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Breaking News: Nate Marquardt cut from UFC, UFC on Versus Main Event Scrapped

Nate Marquardt has reportedly failed a medical and will not be fighting on Sunday's UFC card.

The main event for UFC on Versus has been changed recently with the substitution of Rick Story for an injured Anthony Johnson. Now with this recent development Cheick Kongo vs. Pat Barry will become the main event Sunday night.

Also on twitter Dana White has posted a 11-second video stating not only has Nate Marquardt failed his medical and will not be fighting, he will no longer be fighting in the UFC. “Not only is he out of this fight, out of the main event on Versus, he will no longer be with the UFC." said Dana White via twitter.

Story (13-3 MMA, 6-1 UFC) will now face Charlie Brenneman (12-2 MMA, 2-1 UFC).

There has been no clear reason reported on why Marquardt did not pass his medical examination. Many have guessed that weight was an issue, since he was moving down to 170 for the first time in his career. There also is some rumors about drug testing. Best thing to do is to hold off on any judgement and see what actual facts we can find.

UFC 132 Quick Preview

UFC 132 is July 2nd! Time to start the hype! Here is the extended exclusive UFC promo reel as well as the full fight card.

Dominick Cruz has been on a tear since his lost to Faber. Hair gel can do amazing things. How can Silva v Leben be a bad fight?

This card should be a lot better than last weekends snoozefest Strikeforce card. Full preview coming on the week before the card.

Full card and TV listing

PPV:

Dominick Cruz (17-1) vs. Urijah Faber (25-4) [Bantamweight Title]

Wanderlei Silva (33-10-1) vs. Chris Leben (25-7)

Carlos Condit (26-5) vs. Dong Hyun Kim (14-0-1)

Ryan Bader (12-1) vs. Tito Ortiz (15-8)

Matt Wiman (13-5) vs. Dennis Siver (18-7)

SPIKE TV:

Melvin Guillard (27-8) vs. Shane Roller (10-3)

George Sotiropoulos (14-3) vs. Rafael dos Anjos (14-5)

Preliminary Card:

Brian Bowles (9-1) vs. Takeya Mizugaki (14-5-2)

Brad Tavares (7-0) vs. Aaron Simpson (8-2)

Anthony Njokuani (13-5) vs. Andre Winner (11-5-1)

FK

UFC 131 Recap

Jesse Bongfeldt vs Chris Weidman

This fight was aired on Spike TV as one of the prelim fights but still had to have been a contender for submission of the night with Bongfeldt tapping out Weidman with a perfect standingguillotine choke.

He told Joe Rogan in the after fight interview that he had suffered a knee injury during the fight also stating that he had already had 4 surgeries on the same knee, we will keep an ear out to see if this injury will result in surgery number 5.

Sam Stout vs Yves Edwards

3 mintues and 50 seconds is all Sam Stout needed to put Edwards to sleep with a devastating left hook which left Edwards still on the ground as the post-match interview was taking place.

Donald Cerrone vs Vagner Rocha

The stand up skills of Cerrone were on show in this bout and Rocha’s lead leg was the target. Rocha was unable to take Cerrone to the ground and was made to pay. Cerrone was the winner in a unanimous decision.

Dave Herman vs John Olav Einemo

A two round war with each fighter hurting the other at one point or another but it was Herman that stopped Einemo after a big knee followed by a big left hook that dropped Einemo with Herman then opening up on Einemo before the referee stepped in to stop the fight.

Demian Maia vs Mark Munoz

This fight went the distance with both fighters known as grapplers to many peoples surprise this ended up being a stand up battle with both fighters possessing explosive power eacher had the other rocked during the fight. Mark Munoz getting the victory with a unanimous points decision.

Kenny Florian vs Diego Nunes

Florian showed no ill effects from the dramatic weight cut to make 145lbs telling Joe Rogan after the fight that before going into camp he weighed in at well over 180 lbs.

He controlled the second and third rounds with ease to take the points victory also saying that he plans on staying at this weight class and making a run for the title.

Junior Dos Santos vs Shane Carwin

Shane Carwin showed great hart to survive a first round onslaught from Dos Santos that had Carwin on the ground against the cage and left him bloodied and with a badly broken nose. Junior controlled the remaining rounds with his super-fast hands and even took Shane to the ground twice in the third round to come out the victor by a unanimous points decision.

