the first round. Leben by KO.

"The Dean of Mean" Keith Jardine vs Houston Alexander

The TUF alumni continues when season 2 member Jardine faces off against UFC newcomer Alexander. Jardine is currently a top contender in the UFC Light Heavyweight Division. Jardine could arguable be undefeated in the UFC. He lost to fellow Greg Jackson submission academy teamate Rashad Evans on the show but has been on a tear since. Beating fellow castmates Kerry Schall and Mike Whitehead in his first two UFC matches but then lost a very controversial decision to Stephan Bonnar (I gave it to Jardine). He would redeem himself with a come from behind decision win against Wilson Gouveia. His success would continue, when he notched the biggest win of his career when he demolished fan favorite Forrest Griffin. Jardine looks to make a bid for the next title shot by using Alexander as his victim.

I can't really comment on Alexander, because I have not actually seen him fight before. He is really attempting to tackle a huge obstacle when he takes on top contender Jardine. Jardine has KO power in his hands, crisp leg kicks, and a good gas tank (which comes from training with team Jackson). I expect Jardine's experience alone to carry him to an easy victory. Expect to see Jardine showcase his hands with a first round TKO win.

Ivan Salaverry vs Terry Martin

It has been a long time since Ivan Salaverry has graced the UFC. He was last seen in the UFC losing a lackluster fight to Nate Marquardt back in August 2005. Salaverry first bursted onto the UFC seen by dismantling AndreiSemenov back in 2002. He would then lose a decision to top Middleweight contender Matt Lindland. He would get back on the winning path with back to back submission wins. He first beat Tony Fryklund by body triangle (possible the only one I have seen end a match), and then by triangle choke (led by an awesome kick from the bottom position) over the always tough Joe Riggs. Salaverry was then matched up on the very first main event of the UFC Fight Night card against Nate Marquardt. To the UFC disaproval Salaverry and Marquardt danced around the octagon with little action. Marquardt won the fight, and Salaverry was booted from the UFC. Only to have fought once since.

Martin has also had his share of ups and downs during his time in the UFC. Martin first came to the UFC as a Light Heavyweight. In his debut, he fought the heavy handed James Irvin. Martin known for his wrestling, toke Irvin down and controlled him for the first round. It was the opening of the second round that will always be in the UFC highlight reel history. Irvin threw one of the best flying knees in MMA history, KOing Martin in a flash. Martin would be invited back to the UFC matching him against Jason Lambert. The fight was pretty competitive until Martin's gas tank ran empty and Lambert would eventually win a TKO victory in the second round. Martin would then move down to the middleweight and have a highlight reel win off his own with a 14 seconds KO over Jorge Rivera.

This matchup matches Martin's size and wrestling ability against Salaverry's submission game. I expect Martin to come out with the early lead. Taking Salaverry down and controlling him on the ground. Expect to see Salaverry transition from submission attempt to submission attempt. I expect Martin to neutralize his attempts early but to eventually gas out late in the fight. I see Salaverry catching Martin in a submission in the early third round.

Karo "The Heat" Parisyan vs "The People's Warrior" Josh Burkman

This fight has fight of the night written all over it. Karo Parisyan has been a top UFC welterweight contender for a while. He has exciting victories of Nick Diaz, Chris Lytle, and Drew Fickett to name a few. Losing close decisions to former welterweight champ Geoges St. Pierre and also to top contender Diego Sanchez. Karo has unbelievable Judo throws and is awesome at the submission game. His Kimura against Dave Strasser is amazing. Karo has been know for having been in wars. He also a smart vet with a victory over current UFC welterweight champ Matt Serra.

Burkman is another former TUF 2 cast mate. He won a decision win over Melvin Guillard on the show. He would suffer an injury during that fight which would cause him to not be able to continue on the show. Burkman would make his first two UFC fights electrifying ones. Making short work of both Sam Morgan and Drew Fickett. He would lose by rear naked choke to welterweight contender Jon Fitch but would rebound with back to back decision victories over the always tough Josh Neer and the UFC debuting Chad Reiner.

