MMA News Thread
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For BJ I'd say Aoki or Alvarez, hell even Florian have a good chance. I know I ramble on about this 1 in a million shit, & the "Matt Serra Chance" but these 3 could pose a threat to BJ. as For GSP, everybody fighting WW should either go down or up a class. It must suck for Dan Hardy knowing his exact death date.lol Still rootin' for the outlaw though.
Chris Horodecki "pumped" for WEC debut, plans on war with Anthony Njokuani
It wasn't too long ago that lightweight slugger and nine-time IFL veteran Chris Horodecki (13-1 MMA, 0-0 WEC) was widely regarded as one of the brightest prospects of the 155-pound division.
But following the lone loss of his professional career in December 2007, the 22-year-old has fought just twice while enduring injury and the collapse of both the IFL and Affliction organizations.
But with his WEC debut against fellow striker Anthony Njokuani (11-2 MMA, 2-1 WEC) set for Saturday night's "WEC 45: Cerrone vs. Ratcliff" event, Horodecki recently told MMAjunkie.com Radio (www.mmajunkie.com/radio) he's ready to re-establish himself among the sport's best young stars.
"I am real happy," Horodecki said. "Been a long time coming. It was back and forth ever since Affliction folded. Every organization was negotiating with my management, and it just went all over the place. Now I'm just happy we've got something stable set."
Horodecki has fought just once following the collapse of the IFL, and that was against journeyman William Sriyapai for regional promotion Fight Force International. But as the lights of the big stage started to fade away, Horodecki said he remained focused.
"My management just told be to be patient, and things will happen," Horodecki said. "That's what came out. The WEC is one of the premier organizations, and I'm really planning on making some lights there – shining."
Horodecki will look to make an immediate impact with a win over Njokuani in the evening's co-feature. "The Polish Hammer" said he's honored by the chance to take such a prominent role in his first appearance and promises to make WEC officials comfortable with their decision.
"It's a great opportunity, and I'm real excited," Horodecki said. "They respect me, and the fact that they put me as the co-main event, I'm going to make sure that they get their money's worth."
While Horodecki lives and trains in Canada, he travels to Las Vegas prior to his fights to train at the TapouT gym with coach Shawn Tomkins as well as frequent trips to Xtreme Couture. And while the same injury that prevented Horodecki from fighting Dan Lauzon at January's "Affliction: Day of Reckoning" event also kept his training to a minimum, the lightweight says he'll be 100 percent for this contest.
"One of my discs was pinching a nerve, and pain would shoot down my arm," Horodecki said. "I couldn't feel my fingers. My whole side was weak like a kitten.
"It's probably a good thing the doctor didn't let me fight. You never know what could have happened. But now I'm back. That's the most important thing. I'm back, and I'm healthy. I feel good. I can't wait."
While Saturday's fight card features a number of potentially exciting contests, the striking prowess of Horodecki and Njokuani would seem to set the table for a bout full of fireworks. Horodecki said that while you can always expect the unexpected in MMA, he would love a toe-to-toe challenge.
"You've got two bangers there," Horodecki said. "I love to stand and trade – everybody knows that – and so does he. But this is MMA, too. Anything can happen; you never know.
"But it's a real treat for the fans because this fight is starting on our feet. We're going to go to war."
While Horodecki nearly became a forgotten man during his time away from competition, he says his passion to succeed never dwindled. And with his re-introduction to the MMA world set for Saturday night, Horodecki said he can't wait to shine in the WEC.
"I've got a home now," Horodecki said. "I'm real pumped about that."
It wasn't too long ago that lightweight slugger and nine-time IFL veteran Chris Horodecki (13-1 MMA, 0-0 WEC) was widely regarded as one of the brightest prospects of the 155-pound division.
But following the lone loss of his professional career in December 2007, the 22-year-old has fought just twice while enduring injury and the collapse of both the IFL and Affliction organizations.
But with his WEC debut against fellow striker Anthony Njokuani (11-2 MMA, 2-1 WEC) set for Saturday night's "WEC 45: Cerrone vs. Ratcliff" event, Horodecki recently told MMAjunkie.com Radio (www.mmajunkie.com/radio) he's ready to re-establish himself among the sport's best young stars.
"I am real happy," Horodecki said. "Been a long time coming. It was back and forth ever since Affliction folded. Every organization was negotiating with my management, and it just went all over the place. Now I'm just happy we've got something stable set."
Horodecki has fought just once following the collapse of the IFL, and that was against journeyman William Sriyapai for regional promotion Fight Force International. But as the lights of the big stage started to fade away, Horodecki said he remained focused.
"My management just told be to be patient, and things will happen," Horodecki said. "That's what came out. The WEC is one of the premier organizations, and I'm really planning on making some lights there – shining."
Horodecki will look to make an immediate impact with a win over Njokuani in the evening's co-feature. "The Polish Hammer" said he's honored by the chance to take such a prominent role in his first appearance and promises to make WEC officials comfortable with their decision.
"It's a great opportunity, and I'm real excited," Horodecki said. "They respect me, and the fact that they put me as the co-main event, I'm going to make sure that they get their money's worth."
While Horodecki lives and trains in Canada, he travels to Las Vegas prior to his fights to train at the TapouT gym with coach Shawn Tomkins as well as frequent trips to Xtreme Couture. And while the same injury that prevented Horodecki from fighting Dan Lauzon at January's "Affliction: Day of Reckoning" event also kept his training to a minimum, the lightweight says he'll be 100 percent for this contest.
"One of my discs was pinching a nerve, and pain would shoot down my arm," Horodecki said. "I couldn't feel my fingers. My whole side was weak like a kitten.
"It's probably a good thing the doctor didn't let me fight. You never know what could have happened. But now I'm back. That's the most important thing. I'm back, and I'm healthy. I feel good. I can't wait."
While Saturday's fight card features a number of potentially exciting contests, the striking prowess of Horodecki and Njokuani would seem to set the table for a bout full of fireworks. Horodecki said that while you can always expect the unexpected in MMA, he would love a toe-to-toe challenge.
"You've got two bangers there," Horodecki said. "I love to stand and trade – everybody knows that – and so does he. But this is MMA, too. Anything can happen; you never know.
