Babalu Signs with Strikeforce

After being kicked out of the UFC for holding a choke too long against David Heath, Renato Sobral has already signed with another organization, Strikeforce.

This is huge for Strikeforce. Babalu adds to a pretty esteamed list of fighters at Strikeforce which includes Frank Shamrock, Phil Baroni, Cung Le, and the undefeated Gilbert Melendez.

However, this is horrible for the UFC. I'm still not sure why they let Sobral go. B.J. Penn held a longer choke on Jens Pulver in their most recent fight. I was recently talking to Jens about this, and he said that he didn't think that either B.J. or Renato needed to be punished. I'll let Jens say it:

"It doesn’t matter to me, I didn’t see what BJ did as being wrong and I didn’t see what Renato did as being wrong. I was the one who got caught in the rear naked choke."

"When you’re in the cage and you’re fighting somebody, especially when you don’t like the person you’re fighting…like truly dislike the person, when you get that hold and you squeeze it you just get this rest assured feeling…it’s like…AHH…you just want to put that exclamation point on it."

But at least we get to watch Babalu fight again. God knows he's exciting. Post your thoughts!

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Around The Horn

There's a ton of fallout after the HUGE UFC 76 event...so let's get at it!

Sherdog is reporting that Mauricio Rua entered the fight with a knee injury and was not 100%. Interestingly enough, Shogun's knee had nothing to do with the third round rear naked choke applied by Forrest Griffin. Either way, it hampered his training to a certain degree and didn't allow him to execute the stomps he loves but isn't allowed to use anyway. He's not expected to disappoint fans again until at least early 2008.

MMA News is reporting that Chuck Liddell is in fact NOT retiring and may be looking at a fight with Shogun. Reports place him in the gym on Monday, four days from now. I hate to admit it, but he doesn't look hungry like the old Liddell used to. Maybe him and Cro Cop can start a club with Wanderlei Silva and they can call it "I was really good two years ago."

MMA Junkie is reporting that Matt Hughes "has one or two more fights left in him." Well, let's see, that would account for the win over Serra and the subsequent loss to St. Pierre. Yeah, two fights sounds about right.

UFC Mania is reporting that Kazuhiro Nakamura failed a drug test despite losing to Lyoto Machida. Logic would have it that a fighter would take such a chance in order to gain an advantage. But then again, the same logic would suggest are smart enough to realize that at least one person is getting caught after each event.

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Irish Whip Fighting Exclusive: Marcus Davis Interview

In his first post-Taylor fight interview, Irish Whip Fighting had the privilege to sit down with UFC Fighter Marcus "The Irish Hand Grenade" Davis. An interview by Irish Whip Fighting.

Irish Whip Fighting: At UFC 75 you won "Fight of the Night" and "Submission of the Night". At such an important event, with many great fights, how does it feel to receive an honor like that?
Marcus Davis: Feels great- shows I have come to be an exciting and more complete fighter.

IWF: You've improved vastly following your "The Ultimate Fighter" losses to Stevenson and Guillard. What's caused the improvement?
MD: Identifying my weaknesses and then working with 2 great camps - Sit Yod Tong and Team Gurgel.

IWF: Do you think you would be able to beat Stevenson and Guillard now?
MD: I would beat Guillard in 1 round. Joe Stevenson is still another story. I wouldn't be as easily taken down and my ground is actually a strength now but not like Joe's. If we stand I will if he keeps me on the ground Joe wins it.

IWF: You were a relatively successful boxer in the New England Circuit with only one loss. What made you want to become anMMA fighter?
MD: Bored. Just bored of politics and boxing in general. I was watching MMA and knew that this was the sport for me.

IWF: I've heard that you have considered retirement a few times. However, you always seem to bounce back in a big way. Now you obviously have a bright future in front of you, but being 34, how many more years do you think you have as a fighter?
MD: I'm hoping 2 more years as long as my body holds up.

IWF: What advice would you give a young fighter who hasn't made it yet?
MD: Work on the things you don't like to work on the most. I identify your strengths and weaknesses find a school/team that complements both your strengths and weaknesses.

IWF: You haven't lost since 2005. Being on the run that you are, do you feel like you should be in line for a title shot soon?
MD: Not really. I think there are more deserving guys in the top 10 like Jon Fitch, Karo, St. Pierre.

IWF: Also, whom would you like to fight next?
MD: Gomi is my dream fight but for right now Jess Liaudin had mentioned he would fight me so lets do it in England January 2008.

IWF: Do you think that being on The Ultimate Fighter helped you get to where you are today?
MD: Yes. It opens doors for me to train with the best and get to where I am today.

IWF: How do you feel you match up with current Welterweight champion Matt Serra?
MD: I like Matt a lot. I think I match up rather well. My stand up is a lot better and I am a 195lbs guy who fights at 170 so I'm guessing I would be stronger and I am now difficult to take down. I haven't been taken down in a fight since the finale of the ultimate fighter.

IWF: Speaking of Serra, any predictions for the Welterweight championship bout between Hughes and Serra?
MD: Very tough fight for Matt Serra but this is an MMA fight so anything can happen. If I had to bet I would say Matt will win.

IWF: Where would you rank yourself in your division?
MD: I think I'm in the top 20 maybe 15.

IWF: What has been your toughest fight thus far?
MD: Paul Taylor

IWF: Fans are beginning to jump on the Marcus Davis bandwagon. I've heard people say that you have a better stand-up then Georges St. Pierre, I've heard people say that you have the best stand-up in your division, and I've heard people say that they think you can beat the top guys in your division (GSP, Hughes, Serra). How much does it help to know that you are becoming more and more popular among the MMA community?
MD: It’s great to get some respect. I really was a horrible MMA fighter when I was on the show but I go all over and grapple, kick box and wrestle big named guys and no one dominates me anymore. It’s a good feeling.

IWF: More and more fighters are getting caught with steroids lately. Why do fighters take them if they know they'll probably get caught?
MD: Great question. I’ve been tested every time I have ever fought in the UFC except once and I don't know how anyone would risk it. I will say that if they did this in any other sport you would see 10 more times people getting caught then you do in MMA.

IWF: All the shirts on your site are out of stock! (I really want one!) When are you getting more in?
MD: We sold 600 pieces and we are looking at getting more done- BUT- my new Team Irish MMA line is SICK and we are moving- hoodies- flexfit hats- beanies long and short sleeve shirts like crazy.

IWF: Would you like to thank any sponsors?
MD: Full contact fighter all the way they have been with me my whole UFC career and treated me better then I could have imagined.

IWF: Anything to say to your fans?
MD: Thank you so much for believing me and supporting me throughout the tough times- I try to perform in exciting fashion for you and that's why I finish fights.

(Originally published on MMAMadness.com)

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UFC 76: Liddell vs. Jardine

I can't even watch this God Damn thing. But, here it is anyway.

Keith Jardine Vs Chuck Liddell

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UFC 76: Shogun vs. Griffin

Get it while it's hot!

A few things can be learned from this fight:

1. Shogun will probably go down as one of the top ten MMA fighters of all time. His striking is pin point perfect and his ground work is excellent. He just needs to stop thinking he can roll out of every predicament he finds himself in. That being said, he's 23 years old...he's got time on his side.

2. Forrest is better than people give him credit for. I don't think he's better than Rampage, Henderson, Shogun, or Liddell, but he might warrant that #5 spot. And if he finds a way to beat Wanderlei? Then, we'll have a whole new Sheriff in town.

Mauricio "shogun" Rua Vs Forrest Griffin

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The Fallout of Knockout: Inside UFC 76’s Upsets

The real spelling of disarray: light heavyweight. After crowning an uncontested king in Quinton Jackson, two weeks later Keith Jardine and Forrest Griffin sent unofficial number one contenders Chuck Liddell and “Shogun” Rua into a downward spiral, taking the division down with them. What does the UFC do now? By Danny Acosta

The old adage probably written by one of the greatest thinkers of his time, but made famous by Ric Flair, “To be the man, you have to beat the man!” aptly describes UFC 76. Upset performances—and that is almost a vacuous term in 2007 and in a sport as versatile as mixed martial arts—by The Ultimate Fighter products Forrest Griffin and Keith Jardine in the co-main events proved perception is nothing; reality is everything.

