After last weekends wild outcome, it was hard to believe that this weekend could live up to the same hype. But it did. Four major events went down, including one that hosted a one night eight man tournament.
Kicking things off was Bellator 146. Though much of the fight card was exciting, the main event and co-main event stole the show. Lightweight Brandon Girtz, coming off of a big win, decided to give the fans another show with a TKO of Derek Campos at just :37 of round 1. And then to cap things off was Middleweight Melvin Manhoef who dispatched of Hisaki Kato with a KO at 3:43 of round 1.
WSOF 25 was highlighted by a one night eight man tournament in the Lightweight division. The tournament was anything but normal with several winners of the quarterfinals having to drop out due to injuries and several losers advancing in their place. The final four saw Joao Zeferino defeat Jorge Patino via heel hook at 1:24 of round 1 and Brian Foster defeat Luis Palomino via TKO at 4:19 of round 2. Before the tournament final, Jason High took on Estevan Payan in another Lightweight contest. High won by way of KO at :47 of round 2. In the tournament final, Brian Foster shocked the world by beating the very man who took him out in the quarterfinal round, Joao Zeferino. Foster won by knocking out Zeferino at 4:51 of round 2. The tournament win sets up a WSOF Lightweight title fight with Foster and champion Justin Gaethje.
ONE Championship 33 saw two titles on the line as well as a tournament championship. Kairat Akhmetov claimed the Flyweight belt with a split decision win over Adriano Moraes. Marat Gafurov earned a victory while simultaneously unifying the Featherweight titles when he submitted Jadamba Narantungalag with a rear naked choke at 4:39 of round 4. Finally, Yang Sen won the Featherweight tournament with a second round kimura over Zhang Jia Cai at :35.
Following a historic weekend for the promotion, the UFC made its way to Mexico for UFC Fight Night 78. Flyweight Henry Cejudo defeated Jussier Formiga by split decision, possibly setting up a title shot against "Mighty Mouse." Ricardo Lamas won a unanimous decision over fellow Featherweight Diego Sanchez. And in the main event, Welterweight Neil Magny defeated Kelvin Gastelum via unanimous decision. The event also crowned two "TUF Latin America 2" tournament winners: Lightweight Enrique Barzola and Welterweight Erick Montano.
Sunday, November 22, 2015
Sunday, November 8, 2015
11/8/15
Many MMA fans are eagerly anticipating next weeks Rousey vs Holm fight, but this weekend produced some exciting fights of its own.
The action started with Bellator 145 "Vengeance." Heavyweight Bobby Lashley avenged his last loss to James Thompson via TKO at :54 of round 1. Former Lightweight champion Michael Chandler defeated David Rickels for the second time, this time by way of TKO at 3:05 of round 2. In the first of two title fights, "Ill" Will Brooks successfully defended his Lightweight belt despite popping his knee out in round 1. Brooks won via unanimous decision over Marcin Held. In the main event, Daniel Straus won the Featherweight strap by unanimous decision from Patricio "Pitbull" Freire, a man who previously defeated him twice.
At RFA 32 Lightweight Landon Vannata took out Chad Curry with a TKO (elbows) of Chad Curry at 1:29 of round 1. In the main event, Bantamweight Leandro Higo defeated Melvin Blumer via TKO at 2:58 of round 1.
Finishing off the weekend was UFC Fight Night 77. Bantamweight prospect Thomas Almeida remained undefeated with a vicious KO over Anthony Birchak at 4:24 of round 1. Light Heavyweight Glover Teixeira got back on track with a TKO victory against Patrick Cummins at 1:12 of round 2. In the main event Middleweight Vitor Belfort won the rubber match against Dan Henderson with a first round KO (head kick, punches). The stoppage came at 2:07 of round 2.
UFC on FOX 18, which takes place on Jan 30, got its headlining fight. Light Heavyweights Ryan "Darth" Bader and Anthony "Rumble" Johnson will meet in what is most likely a number one contenders match.
GLORY kickboxing has found a new home on ESPN platforms. GLORY - which was formerly partnered with Spike TV - signed a broadcast deal with ESPN.
Bellator veteran Brett Cooper has retired from MMA.