"But it's a real treat for the fans because this fight is starting on our feet. We're going to go to war."
While Horodecki nearly became a forgotten man during his time away from competition, he says his passion to succeed never dwindled. And with his re-introduction to the MMA world set for Saturday night, Horodecki said he can't wait to shine in the WEC.
"I've got a home now," Horodecki said. "I'm real pumped about that."
UFC 107 medical suspensions: Guida, Buentello, Wiman issued lengthy suspensions
The Tennessee Athletic Commission handed down medical suspensions to 18 of the 22 competitors who competed at this past weekend's UFC 107 event.
Tennessee Athletic Commission Director Jeffrey Mullen today confirmed the list of suspensions with MMAjunkie.com (www.mmajunkie.com).
Main-card competitors Clay Guida and Paul Buentello, as well as preliminary card fighter Matt Wiman, all face suspensions of up to 180 days or more for ailments ranging from possible broken ribs to a potential eye injury.
UFC 107 took place Dec. 12 at the FedExForum in Memphis, Tenn., and aired on pay-per-view. UFC lightweight champion B.J. Penn topped Diego Sanchez via fifth-round TKO (due to a cut) in the night's main event. Frank Mir quickly submitted Cheick Kongo in the night's co-headliner.
The full list of suspensions include:
* Diego Sanchez: Suspended 60 days with no contact for 60 days and must undergo a CT scan and be cleared by a doctor
* Frank Mir: Suspended three days with no contact for three days for precautionary reasons
* Cheick Kongo: Suspended three days with no contact for three days for precautionary reasons
* Jon Fitch: Suspended 60 days with no contact for 60 days for precautionary reasons but can be cleared early by a doctor
* Kenny Florian: Suspended 60 days with no contact for 45 days due to a cut but can be cleared early by a doctor
* Clay Guida: Suspended 180 days with no contact for 180 days due to a possible eye injury but can be cleared early by an ophthalmologist; regardless, suspended 45 days with no contact for 30 days for precautionary reasons unless cleared early by a doctor
* Paul Buentello: Suspended indefinitely until ribs X-rayed and cleared by a doctor; regardless, suspended 30 days with no contact for 21 days for precautionary reasons
* Alan Belcher: Suspended 30 days with no contact for 21 days for precautionary reasons
* Wilson Gouveia: Suspended 45 days with no contact for 30 days for precautionary reasons; can be cleared early by a doctor
* Matt Wiman: Suspended 180 days with no contact for 180 days due to a possible right injury but can be X-rayed and cleared early by a doctor; regardless, suspended 30 days with no contact for 21 days for precautionary reasons
* Shane Nelson: Suspended 14 days with no contact for 14 days due to a cut but can be cleared early by a doctor
* Johny Hendricks: Suspended three days with no contact for three days for precautionary reasons
* Ricardo Funch: Suspended 45 days with no contact for 30 days for precautionary reasons but can be cleared early by a doctor
* Rousimar Palhares: Suspended three days with no contact for three days for precautionary reasons
* Lucio Linhares: Suspended three days with no contact for three days for precautionary reasons
* DaMarques Johnson: Suspended three days with no contact for three days for precautionary reasons
* Edgar Garcia: Suspended 30 days with no contact for 21 days for precautionary reasons but can be cleared early by a doctor
* Kevin Burns: Suspended 45 days with no contact for 30 days for precautionary reasons
The Tennessee Athletic Commission handed down medical suspensions to 18 of the 22 competitors who competed at this past weekend's UFC 107 event.
Tennessee Athletic Commission Director Jeffrey Mullen today confirmed the list of suspensions with MMAjunkie.com (www.mmajunkie.com).
Main-card competitors Clay Guida and Paul Buentello, as well as preliminary card fighter Matt Wiman, all face suspensions of up to 180 days or more for ailments ranging from possible broken ribs to a potential eye injury.
UFC 107 took place Dec. 12 at the FedExForum in Memphis, Tenn., and aired on pay-per-view. UFC lightweight champion B.J. Penn topped Diego Sanchez via fifth-round TKO (due to a cut) in the night's main event. Frank Mir quickly submitted Cheick Kongo in the night's co-headliner.
The full list of suspensions include:
* Diego Sanchez: Suspended 60 days with no contact for 60 days and must undergo a CT scan and be cleared by a doctor
* Frank Mir: Suspended three days with no contact for three days for precautionary reasons
* Cheick Kongo: Suspended three days with no contact for three days for precautionary reasons
* Jon Fitch: Suspended 60 days with no contact for 60 days for precautionary reasons but can be cleared early by a doctor
* Kenny Florian: Suspended 60 days with no contact for 45 days due to a cut but can be cleared early by a doctor
* Clay Guida: Suspended 180 days with no contact for 180 days due to a possible eye injury but can be cleared early by an ophthalmologist; regardless, suspended 45 days with no contact for 30 days for precautionary reasons unless cleared early by a doctor
* Paul Buentello: Suspended indefinitely until ribs X-rayed and cleared by a doctor; regardless, suspended 30 days with no contact for 21 days for precautionary reasons
* Alan Belcher: Suspended 30 days with no contact for 21 days for precautionary reasons
* Wilson Gouveia: Suspended 45 days with no contact for 30 days for precautionary reasons; can be cleared early by a doctor
* Matt Wiman: Suspended 180 days with no contact for 180 days due to a possible right injury but can be X-rayed and cleared early by a doctor; regardless, suspended 30 days with no contact for 21 days for precautionary reasons
* Shane Nelson: Suspended 14 days with no contact for 14 days due to a cut but can be cleared early by a doctor
* Johny Hendricks: Suspended three days with no contact for three days for precautionary reasons
* Ricardo Funch: Suspended 45 days with no contact for 30 days for precautionary reasons but can be cleared early by a doctor
* Rousimar Palhares: Suspended three days with no contact for three days for precautionary reasons
* Lucio Linhares: Suspended three days with no contact for three days for precautionary reasons
* DaMarques Johnson: Suspended three days with no contact for three days for precautionary reasons
* Edgar Garcia: Suspended 30 days with no contact for 21 days for precautionary reasons but can be cleared early by a doctor
* Kevin Burns: Suspended 45 days with no contact for 30 days for precautionary reasons
YVEL GLAD TO FINALLY GET HIS SHOT IN THE UFC
Gilbert Yvel has finalized a seven-fight deal with the UFC that kicks off with a main card showdown with Junior Dos Santos at UFC 108.