UFC 131 Dos Santos vs Carwin

Main Event
Dos Santos vs Shane Carwin

Main Card
Kenny Florian vs Diego Nunes

John-Olav Einemo vs Dave Herman

Damian Maia vs Mark Munoz

Donald Cerrone vs Vagner Rocha

Sam Stout vs Yves Edwards

UFC 131 Preview

The UFC action continues on Saturday night when Omigawa and Darren Elkins kicks off what is sure to be an entertaining PPV. Strangely, this was the UFC that was derailed by the announcement that Brock Lesnar was going to be off the card due to his illness. However, the replacement was announced to be Shane Carwin, the UFC fans quickly started to salivate at what is sure to be a good action heavyweight fight in the main event.

Shane Carwin VS. Junior Dos Santos

As much as a 50/50 as we have seen in recent main events. Carwin is going to come forward and land hard shots. Junior is going to try to make it into a ground and pound game.

For those of you that aren't convinced of the fireworks. Remember, the two have combined for 22 first-round stoppages (12 for Carwin and 10 for Dos Santos) in their 26 fights.

Either way, it's simply who can impose whose will. It's hard to against the bigger fighter in these types of fights, but it's hard to see Junior putting Carwin away early after not being able to finish Roy Nelson in his last fight. Carwin of course is going need to show that he more than a 1 round fighter. Also, people often for get that Carwin is a former Division II collegiate wrestling national champion. It will be hard to take this guy down. Regardless, very interesting fight. Very.

Kenny Florian Vs. Diego Nunes

The story here is the incredible shrinking Kenny Florian. Usually when fighter's career progress they become larger. It's harder to keep the weight down as metabolism slows with age. Yet with Kenny Florian, this is his record 4th different weight class since joining the UFC ranks as a TUFer. In reality, he should have never been fighting at 185 pounds but was doing it for the sake of a shot in the TUF competition.

Kenny is coming off of a loss to Greg Maynard who is simply outwrestling and beating anyone not named Frankie Edgar

Things I think I think 6/8/11

Things I think I think.

Victor Ortiz v Floyd Mayweather is Mayweather's toughest challenge since never.

That aforementioned PPV should beat Pacquiao and Moseley's numbers.

Martirosyan would be smart to stay as far away from Saul Alvarez as possible.

Froch looked good beating Glen Johnson, but 117-111 was not an accurate score Mr. John Stewart

Watching Zbik V. Chavez Jr. was like watching a pillow fight. I can name at least 5 fighters with more power... EVEN AT WELTERWEIGHT.

Sergio Martinez immediately asked to be the mandatory challenger to Julio Ceasar Chavez Jr.'s newly acquired belt. Looks like some dodging is imminent.

There is NO WAY Brandon Rios V Urbano Antillon is going to be a dull fight.

UFC 131 will be much more entertaining than UFC 130.

The main event is my pick for fight of the night.

AWESOME: prelims for UFC 131 will be streaming on Facebook. Boxing should take a hint.

EVEN MORE AWESOME: Monitors for judges at UFC 131. It's about time that fight sports caught up to technology.

Shane Carwin looks scarier with no hair.

The Canadians (UFC 131 is in Vancouver) won't be cheering CA-NA-DA, CA-NA-DA like us Americans.

Why is Gina Carano out of Strikeforce because of a failed medical? What was the actual reason? Who knows? Actually I don't care that much.. just and excuse to put her picture here.

UFC 130 Rampage vs Hamill Main Card Preview

Quinton  Jackson vs Matt Hamil

This fight has been moved to the main event.  Rampage gets another main event in the UFC, this being his third time in a row.  Coming off a big split decision win over Lyoto Machida, he looks to regain his momentum after losing the light heavyweight belt in 2008.  Known for his knockout power and his devastating slams, he hasn’t had the same effect since he has joined the UFC (alike most Pride fighters).  With his charismatic personality and his knockout power he is always a fan favorite and a crowd drawer.

The winner of TUF season 3, an always improving Mix Martial Artist.  Matt Hamil brings a well decorated wrestling pedigree to the octagon.  Improving his striking mixed with his ground control, Hamil is a handful for anyone in the cage with him.

Questions???

Will Rampage beable to handle Hamil’s wrestling and ground control?  His recent notable fights with Lyoto Machida, Rashad Evans, Forrest Griffin, he has been lost sections of the fight when he is on the ground.  Unable to stop takedowns and unable to work off his back or get back up.

Will Matt Hamil try and stand with Rampage?  Will he have the gameplay to try to take Rampage down for an easier way to victory?  Can he take Rampage down?  If they do stand will Hamil beable to stay away from Rampage’s power punches?  Hamil is known for his wrestling but is always improving as a striker.  But will Hamil take his chances on his feet with such a well known power puncher?