Reality is a foul mistress for Chuck Liddell and Mauricio Rua, who were perceived as the two best fighters not wearing unified gold before decisive losses on Saturday night. “Shogun” even had the luxury as being nominated the 205-pound king because he defeated Quinton Jackson in brutal fashion. But both elite light heavyweights delivered
lackluster performances. At least, that is how their overwhelming opponents made them look.

A Greg Jackson Submission Fighter, Jardine beat the former champion at his own game. Leg kicks stung the power hitter. He had all the rhythm of a haggard VCR, but this disabled the mohawk-avenger’s range. More importantly, it kept Liddell guessing—something Liddell’s all-punch game plan failed to accomplish.

The former bounty hunter’s chin withstood the knockout artists punching attack. Jardine’s power even surpassed Liddell during the three round bout. He sent the Kempo fighter to the floor en route to a decisive split decision win.

The outcome of the fight should not be so shocking (aside from the fact it ended in decision). It is easy to say that in retrospect, but once Liddell stared at Big John McCarthy instead of Jardine during the pre-fight instructions, it was apparent hard times were ahead.

While Liddell has been battling top competition for nearly a decade, he has also become comfortable in his training, game plan, and newfound rock star status.

“The Iceman” is one of the very few fighters in the upper-echelon of the fight game that does not train with other top-tier talents. When a fighter is the best in his camp, where does his talent evolve? Liddell’s game plan is unquestionable effective, but it is not a secret—that makes it penetrable. Add that into his dependence on the big punch, lack of combinations, and absent legs during the fight and the striker is disarmed. Lastly, the Southern Californian went on record as saying he did not party leading up to this fight. That is the right attitude, however, alcohol consumption and extended nights have long-term effects on the body. Liddell is thirty-seven.

Jardine, on the other hand, has been on a steady diet of better competition all the way to his biggest win-to-date. Top-tier training partners and Greg Jackson’s diverse mind prepared the Montana-native properly, coming off a knockout loss of his own.

The reason he lost to Houston Alexander? He wanted to fight Chuck Liddell instead. Well, there are also Alexander’s fists to take the blame.

Both Jardine and Liddell were coming off knockout losses. The difference is Jardine wanted to be there in the Octagon with Liddell; Liddell wanted to be in the cage with the champion. Wanderlei Silva dangling over his head did not help either.

Fickle fans want to send Liddell packing. He is not done. The stacked weight-class just presents new challenges for a veteran, who has built a career on a willingness to fight. He just needs to remember what him successful: fear, and the combination of strikes that made it possible.

“The Dean of Mean” picks up the most important win of his career. With his imposing frame, his chopping stand-up style, and his supernatural demeanor, he should pick-up a new nickname: “The Devil’s Bodyguard.”

In the co-main event of the night, Forrest Griffin out-hustled, out-struck, and out-grappled Mauricio Rua. A younger, sharper version of “The Axe Murderer,” Rua was expected to ravage the former police officer in a street-style beat down.

Outside of the infallible Randy Couture, no one gave Griffin a chance against.

“The Natural” cornered Griffin. This translates to a solid game plan and the first bad omen for “Shogun.” Ron Frazier, Griffin’s boxing coach, was the next sign of trouble for the Brazilian. The 2005 205-pound Pride tournament champion has struggled with boxers before in Antonio Rogerio Nogueira. Griffin stayed out of the clinch, employing angles and damaging the Chute Boxe standout with his boxing.

Griffin’s size caused trouble for the aggressive Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu fighter, who tired himself brining the fight to the mat. The Ultimate Fighter winner’s size also allowed him to stand back up with ease. The Georgian’s heart—always considered to be his best asset—aligned with solid cardio was the deciding factor against the seemingly absent Rua.

But why was one of the most violent fighters in mixed martial arts docile?

“Shogun” was under the pressure of debuting in the UFC, while Griffin has long enjoyed the feel and fans of the cage. Furthermore, his brother and training partner (who he did not prepare for with for this fight) just suffered a devastating knockout loss, dropping his title in the process. Another long-time training partner, Wanderlei Silva, was not there to prepare him either.

Simply put, Griffin came to fight. “Shogun” did not. Rua constantly turtled and Griffin punished him for it, attempting to end the fight. With twenty seconds left and looking at the clock in dominant position, Griffin could have awaited a sure decision. Instead, he secured a rear-naked choke and definitively proved his worth.

At twenty-five-years-old, Rua is not going anywhere. It is only the third loss of his career. His UFC homecoming will have to wait, but do not be surprised if he garners the position of king.

Forrest Griffin has been one of MMA’s most popular fighters since helping to launch the sport in North America in 2005. With newfound credibility and a better view of Quinton Jackson’s title, the twenty-eight-year old has carved himself into a UFC cornerstone.

There were no knockouts at the event titled “Knockout.” However, Griffin and Jardine have left a concussive impression on the world of mixed martial arts. Liddell and Rua still have that power too.

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EliteXC Rises To Top

After putting on an extremely successful partnership event with Strikeforce last month (Baroni v. Shamrock), EliteXC once again showed it deserves to hang with the big boys last week. UFC ex-patriots Robbie Lawler and Nick Diaz combined along with fighters such as Ninja Rua and Gina Carano (the sport's most popular female fighter) to put on a show which was recognized as having superior matchmaking and an excellent production value.

And with PRIDE's buyout, the IFL offering a very different form of MMA, and WEC being technically owned by Zuffa, it's easy to see why many herald EliteXC as the only real competition. The praise is well deserved, considering that their fighters rival the WEC and they've landed an exclusive deal with SHOWTIME, which seems to not have enough programming to fill their slots. The result? EliteXC on SHOWTIME at least once a day.

While it's still way too early to tell, if EliteXC can keep signing fighters (Sokoudjou, anyone?) and marketing the package properly (as an alternative to expensive, overhyped UFC programming), they should be able to effectively develop their niche in the world of MMA.

(Originally written for martialbase.com)

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Irish Whip Fighting Exclusive: Kendall Grove Interview

In his first post-Cote loss interview, Irish Whip Fighting got the opportunity to sit down with Kendall Grove. He talks about his loss to Cote, who he wants to fight next, and his critics. An Interview by Irish Whip Fighting.

Irish Whip Fighting: Prior to the Cote fight, you had been undefeated in the UFC. In your words, what happened there?
Kendall Grove: Umm…I got sloppy off of that clinch…I threw a knee with my eyes down and he caught me right behind the ear.

IWF: If given the opportunity, how would you change your plan in order to beat him?
KG: I would have changed nothing; I got caught off the clinch. Like I said, it’s a fight and anything can happen.

IWF: Was the Cote fight the toughest you’ve ever had?
KG: No, Ed Herman is the toughest fight I’ve ever had. It was my only fight that went the distance.

IWF: One of your training partners, Tito Ortiz, actually beat Cote a few years ago. Did he give you any pointers beforehand, and if so, what were they?
KG: He just told me how to train, how to get right for this fight. He told me that he hits hard and he’s strong, and I just went in there and I got caught.

IWF: We always hear that Tito works incredibly hard. How beneficial is it to train with someone like that?
KG: It’s very beneficial. If your partners train hard, you’re going to train hard. And he definitely makes me train harder.

IWF: You and Tito aren’t exactly fan-favorites among Sherdoggers. Do you have any comments on that?
KG: What is that?

IWF: It’s an online MMA forum.
KG: Oh…I really don’t care about what people think about me. They can say what they want to about me. People have been talking about me since I came into MMA, and they’re going to be talking about me until the day I die. So all I can say is, hate on haters!