This fight is going to be exciting. Both fighters bring fire works to the table. Burkman is very well rounded. He has great wrestling slams like his KO slam of Sam Morgan and a very underated submission game (Ask Drew Fickett). Burkman probable has the edge in the hands. I truly belive that Burkman could win a boring decision by staying away and pop shotting Karo to a three round victory ala Koscheck vs Sanchez. Yet, I don't think Burkman is that style of fighter. He loves to be aggresive and always come forward. Karo on the other hand, has world class Judo skills. His throws are highlight reel material. He also has the advantage on the ground. When on his back, he is always attempting submission attempts. I expect to see everything in this fight. Both guys throwing haymakers, Burkman slamminh Karo, Karo throwing Burkman, Burkman ground and pounding, Karo making submission attempt after attempt. This will be a closer fight then some expect. I see Karo using is experience in big fights to propel him into winning a split decision.

Chuck "the Iceman Liddell vs Quinton "Rampage" Jackson

To many casual fans, this is a no-brainer. Chuck will win. Chuck always wins. To the hardcore fans, they know it is not always true. Jackson is the last fighter to beat Chuck. He is the only fighter to hold a win over Chuck that he has not avenged. These two fighers last fought almost 4 years ago. Quinton, as he would say himself, "whooped Chuck's ass". He won the standup, and toke Chuck down with one of his slams. He then stamped Chuck with a tremendous ground and pound display. Yet, since then both fighters have taken different paths.

Rampage has gone 7-3 since. He was brutally Kod twice by Wanderlei Silva. He also did not have one second of offense when he lost by 1rd TKO to Maurice "Shogun" Rua. He also won two controversial decisions over Murilo Ninja and Matt Lindland (I gave him the win over Ninja, and I am in the minority but the lost to Lindland). He did have a spectacular KO over Ricardo Arona (Best slam in the history of MMA) and his TKO win over Marvin Eastman.

Chuck on the other hand has been amazing. He has been on a 7 KO/TKO win streak. He avenged loses to UFC Heavyweight champ and Hall of Famer Randy Couture (twice) and Jeremy Horn, while beaten rivals Tito Ortiz (twice), Vernon White, and Renato Sobral (twice, once before he fought Quinton and once after).

This is a fight that Chuck and fans have been asking for a long time. These two match up great in so many ways. On the feet, Chuck is a counter puncher that throws pin point accurate bombs that have put the best of the best to sleep. While Rampage has an aggresive straight ahead, crisp punching style,has an awesome double leg takedown that is finished with a huge slam. Chuck on the other hand has one of the best takedown defense in the game. Wrestlers like Randy Couture (not their first fight) and Tito Ortiz have had awful times trying to take him down. If it hits the ground, Rampage has breath taking ground and pound (and we haven't even seen him throw elbows yet) yet Chuck is know for simply just getting back to his feet as quickly as he has been taking down. In their first fight, Quinton held Chuck down but was helped by knees to the ground which is illegal in the US.

This fight is great. I have changed my mind tons of times already. Yet, if I have to go on the record. I am taking Chuck by 4th round TKO. Though Rampage and his camp has sounded so confident, Rampage has had a bad history in title fights. If Chuck does win this fight, his legacy might make him the greatest UFC fighter in history and leave him second on the list to Fedor Emelianenko as greatest on the MMA list.

BTW-

Prelims predictions:

Din Thomas vs Jeremy Stephens - Din by UD
Sean Salmon vs Alan Belcher - Salmon by dec
James Irvin vs Thiago Silva - Silva by 1rd TKO
Wilson Gouveia vs Carmelo Marrero - Gouveia by 3rd sub

Email ShilltheThrill2000@yahoo.com for any questions or comments

UFC 71 Preview and Predictions: By Keith Shillan