Frank Mir vs Roy Nelson

Frank Mir, still considered one of the top heavyweights in the UFC he has recently faced some of his careers most challenging fighters.  With recent wins over Crocop, Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira, and Brock Lesnar he looks to put on a convincing win over Roy Nelson to stay relevant in the list of top heavyweights of the UFC.  Using his Muay Thai/Boxing and always dangerous bjj, Frank Mir is dangerous in any position and anywhere in the octagon.

Roy Nelson, made his name in the IFL and now being UFC TUF champion looks to break into the list of top heavyweights of the UFC.  Roy Nelson possesses knockout power in both hands and isn’t someone anyone should take lightly.

Questions???

Will Frank Mir look to go to the ground or try to use his striking against someone as dangerous as Roy Nelson?  Who would have the advantage during clinches and up against the fence?  Frank Mir is a well rounded fighter, but usually isn’t the one going for takedowns or aggressive when his back is on the fence.  Will Frank Mir continue to out strike Roy even if he gets hit with a big shot?

Will Roy Nelson be able to handle Frank Mir’s ground game?  Is Roy Nelson going to have enough cardio to go three rounds with Frank?  If he gases in the fight will he beable to survive?

Stefan Struve vs Travis Browne

Stefan Struve

A 6 ft 11 nightmare for anyone he steps into the cage with.  With a great ground game and some great kickboxing he looks to beat some of the top tier heavyweights in UFC so he can be considered to be on that list.  He has taken on some tough challenges in the UFC, beating some prospect fighters in the heavyweight division.  Losing to some of the higher tier fighters like Roy Nelson and Junior Dos Santos, Struve looks to regain his composure as a prospect for the belt.

Travis Browne

Travis Browne is a new edition to the UFC, and brings with him an undefeated record.  With knockout power in hands and legs, he looks to make it to the big times with his chance again Stefan Struve.

Thiago Alves vs Rick Story

Thiago Alves, a dangerous welterweight with great Muay Thai practitioner, falling short fighting for the welterweight championship against GSP.  A powerful striker looks to get his way back to the top to regain another shot at the title.

Rick Story

Rick Story has racked up a 5 win streak and is now given a big step up fight against Thiago Alves.  Known for his wrestling, he is a tough customer never giving anyone an easy win.  With a great chin and great ground work, submissions and ground control, he looks to give the favorite Thiago Alves a run for his money.

Questions???

Thiago Alves has problems with strong wrestlers such as GSP and Jon Fitch (but who wouldn’t have problems wrestling with both), will he beable to keep this fight on his feet?  If he gets taken down will he be more cautious over committing with his strikes?  With a lot of ground work and anti takedown will Thiago gas later in the fight?

Will Rick Story go for broke to try to take Thiago down?  Will Rick surprise us will improved striking?  How much punishment will Rick take on the feet before trying to take Alves down?  If he can take Alves down, can he keep it there?  He has a tough chin, will it be strong enough to take Alves's shots?

Breaking News: Lesnar out of 131

Another day, another injury that torpedos a main event. Brock Lesnar was scheduled to fight Junior Dos Santos in a Heavyweight title eliminator in UFC 131. The winner was to fight current heavyweight champion Cain Velasquez. Looks likes we will have to wait again as Lesnar's diverticulitis has acted up.

Replacing him will be Shane Carwin, the heavy puncher that ironicly, Lesnar recently pulled of out a fight with as well. No news yet on when Brock will return, however, the PPV numbers will likely suffer. Regardless of what you think of him, Lesnar is a huge PPV draw. If you follow the economics of the UFC at all, Lesnar's last three fights have all done over a million PPV buys and is the top 3 bought events in UFC history.

UFC 129 Fight Recap

UFC 129 Results and Recap

1. Pablo Garza Flying Triangle Choke in round 1 (4:31) vs. Yves Jabouin.

2. John Makdessi KO with Spinning Back Fist in round 3 (1:27) vs. Kyle Watson.

3. Jason MacDonald Triangle Choke in round 1 (1:37) vs. Ryan Jensen.

4. Ivan Menjivar TKO with Elbows & Punches in round 1 (1:30) vs. Charlie Valencia.

5. Claude Patrick Unanimous Decision vs. Daniel Roberts

6. Jake Ellenberger KO with Punches in round 1 (2:42) vs. Sean Pierson.

7. Rory MacDonald Unanimous Decision vs. Nate Diaz.

8. Benson Henderson Unanimous Decision vs. Mark Bocek.

9. Vladimir Matyushenko KO with Punches in round 1 (:20) vs. Jason Brilz.

10. Lyoto Machida KO with (Silva) Front Kick in round 2 (1:05) vs. Randy Couture.

In an unanimous decision Jose Aldo retains his featherweight title against Mark Hominick but notwithout blood, gasps and gashes.

The 24-year-old Aldo made his entrance riding on his confidence but as soon as he stepped into the octagon the electricity quickly turned thick with tension.