Rizin FC, an affiliate of Bellator, has announced more plans for their inaugural event on New Years Eve. A fight between Gabi Garcia and Lady Tapa will take place as well as Muhammed "King Mo" Lawal competing in a Light Heavyweight grand prix.
Bellator announced that a fight between legendary Royce Gracie and Ken Shamrock will headline Bellator 149. The co-main event will consist of a match-up between Kimbo Slice and Dada 5000. Weights have not been set yet.
The action started with Bellator 145 "Vengeance." Heavyweight Bobby Lashley avenged his last loss to James Thompson via TKO at :54 of round 1. Former Lightweight champion Michael Chandler defeated David Rickels for the second time, this time by way of TKO at 3:05 of round 2. In the first of two title fights, "Ill" Will Brooks successfully defended his Lightweight belt despite popping his knee out in round 1. Brooks won via unanimous decision over Marcin Held. In the main event, Daniel Straus won the Featherweight strap by unanimous decision from Patricio "Pitbull" Freire, a man who previously defeated him twice.
At RFA 32 Lightweight Landon Vannata took out Chad Curry with a TKO (elbows) of Chad Curry at 1:29 of round 1. In the main event, Bantamweight Leandro Higo defeated Melvin Blumer via TKO at 2:58 of round 1.
Finishing off the weekend was UFC Fight Night 77. Bantamweight prospect Thomas Almeida remained undefeated with a vicious KO over Anthony Birchak at 4:24 of round 1. Light Heavyweight Glover Teixeira got back on track with a TKO victory against Patrick Cummins at 1:12 of round 2. In the main event Middleweight Vitor Belfort won the rubber match against Dan Henderson with a first round KO (head kick, punches). The stoppage came at 2:07 of round 2.
UFC on FOX 18, which takes place on Jan 30, got its headlining fight. Light Heavyweights Ryan "Darth" Bader and Anthony "Rumble" Johnson will meet in what is most likely a number one contenders match.
GLORY kickboxing has found a new home on ESPN platforms. GLORY - which was formerly partnered with Spike TV - signed a broadcast deal with ESPN.
Bellator veteran Brett Cooper has retired from MMA.
Rizin FC, an affiliate of Bellator, has announced more plans for their inaugural event on New Years Eve. A fight between Gabi Garcia and Lady Tapa will take place as well as Muhammed "King Mo" Lawal competing in a Light Heavyweight grand prix.
Bellator announced that a fight between legendary Royce Gracie and Ken Shamrock will headline Bellator 149. The co-main event will consist of a match-up between Kimbo Slice and Dada 5000. Weights have not been set yet.
Sunday, October 18, 2015
10/18/15
At Legacy FC 47, Bantamweight C.J. Hamilton made quick work of Brantley Furr with a TKO coming at just :20 of round 1. Middleweight Dave Vitkay continued his impressive win streak with a win over Wesley Barnes via TKO (doctor stoppage) at the end of round 2. In the main event Featherweight Jordan Rinaldi defeated Clay Harvison via rear naked choke at 4:31 of round 2.
Two titles were on the line at WSOF 24. The first was for the inaugural Flyweight belt which saw Magomed Bibulatov earn a unanimous decision over Donavon Frelow. Lightweight Nick Newell got back on track with a unanimous decision win against Tom Marcellino. Following his victory, Newell announced his retirement. Blagoi Ivanov successfully defended his Heavyweight belt for the first time with a TKO win over Derrick Mehmen that came at 4:33 of round 2. The main event saw Welterweight Jon Fitch outwork Yushin Okami in the wrestling and grappling department for a unanimous decision win. The win grants Fitch a shot at the championship against fellow Welterweight Jake Sheilds.
Former UFC Bantamweight champion Renan Barao is rumored to be moving up to Featherweight.
ONE Championship will unify their Featherweight titles when Jadamba Narantungalag takes on Marat Gafurov at ONE Championship 35 in November.
The UFC has released TUF 19 winner Eddie Gordon.
Two titles were on the line at WSOF 24. The first was for the inaugural Flyweight belt which saw Magomed Bibulatov earn a unanimous decision over Donavon Frelow. Lightweight Nick Newell got back on track with a unanimous decision win against Tom Marcellino. Following his victory, Newell announced his retirement. Blagoi Ivanov successfully defended his Heavyweight belt for the first time with a TKO win over Derrick Mehmen that came at 4:33 of round 2. The main event saw Welterweight Jon Fitch outwork Yushin Okami in the wrestling and grappling department for a unanimous decision win. The win grants Fitch a shot at the championship against fellow Welterweight Jake Sheilds.