Santos was originally scheduled to face former contender Gabriel Gonzaga on the Jan. 2 card, but was forced to withdraw due to a staph infection.
It was an unusual road to the Octagon for the Dutch striker, but he’s happy to have made it.
“It feels good,” Yvel told MMAWeekly.com on Monday. “Little nervous about it because it’s the biggest show in the world, so I have to do good. Ask me that question after my first knockout.”
After months of negotiations and Yvel’s successful bid for a provisional fight license in Nevada, manager John Lewis broke the ice with UFC president Dana White.
Lewis, who introduced White and UFC executives Lorenzo and Frank Fertitta to jiu-jitsu in 2000, made a personal plea to his former pupil in late November.
"I wanted six fights – Dana wanted eight," Lewis said. "I (texted him), ‘how about you come over right now? I'll let you start in the mount. If you tap me, you get eight. If I tap you, I get six.’ He texts back, 'how bout we spar for six rounds, and then bench press contest? If I win, I get ten, if you win, you get six.’"
They both had a laugh and settled on seven, no bet. It couldn’t have hurt that UFC 108 was cursed with injuries, either.
Yvel, who once doubted whether he’d ever make it to the UFC, said Dos Santos is a perfect opponent for his debut.
“He beat (Fabricio) Werdum, he beat (Mirko) Cro Cop, and after I beat him, I take his place in the rankings, so that’s a good thing,” said Yvel. “I’m lucky this time, because he might want to stand up with me.”
The stand-up battle, of course, has eluded him for much of his career. Yvel is known for two things: his frenetically destructive striking, and the controversy that marked his early career. In June, he got lucky and found someone to stand and bang, that being former UFC heavyweight contender Pedro Rizzo. The Brazilian fell to strikes in the first round.
Yvel is fatalistic when it comes to how his fights are going to play out. But if Dos Santos takes the action to the mat, he says he’s ready. Other than that, it’s just another fight.
“The moment you walk to the cage, you feel like it’s the first time you’re going to step into the cage,” he said. “All those fights before the fight don’t count, because you’ve got to prove yourself every time. I probably have a little advantage with (experience) but I don’t know.”
Other than hunting for the elusive title of world’s best, Yvel said he craves some new bling.
“I love belts,” he laughed. “I love to have belts; the biggest UFC belt, all gold and big and heavy, ah!”
Gilbert Yvel has finalized a seven-fight deal with the UFC that kicks off with a main card showdown with Junior Dos Santos at UFC 108.
Santos was originally scheduled to face former contender Gabriel Gonzaga on the Jan. 2 card, but was forced to withdraw due to a staph infection.
It was an unusual road to the Octagon for the Dutch striker, but he’s happy to have made it.
“It feels good,” Yvel told MMAWeekly.com on Monday. “Little nervous about it because it’s the biggest show in the world, so I have to do good. Ask me that question after my first knockout.”
After months of negotiations and Yvel’s successful bid for a provisional fight license in Nevada, manager John Lewis broke the ice with UFC president Dana White.
Lewis, who introduced White and UFC executives Lorenzo and Frank Fertitta to jiu-jitsu in 2000, made a personal plea to his former pupil in late November.
"I wanted six fights – Dana wanted eight," Lewis said. "I (texted him), ‘how about you come over right now? I'll let you start in the mount. If you tap me, you get eight. If I tap you, I get six.’ He texts back, 'how bout we spar for six rounds, and then bench press contest? If I win, I get ten, if you win, you get six.’"
They both had a laugh and settled on seven, no bet. It couldn’t have hurt that UFC 108 was cursed with injuries, either.
Yvel, who once doubted whether he’d ever make it to the UFC, said Dos Santos is a perfect opponent for his debut.
“He beat (Fabricio) Werdum, he beat (Mirko) Cro Cop, and after I beat him, I take his place in the rankings, so that’s a good thing,” said Yvel. “I’m lucky this time, because he might want to stand up with me.”
The stand-up battle, of course, has eluded him for much of his career. Yvel is known for two things: his frenetically destructive striking, and the controversy that marked his early career. In June, he got lucky and found someone to stand and bang, that being former UFC heavyweight contender Pedro Rizzo. The Brazilian fell to strikes in the first round.
Yvel is fatalistic when it comes to how his fights are going to play out. But if Dos Santos takes the action to the mat, he says he’s ready. Other than that, it’s just another fight.
“The moment you walk to the cage, you feel like it’s the first time you’re going to step into the cage,” he said. “All those fights before the fight don’t count, because you’ve got to prove yourself every time. I probably have a little advantage with (experience) but I don’t know.”
Other than hunting for the elusive title of world’s best, Yvel said he craves some new bling.
“I love belts,” he laughed. “I love to have belts; the biggest UFC belt, all gold and big and heavy, ah!”
Ricardo Almeida likely for UFC 111 in March, bout with Thiago Alves possible
While a knee injury forced grappling ace Ricardo Almeida (11-3 MMA, 4-3 UFC) out of a planned UFC 106 bout with Jon Fitch, "Big Dog" apparently won't sit out for long.
MMAjunkie.com (www.mmajunkie.com) has learned from sources close to the promotion that Almeida is being targeted for a March 27 return to action at UFC 111 in Newark, N.J.
And while Almeida couldn't comment on the potential contest when contacted by MMAjunkie.com, additional sources have indicated Brazilian slugger Thiago Alves (16-6 MMA, 9-3 UFC) may be in the running to face the 33-year-old.
Almeida was expected to make the drop to the welterweight division in the planned matchup with Fitch, but he'll now have to wait until at least March to make the move.
But despite the setback, Almeida confirmed he's still planning on his next fight taking place at 170 pounds.
"I was able to start running again in the past week, so I've been getting running in – sometimes twice a day – just trying to get my weight down again," Almeida said. "I'm probably around like 195 pounds right now, so I'm just trying to get my weight down so I can start a training camp already in shape.