The beginning of round one started at a quick pace, laying a few hands testing each other’s stand up.

Aldo sets Hominick up and scores a takedown but Hominick on his back attacks with an arm bar. Aldo with top position throws singles, both fighters engage with lots of grappling. For the lack of action McCarthy warns the fighters to pick up the pace.

Aldo begins to throw sharp elbows resulting in a cut to Hominick’s left eye. The round ends with

Hominick looking worn out.

Aldo begin round 2 with kicks to the leg and mid-section. There’s a noticeable gape from Aldo’s openmouth as Aldo throws punches while Hominick trades shots with him.

Trying to set Hominick up again with a takedown, Hominick sees it coming and easily stuffs it and puts together some slick boxing. Eating a few shots Aldo manages to catch Hominick with another takedown.

Top position again, with very little ground and pound from Aldo, McCarthy stands them up.

Round 2 ends with Hominick delivering kicks which Aldo catches and gets another takedown

Before the round 3 starts, Hominick comments to his corner that he could feel Aldo fading.

Hominick starts round 3 throwing and landing straights and jabs putting his trademark on Aldo’s eye but Aldo still looked strong returned with his own strikes and takedown attempts. At this point whether Aldo succeeds or not Hominick is aware of the takedown, whereas all Aldo was watching for are Hominick strikes.

Putting together 2 clean hits Aldo puts Hominick on his back. Aldo rains blows but realizing he couldn’t finish him, Hominick survives on the ground both fighters look exhausted.

The start of the round 4, Aldo was the aggressor utilizing both kicks and strikes but Hominick wasn’t going anywhere that was until he threw 2 jabs and in return Aldo threw 2 of his own that lead to Hominick on the canvas with a goose egg on the top of his head. Aldo seizing a weakness attacked the giant golf ball on Hominick head until a doctor was called.

Standing Hominick up, the crowd gasped at the sight of Hominick’s second head. After a quick look, the doctor clears the fighter to resume.

The last round the fighters continue to scrap. Aldo lands a great uppercut but Hominick manages to puts Aldo on his back and goes to work.

A cut on Hominicks face opens and blood gushes on the canvas, the champion is on ground getting beat.

The crowd gets louder and cheers on Hominick who’s attacking from all sides to finish the exhaustedAldo who isn’t returning any shots or submission attempts of his own.

The fight ended in the hands of the judges but did deliver the drama.

In a unanimous decision George St. Pierre retains his belt but not without sustaining an eye injury in the third round.

The main event starts out with George St Pierre striking at a distance where Jake Shields can’t take him down. Shields manage to catch one of Pierre’s leg and pushes him into the fence but with the better leverage Pierre turns Shields around and frees himself away from the fence.

The action returns to the middle of the ring, Pierre’s hands are looking good against a visibly stiff

Shields. Possibility bating Pierre to close the distance, Shields let’s Pierre throw strikes but realizing Shields is at a distance, Pierre sets up multiple spin kicks to the body of Shields.

Pierre looking loose is throwing whatever he wants, a left hand catches Shields on the button and sends him flying to the canvas. Respecting Shields’ BJJ, Pierre smartly does not go in with the ground and pound.

Standing Shields up, Pierre puts together some nice boxing and kicks to end the round.

Round 2, Shields is looking more active with his hands but Pierre is patient throwing straights and landing overhand rights.

Pushing Shields back, Pierre gets enough room to roundhouse Shields in the mid section. Realizing he needs to close the distance, Shields pushes forward but can’t seem to inflect much damage. Pierre continues to throw over hand rights like a machine, all Shields can do is defend.

The round ends with Shields squared up with Pierre catching strikes.

Catching their breath, round 3 starts out with a brawl but Shields is not cracking Pierre’s superb striking skills to get a takedown.

Pierre’s overhand right is proving very effective but a scrappy Shields continues to work in the pocket. But Pierre had clearly neutralized Shields in the third round but not without damaging Pierre’s right eye.

The beginning of the 4th round Pierre is noticeably concerned with his right eye. But that doesn’t affect his performance as he throws Shields to the ground and stands back up, both fighters are looking crisp.

Shields pushes the action but Pierre’s relentless offense lands a great kick into Shields head. Pierre is landing hard hitting blows but Shields is unfazed, taunting Pierre and landing his own shots opening a cut on Pierre’s face. Obviously injured, Pierre can’t finish off Shields.

HL

In the final round, sensing a wounded Pierre, a tired Shields throws for the fences but defending

champion counters with the better combination. At this point the exhausted Shields wasn’t even

looking for the takedown.

The fight ends with the 2 fighters in the middle of the ring.