Former UFC Bantamweight champion Renan Barao is rumored to be moving up to Featherweight.
ONE Championship will unify their Featherweight titles when Jadamba Narantungalag takes on Marat Gafurov at ONE Championship 35 in November.
The UFC has released TUF 19 winner Eddie Gordon.
Sunday, October 11, 2015
10/11/15
ONE Championship 32 produced some of the more exciting fights this past weekend. Women's Flyweight Irina Mazepa came up big in her debut with a vicious KO win over Ann Osman at 3:05 of round 1. Undefeated Vitaly Bigdash defeated Igor Svirid in a come from behind TKO victory at :36 of round 2. With the win, Bigdash claimed the Middleweight title.
At RFA 31 Middleweight Gabriel Checco defeated Mike Jasper by way of armbar at 4:19 of round 3. Jocelyn Jones-Lybarger looked impressive in her unanimous decision Strawweight title win over Zoila Frausto. And in the main event Welterweight Bristol Marunde was forced to stop fighting after suffering a gruesome jaw injury. Marunde was most likely winning on the judges scorecards over Gilbert Smith. Because of the stoppage Smith retained his title via TKO (injury) at 2:03 of round 4.
UFC Bantamweight champion T.J. Dillashaw has officially left Team Alpha Male. He is now a member of Elevation Fight Team in Colorado.
Two time UFC Flyweight title challenger John Dodson has announced that he will be moving up to Bantamweight where he owns a win over Dillashaw, the current champion.
UFC Fight Pass has added BRACE, an Australian promotion, to their lineup.
Bellator Bantamweight Joe Warren has tested positive for marijuana following his win at Bellator 143.
Legacy FC 49 is set with two title fights as Derrick Krantz will fight Alex Morono for the vacant Welterweight belt and Ariel Beck will take on Andrea Lee for the vacant Women's Flyweight title.
At RFA 31 Middleweight Gabriel Checco defeated Mike Jasper by way of armbar at 4:19 of round 3. Jocelyn Jones-Lybarger looked impressive in her unanimous decision Strawweight title win over Zoila Frausto. And in the main event Welterweight Bristol Marunde was forced to stop fighting after suffering a gruesome jaw injury. Marunde was most likely winning on the judges scorecards over Gilbert Smith. Because of the stoppage Smith retained his title via TKO (injury) at 2:03 of round 4.
UFC Bantamweight champion T.J. Dillashaw has officially left Team Alpha Male. He is now a member of Elevation Fight Team in Colorado.
Two time UFC Flyweight title challenger John Dodson has announced that he will be moving up to Bantamweight where he owns a win over Dillashaw, the current champion.
UFC Fight Pass has added BRACE, an Australian promotion, to their lineup.
Bellator Bantamweight Joe Warren has tested positive for marijuana following his win at Bellator 143.
Legacy FC 49 is set with two title fights as Derrick Krantz will fight Alex Morono for the vacant Welterweight belt and Ariel Beck will take on Andrea Lee for the vacant Women's Flyweight title.
Monday, October 5, 2015
10/4/15
Legacy FC 46 kicked off this past weeks MMA festivities. Middleweight Rafael Lovato Jr defeated Kevin Holland by way of rear naked choke at 1:24 of round 1. In the main event long time Legacy FC Bantamweight Steven "Ocho" Peterson upped his win streak to five with a thrilling unanimous decision win over Irwin Rivera.
UFC 192 was filled with decisions to say the least. Julianna Pena, Joseph Benavidez, Ruslan Magomedov and Ryan "Darth" Bader all won unanimous decisions on the main card. And in the main event, Daniel Cormier squeaked by Alexander Gustafsson with a split decision - though many thought it should have been a clear cut unanimous decision - that allowed him to retain his Light Heavyweight belt.
Former UFC Middleweight champion Rich Franklin has officially announced his retirement from MMA.
