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Friday Night Fights 7/15 Recap

Pawel Wolak (29-1-1, 19 KO) Delvin Rodriguez (25-5-3, 14 KO)

In the easily the best fight of the Friday Night Fight broadcast this year and arguably of the whole year, Wolak and Rodriguez reminds us of why we love boxing. Wolak and Rodriguez fought 10 hard fought, with an exclamation point for round 9, and hard to score rounds before settling on a majority draw. This fight had the crowd screaming for both fighters.

For those of you who like gruesome boxing injuries, look no further. While Erislandy Lara's head last weekend was bulging and a nasty sight, it didn't come close to the size and the affect that is had on him as Wolak's eye.

Rodriguez had an opening for a right uppercut through most of the fight with Wolak coming in and yet chose to do most of his work with his straight right hand (his money punch) as evidenced by Wolak's eye. Wolak's gameplan was very straight forward, by that, I mean it was very straight forward. He tried to maul Delvin and paid the price on numerous occasions.

Credit is due to Rodriguez for being able to stick to try to fight tall and continue to force the shorter, pressure fighter, to come towards you and implement the game plan of punching off the back foot. There were questions coming into the fight for Rodriguez's career. He is now 2-3-1 in his last 6 fights but I think he has answered some of the answers from the critics that are calling for his retirement.

Wolak, who is never in a dull fight, will surely be in another good matchup later on this year. While I'm sure us boxing junkies would love a rematch and there are rumors that it will land on the Margarito V Cotto II card, making that card an absolute MUST BUY.

If you didn't watch this fight, it is still available via streaming replay on ESPN3.com. Free, streaming, good fight, what other reasons do you need to waste 40 minutes to be entertained.


Brian Viloria (29-3, 16 KOs) UD Julio Miranda (28-4, 16 KOs) for WBO Miranda's flyweight belt.

Judges Robert Hoyle (98-91) Ruben Garcia (96-93) and Tamotsu Tomihara (97-93) favored Viloria.

In Miranda's fourth defense, he was blitzed by Viloria in the opening bell and was out punched and out worked through the entire fight. Viloria showed great body punching ability, a very good jab and worked through a cut that opened up on his eye in the eighth round.

"Pingo" Miranda had trouble making the 112 weight limit and had to sweat off two pounds. It was a tough fight and both the champion and the challenger seemed to enjoy the brutality of it. Miranda had a pretty clear elbow and low blow that wasn't called by referee Joe Cortez in the 6th round that was answered by a rally by Viloria.

The newly crowned champion was also fighting on home turf in Hawaii and Miranda, who is likely not going to get a rematch, would be wise to fight somewhere more neutral. The most interesting part of the fight? When the scores were read. How did the judges miss two rounds of action? Did they decide that 10 rounds was enough?

There are interested fights for the entire flyweight division to be made and it is nice to see Viloria, yet another action fighter, to be in the mix as well.

Things I think I think - 7/12/11

Kelly Pavlik needs to stay out of trouble. Brother's pulling each other through windows isn't a good look.

While the Paul Williams v Erislandy Lara was a bad decision, it wasn't as lopsided as people think.

Ridiculous for Max Kellerman to ask William's corner in the MIDDLE OF THE FIGHT whether Williams should retire.

On that note: David Haye should retire.

While Brandon Rios has a great style, he would get absolutely destroyed by Manny. Forget about that fight.

Who says you need a fight to long for action? Rios Antillon had more firepower than several fights combined.

On December 3rd, win or lose, Miguel Cotto will get revenge.

Thanks for the good career Ricky Hatton.

I feel bad for Kermit Cintron.

Rico Ramos doesn't look nearly as good as he should.

Someone please make Lucas Matthyse V Marcos Maidana fight. They fought once in the amateurs (Maidana won).

Tito Ortiz has 9 lives.

The UFC likes the bad guys good guys story line. Stamm V Sonnen had to be made.

Still dissapointed that Sonnen wasn't banned permanently.

The rumored Carlos Condit vs. B.J. Penn should be a very good fight.

I thought that John Howard was going to have a better UFC career than this. Wonder where he will end up.

AMIR KHAN V ZAB JUDAH! Which boxing fan isn't excited for this fight?

Wladimir Klitschko vs David Haye Preview

For boxing junkies the heavyweight division's recent decline has been just a minor setback with the increase in talent at the lower weight classes (namely welterweight, jr. welterweight, lightweight etc.). However, for the mainstream media the question always remained: "When is the heavyweight division in boxing coming back?"

Well, ladies and gentlemen here is your big heavyweight fight. Reigning WBO, IBF and IBO champion Wladimir Klitschko (55-3, 49 KOs) takes on current WBA champion England'sDavid Haye (25-1, 23 KOs).

Interestingly the Klitschko brothers seemed very unhappy yesterday at the weigh-in when they were subjected to boos by Haye supporters. There were loud chants of "Your just a sh*t Ivan Drago" heard from the crowd as well.

While the 200+ Haye supporters have spoken clearly, it's hard for to see David Haye's disdain for his current opponent as genuine. Haye's verbal jabs have been strategic, his goal was to get under Wladimir's skin to try to force him to slug it out come fight night.