Breaking News: Maynard V Edgar 3 is off!

The injury bug has hit the UFC again. As reported here previously the UFC schedule has been wrecked by injuries.

This time, both fighters, Greg Maynard and the champion, Frankie Edgar both pulled out of their main even at UFC 130 scheduled for May 28th at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas.. They were scheduled to fight for Edgar's belt and settle the score after what has been a very entertaining two fights.

Quinton “Rampage” Jackson vs. Matt Hamill has now moved to the main event and Frank Mir vs. “Big Country” Roy Nelson is the co-main event.

I don't know if UFC plans to have the same number of PPV buys with the main event going to the wayside, but perhaps a $10 discount? I think that way be wishful thinking..

UFC 129 Fight Knights Writer's Predictions

UFC 129 Fight Knights Writer's Predictions

HL's Picks
MacDonald by Decision
Patrick by submission 3rd round
Menjivar by T(KO) 3rd round
Jabouin by split decision
Ellenberger by Submission 3rd round
Makdessi by Strikes 2nd round
Diaz by Submission 3rd round
Matyushenko by Strikes 2nd round
Henderson by Strikes 2nd round
Machida by decision
Aldo by T(KO) 3rd round
Pierre by Decision

SW's Picks
Couture by Decision
Aldo by T(KO) 2nd round
Pierre by Decision




More predictions to come! 
Give us your 2 cents!!!

UFC 129 Fight Card Preview

Jason MacDonald vs. Ryan Jensen

UFC 129 middleweight showdown will be the fight to start off the night. Both fighters are coming off a loss. Notably Ryan Jensen’s loss comes from Ultimate Fighter contender Court McGee from Ogden, Utah.
Both fighters are strong on the ground. MacDonald’s 24 wins, 18 came by submission, contrast similarly Jensen’s 15 wins, 10 were by submission.

Claude Patrick vs, Daniel Roberts
A welterweight’s streak will come to an end. Nick named “The Prince”, Claude Patrick is going into the octagon with 12 straight wins with a record of 13-1-0. With a similar record of 12-1-0, Daniel Roberts is entering the fight with 3 straight victories.
Patrick will mostly likely push the action with his style ( BJJ & Muay Thai) but Roberts southpaw stance (BJJ & Wrestling) could play a factor with counters.

Ivan Menjivar vs. Charlie Valencia
Bantamweight journeymen clash in the third bout both fighters are coming into UFC 129 with a loss. Ivan Menjivar with a record of 21-8-0 will be taking on the challenger Charlie Valencia with a record of 12-6-0.
Bantamweight yields high energy fighters, Menjivar’s 21 wins, 8 were (T)Kos, Valenica will have his hands full.

Pablo Garza vs. Yves Jabouin
On paper this Flyweight fight looks to be action packed. Pablo Garza and Yves Jabouin are hungry for their second win. Impressively Garza’s last fight with Fredson Paixao ended in round 1 with :51 seconds left in the round with a flying knee.
Jabouin will most likely want to go toe to toe with Garza. Jabouin’s 15 wins, 11 came by (T)KOs.

Sean Pierson vs. Jake Ellenberger
Welterweight ground warfare in the 5th match. Sean Pierson is an all-around fighter, 11 wins only one came to a decision. Pierson is a Greco-Roman wrestler and a purple belt in BJJ.
Jake “The Juggernaut” Ellenberger the more experience fighter with 24 wins and 15 of those were (T)KOs. Ellenberger is a wrestler and a blue belt in BJJ.


Kyle Watson vs. John Makdessi
Lightweight pursuits. Kyle Watson, 10 of his 13 wins were by submissions who is now going for his 6th straight win. His last win was by unanimous decision.
John Makdessi is going for his undefeated 9th straight victory, who is also coming off a unanimous decision.

Rory MacDonald vs. Nate Diaz
Welterweights matched up. Both Rory MacDonald and Nate Diaz are coming off a loss. And both MacDonald and Diaz are BJJ and Boxers.
Diaz is known to have heart and excellent BJJ. With only 8 fight difference between them MacDonald only has one loss, the two young fighters will bang.

Vladimir Matyushenko vs. Jason Brilz
Light heavyweight Janitor and Hitman fight in the 8th bout. Valdimire “The Janitor” Matyushenko at 40 years old is coming off a win to battle Jason “The Hitman” Brilz (35 years old) who is coming off a loss.
Both fighters are wrestling emphasized but don’t be surprised if the match ends with strikes especially from Matyushenko (his last win coming from (T)KO strikes) but Brilz learned a lot from Antonio Rogerio Nogueira, the split decision loss.