Former UFC Light Heavyweight champion Jon Jones has pleaded guilty to a felony charge and will receive no jail time for his part in a hit and run where he got out of his vehicle and fled the scene. Little is still known about if and when he will return to the UFC.
Ex Bellator commentator Sean Wheelock will be calling the action at Titan FC 36 which airs exclusively on UFC Fight Pass.
World Series of Fighting has announced that the winner of Jon Fitch and Yushin Okami will fight Jake Shields for their vacant Welterweight title.
UFC 192 was filled with decisions to say the least. Julianna Pena, Joseph Benavidez, Ruslan Magomedov and Ryan "Darth" Bader all won unanimous decisions on the main card. And in the main event, Daniel Cormier squeaked by Alexander Gustafsson with a split decision - though many thought it should have been a clear cut unanimous decision - that allowed him to retain his Light Heavyweight belt.
Former UFC Middleweight champion Rich Franklin has officially announced his retirement from MMA.
Former UFC Light Heavyweight champion Jon Jones has pleaded guilty to a felony charge and will receive no jail time for his part in a hit and run where he got out of his vehicle and fled the scene. Little is still known about if and when he will return to the UFC.
Ex Bellator commentator Sean Wheelock will be calling the action at Titan FC 36 which airs exclusively on UFC Fight Pass.
World Series of Fighting has announced that the winner of Jon Fitch and Yushin Okami will fight Jake Shields for their vacant Welterweight title.
Sunday, September 27, 2015
9/27/15
For the first time in awhile, Bellator held its second event in the span of two weeks time. Bellator 143 saw Featherweight Emmanuel Sanchez defeat Henry Corrales by split decision in the nights most exciting fight. Middleweight Kendall Grove won his first fight since his defeat to the champion. Grove got past fellow UFC veteran Joey Beltran via TKO at 2:27 of round 3. Finally, Bantamweight Joe Warren made strides towards the belt he once possessed with a unanimous decision over L.C. Davis.
However, UFC Fight Night Japan, otherwise known as UFC Fight Night 75, took home the prize for best event of the weekend. Bantamweight Takeya Mizugaki earned a unanimous decision over George Roop. Kyoji Horiguchi won his come back fight after his challenge for the Flyweight title. Horiguchi defeated Chico Camus by way of unanimous decision. Middleweight Uriah Hall won in highlight fashion with a flying spinning back kick TKO over Gegard Mousasi at :25 of round 2. And in the main event Josh Barnett defeated Roy "Big Country" Nelson by unanimous decision.
A plea hearing for former UFC Light Heavyweight champion Jon Jones has been set for Sept. 29.
Invicta FC has signed TUF Strawweight veteran Lisa Ellis. Four other fighters were also signed.
Former Lightweight champion Michael Chandler will take on Dave Rickels in a rematch that will headline Bellator 145. Chandler won the first meeting decisively.
An inaugural Flyweight title fight is set for WSOF 24. The two contenders are Magomed Bibulatov and Donavon Frelow.
However, UFC Fight Night Japan, otherwise known as UFC Fight Night 75, took home the prize for best event of the weekend. Bantamweight Takeya Mizugaki earned a unanimous decision over George Roop. Kyoji Horiguchi won his come back fight after his challenge for the Flyweight title. Horiguchi defeated Chico Camus by way of unanimous decision. Middleweight Uriah Hall won in highlight fashion with a flying spinning back kick TKO over Gegard Mousasi at :25 of round 2. And in the main event Josh Barnett defeated Roy "Big Country" Nelson by unanimous decision.
A plea hearing for former UFC Light Heavyweight champion Jon Jones has been set for Sept. 29.
Invicta FC has signed TUF Strawweight veteran Lisa Ellis. Four other fighters were also signed.
Former Lightweight champion Michael Chandler will take on Dave Rickels in a rematch that will headline Bellator 145. Chandler won the first meeting decisively.
An inaugural Flyweight title fight is set for WSOF 24. The two contenders are Magomed Bibulatov and Donavon Frelow.
Sunday, September 20, 2015
9/20/15
Without a question, this weekend of mixed martial arts was ideal for any true MMA fan. From WSOF to Bellator, no matter where you turned you could watch an action packed night of fights.