"I've been running, swimming. I can't really grapple yet, but I'm already hitting the mitts."
A New Jersey resident, Almeida would seem a natural fit for the card, though he insists nothing is set in stone. But when the UFC does call his name, Almeida said he hope to put in about 12 weeks of preparation.
"I just started boxing again," Almeida said. "I'll probably start grappling again in the next few weeks.
"When I do get a fight, I want to start training pretty hard about three months out."
After suffering a disappointing split-decision loss to Patrick Cote in July 2008, Almeida has since bounced back with back-to-back wins over Kendall Grove and Matt Horwich.
Almeida debuted in the UFC at UFC 31 in 2001, but he has also fought under the PRIDE and Pancrase banners.
Meanwhile, if recent title challenger Alves doesn't meet Almeida, he's still expected to appear on the card. MMAWeekly.com was the first to report "Pitbull's" potential appearance on the card, and MMAjunkie.com has since confirmed Alves' verbal agreement to fight in New Jersey.
Alves and his agent, Malki Kawa of First Round Management, declined to comment when contacted by MMAjunkie.com.
While a knee injury forced grappling ace Ricardo Almeida (11-3 MMA, 4-3 UFC) out of a planned UFC 106 bout with Jon Fitch, "Big Dog" apparently won't sit out for long.
MMAjunkie.com (www.mmajunkie.com) has learned from sources close to the promotion that Almeida is being targeted for a March 27 return to action at UFC 111 in Newark, N.J.
And while Almeida couldn't comment on the potential contest when contacted by MMAjunkie.com, additional sources have indicated Brazilian slugger Thiago Alves (16-6 MMA, 9-3 UFC) may be in the running to face the 33-year-old.
Almeida was expected to make the drop to the welterweight division in the planned matchup with Fitch, but he'll now have to wait until at least March to make the move.
But despite the setback, Almeida confirmed he's still planning on his next fight taking place at 170 pounds.
"I was able to start running again in the past week, so I've been getting running in – sometimes twice a day – just trying to get my weight down again," Almeida said. "I'm probably around like 195 pounds right now, so I'm just trying to get my weight down so I can start a training camp already in shape.
"I've been running, swimming. I can't really grapple yet, but I'm already hitting the mitts."
A New Jersey resident, Almeida would seem a natural fit for the card, though he insists nothing is set in stone. But when the UFC does call his name, Almeida said he hope to put in about 12 weeks of preparation.
"I just started boxing again," Almeida said. "I'll probably start grappling again in the next few weeks.
"When I do get a fight, I want to start training pretty hard about three months out."
After suffering a disappointing split-decision loss to Patrick Cote in July 2008, Almeida has since bounced back with back-to-back wins over Kendall Grove and Matt Horwich.
Almeida debuted in the UFC at UFC 31 in 2001, but he has also fought under the PRIDE and Pancrase banners.
Meanwhile, if recent title challenger Alves doesn't meet Almeida, he's still expected to appear on the card. MMAWeekly.com was the first to report "Pitbull's" potential appearance on the card, and MMAjunkie.com has since confirmed Alves' verbal agreement to fight in New Jersey.
Alves and his agent, Malki Kawa of First Round Management, declined to comment when contacted by MMAjunkie.com.
Nogueira Out of UFC 109
Antonio Rogerio Nogueira has withdrawn from his co-headlining light heavyweight contest against Brandon Vera at UFC 109 on Feb. 6 in Las Vegas due to injury, Sherdog.com has learned from multiple sources.
Nogueira, the brother of former UFC interim heavyweight champion Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira, suffered a fractured ankle, said both sources. Nogueira’s manager, Ed Soares, could not be initially reached to confirm the injury.
The 33-year-old Brazilian had debuted strong for the promotion with a first-round technical knockout against Luis Arthur Cane at UFC 106 on Nov. 21 in Las Vegas. Nogueira has won six consecutive bouts; his last loss was a 23-second knockout at the hands of Rameau Thierry Sokoudjou at Pride 33 in February 2007.
Sources said the UFC is currently working to secure a new opponent for Vera on the same card.
Vera lost a unanimous decision to UFC hall of famer Randy Couture at UFC 105 on Nov. 14 in Manchester, England. The 32-year-old kickboxer had clocked in victories against Krzysztof Soszynski and Michael Patt before that.
Antonio Rogerio Nogueira has withdrawn from his co-headlining light heavyweight contest against Brandon Vera at UFC 109 on Feb. 6 in Las Vegas due to injury, Sherdog.com has learned from multiple sources.
Nogueira, the brother of former UFC interim heavyweight champion Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira, suffered a fractured ankle, said both sources. Nogueira’s manager, Ed Soares, could not be initially reached to confirm the injury.
The 33-year-old Brazilian had debuted strong for the promotion with a first-round technical knockout against Luis Arthur Cane at UFC 106 on Nov. 21 in Las Vegas. Nogueira has won six consecutive bouts; his last loss was a 23-second knockout at the hands of Rameau Thierry Sokoudjou at Pride 33 in February 2007.
Sources said the UFC is currently working to secure a new opponent for Vera on the same card.
Vera lost a unanimous decision to UFC hall of famer Randy Couture at UFC 105 on Nov. 14 in Manchester, England. The 32-year-old kickboxer had clocked in victories against Krzysztof Soszynski and Michael Patt before that.
10 Questions for Antonio Rogerio Nogueira
Antonio Rogerio Nogueira had a brilliant UFC debut in November, stopping Luis Arthur Cane in the first round.
Sherdog.com’s Marcelo Alonso caught up with the Brazilian light heavyweight shortly after his win. Topics include Nogueira’s 2005 battle against Mauricio "Shogun" Rua in Pride and how a rematch would go, UFC light heavyweight champion Lyoto Machida and Randy Couture.
Sherdog: What do you think about winning by KO in your UFC debut?
Nogueira: It was amazing. Not only did I debut with a knockout, but I won the prize of best knockout of the night against one of the toughest guys in that division. Cane is such a tough guy, but I trained a lot for his game and my boxing was really sharp.
Sherdog: Did you study his game?