Benson Henderson vs. Mark Bocek
Lightweight mixed martial arts contest. Black Korean American fighter Benson Henderson (12-2) coming off a loss is a black belt in Taekwondo and brown belt in BJJ.
Representing Canada Mark Bocek (9-3) is coming off a win (by submission) is a black belt in BJJ and a black belt in Kempo.

Randy Couture vs. Lyoto Machida
Light heavyweight spectacle. Age 47 Randy Couture (19-10) will fight his last fight at UFC 129 going for his 4th straight victory to finish out his legendary career, but his opponent Lyoto Machida (age 32 record 16-2) who is coming off 2 straight controversial losses (Mauricio Rua & Quinton Jackson) looks to get back on the title track.
Machida is currently ranked #4 light heavyweight fighter in the world by Sherdog & Yahoo Sports. Couture is ranked at #10 by Yahoo Sports.



UFC FEATHERWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP
Jose Aldo vs. Mark Hominick
Contender Mark Hominck (20-8) is going for his 6th straight victory to retain his featherweight title. His 20 wins, 9 were (T)KOs, 7 by submission and 4 went to decisions. And 8 of his losses came by submission.
Young Champion Jose Aldo (18-1) is starting to top more and more best of lists, defending his championship belt with 11 straight victories. Aldo’s 18 wins, 12 were (T)KOs, 2 by submission and 4 came by decision. Aldo’s only loss was by submission. Ranked by Sherdog Aldo is #1 in the featherweight division and #3 Pound-For-Pound fighter. This fight looks to be high octane with toe to toe action.

UFC WELTERWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP
George St. Pierre vs. Jake Shields
These welterweights need no introduction. Five times defending champion George St. Pierre’s (21-2) belt is on the line again.
Jake Shields’ (26-4-1) title shot comes following 15 straight wins. Shields is either tough or fight opponents that aren’t tough enough. Shields’ 26 wins, 3 were (T)KOs. 10 by submission and 13 came by decisions.
Coming off an 8 victory streak, GSP should expose Shields’ weakness in finishing an opponent. GSP has great wrestling that grinds fighters leaving them very tired. And recently, GSP showcased his ability to strike versus Josh Koscheck courtesy of new hands trainer Freddy Roach.

HL

Breaking News: Jon Jones hurt. Withdraws from UFC 133 vs Evans

ESPN is reporting that Jon Jones has a torn ligament in his hand and has withdrawn form his match against Rashard Evans in UFC 133. This is another in what may be an alarming recent injury streak that has hurt the UFC cards. Recently Jon Fitch (UFC 132), BJ Penn (UFC 132), Court McGee (UFC 131), Brad Picket (UFC 130), Thiago Silva (UFC 130) have all pulled out of their matches citing injury.

Rashard Evans will be fighting replacement Phil Davis. Davis (9-0-0) defeated Antonio Rogerio Nogueira by unanimous decision during his most recent bout in March.

No answers yet to the time table of the freshly minted light heavyweight champion's return. However, Evans plans for a title shot may be derailed if not by a loss, by injury and scheduling.

FK

What's next in the UFC Lightheavy Weight Division?

With the recent domination over Shogun Rua, Jon "Bones" Jones breathes life back to the UFC light heavy weight division with storylines and drama will taking center stage.

Jones’ first title defense will be against his former teammate and close personal friend Rashad Evans. Both of which have strong wrestling background, meaning you can expect lots of action on the fence and control on the ground. Evans was originally scheduled to fight Rua for the title but withdrew due to an knee injury in training and Jones was selected as the replacement.

(As storylines go, Evans has quit Greg Jackson’s gym, the gym he and Jones trains at.)

The experience factor will no doubt favor Evans, as he has fought a much stronger pool of fighters, but a year of ring rust due to a knee injury, reach disadvantage of 10 inches, Evans may be facing a tall (pun intended) order. More than likely Evans will need a submission or knock out if he’s to come out the octagon with the belt.

Jones is one of the new young gun generation. He's very athletic with a strong ground game and even better striking. Most of his weapons seem to nullify most of Evans strengths. Of course, he’s virtually undefeated (1 DQ) and has a large size advantage as well.

Of course, lurking drama is here, Dana White has Quinton “Rampage” Jackson fighting the winner of Jones & Evans.

If Evans comes out as the victor, it will be the second time Jackson and Evans will fight each other. Their first meeting Evans easily subdued Jackson with his wrestling and tired him out against the fence. Jackson admits to ring rust due his role as Mr. T play a large factor. So far Rashad beat Jackson in the ring, on the Ultimate Fighter and volleyball so Jackson should be fired up the second time around.