RFA 30 started things off. Lightweight Adam Townsend added another win to his streak with a unanimous decision over Ryan Roberts. In the main event UFC and Bellator veteran Anthony Smith defeated fellow Middleweight Brock Jardine via TKO at 3:00 of round 1.
Around the same time, WSOF 23 was underway. Bantamweight Timur Valiev won a unanimous decision over Tito Jones to go 4-0 in the promotion. David Branch won his second belt - the inaugural Light Heavyweight title - with a win over Teddy Holder by way of rear naked choke at 2:21 of round 1. Branch said he will attempt to defend both of his belts. The main event featured a rematch of what is possibly the fight of the year. Both Lightweight champion Justin Gaethje and Luis Palomino picked up right where they left off. Gaethje defended his belt yet again, this time with a TKO at 4:40 of round 2.
Three titles were on the line at Titan Fighting Championship 35. Tim Elliot successfully defended his Flyweight strap against Felipe Efrain. Elliot won via guillotine at 2:30 of round 2. Andre Harrison retained his belt as well with a unanimous decision over Featherweight challenger Desmond Green. In the main event Rick Hawn claimed the vacant Lightweight belt with a unanimous decision over Pat Healy.
Bellator 142: "Dynamite" was possibly the best event of the year thus far. In the Light Heavyweight tournament opening round, Muhammed "King Mo" Lawal defeated Linton Vassell via decision and Phil Davis got past Emanuel Newton by way of kimura which came at 4:39 of round 1. Next Lightweight Josh Thomson defeated Mike Bronzoulis via arm triangle at :31 of round 2. The finals of the Light Heavyweight tournament were shaken up with "King Mo" not being cleared to fight, so Francis Carmont (an alternate) stepped in. Davis was able to defeat Carmont via TKO at 2:15 of round 1. By winning the tournament, he is now in line to fight for the title, which was up for grabs in the main event. That main event saw Liam McGeary defend his belt against Tito Ortiz. McGeary won in impressive fashion with a inverted triangle at 4:41 of round 1.
Former Invicta FC champion Katja Kankaanpaa announced her retirement following her loss last week at Invicta FC 14.
A rematch between ONE Welterweight champion Ben Askren and Luis "Sapo" Santos will headline the promotions fight card on Nov 13.
Legacy FC 48 will be headlined by a title fight between Middleweight champion Leonardo Leite and Ryan Spann. Also on the fight card will be a four man kickboxing tournament.
In what was possibly this weekends biggest announcement, "The Last Emperor" Fedor Emelianenko announced at Bellator 142: "Dynamite" that he would be coming out of retirement. He will fight in a new promotion under PRIDE boss Nobuyuki Sakakibara on New Year's Eve.
RFA 30 started things off. Lightweight Adam Townsend added another win to his streak with a unanimous decision over Ryan Roberts. In the main event UFC and Bellator veteran Anthony Smith defeated fellow Middleweight Brock Jardine via TKO at 3:00 of round 1.
Around the same time, WSOF 23 was underway. Bantamweight Timur Valiev won a unanimous decision over Tito Jones to go 4-0 in the promotion. David Branch won his second belt - the inaugural Light Heavyweight title - with a win over Teddy Holder by way of rear naked choke at 2:21 of round 1. Branch said he will attempt to defend both of his belts. The main event featured a rematch of what is possibly the fight of the year. Both Lightweight champion Justin Gaethje and Luis Palomino picked up right where they left off. Gaethje defended his belt yet again, this time with a TKO at 4:40 of round 2.
Three titles were on the line at Titan Fighting Championship 35. Tim Elliot successfully defended his Flyweight strap against Felipe Efrain. Elliot won via guillotine at 2:30 of round 2. Andre Harrison retained his belt as well with a unanimous decision over Featherweight challenger Desmond Green. In the main event Rick Hawn claimed the vacant Lightweight belt with a unanimous decision over Pat Healy.
Bellator 142: "Dynamite" was possibly the best event of the year thus far. In the Light Heavyweight tournament opening round, Muhammed "King Mo" Lawal defeated Linton Vassell via decision and Phil Davis got past Emanuel Newton by way of kimura which came at 4:39 of round 1. Next Lightweight Josh Thomson defeated Mike Bronzoulis via arm triangle at :31 of round 2. The finals of the Light Heavyweight tournament were shaken up with "King Mo" not being cleared to fight, so Francis Carmont (an alternate) stepped in. Davis was able to defeat Carmont via TKO at 2:15 of round 1. By winning the tournament, he is now in line to fight for the title, which was up for grabs in the main event. That main event saw Liam McGeary defend his belt against Tito Ortiz. McGeary won in impressive fashion with a inverted triangle at 4:41 of round 1.