Nogueira: I knew he is a great striker, so I trained my boxing a lot. I received a lot of criticism from Internet fans saying that I was just focusing on my boxing. But I knew “Banha” was coming to exchange, so I was ready for that. But I have to tell you I expected that the fight would go through the third round.
Sherdog: How do you assess your rival Lyoto, “Shogun” and Randy Couture?
Nogueira: Actually I don’t see Lyoto as a rival; we are much more like friends. We trained together a couple of times, and Lyoto is an amazing person and friend. His style is really something special, not only because karate but because he adapted karate to MMA. Actually there is no easy opponent in that division. Wherever you look there is a tough opponent. Randy is an amazing wrestler and a legend of the UFC. He has already defeated the toughest UFC fighters and demands all respect. About Shogun, he is one of the most aggressive fighters in that division, and we could see that he improved a lot in that fight against Lyoto.
Sherdog: Is there a fight where you choked, that you would like to do over?
Nogueira: I would like to have a fight with Shogun again.
Sherdog: You and Shogun had one of the biggest fights in the history of Pride, in which he took the decision. What do you think you should have done extra to have won that fight?
Nogueira: It's tough to say, man. Shogun is a great fighter, a great champion, and he was in the best stage of his career until today. He has his merits. At the end of the fight, I tried to take his back. If I had finished the fight there at his back, I would have been able to change the story of the fight.
Sherdog: How would that fight go today in the UFC?
Nogueira: I think I improved a lot of my skills. I competed a lot in boxing and also developed my ground, but for sure Shogun also improved. So the only thing I can say is that it would be another amazing fight but in the cage.
Sherdog: How's your life these days and what are you planning for your future? When will your baby be born?
Nogueira: Now we are sharing our training between Rio de Janeiro and Los Angeles. I’m training with my brother and Anderson in LA now, but I must return to Rio in the second week of December because my wife is going to give birth on the first of February. It’s going to be a baby girl, Valentina. I’m really anxious for that.
Sherdog: What's the difference between Rodrigo “Minotauro” as a brother and as a training partner?
Nogueira: As a brother he's like a big dad, and as a training partner he's very rigorous.
Sherdog: What was it like to represent Brazil in the 2007 Pan American Games and even take a medal?
Nogueira: It was an honor because you dedicate yourself to an objective, and to be able to reach a goal, like an Olympic medal, is an honor for me. … It's very gratifying to be able to reach a goal like that.
Sherdog: Who do you consider the number one heavyweight? Why?
Nogueira: Rodrigo, because of the history he's had during many years. He fought with the best. He won, putting on the most beautiful fights.
Antonio Rogerio Nogueira had a brilliant UFC debut in November, stopping Luis Arthur Cane in the first round.
Sherdog.com’s Marcelo Alonso caught up with the Brazilian light heavyweight shortly after his win. Topics include Nogueira’s 2005 battle against Mauricio "Shogun" Rua in Pride and how a rematch would go, UFC light heavyweight champion Lyoto Machida and Randy Couture.
Sherdog: What do you think about winning by KO in your UFC debut?
Nogueira: It was amazing. Not only did I debut with a knockout, but I won the prize of best knockout of the night against one of the toughest guys in that division. Cane is such a tough guy, but I trained a lot for his game and my boxing was really sharp.
Sherdog: Did you study his game?
Nogueira: I knew he is a great striker, so I trained my boxing a lot. I received a lot of criticism from Internet fans saying that I was just focusing on my boxing. But I knew “Banha” was coming to exchange, so I was ready for that. But I have to tell you I expected that the fight would go through the third round.
Sherdog: How do you assess your rival Lyoto, “Shogun” and Randy Couture?
Nogueira: Actually I don’t see Lyoto as a rival; we are much more like friends. We trained together a couple of times, and Lyoto is an amazing person and friend. His style is really something special, not only because karate but because he adapted karate to MMA. Actually there is no easy opponent in that division. Wherever you look there is a tough opponent. Randy is an amazing wrestler and a legend of the UFC. He has already defeated the toughest UFC fighters and demands all respect. About Shogun, he is one of the most aggressive fighters in that division, and we could see that he improved a lot in that fight against Lyoto.
Sherdog: Is there a fight where you choked, that you would like to do over?
Nogueira: I would like to have a fight with Shogun again.
Sherdog: You and Shogun had one of the biggest fights in the history of Pride, in which he took the decision. What do you think you should have done extra to have won that fight?
Nogueira: It's tough to say, man. Shogun is a great fighter, a great champion, and he was in the best stage of his career until today. He has his merits. At the end of the fight, I tried to take his back. If I had finished the fight there at his back, I would have been able to change the story of the fight.
Sherdog: How would that fight go today in the UFC?
Nogueira: I think I improved a lot of my skills. I competed a lot in boxing and also developed my ground, but for sure Shogun also improved. So the only thing I can say is that it would be another amazing fight but in the cage.
Sherdog: How's your life these days and what are you planning for your future? When will your baby be born?
Nogueira: Now we are sharing our training between Rio de Janeiro and Los Angeles. I’m training with my brother and Anderson in LA now, but I must return to Rio in the second week of December because my wife is going to give birth on the first of February. It’s going to be a baby girl, Valentina. I’m really anxious for that.
Sherdog: What's the difference between Rodrigo “Minotauro” as a brother and as a training partner?
Nogueira: As a brother he's like a big dad, and as a training partner he's very rigorous.
Sherdog: What was it like to represent Brazil in the 2007 Pan American Games and even take a medal?
Nogueira: It was an honor because you dedicate yourself to an objective, and to be able to reach a goal, like an Olympic medal, is an honor for me. … It's very gratifying to be able to reach a goal like that.
Sherdog: Who do you consider the number one heavyweight? Why?
Nogueira: Rodrigo, because of the history he's had during many years. He fought with the best. He won, putting on the most beautiful fights.
COURTNEY BUCK STEPS IN FOR TYLER TONER AT WEC
WEC newcomer Tyler Toner was recently forced from his promotional debut due to a failure to meet Nevada’s licensing requirements due to his eye examination results.
Dave Sholler, WEC Manager of Public Relations, on Tuesday told MMAWeekly.com that Courtney Buck has been tapped to fill in for him. Buck (6-1) will face Brandon Visher (10-0) at The Palms Casino Resort on Saturday night in Las Vegas.