IWF: How do you rank yourself among the 185s?
KG: Not too well right now. I would rank myself a small fish in a big pond.

IWF: Yeah, I mean you’re only 24 years old.
KG: Oh for sure, I’m just going to try to pay my dues and hopefully one day become a champion.

IWF: How do you feel you'd match up with current champ Anderson Silva?
KG: Right now, not too good. I just need a few more years to mature as a fighter.

IWF: Are there any matchups you're looking for? Possibly a rematch with Cote?
KG: Yeah after my next fight I wouldn’t mind getting a rematch with Cote after that.

IWF: You’ve obviously got a bright future ahead of you, being only 24. Looking into the future, are there any fighters that you would just love to fight?
KG: Umm…Jason MacDonald. Whoever will match up against me well.

IWF: Do you ever see yourself holding the Middleweight Championship?
KG: For sure, I see myself holding that belt in a couple of years.

IWF: How would you respond to the critics who say that you have a soft chin?
KG: Well Cote didn’t knock me out by hitting my chin, so I don’t know where that is coming from. Just hate on haters. Haters are known to be legally retarded sometimes, you know?

IWF: It looks like at UFC 78, one of your partners, Tito Ortiz, has his rematch against Rashad Evans. Can you comment on this fight? Or give us a prediction?
KG: Uh yeah man. I think it will be a better fight than the first one. Tito is pumped, he’s training his ass off. It should be a good fight. He doesn’t want it to be like last time.

IWF: Yeah we actually interviewed Tito after his first fight with Evans. He seemed pretty motivated.
KG: Yeah, he’s motivated for sure. I’m going up to Big Bear to train with him for a while before his fight. It should be a good fight.

IWF: Steroids have become a pressing issue in the UFC recently. Why are these guys cheating when they know they’ll probably get caught?
KG: I don’t know, I don’t use it, I don’t care. That’s my thing on that subject.

IWF: Alright, well I think that’s it for now. Thanks for taking the time for this. We appreciate it.
KG: For sure man.

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IFL ALL ACCESS: The 2007 IFL Finals

I had the honor to attend last Thursday's IFL 2007 Team Champion Finals in Hollywood, FL. I must say, the IFL has officially earned themselves a new fan.

I was once a bit dubious and not willing to accept the whole "team MMA" concept, but after attending what was a solid event with great fights, my thoughts have definitely changed.

The IFL 2007 Team Champion Finals included skilled fighters, including: Ben Rothwell, UFC veteran Ricco Rodriguez, Rolles Gracie and many more. The fights of the night would definitely goes to either Ryan McGivern's knockout by a ferocious uppercut over Fabio Leopoldo or Andre Gusmao's vicious knee, which sent Mike Ciesnolevicz seeing stars on the canvas.

This doesn't dismiss the other remarkable fights that were included on the card that night. The night kicked off with a beautiful arm-triangle followed by rear naked chokes, and spectacular arm bars.

Another fight worth mentioning is UFC veteran Ricco Rodriguez's fight, where he faced off against Ben Rothwell, one of IFL's toughest heavyweights. Ricco eventually lost by a unanimous decision, but refused to go out with a lackluster performance. Instead, Ricco looked fairly crisp on the feet and had numerous good takedown attempts, despite taking the fight on extremely short notice.

As far as my experience goes, it was probably the most hectic, but at the same time most electrifying. I've never felt more important with a little media tag around my neck.

Sitting ten feet shy of the ring; I met fighters, trainers, MMA legends and others. Bas Rutten, Pat Miletich, Renzo Gracie, Robbie Lawler, Matt Lindland, the IFL ring girls and Juanito were just a few names I was able to meet and have a quick chat with. Bas Rutten was absolutely incredible and was so laid back and easy to talk to. Being that Bas is one of my all time heroes, I was ecstatic over his cordiality and willingness to speak to me. Miletich and Renzo were others who especially stood out in my mind when it came to amiability.


An interesting appearance at the IFL Finals was TNA and pro-wrestling superstar Kurt Angle. I asked Bas about Kurt’s reason for attendance, and he told me that Angle is in the talks with joining the IFL and has been interested for a while now. This is pretty exciting, with pro-wrestling superstar Brock Lesnar’s recent transition to MMA, it looks like the idea is appealing to more and more pro-wrestlers.

The eight hour drive and three hours of sleep was definitely worth the experience. Being so up close to such great fights and meeting so many of my heroes, the experience is undeniably one to cherish.

I’d like to thank all the IFL guys, Bas Rutten, Pat Miletich, Renzo Gracie and many others for taking the time to talk to me and snap a few photos. I truly look forward to see more IFL events in the future.

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UFC 76 Full Of Upsets

UFC 76 results are in, and it was a WILD night in California.

Keith Jardine defeats Chuck Liddell via split decision

Forrest Griffin defeats Mauricio “Shogun” Rua via submission (rear naked choke) in round three

Jon Fitch defeats Diego Sanchez via split decision

Ryoto Machida defeats Kazuhiro Nakamura via unanimous decision

Tyson Griffin defeats Thiago Tavares via unanimous decision

Rich Clementi defeats Anthony Johnson via submission (rear naked choke) in round two

Jeremy Stephens defeats Diego Saraiva via unanimous decision

Christian Wellisch defeats Scott Junk via submission (heel hook) in round one

Matt Wiman defeats Michihiro Omigawa via unanimous decision

More coverage to come tomorrow!

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Elite light heavyweights fill UFC 76, Liddell and Shogun in forefront

UFC 76 brings five can't miss fights to the main card. Can Jardine knockout "The Iceman?" Has "Shogun" taken on too much before his UFC debut? Is Fitch going to take the respect he deserves? Saturday night might answer some of these questions...
By Danny Acosta

In the main event of the evening, knockout-inducing strikers Chuck Liddell and Keith Jardine set their targets on Quinton Jackson. Prior the Houston Alexander’s take off on Jardine’s chin, “The Dean of Mean” felt he had earned a shot at Liddell’s gold. The contender was setback and so was the champion, suffering his second devastating loss to “Rampage.”

Now, the two meet in a clash that determines a future title challenger at 205-pounds.

“The Iceman” reigned over the light heavyweight division with a simple game plan: stay standing until the opponent falls. Mixed martial arts’ style diversity suggests this formula is flawed, but Liddell demonstrated on Jeremy Horn, Randy Couture, Renato Sobral, and Tito Ortiz that his sprawl and brawl comes in a complete package with knockout power.

Working out of Greg Jackson’s Submission Fighting, Jardine has a well-rounded game. Despite proficiency in every aspect of the game, he brings nothing to the table the seven-year UFC veteran has not encountered.

The Montana-native, however, wants to mix up strikes with the former champion. Nothing in his MMA career suggests he can take the fight to the mat against Liddell; he really has no choice. Jardine’s leg kicks and punching power are his only strengths in the fight, but Liddell has stood with Guy Mezger, Alistair Overeem, and Vitor Belfort. He does not outmatch the Southern Californian in any category.

Both fighters have excellent recovery rate; they can also be knocked out. Jardine must stay patient—never rush in against Chuck Liddell—and work his stiff leg kicks to set up a big punch. Liddell’s game plan remains the same despite his recent loss. It is also simplified since a takedown attempt is unlikely and an advantage in the clinch.

History points to the former 205-king, but it is 2007. Bigger upsets have happened. Considering this is a punch-for-punch fight between two power hitters, the only reason Liddell is favored is experience.

The featured fight of the night is another light heavyweight clash between two fighters on the opposite end of the MMA spectrum. Mauricio “Shogun” Rua is considered among experts to be the number one 205lbs. fighter in the world and sits unquestionably on pound-for-pound lists. However, the Brazilian made a name for himself in Japan—not North America. That is where Forrest Griffin helped launch the sport of mixed martial arts, while becoming one of the biggest stars in the game despite—by his own admission—not being among the elite in the world.