However, I think with Emanuel Steward in the corner, there will be little strategic change. Wladimir is the bigger man (Klitschko weighed 242 pounds, 29½ pounds more than the 212½-pound Haye), with the better jab and should be able to maintain distance correctly.

Klitschko also is taller (6-foot-6½) would have a significant height advantage over Haye (6-3) not to mention the reach. Haye's advantage is with speed. Haye will be able to jump in and out around Klitschko's jab and attack with his hooks.

The most intriguing part of this fight? Two highly skilled heavyweights with questionable chins. This is what America wants, heavyweights that will hurt each other. It is almost promised that it will happen in this fight.

It isn't likely that Haye is going to win a decision because of his fighting style also they are fighting in Cologne, Germany. Just ask Mathew Macklin whether winning a decision there is possible.

Things I think I think - 6/29/11

The California Bar exam sucks.

Juan Diaz should have a better time in Texas, although no exam is easy at all.

Pacquiao-Marquez fight to use instant replay in incidents where fight stopping cuts occur. THANK YOU!!!!

Klitschko Haye is the most watchable heavyweight fight in years, it is hyped up beyond belief and free on HBO. NO REASONS NOT TO WATCH.

What exactly is the big deal with the David Haye's shirt with the cartoon drawing that he didn't even draw? I've heard much much worse things between boxers.

August 27th 24/7 Ortiz Mayweather begins. General public be ready to get dissed by Mayweather again.

I will be cheering for Sebastian Lujan on FNF on ESPN3. Not because we share the same name, but because his ear busting fight against Antonio Margarito strangely is one of my fondest boxing memories.

Tough for Cruz V Faber II to be a boring match. For all you MMA newbies this is a rematch of a WEC match. Here is the full fight video here.
http://www.ufc.com/media/132-WEC26-Faber-Cruz

Boxing really needs to learn from the UFC. They realized that the 132 headliner may not appeal to the general public so what do they do? STACK THE CARD. Silva V Leben, Ortiz V Bader, Condit V Kim, even Guillard V Roller are all good fights.

I have Silva by KO.

Everyone wave goodbye to Tito Ortiz. Thanks for a good career.

Wonder how many Koreans will be watching the Stun Gun Dong Hyun Kim this weekend? Last time he fought there was a full telecast just for him.

Finally some answers for the Nate Marquart saga. Why did he pull out of his fight? He admitted testosterone replacement therapy. The controversial treatments were prescribed by a doctor due to a "legitimate medical condition" since last August.

BTW: THE UFC KNEW ABOUT IT. This is pretty much a known fact. They "gave" him time to clear it up.

I wonder of the UFC knew about Dan Henderson, Chael Sonnen, and Todd Duffee? Hard not to see considering that Henderson and Duffee have exemptions in California.

Quote of the week? Victor Ortiz was asked by reporters what he thought about PacMan PBF matchup. His response: "There's only one problem, I'm fighting Pacquiao next."

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.

Weekend Preview - 6/24

The year has been littered with great weekends of fights so far and this weekend will be no different.

As usual it get kicked off with a good main even in the Friday Night Fights card, then a 3 fight HBO card, and a free streaming EPIX middleweight championship fight. I will be previewing these fights below.

Plus, for us boxing junkies, Telefutura has Brian Vera and James Kirkland on the same card, Telemundo has prospect Jesus Pabon in a sure action fight and FSN is broadcasting Mike Jones likely knockout of professional “opponent” Raul Munoz. Get your DVR’s ready to roll!

HBO Card
On Saturday on HBO's Boxing after dark 9:45ET/PT, there will be triple header headlined by Devon Alexander and Lucas Matthyse.

Devon Alexander vs. Lucas Matthyse
Many may remember Matthysse (28-1, 26 KOs) from his recent loss on HBO to Zab Judah in a close fight that Judah was lucky to squeeze out a SD victory. He doesn’t have great boxing skill but has great power. He is coming off of a KO win against, now stepping stone, DeMarcus Corley back in January. He is the brother of Walter Mattyse and has Carlos Baldomir in his corner. He owns a KO victory against Vivian Harris and is slowly building his resume to become a 140pd contender.

Boxing fans may still have a bad taste in their mouths from Alexander’s last performance on HBO against Timothy Bradley. It was hyped as great fight to kick off the year and turned out to be a dud. Both fighters promised action and fireworks while the fight contained more posturing than anything. Bradley controlled Alexander with good distance control as well as outworking (relatively) the St. Louis native until a head butt ultimately sent the fight to the scorecards. This is a crossroads fight for a Alexander who many thought was at the top of the division with his KO victory against Juan Urango last year.

This is a tough fight to handicap, but because of Matthyse’s issues with good boxers (see Zab Judah) I expect Devon to carefully pick him apart. My pick is Alexander in another so so performance. Alexander UD12

Tavoris Cloud vs. Yusaf Mack

The second fight on the televised undercard is Tavoris Cloud vs. Yusaf Mack for Cloud's IBF light heavyweight title in what should be a bang bang fight. Cloud does not know how to not come forward and Mack is no laydown opponent. Cloud has shown good boxing skills, a great right hand and stamina to maintain his pressure over 12 rounds (see Glen Johnson fight)

For Canadian - Haitian Yusaf his last two losses have came against good competition (Glen Johnson and Librado Andrade) and has good boxing skill. Many feel he has a suspect chin and doesn't do well against pressure (once again see his Glen Johnson fight). Sidenote: See why I love Glen Johnson? Win or lose, he exposes fighters for who they are. This is the sign of a real veteran.