Former Invicta FC champion Katja Kankaanpaa announced her retirement following her loss last week at Invicta FC 14.
A rematch between ONE Welterweight champion Ben Askren and Luis "Sapo" Santos will headline the promotions fight card on Nov 13.
Legacy FC 48 will be headlined by a title fight between Middleweight champion Leonardo Leite and Ryan Spann. Also on the fight card will be a four man kickboxing tournament.
In what was possibly this weekends biggest announcement, "The Last Emperor" Fedor Emelianenko announced at Bellator 142: "Dynamite" that he would be coming out of retirement. He will fight in a new promotion under PRIDE boss Nobuyuki Sakakibara on New Year's Eve.
Monday, September 14, 2015
9/13/15
This past weekends events were just the calm before the storm that is next weekends schedule of major MMA fights. But that doesn't mean they're not just as important.
Legacy FC 45 took place Friday with a brand new main event due to the initial one being scrapped because of an injury. Despite the shift in the lineup, the fight card was phenomenal. Lightweight Derrick Adkins survived an early onslaught to defeat Jesse Chaffin with a d'arce choke at 2:56 of round 1. In another fight that ended in the first round, Featherweight Caio Rocha earned a KO (front kick) win over James Warren at 4:49. The main event saw Welterweight J.C. Cottrell win against Ed Cline Jr. via rear naked choke at 1:18 of round 1. The victory was Cottrell's fifth straight.
At Invicta FC 14, Flyweight Andrea "KGB" Lee returned to the win column with an armbar over Rachael Ostovich. The submission came at 4:58 of round 3. Flyweight favorite Roxanne Modafferi looked impressive with a TKO over Mariana Morais. Strawweight DeAnna Bennett remained undefeated with a unanimous decision over Katja Kankaanpaa. Finally, Bantamweight champion Tonya Evinger defeated Pannie Kianzad via TKO at 3:34 of round 2. The belt was however not on the line due to the fact that Kianzad missed weight.
A Middleweight contest between Hisaki Kato and Melvin Manhoef will headline Bellator 146.
UFC Women's Bantamweight champion Ronda Rousey will star in a remake of the famous Patrick Swayze movie 'Road House'.
T.J. Dillashaw will next defend his UFC Bantamweight belt against Dominick Cruz at what is likely to be UFC Fight Night 81.
Bellator has secured the famous voice of announcer Lenne Hardt for this weekends Bellator 142: 'Dynamite' event.
Invicta FC 15 will be headlined by a Strawweight title fight between champion Livia Renata Souza and undefeated challenger Alexa Grasso. The event will also feature Cristiane "Cyborg" Justino fighting at a 140 pound catchweight. Her opponent is yet to be named.
Legacy FC 45 took place Friday with a brand new main event due to the initial one being scrapped because of an injury. Despite the shift in the lineup, the fight card was phenomenal. Lightweight Derrick Adkins survived an early onslaught to defeat Jesse Chaffin with a d'arce choke at 2:56 of round 1. In another fight that ended in the first round, Featherweight Caio Rocha earned a KO (front kick) win over James Warren at 4:49. The main event saw Welterweight J.C. Cottrell win against Ed Cline Jr. via rear naked choke at 1:18 of round 1. The victory was Cottrell's fifth straight.
At Invicta FC 14, Flyweight Andrea "KGB" Lee returned to the win column with an armbar over Rachael Ostovich. The submission came at 4:58 of round 3. Flyweight favorite Roxanne Modafferi looked impressive with a TKO over Mariana Morais. Strawweight DeAnna Bennett remained undefeated with a unanimous decision over Katja Kankaanpaa. Finally, Bantamweight champion Tonya Evinger defeated Pannie Kianzad via TKO at 3:34 of round 2. The belt was however not on the line due to the fact that Kianzad missed weight.
A Middleweight contest between Hisaki Kato and Melvin Manhoef will headline Bellator 146.