“Shogun” has military precision in his attack driven by animal instincts. Griffin replies wherever the fight happens and does it with a smile. The Ultimate Fighter winner has improved exponentially in each fight. Training out of Xtreme Couture has elevated his game. The Brazilian, however, has maintained his high level competitive edge by dominating in the doors of the Chute Boxe Academy.

Recently married and making his Octagon debut, Rua may not be the fighter fans have seen in the past. His brother’s recent knockout loss may also factor in. The Georgian’s lion heart and cardio are his six-shooters against Rua’s machine guns. A former police officer, Griffin will have to avoid the clinch and employ his Octagon experience to his advantage. The question is: where does anyone have an advantage against Mauricio “Shogun” Rua?

In 170-pound clash, Jon Fitch and Diego Sanchez step into the Octagon and possibly in line for a title shot. Fitch is undefeated in the UFC, while Sanchez was undefeated in MMA until his last fight—against Fitch’s training partner Josh Koscheck.

The American Kickbox Academy fighter has battled through a series of dark bouts. Conversely, Sanchez has been in the spotlight since entering the Octagon for the first time. If the former Purdue wrestler can beat a bonafide star, his spot in the Octagon will be the best seat in the welterweight division. A loss would push Sanchez toward the bottom end of the deepest divisions in the fight game.

Both fighters are well rounded and have the cardio to keep the fight furious for three rounds. And they will. “The Nightmare” earned his nickname for stifling fighters with his non-stop pace. Fitch does not wait for a fight; he creates it.

It is hard to find a disparity in the two. Both are versed in the ground game: Sanchez competes in high level grappling competition and Fitch is a Dave Camarillo brown belt. Their striking is up in the air: Fitch has a more diverse striking game, but lacks confidence as opposed to Sanchez who throws his hands—only—with pleasure. The only distinct advantage is Fitch’s wrestling.

While the San Jose-based fighter edges out The Ultimate Fighter winner on paper, Sanchez has been in some wars in the Octagon (see Nick Diaz and Karo Parisyan). Fitch has only sampled peril against Roan Carneiro. If this is a battle of wills, Sanchez has been there before and should be overzealous since he is returning from his first defeat.

However, the former Greg Jackson Submission fighter has left the top-tier camp and is on his own training regiment. That may lead his strong mental game astray, leaving a green light for Jon Fitch’s grinding top control.

The night’s swing bout is a lightweight battle between two beasts named Tyson Griffin and Thiago Tavares. Griffin was touted as the next great lightweight before suffering a classic upset against Frankie Edgar and winning an indecisive decision against Clay Guida. Tavares dominated Jason Black in his last outing, submitting the Miletich fighter.

The Northern Californian trains under David Terrell and Cesar Gracie; his jiu-jitsu can keep him afloat in deep waters. Striking and wrestling are where Griffin pulls away in this fight. That is, of course, if can finish the tough Brazilian before his cardio becomes a problem.

Light heavyweights Kazuhiro Nakamura and Lyoto Machida are relative unknowns to stateside fans, but they are arguably top ten fighters. Nakamura makes his UFC debut in his first fight of the year, while Machida has some Octagon experience with stern wins over Sam Hoger and David Heath.

The undefeated fighter proves to be an elusive target with intelligent striking and a solid ground game. A prime Judo player, Nakumura hopes to close the distance, but will have trouble closing in on the Team Black House fighter. Nakamura’s toughness and Machida’s evasive style push this fight into decision territory in anyone’s favor.

UFC 76’s main card is stacked with top ten talent and future members of that class. Expect a night of back and forth action leading to highlight finishes—even if it is a decision.

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Ultimate Fight Night 11 Results

Ultimate Fight Night 11 Results are in...and let's just say that it was a good night to be Ultimate Fighter.

• Kenny Florian def. Din Thomas via submission (rear-naked choke) — Round 1, 4:31
• Chris Leben def. Terry Martin via KO (punch) — Round 3, 3:56
• Nate Diaz def. Junior Assuncao via submission (guillotine choke) — Round 1, 4:10
• Nate Quarry def. Pete Sell via TKO (punch) — Round 3, 0:44
• Luke Cummo def. Edilberto Crocota via TKO (strikes) — Round 1, 1:45
• Cole Miller def. Leonard Garcia via unanimous decision (30-27, 29-28, 30-27)
• Gray Maynard def. Joe Veres via KO (strikes) — Round 1, 0:09
• Thiago Alves def. Kuniyoshi Hironaka via submission (verbal/strikes) — Round 2, 4:04
• Dustin Hazelett def. Jonathan Goulet via submission (armbar) — Round 1, 1:14

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Bisping Wants Hamill Rematch

Not content to let the scorned Hamill request first, Michael Bisping has jumped the gun and asked for the rematch on his own. He cited constant critiques from the media as his reason to attempt to settle the controversy.

He spoke to The Sun, and said this:

"I’m getting so much shit. I got the decision, I went through the fight and I got the win – it’s not like I went out there and got knocked out in 30 seconds. I think people need to realize that. It was a good, exciting fight and I think people are focusing on the negatives and not looking at the positives."

Bisping admitted that Hamill was improved but also noted that he doesn't need any controversy surrounding his wins. He wants them to be unanimous and definitive. And so now it will be up to Hamill, the man who said Bisping's punches didn't connect during the famed second round, to either accept and make this a certainty or wait for Dana White to declare it on his own.

It will be interesting to see whether or not this rematch takes place in Bisping's home country of England. Many cited a home field advantage for the Brit and suggested that the location played into the judge's decision. Additionally, the UFC has been using Bisping as their star in a campaign to win support in Europe. To have him lose there could be disastrous to their plans. On the flip side, if they let Bisping fight Hamill in England and he happens to win by decision, the credibility of the UFC could be challenged. White is far better off putting his Euro tour on hold just to have this in a neutral U.S. locale.

(Originally written for martialbase.com)

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Is The Ultimate Fighter Good For The Sport?

Stroll into just about any Sherdog forum, wait for a white belt to say something stupid, and then watch as the rest of the posters blast him with chants of "TUF NOOB." The logic behind this pedantic insult is that the white belt (a relatively new writer) has only been watching since the UFC went mainstream (The Ultimate Finale 1). Is it such a bad thing to have recently jumped on the bandwagon? After all, no sport can maintain its popularity without some semblance of turnover among its fans. In the eyes of veteran Sherdoggers, The Ultimate Fighter (TUF) reality series has done nothing for the sport except cheapen it and make it accessible to legions of idiots.

I disagree, and I actually think that TUF has done more for the sport than almost anything else. I'd rank it right up there with the PRIDE buyout, showing live events on SpikeTV, and the UFC 40 fight between Tito Ortiz and Ken Shamrock. The cable television finale of the first season did a 1.9 share (HUGE) and brought us what is considered to be one of the most exciting UFC events of all time (Griffin-Bonnar). They picked a great time to put on that kind of show, as the UFC probably picked up more new fans that night than in any previous night in its existence.

The second and third seasons brought us some young guns such as Bisping and Rashad Evans, both of which have managed to make controversial waves during their thus-far short careers. Recently-embarrassed contenders Kendall Grove and Keith Jardine came from these two seasons as well. Okay, so we have big fights, big ratings, and big names...but no champions.

That's until season 4, which was designed to give a number of UFC vets who had never won a title shot the opportunity to fight a champion. Travis Lutter won among the middleweights and was expertly submitted (big surprise) by Anderson Silva. The Welterweight winner, Matt Serra, got a shot at Georges St. Pierre, and he's still champion.

We're yet to see Diaz or Lauzon (TUF 5 guys) make a huge splash, but I wouldn't bet against them. My point is that while The Ultimate Fighter has brought us some less than knowledgeable fans, it's okay because we were all that ignorant at one point or another. Some of the most renowned experts had Sylvia over Couture, so it's tough to ever say that someone doesn't know what they're talking about. Whether or not you agree with that, you can't deny that The Ultimate Fighter has brought us some talented fighters, many exciting fights, and even one of our current champions.