Mack should give Cloud a test, but with Cloud’s crowd and judge appealing aggressive pressure Tavoris should come out with a KO victory in the later rounds. What makes this fight even more exciting is the fact that Mack likes to fight when attacked, which will undoubtedly will be the case Saturday night.

If Cloud can get past Mack there are huge fights on the horizon. Dawson, Pascal, and Hopkins loom at the top of the list. Cloud KO10

Bermane Stiverne vs. Ray Austin

Also televised will be upcoming heavyweight Bermane Stiverne vs. Ray Austin in an WBC heavyweight eliminator. Stiverne (20-1, 19KOs) has very good power and a good skill set. His only loss came in spectacular fashion against Demetrice King back in 2007 and he is (8-0-1 since then).

Ray Austin, 40 years old, will keep fighting as long as he gets a paycheck as a stepping stone. It’s too bad good fighters like him will sacrifice his body in this horrendous heavyweight era. With the competition so weak, he will continue to get fights and make “prospects” beat him.

Unfortunately, the Cornelious K9 Bundrage rematch with Sechel Powell for Bundrage's IBF junior middleweight title will not be televised. Fight junkies will remember their first punch double knockdown fight last time they met. (VIDEO AT THE BOTTOM OF THE POST HERE IF YOU MISSED IT). If K9 can win this fight he should be in line for a good payday in an unification matchup.

Felix Sturm vs. Mathew Macklin – EPIXHD.COM, EPIX
Sturm (35-2-1, 15 KOs) will be defending his WBA middleweight belt for the 10th time against Irishman Mathew Macklin (28-2, 19 KOs). Both fighters have been criticized for weak competition, but both have plodded away with their careers in workmanlike fashion to rise to the this stage. It’s a very close fight but Sturm should have too boxing skill and will use his good jab to beat Macklin. Also, because of the fact that Sturm is the defending champion and fighting in his home country, Macklin has to win convincingly in order to take this belt away. Sturm UD12.
There is also no reason to miss this fight. It will be shown on Epixhd for a free trial if you sign up. HD streaming boxing? What can be bad about that?

Friday Night Fights
John Molina vs. Robert Frankel
John Molina (22-1, 18 KOs), who is never in a dull fight because of his lack of boxing prowess but incredible power will be facing off with Frankel (28-10-1, 5 KOs). Frankel will likely give Molina a tough fight, but will be eventually overmatched by the sheer talent and power of John Molina. You have no excuse to miss this one as it is once again streaming on ESPN 3.

Things I think I think - 6/22/11

We are now officially on twitter. This @thefightknights thing is just weird. I must be too old school.

God that was a bad Strikeforce card.

Don't want to watch the full replay? Look below for highlights

I wonder how judges score jump guards (thanks to Werdum). Maybe they should start using the BJJ scoring for the ground submission scoring in MMA?

Jeff Monson is done.

Strikeforce is losing momentum ever since the sale to Zuffa.

Cain V, JDS, then Alistair still?

Takanori Gomi V. Nate Diaz announced for UFC 135. Let's hope Nate doesn't smoke weed this like his brother last time. I'm guessing no gogoplata for the other brother.

Get ready for an action packed boxing weekend starting with a great main event on FNF.

Felix Sturm vs. Matthew Macklin free on Epixhd.com may be the best fight of the bunch with Tavoris Cloud vs. Yusaf Mack in a close second.

Saul Alvarez doesn't just look good. He looks exciting.

Tickets for the Alvarez Rhodes fight were as low at 100 pesos. I would have loved those seats.

HBO Real Sports report about Ann Wolfe is a must watch.

With the signing now finalized.. SO EXCITED FOR MAIDANA GUERRERO Aug 27th. Best part? It's in my hometown of San Jose, CA. Can you say live coverage?

Very very excited about joining Bloguin. Check them out at www.bloguin.com

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

Saul Alvarez V Ryan Rhodes BAD Wrap

This weekend we saw a glimpse of the future. Saul Canelo Alvarez has been a rising star in the Golden Boy stable for a few years now. Now it seems as though they cannot hide him anymore. He is a bonafide star in his hometown, home state, and home country. Because of his active aggressive style, he pleases the masses and continues on his meteoric rise through the division.

Up this weekend against him was Ryan Rhodes. Rhodes (45-5, 31 KOs) is a battle tested veteran who was supposed to give Alvarez trouble with his jab, his switching stances, and his toughness. Instead, Alvarez passed the test in flying colors. Alvarez showed patience, poise, and decent hand speed.

He won every round on the Fight Knights scorecards and eventually stopped the Englishman in the final round. Alvarez’s sharp crisp combinations were unmatched and unanswered by Rhodes. Instead all Rhodes could do was turtle up every time Alvarez would start throwing, leaving room to work to the body.