Buck, who fights out of Minnesota, and Visher, who fights out of Hawaii, is each making his WEC debut. The bout will take place on the non-televised preliminary portion of the fight card.
WEC 45: Cerrone vs. Ratcliff features a headlining bout between lightweights Donald “Cowboy” Cerrone and Ed “9mm” Ratcliff. The main card airs live on Versus at 7 p.m. PT / 10 p.m. ET.
WEC newcomer Tyler Toner was recently forced from his promotional debut due to a failure to meet Nevada’s licensing requirements due to his eye examination results.
Dave Sholler, WEC Manager of Public Relations, on Tuesday told MMAWeekly.com that Courtney Buck has been tapped to fill in for him. Buck (6-1) will face Brandon Visher (10-0) at The Palms Casino Resort on Saturday night in Las Vegas.
Buck, who fights out of Minnesota, and Visher, who fights out of Hawaii, is each making his WEC debut. The bout will take place on the non-televised preliminary portion of the fight card.
WEC 45: Cerrone vs. Ratcliff features a headlining bout between lightweights Donald “Cowboy” Cerrone and Ed “9mm” Ratcliff. The main card airs live on Versus at 7 p.m. PT / 10 p.m. ET.
Mariusz Pudzianowski vs Aleksander Emelianenko in the works for April?
"Now KSW are in talks with M-1 Global and Mariusz Pudzianowski is expected to face Aleksander Emelianenko this April in Russia which will be co-promoted by M-1 Global. Oh, Bob Sapp could also be in the mix."
Don't know about this?
"Now KSW are in talks with M-1 Global and Mariusz Pudzianowski is expected to face Aleksander Emelianenko this April in Russia which will be co-promoted by M-1 Global. Oh, Bob Sapp could also be in the mix."
Don't know about this?
Mir-Carwin Targeted for UFC 111
Shane Carwin has agreed to face Frank Mir in an interim heavyweight title bout at UFC 111 on March 27 in Newark, N.J.
AOL Fanhouse’s Mike Chiappetta was the first to report of the matchup, which Sherdog.com also confirmed through sources close to the proposed matchup.
Sherdog.com has been unable to confirm if Mir has accepted or declined the offer yet.
Carwin was originally scheduled to face UFC heavyweight champion Brock Lesnar at UFC 106 last November in Las Vegas, until Lesnar pulled out of the bout with a severe intestinal tract infection. The 32-year-old fighter was hospitalized for 11 days and underwent “minor surgery” before he was released. Lesnar is recovering at his home in Alexandria, Minn., and his return to the sport is not a given at this point.
UFC President Dana White said last week that Lesnar may have to undergo additional surgery, which prompted the promotion to enact an interim title in the champion’s absence.
“I have not signed any contracts yet but I have told my manager to inform UFC Matchmaker that "I accept the offer"” wrote Carwin on his Web site on Wednesday, referring to the Mir match.
Carwin, a 1999 NCAA Div. II wrestling champion, has stopped his opponents with first-round punches in all three of his UFC appearances. At UFC 96 last March, the 34-year-old Carwin bounced back from a knockdown at the hands of former title challenger Gabriel Gonzaga to finish the Brazilian in 69 seconds.
Mir barged his way back into the heavyweight contender’s circle with his 72-second dismantling of Cheick Kongo at UFC 207 last Saturday in Memphis, Tenn. Mir became the UFC heavyweight champion at UFC 48 in June 2004 after he broke Tim Sylvia’s arm during a submission he found in the bout’s first 50 seconds. Rebounding from a serious motorcycle accident in 2005, Mir captured the interim title and became the only fighter to stop Antonio Rogerio Nogueira at UFC 92 in December 2008. Mir was defeated by Lesnar in brutal fashion during their title reunification rematch at UFC 100 last July.
Shane Carwin has agreed to face Frank Mir in an interim heavyweight title bout at UFC 111 on March 27 in Newark, N.J.
AOL Fanhouse’s Mike Chiappetta was the first to report of the matchup, which Sherdog.com also confirmed through sources close to the proposed matchup.
Sherdog.com has been unable to confirm if Mir has accepted or declined the offer yet.
Carwin was originally scheduled to face UFC heavyweight champion Brock Lesnar at UFC 106 last November in Las Vegas, until Lesnar pulled out of the bout with a severe intestinal tract infection. The 32-year-old fighter was hospitalized for 11 days and underwent “minor surgery” before he was released. Lesnar is recovering at his home in Alexandria, Minn., and his return to the sport is not a given at this point.
UFC President Dana White said last week that Lesnar may have to undergo additional surgery, which prompted the promotion to enact an interim title in the champion’s absence.
“I have not signed any contracts yet but I have told my manager to inform UFC Matchmaker that "I accept the offer"” wrote Carwin on his Web site on Wednesday, referring to the Mir match.
Carwin, a 1999 NCAA Div. II wrestling champion, has stopped his opponents with first-round punches in all three of his UFC appearances. At UFC 96 last March, the 34-year-old Carwin bounced back from a knockdown at the hands of former title challenger Gabriel Gonzaga to finish the Brazilian in 69 seconds.
Mir barged his way back into the heavyweight contender’s circle with his 72-second dismantling of Cheick Kongo at UFC 207 last Saturday in Memphis, Tenn. Mir became the UFC heavyweight champion at UFC 48 in June 2004 after he broke Tim Sylvia’s arm during a submission he found in the bout’s first 50 seconds. Rebounding from a serious motorcycle accident in 2005, Mir captured the interim title and became the only fighter to stop Antonio Rogerio Nogueira at UFC 92 in December 2008. Mir was defeated by Lesnar in brutal fashion during their title reunification rematch at UFC 100 last July.
NBC Sale May Open Door for UFC, White Hints
The recent sale of NBC to Comcast, which also owns the Versus network, could conceivably pave the way for World Extreme Cagefighting and UFC programming on major network television for the first time.
“You never know,” UFC President Dana White said during a Wednesday teleconference. “It’s obviously very interesting.”
The UFC this week announced plans to air two UFC Fight Night-style shows on Versus in 2010 in a move that could help spur wider interest in the network and ultimately the WEC. The UFC’s sister promotion, home to some of the world’s premier lighter weight fighters, will hold its final show of the year this Saturday in Las Vegas.