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Irish Whip Fighting Exclusive: UFC Ring Girl, Ali Sonoma Interview

*sniff, sniff* Is something on fire at the Irish Whip office? No ladies and gents, it's not. However, we just got a smokin' hot interview with UFC ring girl and blonde bombshell, Ali Sonoma! (Who’s engaged, unfortunately for you guys!)

Being recently engaged to UFC welterweight Diego Sanchez, see what Ali had to say about her beloved Diego, the UFC, and much more! An Interview by Masson Liang

What's better than interviewing one ring girl? Interviewing both of UFC's beloved ring girls.

Don't let Ali's 23 years of age and pretty face fool you, she's quite the hard worker! Not only is she one of UFC's ring girl, she is also a full-time model, activist and actress.

Read what she had to say below:

Masson Liang: How are things between you and Diego Sanchez going?
Ali Sonoma: Funny, I knew the first question was going to be about my love life...there are so many negative people judging our relationship, but despite all that, we are great together. We keep each other strong, focused, happy and positive. The hardest thing about it is we spend a lot of time apart because of our careers, but we communicate frequently, pray daily together, and keep our connection strong.

ML: Has Diego's staph infection healed completely since his last fight with Koscheck?
AS: Yes, completely. He is in fantastic shape and condition. That fight changed him-it humbled him, which is good. Now, he is training hard core and is more focused now than ever. I believe he will really make a comeback with his next fight.

ML: Diego being a full-time fighter and you a ring-girl, as well as a model, do you guys see each other as often as you'd like?
AS: No, that's the hardest part, as I mentioned before. We have a strong union, when we are together we make each other stronger and more positive-I encourage him, he encourages me, we support each other and respect each other's careers. But we both know we have jobs to do, so we try not to let emotions get in the way. We use our away time as motivation for when we'll see each other next. And the good thing is, it always keeps the relationship fresh.

ML: Recently engaged to Diego, how soon can fans expect to see you two tie the final knot (marriage)?
AS: Ha ha. We are not completely sure of the exact date. We talk about spring or summer of 2008, on a beach in Mexico...but first, we have many things to accomplish, he wants to be the next WW champ, I want to focus on acting, activism, and getting my master's degree...we aren't in any rush. We know we love each other and want to spend our lives together and that's the important thing for now.

ML: Is it hard for you when watching Diego fight? What kinds of feelings go through your head when you see Diego Sanchez fighting just a few feet away from you?
AS: Of course it's hard watching the person you love fight; you don't want to see them hurt. But it's what he loves to do. He's pretty tough, he can hold his own.

ML: Give us your prediction for Diego's next fight against Jon Fitch.
AS: This fight will definitely be a good one, a tough one. Jon Fitch is a well rounded grappler but I believe Diego will either knock him out or put him in a submission.

ML: As a little girl, did you the idea of becoming a ring girl ever cross your mind or was it just something that just happened down the road?
AS: Ha ha. No, I never really dreamed of being a ring girl. I got involved with the UFC through fate-it was just meant to be. And I am fortunate, they treat me like family, I travel to many cool places, I have the best seats in the house :-), have been published in many magazines, and met my future hubby.

ML: Do you and the other ring girls (Arianny, Rachelle) have a good relationship outside of the UFC?
AS: Yeah, we all get along and have fun together. We recently did a photo shoot for FHM UK. Arianny and I are really close-she's super sweet, honest, and just a good girlfriend to have.

ML: How's the UFC's overall treatment towards you and other ring girls?
AS: They treat me like family...I come from a close-knit family, so it's good.

ML: Arianny told us that she trains pretty often in mixed martial arts, do you train with her at all?
AS: Whenever we travel, sometimes we'll hit up the gym together, but we never train MMA together. But, I kickbox at a gym in my hometown. And I absolutely love it.

ML: How often are obnoxious, drunk slobs hitting on you at the UFC events? What do you usually do in those situations?
AS: HA HA HA! Funniest question yet! It happens at every event-I just laugh it off. There is no reason to be pissed-unless they get belligerent, then we have problems.

ML: How big of an MMA fan are you? Do you and Arianny pay close attention to the fights or just sit there and wait for the rounds to end?
AS: Before I was asked to join the UFC, I honestly didn't know what it was. I have always enjoyed kickboxing and have a lot of respect for martial artists. I remember watching my first live UFC fight-I loved it and was hooked instantly. I pay very close attention to the fights-sometimes it's hard for me to keep my cool, I get so into it. Some fights are more exciting than others, and it shows based on the crowd's energy and attitude.

ML: What's your most embarrassing moment while on the job?
AS: I haven't had any really embarrassing moments yet. (Thank you God) But something that would really suck if I fell off the Octagon while doing the rounds...wow, I don't even want to think about it! I would laugh at myself!

ML: What is your favorite MMA fight? Also, who, in your opinion, is the greatest of all time in MMA?
AS: It's hard to pinpoint a favorite...but, one of them would be when Randy Couture beat Tim Sylvia for the heavyweight title. He did a great performance, the crowd loved it, I have a lot of respect for him. He still kicks ass!

ML: The greatest mixed martial artist of all time?
AS: Bruce Lee. He's incredible in every aspect of his mind and body.

ML: Outside of being a ring girl and model, is there anything else you'd like to pursue in the near future?
AS: Maybe acting, singing, etc. Acting is what I really want to focus on. I have roles coming up for me, movies that I am cast in, and it's all really exciting. It's a tough industry, you have to have thick skin, but it's also my dream. I am still waiting for the movie I was in last year to come out. Latest I heard on it was the producers are thinking it will be edited and ready in winter this year. Also, they changed the name to 'Say Goodnight.' In addition to that I want to get a degree in business, and I really want to work with more charities. Currently I am volunteering for charities that benefit terminally ill children. It is such a blessing putting a smile on their faces, and it feels great to give back something too.

ML: Last but not least, just browsing around IrishWhipFighting.com, what do you think of the site?
AS: I think it's a pretty cool site! It's very informative and detailed, lots of info...And, you asked me to be on it, so yeah, I'm diggin it! ha ha ;-)

Well Ali, we cannot thank you enough for your time and we here at IrishWhipFighting look forward to seeing you strutting your stuff around the Octagon!

Best of luck with everything!

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Which Schools Dominate The UFC?

As with any sport, the way to win has developed over time. In baseball, good pitching used to rule the day whereas now, teams rely on sluggers to pound the ball to victory. In basketball, quick passes and good defense used to win championships. Now, deadly shooting and high-flying moves do the trick. The same goes for a sport like Mixed Martial Arts. I've defined the sport into three main categories during its short history, with a different school of fighting dominating the game, eventually ending at the hybridized style we see from almost every fighter today.

It doesn't take an expert to figure out that Gracie Jiu Jitsu (a slight variation on classic Jiu Jitsu), as utilized by Royce Gracie, was the single most imposing force in early UFC. This style, based on joint locks and body control, was perfect for smaller fighters facing much larger and stronger opponents. Royce highlighted the style's strengths during a fight with Dan Severn, in which he submitted the man 70 pounds his heavier. And oh yeah, between 1993 and 1994, Gracie won 11 fights by submission and won the UFC 1, UFC 2, and UFC 4 tournaments. Most of these were against strictly boxers or strictly wrestlers, and Gracie's grappling technique proved to be superior.

Gracie's grappling, with a slight twist, ruled the Middle Ages of the UFC, manifested in Miletich Fighting Systems. Founded by former Light/Welterweight Pat Miletich, MFS incorporates BJJ (thanks, Gracie family), Sambo, Judo, and Boxing for a more improved Mixed Maertial Artist who is dangerous on his feet and the ground. We saw a changing of the guard at UFC 60 as MFSer Matt Hughes was able to take down Royce Gracie and then debilitate him with a BJJ move. It was beautiful in its irony, and signified that Royce's prowess on the ground was no longer enough to win a fight. MFS fighters, including Hughes (former Welterweight champ), Rich Franklin (former Middleweight champ), and Tim Sylvia (former Heavyweight champ) helped to make this fighting system (the first true hybrid) and extremely successful one until very recently.