Julio Cesar Chavez Jr. has been mentioned as a possible opponent. However, this will likely wait and simmer because they are both making such good money taking fights that don’t have as much risk. Alvarez’s team is targeting the Victor Ortiz V Mayweather PPV for another match and early rumors have Vanes Martirosyan (2004 Olympian 30-0 19Kos) as the early favorite to get that match. Regardless of who he fights next, the boxing world will be waiting. Huge fights are on the horizon with big names that promise big action. (Cotto, Margarito, Williams, Martinez). Best quote of the night? The star himself when being asked who he wanted next.

“I will fight anyone, even if it’s the devil.”

If only more fighters would do and say that.

Also on the undercard was Adrien Broner taking out Jason Litzau quickly in the first round. In our preview, we noted that Litzau’s style was tailor made for Broner’s mayweather-esque style. Broner controlled most of the action in the beginning of the first round and then connected with a right left combination. After that, it was the “American Boy” hanging on for until referee Curtis Thrasher had to step in after a hellacious uppercut that landed flush. Broner should be considered a title contender soon and will have to start taking on bigger and bigger names. Jason after a good upset win against Celestine Caballero, will need to go back to the drawing board. He is still young enough to pick back up and get another good name fight before calling it a career.

HBO Weekend Preview 6/18/11

Saul Alvarez V Ryan Rhodes

HBO – B.A.D. – Boxing After Dark – 6/18/11

Saul “Canelo” Alvarez will be defending his newly minted 154 pound belt for the first time against his mandatory challenger Ryan Rhodes.

Alvarez (36-0-1, 26 KOs) has been an exciting prospect to watch. He has a entertaining style, a good story, and interesting demeanor. His left hook and right hand are as good as any in the division and he has big fights looming on the horizon. The last time we saw him he fought another UK fighter in Mathew Hatton. Hatton, Ricky’s younger brother, was able to go the distance with Alvarez despite taking huge shots throughout the fight. Because of Hatton’s lack of punching power, Alvarez was able to maintain a large amount of pressure throughout the fight.

Ryan Rhodes (45-4, 31 KOs) is a well traveled a 34-year-old southpaw who tendency to switch to orthodox throughout his fights. Rhodes, a former European junior middleweight champion, has been fighting in the middleweight weight class for most of his career. This is his third shot at a world title, he lost to Otis Grant in 1997 much earlier in his career and an interim middleweight shot in which he was stopped by Jason Matthews in the 2^nd round. His last four fights have been TKO victories and is currently on a 10 fight win streak. He is best remembered probably for his 2009 bout with Jamie Moore (when he won his first European title) in a slug fest. (See below for the full fight, it’s a damn good one)

Both fighters have good jabs and use it to set up their hooks with the same hand. Both fighters like to wear down their opponents (albeit in slightly different manners). Rhodes will be the bigger man in the ring and probably has a foot speed advantage. The fight storyline will likely whether the stalker and can more effective or the stalkee can effectively stay away. It’s hard to see Rhodes coming out with a victory here, it is his first fight outside of the UK and is up against a rising superstar. However, while many in the boxing community is seeing this as the first fight that Alvarez has a chance of losing.

While I expect Alvarez to have a tough fight against Rhodes counter punching southpaw style, I also expect Alvarez to wear Rhodes down with raw power and talent and eventually stopping him.

Jason Litzau V Adrien Broner

Broner (20-0, 16 KOs) is coming off of a disappointing performance against Daniel Ponce De Leon in his last fight on HBO. Broner will have the motivation to put that fight behind him against someone who is tailor made for his flicker stance style. Jason Litzau is coming of a career reviving win against Celestino Caballero last November on HBO. If Broner doesn’t show up and work, Litzau with his aggressive high punch output style, may make it a tough night. I expect Adrien Broner to cruise here.

Interesting note on the telecast. Howard Lederman is going to be commentating as an analyst for the televised undercard match. Roy Jones Jr. has to sit out because he promotes Jason Litzau, Max and Larry were both unavailable. Interesting to hear Mr. Lederman speak more than 30 seconds at a time.

Now sit back and enjoy the what many consider to be Fight of the Year of 2009.

Things I think I think - 6/15/11

Let's say this first.

RIP Genaro Hernandez. Good career. Good boxer. Great Person.

With that... on with things that I think I think

UFC 131 was satisfying.

Dave Herman’s UFC debut should keep him around for a while.

Dos Santos V Velasquez has become a very big fight.

When are we going to start having non title 5 rounders main events? We pay enough money for at least one.

K-Flo already in title contention after one fight in the division? Only in the UFC.

Nice to see Sergio Martinez re-up with DiBella. They both deserve better than to be in the Golden Boy v Top Rank drama.

Still still salivating over Maidana V Guerrero. Finish this deal.

Congrats to the STAR STUDDED hall of fame inductees. Tyson, Chavez, Tszyu thanks for the memories.

Please no one buy the proposed Julio Cesar Chavez Jr. V Peter Manfredo Jr. fight. PLEASE. Take a stand.

I love this weekend's HBO Boxing After Dark. I mean c'mon, the nicknames of the main event is Cinnamon VS. Spice Boy.

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.

PACIFIC XTREME COMBAT DEBUTS IN THE PHILIPPINES VIA PXC 24

PACIFIC X-TREME COMBAT (PXC), the premier Mixed Martial Arts promotional organization in the Pacific region, announces its arrival in the Philippines with a bang, staging PXC-24 on June 11^th at the Newport Performing Arts Theater at Resorts World Manila.