“It’s great for the UFC, Versus and the WEC,” said White, who called Comcast and Versus “great partners” and praised them for their commitment to mixed martial arts. “It will draw a lot of attention to the Versus network to have to UFC events on there.”
No date for the UFC debut on Versus was announced.
“After the first of the year, we’ll get something locked down,” said Marc Fein, executive vice president of programming, production and business operations for Versus. “We want to maximize the viewing audience.”
White reiterated his hope to land the WEC on pay-per-view but indicated there were no plans to cross-pollinate between the two brands.
“They’re two separate companies,” he said. “Our goal has been to get the WEC on pay-per-view. There are so many dates taken, between us, the WWE and boxing. It’s a lot more than just throwing something on pay-per-view.”
The recent sale of NBC to Comcast, which also owns the Versus network, could conceivably pave the way for World Extreme Cagefighting and UFC programming on major network television for the first time.
“You never know,” UFC President Dana White said during a Wednesday teleconference. “It’s obviously very interesting.”
The UFC this week announced plans to air two UFC Fight Night-style shows on Versus in 2010 in a move that could help spur wider interest in the network and ultimately the WEC. The UFC’s sister promotion, home to some of the world’s premier lighter weight fighters, will hold its final show of the year this Saturday in Las Vegas.
“It’s great for the UFC, Versus and the WEC,” said White, who called Comcast and Versus “great partners” and praised them for their commitment to mixed martial arts. “It will draw a lot of attention to the Versus network to have to UFC events on there.”
No date for the UFC debut on Versus was announced.
“After the first of the year, we’ll get something locked down,” said Marc Fein, executive vice president of programming, production and business operations for Versus. “We want to maximize the viewing audience.”
White reiterated his hope to land the WEC on pay-per-view but indicated there were no plans to cross-pollinate between the two brands.
“They’re two separate companies,” he said. “Our goal has been to get the WEC on pay-per-view. There are so many dates taken, between us, the WWE and boxing. It’s a lot more than just throwing something on pay-per-view.”
Strikeforce newcomer Bryan Travers forced off Saturday's "Evolution" card
With the MMA world still waiting on news of a replacement for main-card casualty Trevor Prangley in his matchup with Robbie Lawler, another fighter from Strikeforce's "Evolution" card has been forced to withdraw from the event.
MMAjunkie.com (www.mmajunkie.com) has learned from sources close to the event that Strikeforce newcomer Bryan Travers (13-1) has suffered an undisclosed injury in training and has been forced out of the Dec. 19 event.
"Strikeforce: Evolution" takes place at HP Pavilion in San Jose, Calif. The main card airs on Showtime.
Travers was scheduled to face PRIDE, DREAM and DEEP veteran Daisuke Nakamura (20-11) on the evening's preliminary card.
Messages left for Strikeforce officials to determine if a replacement would be sought for Travers were not immediately returned.
A California native, Travers was set to to make his Strikeforce debut. The 10-time Gladiator Challenge and three-time Palace Fighting Championship veteran currently carries a six-fight win streak, and his lone career loss came in a 2006 bout with UFC veteran Nate Loughran.
While specifics of the injury were not revealed, MMAjunkie.com was told Travers would be ready to fight again as soon as January.
Meanwhile, Nakamura was also hoping to fight for Strikeforce for the first time. A Japanese veteran competing professionally since 2002, Nakamura has faced a number of notable competitors during his career, including Marcus Aurelio, Mitsuhiro Ishida, Vitor Ribeiro and Hideo Tokoro, among others.
While Nakamura is just 1-2 in his past three outings, the rough patch was preceded by a run of 11 wins in 12 outings.
While Travers' withdrawal hasn't been officially announced, the late change means "Strikeforce: Evolution" currently includes:
MAIN CARD
* Cung Le vs. Scott Smith
* Champ Josh Thomson vs. interim champ Gilbert Melendez (lightweight title-unification bout)
* Matt Lindland vs. Ronald "Jacare" Souza
* Muhammed "King Mo" Lawal vs. Mike Whitehead
* Robbie Lawler vs. TBA
PRELIMINARY CARD
* Antwain Britt vs. Scott Lighty
* Daisuke Nakamura vs. TBA*
* Juan Nunez vs. Luis Mendoza
* Bobby Stack vs. Alex Trevino
* Alex Crispim vs. A.J. Fonseca
* - Not officially announced.
With the MMA world still waiting on news of a replacement for main-card casualty Trevor Prangley in his matchup with Robbie Lawler, another fighter from Strikeforce's "Evolution" card has been forced to withdraw from the event.
MMAjunkie.com (www.mmajunkie.com) has learned from sources close to the event that Strikeforce newcomer Bryan Travers (13-1) has suffered an undisclosed injury in training and has been forced out of the Dec. 19 event.
"Strikeforce: Evolution" takes place at HP Pavilion in San Jose, Calif. The main card airs on Showtime.
Travers was scheduled to face PRIDE, DREAM and DEEP veteran Daisuke Nakamura (20-11) on the evening's preliminary card.
Messages left for Strikeforce officials to determine if a replacement would be sought for Travers were not immediately returned.
A California native, Travers was set to to make his Strikeforce debut. The 10-time Gladiator Challenge and three-time Palace Fighting Championship veteran currently carries a six-fight win streak, and his lone career loss came in a 2006 bout with UFC veteran Nate Loughran.
While specifics of the injury were not revealed, MMAjunkie.com was told Travers would be ready to fight again as soon as January.
Meanwhile, Nakamura was also hoping to fight for Strikeforce for the first time. A Japanese veteran competing professionally since 2002, Nakamura has faced a number of notable competitors during his career, including Marcus Aurelio, Mitsuhiro Ishida, Vitor Ribeiro and Hideo Tokoro, among others.
While Nakamura is just 1-2 in his past three outings, the rough patch was preceded by a run of 11 wins in 12 outings.