A Jones Rampage matchup will be a good fight. Jackson’s style will make the fight interesting (as long as it lasts) if he can get past Matt Hamill. Of course, just another wrinkle in the storylines, Hamill was the fight Jones was DQ'd in.

Henry Liu

UFC 128 Shogun vs Jon Jones Recap 03/19/11

UFC 128 Shogun vs Jon Jones Recap 03/19/11

Mauricio Shogun Hua vs Jon Jones Bones

1^st round Jones comes out with a huge flying knee and a few high kicks.  While trading right hands they clinch and jones is able to take shogun down.  Shogun tries to use his half guard to sweep but  was unable too.  Shogun does a good job of not taking too much damage on the ground.  But while scrambling to get up near the fence he is caught by a right kick left hook.  Coming back to the middle of the ring Shogun looks very fatigued more than hurt.  Jones reach advantage is apparent.  Keeping Shogun at bay with side kicks to the legs and using his left hand as a measuring stick.  The round ends on the ground after Shogun tries to take Jones down but fails.

2^nd round Shogun looks tired coming out of the corner.  He is having trouble landing anything because of Jones range and having Jones’s left hand in his face.  When Jones gets a break in the action he throws big head kicks, Shogun is unable to do much but block.  Jones get the takedown and Shogun is unable to get a sweep or back to his feet.

3^rd round Shogun still tries and fire over Jones’s jab or left hand but Jones is just too far away.  After Shogun ducks a huge head kick Shogun is able to take Jones’s back go for a leg lock but instead trips Jones instead but ends up on the bottom.  The ground is pound is starting to land on Shogun which short elbows and hands from the guard.  Hurting Shogun with huge elbows, Shogun is forced to bail and roll to his all fours and gets back to his feet but Shogun looks very hurt, and Jones puts Shogun away with a big left hook to the body against the cage.

Jon Jones by TKO in the 3^rd

Uriah Faber vs Eddie Wineland

1^st Round The come out feeling each other out and they clinch.  Wineland pushes Faber against the fence.  They scramble both trying o take each other down.  With separate after a failed takedown attempt by Faber and eats a right hook for his troubles.  Faber tries to take Wineland down but they end up in a clinch, Faber continuously tries to throw or takedown Wineland but both remain standing.  Wineland is able to take Faber’s back and slams him down but Faber right back up but eats a right hand.  Faber catches Wineland with a hand right then a left hook countering Wineland.  Uriah again tries for a takedown but ends up in a clinch and Faber tries to throw him but still cant get Wineland down.  Uriah goes for a leg kick but is counter with a nice right hand by Eddie.  Faber seems unfazed and lands his own looking right hand then a left hook.

2^nd round Both come out aggressive Faber coming out with some kicks mixing up his strikes.  Eddie triest o establish a jab mixing it up with a left hook.  Faber mixes it up fakes a strike than goes gets a single leg and takes Eddie down with a trip.  Uriah immediately works ground and pound.  Continually landing rights and elbows and Eddie is unable to get up as Uriah does a good job of keeping it on the ground.

3^rd round Both fighters try to find their range and Uriah still looking to counter.  Faber tries to take Wineland down but is stuffed.  Wineland lands a good leg kick but is unable to land anything up top.  They clinch again and both fight for takedown and positioning but both end up separated instead.  Faber mixes it up and fakes to grab a leg and instead throw a nice right uppercut catching Wineland and lands another straight right after that.  Faber smells blood as he pushes forward catching Wineland with a left hook.   Faber continually catches with short shots and shoots and gets a takedown.  Faber is able to land some ground and pound until the round ends.

Uriah Faber by Unanimous Decision (29-28)(29-28)(29-28)

Jim Miller vs Kamal Shalorus

1^st Round Miller with a southpaw stance Kamal with the orthodox stance.  They come out with huge shots both men trading, Kamal ending this exchange better landing a left hook up top.   They exchange again both landing but shots are partially blocked.  Both men continue to trade but Miller with more footwork coming in and out using his reach advantage.  Kamal more with a stand and brawl body position.  Both men continue to trade but nothing significant landing for either fighter.  Kamal is swinging for the fences which is not a surprise.  They scramble after Miller misses a lead knee, but both end standing and they both throw more leather.  Miller is trying to time the wild hands of Kamal and lands his own left elbow when Kamal charged in.  Miller lands a big left high kick but Kamal throws back instantly.  Kamal seemed to slow down after catching that kick with his face.  The aggression by Miller ending his combination with a left bodykick and drops down with a guillotine but quickly slips off and Kamal ends up on top.  The referee stands them up fairly quickly with some pause in the action on the ground.  They stand and trade again Kamal landing a nice right hook, but Miller answers with a left after Kamal attempts a leg kick.  At the end of the round catches Kamal with another nice left high kick.