Look closely at the previous paragraph and you'll notice that all the MFS guys are FORMER champs. What happened? Fighters like Rampage Jackson, Georges St. Pierre, and Chuck Liddell have become so adept at forcing other fighters to fight their fight that they don't need to hybridize. Of course, GSP is dangerous anywhere, but he can also control a fight to the point where if he wants it to go to the ground, that's where it goes. If he wants to stand up, take a guess where the fight is going to end... Liddell has perfected his sprawl to the point where he never goes down. His fights always stay on the feet which serve him well until...he comes upon a another guy who doesn't want to go to the ground, and is an even more dangerous striker. I used to say that the new UFC fighter is a perfectly balanced and hybridized figher who can adapt to any situation or opponent. I'd like to correct that statement. The NEW UFC fighter is the one who is a master at his craft and can make everyone else try to match his style. See: Sean Sherk, Matt Serra, Anderson Silva, Rampage Jackson, Randy Couture. They all have something in common and it's not the fact that they're champions.

Originally written for martialbase.com

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IRISH WHIP EXCLUSIVE: CHUCK LIDDELL INTERVIEW

After interviews with Dan Henderson and Tito Ortiz, there was only one thing left to do: call Chuck Liddell. The definitive fist of the UFC for the last five years, Chuck is rebounding off of a loss to Rampage Jackson (after three straight years of winning) and talks to us about his training, fighting Wanderlei Silva, Dana White, and his stint on Entourage. An Interview By Ben Zeidler

Ben Zeidler: Did you feel that you weren't aggressive enough against Rampage? Would you fight the fight any differently if you could go back?
Chuck Liddell: No, I was planning on frustrating him a little and making him come after me a little more, and he just happened to catch me before I got the chance to completely carry out that game plan.

BZ: Rampage seems to have your number. Do you think you can beat him?
CL: Yes I do, I definitely do!

BZ: Can we get a prediction for the Rampage-Henderson fight?
CL: I think Henderson is tough, really tough. it will be interesting to see how he will do against Rampage though.

BZ: Henderson's never been knocked out.
CL: Wait, has Hendo been knocked out before? How did Wanderlei win the first time they fought?

BZ: Decision.
CL: Oh, that's right.

BZ: As far as training, what type of things are you reevaluating? Are there any changes you're looking to make?
CL: Well I mean, John has been working on my defense a little bit more, for the most part, business as usual. I made a mistake and got caught; it's just part of the game. I have gotten away with that punch for a long time, this time I didn't.

BZ: Can you tell us a little bit about your workout regimen and diet?
CL: I just have a guy come in here and make my meals every day. He has them packaged up in my kitchen and ready to go and eat. As far as working out goes, I workout 4 to 5 days a week, 2 to 3 times a day.

BZ: How many more years do you plan on fighting?
CL: As long as my body let's me man, I feel great now. Feelin' real good so, I should be good for a while, at least I hope so.

BZ: If you get on the Randy Couture plan, you should be all right.
CL: I know, right? That's what I plan to do.

BZ: Would the thought of fighting for another organization ever cross your mind?
CL: Well I think the UFC is the place I'm going to be, but in the future you never really know, it's the biggest organization in the game and I think to be the best you gotta fight the best, and the best fighters are in UFC right now.

BZ: With all the PRIDE fighters flooding in, would you consider moving to another weight class to face new challengers? I know it's something you've said in the past that you would try.
CL: It's possible man, anything's possible for me right now.

BZ: Many of the critics out there are claiming that you have a hard time against good strikers, what do you have to say in response to those accusations?
CL: I don't really know what to say to that, I've never really seen myself as having too much problems with good strikers.

BZ: What are the biggest differences you noticed when fighting in PRIDE at Japan in comparison to fighting here in the UFC in the US?
CL: Big differences, definitely differences between the fans, it's the whole cultural thing, the way they acted and how quiet it is in the arena in Japan compared to here you know? But, I just like fighting man; I don't care where, man or how the fans are.

BZ: Dana White said that you needed 2 wins to earn a title shot, how do you feel about that?
CL: Uh, I don't think that's fair necessarily but, if that's what I gotta do…that's what I gotta do. I don't care, like I said I don't care I just want to fight man.

BZ: Many believe that Jardine is a major mismatch for you, what do you feel about Jardine as an opponent? Do you think his striking abilities are polished enough to face you?
CL: Well I hope so for him!

BZ: In your second fight against Tito Ortiz, what was going through your head when you saw that he was hurt and did it change the game plan you had for him?
CL: Not at all, I was expecting to hurt him sooner or later. I just jumped on him like I normally would, I just wanted him to quit, I wanted him to quit to it. I mean, he pretty much did, he wasn't defending himself anymore and he knows that.

BZ: Does your body undergo a sudden change, whether it is physical or mental, when you realize your opponent is in trouble?
CL: No, it happens so quickly. I wouldn't really know nor have any idea. People ask me a lot about me being in a bar and what's it feel like, "What does it feels like when you walk in a bar and know you can kick everyone's ass?" I mean, I don't know, I never thought about it, I don't know what it feels like to not be able to kick everyone's ass. I just hope I never have to do it.

BZ: What is the first thing you notice in your opponent before trying to finish them?
CL: That they're hurt! You can see it in their eyes and actions. You know a lot of times you see guys nod their head and smile like they're all right, trying to pretend and say that, "Hey I'm ok!" when they're really not. "I want you to give me some time and not jump on me for a while."

BZ: Not too long ago, you said in an interview that you don't choose your opponents. In your words, what happened with the fight against Wanderlei Silva?
CL: I have no idea, that's not my business. I agreed for it and I thought it was on for a minute and then it wasn't. You guys know about that more than about me.

BZ: It's been going around that you two might face each other at a UFC event in December, where Silva is set to make his debut. Can you confirm this?
CL: I haven't heard anything about that; I get questions like that all the time like: "Hey when's your next fight?" "Who's your next opponent?" (Laughs) I have no idea man, so if you know that, you know more than me.

BZ: What was it like doing an episode of Entourage?
CL: It was fun man, really fun. I asked to get on that show so…it's my favorite show. I love it.

BZ: How did you get the nickname "The Iceman?" Is there a good story behind that?
CL: John started calling me that after my third kickboxing fight and he said I don't get nervous before fights. He kept mentioning how he had tons of amateur fights and pro fights and would still get nervous before every fight. So, he just kinda started calling me that and it just stuck.

BZ: Are there any sponsors you'd like to thank?
CL: Oh yeah, uh, check out my website at www.iceman.tv and mmajacked.com

BZ: Anything you'd like to say to your fans?
CL: Yeah, I'll be out there fighting man, nothing's changed. I'll be out there swinging soon so, just keep watching!

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UFC 75 Is Huge Success

In a beautifully designed event, UFC 75, free on Spike TV, ended up being the most watched UFC event ever. Is this a good thing or a bad thing for UFC/MMA?

We'll start off with some numbers:

In the United States, UFC 75 drew in 4.7 million viewers. It drew in 5.6 million from England. Among men ages 18-34, UFC was the most watched program on television that night...(which consisted of NASCAR, College Football, and the Women's US Open Finals).

Ad my personal favorite statistic: among men ages 18-34, UFC 75 had more then twice asmany viewers then Oregon vs. Michigan, Notre Dame vs. Penn State, Virginia Tech vs. LSU, and NASCAR. UFC had 8 times the viewers that the Women's US Open Finals had.

These are GREAT numbers (especially for the growing sport of MMA). UFC has gained a ton of fans from this. Not only was it on for free, but it hosted several extremely important fights. I know at least 5 of my friends who didn't even know what MMA was, but after I told them to watch UFC 75, they became hooked. (I think one even has a sherdog account already.) My hat goes off to Dana White.