PXC-24, an event presented by San Mig Strong Ice, in cooperation with Beer Below Zero, with venue partner Resorts World and Media Partners FHM and TV 5 will feature 8 exciting Mixed Martial Arts fights, including a heavy-weight title bout between “The Champ”, Roque Martinez from Guam, taking on the challenger, Kelvin “The Big Hit” Fitial of Saipan. PXC-24 Promoters are excited to showcase elite international fighters from Brazil, Korea, California, Florida, Hawaii, Guam, Saipan, and some of the best up and coming talents from the Philippines. “We have one of our best fight cards ever coming to Manila for the June 11^th show,” according to PXC President & Founder, Joey Calvo. “The heavy-weight fight should be a war…and these two guys are over 250 pounds with knock-out power and a lot of heart.”

Calvo is a black-belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu who has trained with some of the best in the world, and founded PXC in 2004 after promoting several amateur events in Guam.

PXC is well-known in Guam as a springboard for MMA fighters to bigger shows in the US, including the UFC. PXC has produced over 50 MMA events, with over 22 professional shows under their belt. With their expansion to the Philippines, PXC Promoters feel that they will help build up the first ever Filipino MMA fighter to the highest level of the sport in the world. According to EJ Calvo, PXC Promoter / CEO, “PXC will help place a fighter in the UFC…before the PBA places a player in the NBA. MMA is the world’s fastest growing sport, and we know the talent is out there and they just a need the opportunity to compete at a higher level and get exposed on the world stage.”

As a bonus for fans, Filipino-American UFC superstar, Brandon Vera, will be attending the event as a trainer for another Alliance MMA fighter from San Diego, California. PXC often hosts some of the best MMA fighters in the world, who corner or coach their gym-mates…with the likes of BJ Penn, Enson Enoye, and Mark Laimon.

PXC has partnered with TV5, one of the most aggressive television stations in the country, to broadcast the events on a regular basis on their new sports channel, AKTV.

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.

Breaking News: Floyd Mayweather Jr. agrees to fight Victor Ortiz

Floyd Mayweather Jr. will end his 16 month vacation to fight Victor Ortiz on Sept. 17th. There has been no venue set but will likely be in Las Vegas. This had been placed on Boxrec for a while but there was no official word until Floyd himself confirmed.

In typical Floyd fashion he tweeted Tuesday afternoon, "My fans have been waiting long enough. Floyd Mayweather vs. Victor Ortiz. Sept 17, 2011 for the WBC world championship"

Mayweather (41-0, 25 KOs) hasn't fought since winning a unanimous decision over Sugar Shane Moseley. The last time he fought a southpaw was Zab Judah (current IBF junior welterweight champion) and Zab gave Floyd some trouble in the early rounds with his straight left.

Ortiz (29-2-2, 22 KOs) just came off the biggest win of his career defeating previously undefeated Andre Berto in a slugfest this last April. Ortiz brings an interesting style that will surely pressure Floyd into fighting. He comes forward, throws a decent amount of punches and has a relatively porous defense.

An immediate question that pops out to me deals with Ortiz always being fast starter and Mayweather being a notoriously slow starter. Mayweather has shown in the his history a tendency to get his in the early parts of his fights (see Moseley, Judah, Corley). While all of those fighters weren't able to put Mayweather away, Ortiz isn't the fighter that likes to let off the gas pedal (sometimes to his own peril see fight with Maidana)

Of course Mayweather's decision to fight Victor Ortiz will come under fire of critics who want to see the mega matchup between him and Manny Pacquiao. However, this is a good fight for any boxing fan. There are great storylines. There are great strategic questions. There's going to be There is going to be some good boxing.

Things I think I think - 6/1/11

I think I think...

Golden Boy apologizing to Manny Pacquiao and settling the defamation case may be the best thing that has happened to boxing in the last decade.

Tavaris Cloud versus Jean Pascal is a great idea.

Brock Lesnar is going to be out of the fighting game in less than 3 years.

I was right about UFC 130 not being worth the money.

Speaking of not worth the money... David Diaz won't fight Juan Manuel Marquez for less $250k. (Rampage got 250k for his UFC 10 payday)

Phil Davis looks like he's wearing shoulder pads... without his shirt on.

This weekend's super six semifinal matchup between Carl Froch and Glen Johnson is to decide who will lose to Andre Ward next.

Dan Henderson is going to lose to Fedor, proving absolutely nothing.

Emanual Steward is an overrated trainer.

Rampage Jackson is not a top 3 lhw. Sorry Dana

I'm actually excited about TWO heavyweight boxing matches? Someone pinch me.

This year's BJJ US Open will be at San Jose State! Live coverage coming!

Nice to see Andre Ward re-sign with the group that brought him up.

Rachel Cordingly (Carl Froch's girlfriend) makes boxing girlfriends better than tennis girlfriends.

Breaking News: Amir Khan to fight Zab Judah

Amir Khan and Zab Judah has agreed to fight on July 23rd according to Kathy Duva, promoter of Judah. It will be a unification fight with both fighter's belts on the line.