While Travers' withdrawal hasn't been officially announced, the late change means "Strikeforce: Evolution" currently includes:
MAIN CARD
* Cung Le vs. Scott Smith
* Champ Josh Thomson vs. interim champ Gilbert Melendez (lightweight title-unification bout)
* Matt Lindland vs. Ronald "Jacare" Souza
* Muhammed "King Mo" Lawal vs. Mike Whitehead
* Robbie Lawler vs. TBA
PRELIMINARY CARD
* Antwain Britt vs. Scott Lighty
* Daisuke Nakamura vs. TBA*
* Juan Nunez vs. Luis Mendoza
* Bobby Stack vs. Alex Trevino
* Alex Crispim vs. A.J. Fonseca
* - Not officially announced.
Launch of Professional Mixed Martial Arts League moved to 2011
Citing a need for more time to refine the concept and launch successfully, Southern California entrepreneur Roy Englebrecht is delaying the start of the Professional Mixed Martial Arts League (PMMAL).
Englebrecht, a long-time boxing and MMA promoter, announced the creation of the PMMAL in late October. The venture is designed to bring the minor leagues to MMA, with eight teams in Southern California and Las Vegas comprised of up-and-coming fighters. The league was scheduled to begin competition early next year.
However, Englebrecht told MMAjunkie.com (www.mmajunkie.com) that he had originally hoped to announce the league back in August. A late-summer announcement would have allowed more time to pitch the business model to potential owners and establish franchises. Englebrecht recently reached a point where he felt launching the PMMAL in 2010 was simply too rushed.
"I want to do it right, and we are in a time crunch to try to start in early 2010 and have everything in place to have a successful first season," Englebrecht told MMAjunkie.com. "You don't get a second chance to make a good first impression."
Englebrecht remains confident in the concept and said there is interest among potential owners not only in California, but in eight other states as well. He's termed the delayed launch a "hold," which will afford him and his staff additional time to find the right franchise owners.
"I thought they (potential team owners) would capture the concept a little easier," admitted Englebrecht, who initially set the cost of acquiring a PMMAL franchise at $70,000. "If anything for 2011, we might look at reducing fees for them to come on board."
Englebrecht is one of the most successful fight promoters in the country, having produced the Battle in the Ballroom boxing series at the Irvine (Calif.) Marriott for the past quarter century. He's added MMA shows to his promotional lineup, and his promoter's license was used by Affliction for its first two events.
Citing a need for more time to refine the concept and launch successfully, Southern California entrepreneur Roy Englebrecht is delaying the start of the Professional Mixed Martial Arts League (PMMAL).
Englebrecht, a long-time boxing and MMA promoter, announced the creation of the PMMAL in late October. The venture is designed to bring the minor leagues to MMA, with eight teams in Southern California and Las Vegas comprised of up-and-coming fighters. The league was scheduled to begin competition early next year.
However, Englebrecht told MMAjunkie.com (www.mmajunkie.com) that he had originally hoped to announce the league back in August. A late-summer announcement would have allowed more time to pitch the business model to potential owners and establish franchises. Englebrecht recently reached a point where he felt launching the PMMAL in 2010 was simply too rushed.
"I want to do it right, and we are in a time crunch to try to start in early 2010 and have everything in place to have a successful first season," Englebrecht told MMAjunkie.com. "You don't get a second chance to make a good first impression."
Englebrecht remains confident in the concept and said there is interest among potential owners not only in California, but in eight other states as well. He's termed the delayed launch a "hold," which will afford him and his staff additional time to find the right franchise owners.
"I thought they (potential team owners) would capture the concept a little easier," admitted Englebrecht, who initially set the cost of acquiring a PMMAL franchise at $70,000. "If anything for 2011, we might look at reducing fees for them to come on board."
Englebrecht is one of the most successful fight promoters in the country, having produced the Battle in the Ballroom boxing series at the Irvine (Calif.) Marriott for the past quarter century. He's added MMA shows to his promotional lineup, and his promoter's license was used by Affliction for its first two events.
Yves Jabouin injured, Mark Hominick awaits new WEC 46 opponent (Updated)
An undisclosed injury has forced featherweight Yves Jabouin (14-5 MMA, 0-1 WEC) out of a scheduled WEC 46 bout.
His opponent, Mark Hominick (16-8 MMA, 0-2 WEC), now awaits a new opponent for his preliminary-card bout.
Hominick announced his opponent's injury today on Twitter, and MMAjunkie.com (www.mmajunkie.com) has since confirmed the injury with a source close to the event.
WEC 46 takes place Jan. 10 at ARCO Arena in Sacramento, Calif., and a main card headlined by WEC lightweight champion Jamie Varner vs. interim title-holder Benson Henderson airs on Versus.
Hominick, a former UFC fighter, hopes to avoid his third consecutive loss in the WEC. He suffered submission defeats to Rani Yahya and Josh Grispi, though the WEC appearances were separated by a couple wins over Ben Greer and Danny Martinez in the Canadian-based TKO organization, which has been a longtime home for the Ontario native.
Hominick was scheduled to face a fellow Canadian in Jabouin (14-5 MMA, 0-1 WEC), who recently snapped a four-fight win streak when he dropped a decision to Rafael Assuncao in his October WEC debut.
An undisclosed injury has forced featherweight Yves Jabouin (14-5 MMA, 0-1 WEC) out of a scheduled WEC 46 bout.
His opponent, Mark Hominick (16-8 MMA, 0-2 WEC), now awaits a new opponent for his preliminary-card bout.
Hominick announced his opponent's injury today on Twitter, and MMAjunkie.com (www.mmajunkie.com) has since confirmed the injury with a source close to the event.
WEC 46 takes place Jan. 10 at ARCO Arena in Sacramento, Calif., and a main card headlined by WEC lightweight champion Jamie Varner vs. interim title-holder Benson Henderson airs on Versus.
Hominick, a former UFC fighter, hopes to avoid his third consecutive loss in the WEC. He suffered submission defeats to Rani Yahya and Josh Grispi, though the WEC appearances were separated by a couple wins over Ben Greer and Danny Martinez in the Canadian-based TKO organization, which has been a longtime home for the Ontario native.
Hominick was scheduled to face a fellow Canadian in Jabouin (14-5 MMA, 0-1 WEC), who recently snapped a four-fight win streak when he dropped a decision to Rafael Assuncao in his October WEC debut.