We all know that MMA is the fastest growing sport in the world. How did this happen so quickly? Dana White put together a careful and systematic plan to skyrocket this sport to the top. And it has worked. When did Vince McMahon put on a free event that was treated as a PPV? The closest the WWE comes to a free PPV is Saturday Nights Main Event which can hardly be called exciting. Even though the fights weren't amazing, the sheer availability to fans without cable boxes should be enough to make this a worthwhile long-term deal.

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Ultimate Fight Night 11: TUFers Make A Splash

Despite the appearances of Chris Leben and Nate Quarry, two of the most disappointing TUF alums, UFC Fight Night 11 is shaping up to be a decent card with four other (physically competent) TUFers.

Kenny Florian, TUF 1 finalist and participant in an awesome bloodbath with current LW Champ Sean Sherk, will take on Din Thomas in the main event of the evening. This should be a great fight, with both guys looking for one last push in their respective careers. Both are good fighters and both have suffered some big losses in the UFC. Recently, they've been exhibiting winning ways and they'll collide on their way back to the top in a very uncertain LW division. It's anyones for the taking and these two guys are well aware of that fact.

The TUF 5 winner Nate Diaz will face his first real test in Brazilian Junior Assuncao. Even though his Gamburyan win was less than impressive, Diaz was without a doubt the most technically impressive fighter on the series. After all, his brother is Gogoplata-master Nick Diaz...what would you expect? He'll get a chance to validate his status in the UFC with a tough test here.

Two other TUF5ers, Gray Maynard and Cole Miller, both of whom displayed great promise during the series will battle at UFC FN 11, just not against each other. In an attempt to give the younger talent a push, Maynard will go to battle against unknown Joe Veres while Cole will lay the smack down on Leonard Garcia.

The TUF alums that separate themselves from the very large pack (possibly doing so at this very event) will set themselves up for some bigger fights and potential title shots in the future. After all, it was current Middleweight Champ Anderson Silva who embarrassed Chris Leben at Ultimate Fight Night 5. What may seem like a small event in between PPVs might very well be a coming out party for the next UFC Champ.

Originally published on martialbase.com

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UFC 75 Results

So maybe it wasn't the explosive card most expected, but it provided enough big hits, big submissions, and controversy to classify it as a quality event.

Houston Alexander vs. Alessio Sakara
Alexander continued his post-Jardine KO rise to the top with another dominating performance, this time over more-than-competent Sakara. He should start to get some legitimate contenders in his sights if he continues this run.

Marcus Davis vs. Paul Taylor
I'm going to go ahead and call this the most exciting fight of the night. The Irish Hand Grenade (Davis) took an early lead only to barely get knocked out later in the first round. He fought hard from the Brits guard, eventually ceasing the pounding and ending the fight with what later won "Submission of the night."

Cheick Kongo vs. Mirko Filipovic
Kongo flat out dominated Cro Cop in this three round decision. When striking, Kongo didn't let himself get in CC's range while delivering inside leg kick after inside leg kick. On the ground, where Kongo was supposed to be most suspect, he seemed in control, even though CC had put in weeks with guru Dean Lister. Kongo looked like the former Champion while CC looked confused, nervous, and overwhelmed.

Michael Bisping vs. Matt Hamill
Although this fight has garnered much controversy, it wasn't as close as some media outlets make it sound. Each fighter had his moments during the fight in a see saw battle that had Bisping ending strong. Personally, I had the fight 29-28 Hamill. No one agreed with me, as two judges put it 29-28 Bisping and one had 30-27 Hamill. I'd expect to see a rematch.

Quinton Jackson vs. Dan Henderson
In the most anticipated bout of the evening, Jackson and Henderson exchanged some flurries but generally remained limited in their exertion. Jackson did win definitively, but it wasn't a bad loss for Henderson, at it was his first trip inside The Octagon. With Liddell and Hendo out of the way, Jackson can now set his sights on Shogun and Wanderlei, two guys who absolutely destroyed him in PRIDE.

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Please Stop Whining About Bisping

I don't want to hear that Hamill was cheated out of a win, or the judges were paid, or the UFC has pre-determined decisions. Let's be real here...Bisping won...it's in the past. And just for those of you who make ridiculous claims like "UFC is corrupt!"...Dana White has already announced a rematch...is everyone happy?

I personally feel that although Bisping fought a horrible fight, he should've won. Here's a little excerpt that I found that everyone should read. It is Jeff Mullen (one of the judges for the fight) explaining why he scored Bisping as the winner:

"I am only going to tell you why I judged the fight the way I did. Watch the fight again and turn off the sound. Commentary can color what you see. No doubt Hamill dominated the 1st. He hurt Bisping with a right hand right off the bat and again near the end of the round. He out scored Bisping and busted him up. It was a very impressive round for Hamill but still a 10-9 round. Not dominant enough for 10-8. Watch the beginning of the second round closely. When Hamill throws the jab,Bisping slips the punch and hits him with his own counter jab. It is hard to see on camera because Hamill's back is to the camera. His back was also to Goldie who was talking like the beginning of this round was like a continuation of the 1st. If you look you will see that Hamill is facing me giving me a clear view of what is landing.Bisping was landing the jab again and again and not getting hit. Hamill got 2 takedowns in rounds 2 and 3 but did very little with them. Bisping is using an active guard trying to turn for armbars and sweeps, Hamill is doing very little on top. Bisping is keeping him from scoring or improving his position. In the 3rd round Bisping actually lands more punches from the bottom than Hamill does from the top. In both the 2nd and 3rd rounds Bisping does more scoring."

And my personal favorite part of the explanation:

"Striking. Under pride style scoring Hamill would have won. He did more damage, but it was all in the 1st round. By 10 point must system Bisping won the fight 2 rounds to 1. 29-28 Bisping. Sometime the angle you see the fight effects your decision. That is why they put the judges on 3 different sides. BY THE WAY MARIO YAMASAKI THOUGHT BISPING WON ROUNDS 2 AND 3 ALSO. MARIO WAS THE REF AND HAD A BETTER VIEW THAN ANY OF US. I have never taken a payoff as some of you have suggested and never will. You may not agree with my decision but please don't question my honesty."

As Mullen said, under PRIDE rules Hamill would've won, because of the damage he inflicted upon Bisping. However, Bisping won the fight because all of Hamill's damage came in the first round. Even if you disagree with the decision, the crying should stop because we're going to have ourselves a rematch.

Please comment. I'd love to argue with you.

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Kongo and Hamill look to defy Cro Cop and Bisping at UFC 75

With UFC 75 being polished for delivery, it is easy to forget the historic Quinton "Rampage" Jackson and Dan Henderson title unification bout is not the only fight on the card. Mirko Cro Cop looks to use Cheick Kongo as a Gabriel Gonzaga stand in, while Matt Hamill sets out to prove he would have won season 3 of The Ultimate Fighter. Get in-depth now!

Quinton Jackson battles Dan Henderson to unify the UFC and Pride 205 titles on September 8, 2007 in London, England. The magnetism of what could be mixed martial arts’ most important fight in history is well deserved. There is, however, an undercard that requires attention.

Mirko Cro Cop was once known as MMA’s stand-up fighting version of fear. After capturing Pride’s 2006 Open Weight Grand Prix Champion, the Croatian left behind Japan’s honored war zone for the rabid arenas of the UFC.

The structural change of the fighting arena, which Crocop failed to train for, caught up with him in the form of severe underdog and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu champion Gabriel Gonzaga.

“Napao” knocked out Cro Cop with a head kick eerily familiar to the highlights Cro Cop reeled off in Pride.

Cro Cop’s upcoming UFC 75 showdown with Cheick Kongo relies entirely on his mental state. Is the sound of fury that sent him terrorizing Pride’s ranks after an upset loss to Kevin Randleman in 2005 ringing again?

Cro Cop has expressed desire to retire, but his fighting future should not factor into the Kongo equation. The thirty-two-year old cannot look past his opponent with lackadaisical training and/or a tentative performance that typically characterize his losses.