Khan (25-1, 17 KOs) was in talks to fight Timothy Bradley, widely regarded as the top 140 pounder in the division, and even rumored to fight Erik Morales, who recently lost a tough decision against Marcos Maidana. However, when Bradley inexplicably waived on a 1.4 million dollar payday to avoid Khan, Zab Judah (41-6, 28 KOs) was eager to pounce at the opportunity.

It will be Khan's 5th defense of his belt while Judah will be defending his newly minted IBF belt for the first time. It will be televised on HBO and fought in Las Vegas. Judah's camp was trying vehemently for a Atlantic City venue, but gave in to Golden Boy's Vegas demands.

It is going to be a 55-45 split, which coincides with this writer's opinion to the matchup in this fight. Amir will be facing someone for the first time with hand speed that is comparable to him. Also, while many feel Amir proved that his chin has improved from the Marcos Maidana fight, the questions still linger.

I am excited for this matchup as it will also feature a matchup of great trainers in Freddie Roach vs. Pernell Whitaker.

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?

Things I think I think

Welcome to the first installment of things I think I think. Another one of the writers didn't like my random thoughts happening behind random articles. Thought that I should place them all in the one place. Well.. here we go.





I Think I Think...

That Bernard Hopkins will beat Chad Dawson and fight the winner of Lucian Bute v Andre Ward.

Roy Jones has finally won me over despite being knocked out badly.

HBO pulling Paul Williams V Nobuhiro Ishida and make it Paul Williams V Erislandy Lara is a good decision.

Oscar De La Hoya has had this problem for a long time.

Julio Chavez Jr. and his people can find the best undefeated nobodies in the business. (Cuello, Loriga, Zbik)

Tom Zbikowski will be back.

Amir Khan challenging Robert Guerrero instead of just fighting Timothy Bradley is a sham.

The proposed July fight of Juan Manuel Marquez V David Diaz is a waste of time.

That Nick Diaz was never intending to ever step in the boxing ring.

Quinton Jackson V Matt Hamill will be a pretty entertaining main event.

UFC 130 is not going to be worth the money.

Quote of the week:
"Frank will be facing a bigger and fatter guy now." - Roy "Big Country" Nelson on his upcoming match with Frank Mir in UFC 130

DREAM 17 - Fight for Japan - Preview

May 29th Japan Bantamweight Tournament (61kg/134.5 lbs), the 1st round and semifinals (finals and 3rd place fight will take place in July) @ Saitama Super Arena in Japan.

Official Fight Card

Caol Uno vs Akiyo Nishiura

Featherweight bout: Caol Uno (27-14-5) most known for title fight loss against Jens Pulver and draw against BJ Penn. Akiyo Nishiura (11-6-1) fought in Shooto and Cage Force before fighting in Dream and in December 31, 2010 he made his kickboxing debt that ended in a draw.

Mitsuhiro Ishida vs Joachim Hansen

Featherweight bout: Mitsuhiro Ishida (20-6-1) has a notable loss to Takanori Gomi in Pride Shockwave 2006. In Dream he lost to Caol Uno and won against Daisuke Nakamura both of which is fighting on the Dream card. Joachim Hansen (21-10-1) is known to hold an MMA world title after winning the Shooto World Welterweight Championship in 2003 from Takanori Gomi.

Katsunori Kikuno vs Daisuke Nakamura

Lightweight bout: Katsunori Kikuno (14-3-2) is the current DEEP Lightweight Champion and the DEEP 2009 Lightweight Tournament winner. Daisuke Nakamura (23-12) fought for virtually every promotion except for UFC.

Takeshi Inoue vs Koichiro Matsumoto

Featherweight bout: Takeshi Inoue (19-5) was a defending Shooto World Champion before losing to Hatsu Hioki. Koichiro Matsumoto (12-2) current DEEP featherweight Champion.

Shinya Aoki vs Antonio McKee

Lightweight bout: Shinya Aoki (27-5-1) is a DREAM Lightweight Champion and former Shooto Middleweight Champion. Ranked by Fightknights as #10 P4P Lightweight. Rich Clementi (40-19-1) was a contestant on The Ultimate Fighter 4, notably lost was to Gray Maynard.

Bantamweight Tournament Quarterfinals

Yoshiro Maeda vs Hideo Tokoro

Yoshiro Maeda (28-9-2) fought for the WEC Bantamweight Title at WEC 34 against Miguel Torres. Hideo Tokoro (27-23-1) competed in DREAM’s featherweight Grand Prix where he lost the 1st round but was brought back into the tournament where we won the 2nd round but lost in the semi-finals.

Darren Uyenoyama (6-3) vs Atsushi Yamamoto (12-6)

Kenji Osawa vs Takafumi Otsuka (8-3-1)

Kenji Osawa (16-9-2) currently fights in the WEC but his records comes fighting primarily in Shooto.

Keisuke Fujiwara vs Masakazu Imanari

Keisuke Fujiwara (11-2-4) is a current defending ZST Bantamweight Champion and ZST Genesis Tournament 2007 Bantamweight winner. Masakazu Imanari (21-8-2) is a current Cage Rage Featherweight Champion, DEEP Bantamweight Champion and the former DEEP Featherweight Champion.