2^nd Round They come out throwing leather again, nothing significant landing.  They continue trading, and Kamal lands a nice leg kick.  Miller is beign more aggressive coming forward and countering Kamal with a uppercut.  As they clinch Miller tries to jump into a triangle but Kamal shrugs it off.  They  continue to stand with a good amount of striking activitiy but Miller goes for the takedown and quickly gets to Kamal’s back.  They hand fight and Kamal is defending the RNR choke till the end of the round.

3^rd Round they come out and trade but Kamal shots are wide and Miller isn’t in danger of getting caught and catches Kamal with a straight left twice.  Miller’s counters are near misses.  Miller catches Kamal with a big uppercut he was looking for since the 2^nd round and follows it up with a knee hurting Kamal and ends the fight with ground n pound.

Jim Miller by KO in 3^rd round

Nate Marquardt vs Dan Miller

1^st Round Both trying to find their distance with a right hand lead the clinch scramble and Nate ends up ontop looking for a choke.  Both scramble and Miller tries to take Nate down and after some good takedown defense by Nate he is unable to stay standing and falls into the fence.  After a scrambling and Miller goes for a guillotine Nate gets his own takedown but has to fight hard to get out of the guillotine.  Nate picking his spots and landing some good elbows in Dan’s guard.  Dan tries to shoot his legs up but finds nothing.  Some time of inactivity and refree stands them back up.  Nate keeps his jab effective not commiting with it then feints his jab to and a very clean straight right.  Falling into a clinch after the right hand he gets a big takedown picking Dan Miller up.  Dan Miller giving up the kimura gets hit with some ground and pound to end the round.

2^nd Round Nate comes out with a low kick and still does a good job of keeping his distance measuring Dan with his lead hand and comes with a nice combination landing on miller.  Then catching Miller with a nice lead high kick.  Dan lands a good 1-2 on Marquardt.  Using feints and footwork Nate gets in and out of range without Dan able to do much.  After a miss by Dan, Nate pushes forward landing a nice combination 2 straight rights and a left high kick then a flying knee but gets taken down.  They scramble against the fence and Nate is able to get into a neutral position clinch standing.  They separate and they trade as Nate comes forward both landing right hands.  Marquardt lands his right hand leads throughout this round and gets a takedown but is caught in Miller’s guillotine but is able to get out.  Marquardt ends the round on top with some ground n pound.

3^rd Round Marquardt sets up another right hand with his jab but is countered with a uppercut for his troubles.  But Marquardt quickly comes back with a left high kick which again lands for him.  Again Marquardt lands a right hand and tries again and Miller tries to counter with his own right hand.  Continously Marquardt tries to set up his right hand with feints and jabs with footwork.  Marquardt landing multiple right hands again and Miller’s face is split open because of this and forces Miller to go for a takedown which is stuffed by Nate.  Marquardt is able to stay ontop and work some ground n pound. 

Nate Marquardt by Unanimous decision judges (30-27)(30-27)(30-27) 

Thoughts on Zuffa Strikeforce

All we can do as fans is hope.  Maybe some interesting things might happen.  One of Pride's last events before it shut down there was Nick Diaz vs Takanori Gomi also Hayato Sakurai vs Mac Danzig, fights that may never have happened if Zuffa never bought them out.  Hopefully we might see some legendary match ups before fighters are out of jobs.  Any of the top heavyweights of Strikeforce and UFC would be amazing match ups.  Nick Diaz vs George St. Pierre or anyone at the top of the welterweight division.  Other fighters such as Bobby Lawler, Jacare Souza, Gegard Mousasi would be very exciting to watch in UFC.  For the other fighters that aren't going to get an extended contract or get a "1 fight win or get dropped" contract, I dont know where they can turn.  Maybe Bellator Fighting Championships.  Seems like the decisions of UFC determine the future of MMA.  With that type of power/responsibility they should have a sense of obligation to the fighters they turn away who help make this sport what it is.  I have a sense that Zuffa is thinking "if you're not with us you're against us" and that type of attitude may not help the sport grow.  MMA has come a long way and UFC has done a lot for the sport, but I just hope Zuffa has more than just UFC in mind and do what's good for MMA as a whole.

DREAM mix martial arts promotion and their fights in Japan are an ongoing and always growing event.  Having much of Japan as their audience and fans and also support internationally i hope these types of organizations can become something more than just another take over by Zuffa merged into UFC.

Strikeforce sold its soul for money and is put on a morphine drip by Zuffa.
Pride was slain by Zuffa, forced to go out with a bang with Pride 33 and 34.
RIP Pride, their presentation was amazing and fights were second to none.