He appears to be rededicated. He bought a cage. He is training in real jiu-jitsu (as opposed to submission defense) with one of the world’s best in Dean Lister. In addition, he added Gilbert Yvel and Remy Bonjaski to prepare his striking for the Thai boxer.

As Cro Cop has said himself, no one can beat him if he comes forward.

The trouble is Kongo will come forward. The mammoth stalks opponents and can send fighters reeling along with strong hands and sharp knees. His key to victory is to close the distance against the superior striker, negating Cro Cop’s NASCAR-fast precision leg kicks. Training with Juanito Ibarra and an array of top fighters in that camp, Kongo will elevate his game and look far better than he did in his impressive defeat of Assuerio Silva.

While both fighters are improving their groundwork, no one is likely to take it to the ground. This will be a stand-up fight.

Cro Cop must be violent grace under pressure against Kongo’s assault. A win for the Frenchman would thrust him into the title picture. A loss for Cro Cop will regale him to unjust criticisms of being a “has been” and a “never was” and to the backseat of the UFC’s heavyweight division. Given years of fighting elite competition, Crocop should be fear incarnate again, however, do not believe victory a certainty. That is certain defeat.

A light heavyweight showdown between Michael Bisping and Matt Hamill can be billed as The Ultimate Fighter season 3 Finale that never happened.

This fight has compelling implications of the participant’s future. A hearty Hamill can be an early awakening for the undersized Wolfslair Gym star. While “The Hammer” lacks experience, wrestling is the one discipline that can grind out an MMA win without a full arsenal of martial weapons. If he can suffocate a win out of “The Count,” it lends weight to Tito Ortiz’s prodigious image of the physically impaired fighter.

Top-flight training makes the difference in this bout. England’s favorite son has been sparring with Quinton Jackson and the mastermind behind “Rampage,” Juanito Ibarro. Bisping can submit, pound out, or knockout the Ohio native. Hamill only has the option of a decision victory unless he can summon Sobral-Heath-esque ground and pound to demoralize the gritty Brit to a technical knockout.

Kongo and Hamill are the unanimous underdogs, but MMA is exciting because stacked odds are often caught in swirling winds.

*By Danny Acosta

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Irish Whip Fighting Exclusive: Elvis Sinosic Interview

Irish Whip Fighting got the chance to sit down with MMA star Elvis Sinosic. Read on and hear him talk about his loss to Bisping, steroids in MMA, and his next fight. An Interview By Jordan Arnold

Jordan Arnold: Can you tell us a little bit about your recent loss to Michel Bisping? Was he different than what you had trained for? Do you think you could beat him if ever given another opportunity?
Elvis Sinosic: Well I was caught by surprise with his takedown. I thought he was going to try and stand to KO me. I guess when I outclassed him standing, he changed his game plan. I think I proved during the match that I have what it takes to beat him. So of course, given another opportunity, yes I do think I would beat him. But sadly, the odds of that are unlikely.

JA: Are there any fighters that you're dying to fight before the end of your career?
ES: I always want to face the best guys out there, so guys like Chuck, Wanderlei, Shogun, all those guys are amazing challenges that I would love to face. And there are a lot more top guys in the LHW division too.

JA: You are 36 years old, how many more years of competitive fighting do you think that you have left in you?
ES: I figure I have atleast a couple more years left in me. But as Randy has shown, if you really have the desire and dedication, it can really keep going on.

JA: You have always been great when it comes to getting on the side of the fans…however I noticed that there is a "fan" website of yours called www.stalkelvis.com. How do you feel about this?
ES: I’m pretty cool with it. If you go to the site and read it, the guy who set it up did it with good intentions. He wanted to share his experience of meeting me and his impressions with everyone. The site name sounds strange, but it is a good site. Worth having a look at.

JA: What win do you consider to be the greatest of your career?
ES: Probably Jeremy Horn because he was the number one contender in the UFC at the time. It was my UFC debut and it got me a World Title shot with Tito Ortiz. That was just one where everything went right when I look back on it.

JA: You have always been known for stepping up to the plate and taking on huge challenges. After fighting guys like Ortiz, Bisping, Sobral, Tanner, etc…who would you say has been the toughest competitor that you have faced?
ES: You know, all the guys I have faced have been tough. I’ve fought some of the toughest and most talented guys in the sport. They all bring something different to the table. So each in their own way are the toughest fighters I have faced.

JA: Could you tell us a little about Sinosic-Perosh Martial Arts?
ES: Sinosic Perosh Martial Arts (SPMA) is the Academy that was setup by myself and my good friend and now business partner, Anthony Perosh. We wanted to have a place where we could not only train ourselves, but bring up the next generation of Australian grapplers and fighters. We cover BJJ, Thai Kickboxing, MMA and Yoga. We cover kids from 6 yrs old, to adults in their 50’s and 60’s. It’s a place where anyone can come and train, whether you want to do it for fun, fitness or to be the next World Champion. You can find out more about SPM at www.spma.net.au

JA: In your opinion, who are the top 205 pounders? Are there any up-and-comers (maybe some guys in your camp) who you expect to make a big splash soon?
ES: Well everyone knows that the top guys are Rampage, Henderson, Liddell, Shogun, Rogerio, Arona, with guys like Forrest, Bisping, Sokoudjou, Alexander and many more shooting up the ranks. In my camp, my training partner Anthony Perosh has decided to cut down to the LHW division. I think he will make a big impact there. Some of the guys in our camp who have already made an impact are guys like Shane Nix, Jesse Landry, Chit Kit Cheung… and we’ve got more guys ready to make their debuts soon.

JA: You have trained in many different styles of fighting (kickboxing, judo, freestyle wrestling, etc…). How much does it help your fighting to have all of these different styles under your belt?
ES: I trained in all the different styles trying to find the best blend of what really works. It helps in that it has made me realize what does work. That is why our MMA program consists of BJJ, Muay Thai and Wrestling. All these are tried and tested arts. Their training is applied and used everytime. Combined in the right way, gives you the best combination for either fighting or self defence.

JA: You have won 1 out of 7 total fights in the UFC. Would you say that this is due to the octagon, the mainstream attention, or just bad luck?
ES: Probably a little bad luck, probably a lot of tough skilled formidable opponents. I don’t want to pad my record, so I always look for the toughest fight I can. I will always aim for the tougher opponent if I am ever given the choice. I probably could have done better with my career if I’d had a manager who helped with that. But hey, I’ve loved every challenge and I’ve become a better fighter from every match. I know the fans enjoy what I do, and hopefully as long as they want to see me continue fighting, then you will see a lot more of me in action.

JA: Do you have any upcoming fights lined up?
ES: No fights at the moment lined up. But I am trying to get something organized for later this year. It’s pretty much up to the promoters if they’re interested. And as you know, the promotes listen to the fans.

JA: With the increasing amount of MMA fighters getting caught for steroids, what is your take on this issue? Why are people taking steroids if they know they can get caught?
ES: It’s the same reason people will find a way to use the rules. Winning becomes the most important thing. Winning becomes more important than anything else. When that happens, the risks don’t seem so big, because if it can help you win, then it’s worth the effort. That is why I just come to fight. I believe it is my performance that is important. If I give my best performance, then victory will come from that. For me, it is fighting that is important, giving my best, never giving up. Victory is not my goal, that is just the outcome.

JA: Would you like to thank any sponsors or say anything to your fans?
ES: I always thank my fans, it’s because of them that I keep on fighting. If they didn’t want to watch me fight, then I wouldn’t be fighting. Thank you very much for all your support. I want to thank my friend and training partner Anthony Perosh, all the guys at the academy, my students and training partners, my friends and family. Thanks to my sponsors Atama and Fairtex for continuing stand by me.

JA: Well thank you very much Elvis, and I look forward to talking with you in the future.
ES: Always a pleasure. I look forward to the next time.

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