Henry Liu

Bernard Hopkins VS Jean Pascal II Preview

So many times in rematch situations the fighter who correctly adapts from the first fight realizes that they shouldn’t have adapted at all. This may be the situation on Saturday when Hopkins (51-5-2, 32 Kos), steps into the ring with Jean Pascal (26-1-1, 16 KOs), the 28-year-old Haitian - Canadian.

The first fight ended in a controversial draw. I am one who agrees with Jean Pascal that the draw was a good decision. While Bernard clearly dominated the later rounds, there were some tossup rounds that I scored for Pascal. Also, Bernard is ALWAYS in controversial fights. His style doesn't allow for any other way.

Pascal has never been a very technically sound fighter. He uses his superior speed and awkwardness to jump in and out of range and put his opponents in tough positions. This strategy clearly worked in his fight with Chad Dawson. Bernard Hopkins, being one of the smartest fighters in boxing, saw that Pascal was a champion that he could have a very good chance against and made the match happen with promise of money and the ability to add a champion on your resume, reminiscent of the Kelly Pavlik matchup.

Jean Pascal has always been a fighter who fades in the later rounds (see fight against first fight against Hopkins, Froch and Dawson)
The storylines include Bernard Hopkins trying to unseat George Foreman as the oldest man to win a major world title and whether Jean Pascal will be remembered as the fighter who never should have had the title. Also the looming matchup for the winner of this match with the clear #3 man in the division Chad Dawson.

Here is the weigh-in


Chad Dawson should also have a very entertaining match on the undercard. He MUST win this match to face the winner of Hopkins V Pascal for his belt back.

Also don't forget about other old American fighters going to other younger fighter's hometowns to fight big matches. Antonio Tarver in Australia against Danny Green. Roy Jones Jr. just lost in Russia fighting (should be undefeated) Lebedev. Sad night for him. He was knocked out badly and should conclude his career.



Who am I picking? This is as much of a 50/50 fight as we have covered here.

Breaking News: Marquez Agrees to 3rd Fight With Pacquiao

Yesterday, Bob Arum told ESPN.com that he came to an agreement with Juan Manuel Marquez (52-5-1, 38 KOs) to fight Manny Pacquiao (53-3-2, 38 KOs) for a third time. Arum says that the fight will be at a welterweight catch weight of 144 pounds.

Juan Manuel Marquez has been pushing for a third fight against Pacman, currently ranked #1 Fight Knights P4P, since his razor thin decision loss in 2008.

The main questions surrounding Marquez will be: What does JMM have left in the tank (He is 37)? And how will the weight gain effect him? It would be hard to see Juan Manuel Marquez hurting Pacquiao in any fashion considering he was already considered light puncher at his current lower weight. Will his boxing skills still have the answer for Pacquiao?

Some other interesting storylines that are arising from this is the never ending Golden Boy versus Top Rank rift. Bob Arum is saying that he will be cross promoting the fight with Marquez’s own promotional company. Apparently, Golden Boy had an opportunity to match the Top Rank offer (essentially finding another opponent that paid the same amount): $5 million in guaranteed money, a cut of pay-per-view profits and a guaranteed $10 million plus a cut of pay-per-view if he Marquez wins. Hard to see that type of money coming from fighting anyone not named Floyd Mayweather (already fought in 2009) or Manny Pacquiao.

Another storyline is one that in an even broader spectrum, the sport of boxing. Alas, many of the people who aren't in the sport day in and day out simply wait for the next Pacquiao fight to go to nowadays. After the last Pacquiao fight, many were critical of the performance of the main event, calling boxing boring and a letdown. Will this fight be of the same pace? Doesn't the Floyd Mayweather V Marquez fight seem like something that could happen again?

Other fights also recently announced:

Less heralded fights were also announced recently for us boxing junkies.

Paul Williams (39-2, 27 KOs) will return to the ring July 9 on HBO against Nobuhiro Ishida (23-6-2, 8 KOs). The Punisher has been inactive since his devastating KO loss against Fight Knight P4p #3 Sergio Martinez. Ishida is of course coming off his amazing upset of James Kirkland last April. It’s nice for Ishida to get a payday after his, frankly speaking, fluke win over Kirkland. This fight shouldn’t last long and Williams hasn’t fought this low skill competition since Santos Pakau.

Lucian Bute (28-0, 23 KOs) signed to fight in front of his home crowd in Montreal for the first time since 2003. He will be defending his IBF super middleweight belt against unbeated Jean-Paul Mendy (29-0-1, 16 KOs). Bute has been on an tear with 5 KO victories since he went the distance with Librado Andrade in that controversial fight late 2008. This fight will continue him on his collision course with Super Six favorite Andre Ward.

Kermit Cintron (32-3-1, 28 KOs) is returning against Carlos Molina (18-4-2, 6 Kos). Should be an good one. Cintron is returning from his strange loss to Paul Williams after falling out of the ring. Many questioned his heart and there were whispers of the four letter q word… Quit. Molina is coming off an impressive TKO victory over Allen Conyers. This will likely be the co feature on the Brandon Rios V Urbano Antillon card July 9th at the Home Depot Center.

Cornelius “K9” Bundrage (30-4, 18 KOs) of Contender fame is reached an agreement to defend his IBF Light Middleweight Title (which he won last fight against Cory Spinks) against Sechew Powell June 25th. This is a rematch of a very entertaining little fight. See the video here.

Quick Boxing Thoughts

Arthur Abraham V Andre Ward

Good to see the Super Six semi final get underway. Andre Ward scores yet another impressive victory. It is kind of sad to see a fight go exactly how you expect, but Andre Ward's final match (Froch or Johnson) and the Lucian Bute fight on the horizon is something to look forward to.

I also like the fact that Arthur Abraham came out quicker than he usually does. He is a notoriously slow starter, but had the mindset to change that. Unfortunately, was just in there with a better boxer.



Kendall Holt V Julio Diaz

This was a good fight that I saw streaming on ESPN3. Julio Diaz was expected to wear down the quicker Kendall Holt and push him into retirement. Instead it was Kendall's faster hands and power that put an end to this fight quickly in the third round. Julio Diaz is now the one in the crossroads of his career and may be looking for a way out the sport. Kendall Holt on the other hand is primed for another few big name fights in a stacked division. I like a lot of the names he's being tossed in there with, like Marcos Maidana.

Sharif Bogere V Raymundo Beltran

Were we watching the same fight? Yes I know that Bogere has more to lose.. but 97-93 on one judge's score card? I don't know about this one.. I'm guessing that Bogere doesn't want another head butt filled fight with Beltran. Tough fight, interesting to see where Bogere goes from here.

Random Thoughts:

Go Sharks.

Why does Cris Arreola get credit for coming to a boxing match in shape? I don't remember the last time my boss gave me credit for showing up on time.

Ring magazine just took Floyd Mayweather off their P4P list. Not dropped in the rankings. Completely off.... Ouch.

MMA note: Did anyone see Patricky Freire's three nut kicks in the main event Bellator 44? Double Ouch.

Upcoming: Bernard Hopkins V Jean Pascal II

I will be writing a full preview of this fight as well as the Chad Dawson tilt. But look at this face off with Max Kellerman (easily the coolest thing Max has done on HBO). Animosity sells. Love it.

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.

Ward V Abraham headlines a Boxing filled weekend.

A great weekend of boxing is ahead of us kicking off with three televised cards (Telefutura, ESPN2, SHO) on Friday and finishing off with the first of the Super Six Tournament semifinal matches.

Kendall Holt V Julio Diaz – ESPN2 - Friday

Kendall Holt (26-4 14 Kos) has always earned a bit of soft spot in my heart dating back to his debacle in Columbia against Ricardo Torres. He doesn’t have a very crowd pleasing style but is a good fighter that will be a tough test for any up and coming junior welterweight. He takes on Julio Diaz (38-6 27Kos) in the main event of Friday Night Fights. Julio has decent power but has lost most every time he steps up in class. Both are former belt holders and are trying to figure out who will continue. They are both reaching an age and a point in their careers where they need a few more big fights, or to retire. I expect a good scrap. I think the question isn’t whether Holt is the better boxer, he is, the question is Holt will be able to stay away against Diaz in the later rounds.

As always this fight will be on ESPN2 and ESPN3.com available for streaming. I will say this over and over again, streaming boxing fights on ESPN3 is a godsend.

Sharif Bogere vs. Raymundo Beltran - SHO - Friday

The Friday Showtime card features up and coming Sharif Bogere (19-0, 12 KOs). Sharif has looked like a beast in the early part of his career. The storyline in this fight here is a familiar one. A young up and comer takes on a scrapper who has had a tough career and will force the young guy to fight. Ray (Raymundo) Beltran (24-4, 16 KOs) is a come forward Mexican fighter who will make the fight intesting. Beltran’s claim to fame is his occupation as Manny Pacquiao sparring partner. Some experts see the first tough fight for Sharif in this matchup. I see Sharif Bogere winning an easy unanimous decision. Note: Look out for Sharif's lion head for his ring entrance.. scary..

Arthur Abraham vs. Andre Ward – SHO - Saturday


In Carson, California the Super Six semifinal round begins. While many will criticize the Super Six tournament for its injuries, withdrawals, and conflicts, boxing fans cannot deny that the tournament has already produced some stellar fights. Andre Ward (23-0 13 KOs) may be the best in the division, currently ranked #5 FK P4P, and shows no signs of slowing down. He hasn’t had a tough fight since his early pro days. However, if you followed his early career there still may be some questions about his chin. Those questions were supposed to be answered by wins over Edison Miranda and Allan Green, but not one of them landed a solid shot against him.

Standing in front of him is Arthur Abraham (32-2 26 KOs) who is coming off the worst year of his career. Coming into the tournament Abraham was undefeated and some felt was the favorite to win. Then, after a grand entrance by putting Jermain Taylor into retirement, he lays two eggs against Andre Dirrell and Carl Froch. He did the right thing after those two losses and took a tuneup on his home turf. Now he comes back into enemy territory and fights perhaps the best in the division.

I see a good fight with Andre Ward using his out boxing skills to pecker Arthur with shots and then avoid and hug when Abraham uses his lunging body shots. Barring a shot that Andre doesn’t see hitting him, he should cruise to an easy decision.

The winner of this match meets the winner of what should be another entertaining scrap, Carl Froch V Glen Johnson in the finals.

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..