UFC Women's Bantamweight champion Ronda Rousey will star in a remake of the famous Patrick Swayze movie 'Road House'.
T.J. Dillashaw will next defend his UFC Bantamweight belt against Dominick Cruz at what is likely to be UFC Fight Night 81.
Bellator has secured the famous voice of announcer Lenne Hardt for this weekends Bellator 142: 'Dynamite' event.
Invicta FC 15 will be headlined by a Strawweight title fight between champion Livia Renata Souza and undefeated challenger Alexa Grasso. The event will also feature Cristiane "Cyborg" Justino fighting at a 140 pound catchweight. Her opponent is yet to be named.
Monday, September 7, 2015
9/6/15
The Ultimate Fighting Championship dominated the MMA headlines this past week. The promotion had the lone major event this weekend as well as a huge press conference titled "GO BIG" with almost all of this winter's main event fighters attending.
At UFC 191 Women's Strawweight prospect Paige VanZant kept her hype train going with a third round armbar win over Alex Chambers. The submission came at 1:01. Light Heavyweight Corey Anderson won a dominating three round decision win over Jan Blachowicz. In that very division, Anthony "Rumble" Johnson returned to the win column with a victory against Jimi Manuwa. Johnson won in his usual devastating fashion, the KO finish came at just :28 of round 2. In the co-main event Heavyweight veteran Andrei Arlovski defeated fellow veteran Frank Mir by unanimous decision. And finally, champion Demetrious "Mighty Mouse" Johnson successfully defended his Flyweight belt yet again, this time with a unanimous decision win over rival John Dodson.
Retired UFC title challenger Chael Sonnen will serve as color commentator for WSOF 23 on NBCSN.
A Welterweight title fight between champion Robbie Lawler and challenger Carlos Condit will take place Jan 2 at UFC 195. The fight will serve as headliner.
UFC Women's Strawweight champion Joanna Jedrzejczyk will defend her belt against Valerie Letourneau in the co-main event of UFC 193. The event is headlined by Ronda Rousey and Holly Holm. It will be the first time in UFC history where two women's title fights will be on the same card.
At UFC 191 Women's Strawweight prospect Paige VanZant kept her hype train going with a third round armbar win over Alex Chambers. The submission came at 1:01. Light Heavyweight Corey Anderson won a dominating three round decision win over Jan Blachowicz. In that very division, Anthony "Rumble" Johnson returned to the win column with a victory against Jimi Manuwa. Johnson won in his usual devastating fashion, the KO finish came at just :28 of round 2. In the co-main event Heavyweight veteran Andrei Arlovski defeated fellow veteran Frank Mir by unanimous decision. And finally, champion Demetrious "Mighty Mouse" Johnson successfully defended his Flyweight belt yet again, this time with a unanimous decision win over rival John Dodson.
Retired UFC title challenger Chael Sonnen will serve as color commentator for WSOF 23 on NBCSN.
A Welterweight title fight between champion Robbie Lawler and challenger Carlos Condit will take place Jan 2 at UFC 195. The fight will serve as headliner.
UFC Women's Strawweight champion Joanna Jedrzejczyk will defend her belt against Valerie Letourneau in the co-main event of UFC 193. The event is headlined by Ronda Rousey and Holly Holm. It will be the first time in UFC history where two women's title fights will be on the same card.
Sunday, August 30, 2015
8/30/15
Well it has been a busy summer with very few posts but the Five Round Review is back and here to stay! And oh what a week to come back with MMA news, especially Bellator news, coming from every which way. With that being said let's get back to it.
At Legacy FC 44 Lightweight and TUF 21 veteran Carrington Banks worked his way to a unanimous decision win over Justin Reiswerg. In the main event Welterweight Alex Morono won his sixth fight with the promotion with a KO win over Valdir Araujo that came at 2:18 of round 3.
When it comes to Bellator 141, there's lots of news to cover. Women's Featherweight Marloes Coenen added to her impressive career by defeating Arlene Blencowe via armbar at 3:23 of round 2. Heavyweight Justin Wren returned to MMA after a five year hiatus and gutted out a three round unanimous decision win over Josh Burns. Lightweight Patricky "Pitbull" Freire defeated Saad Awad via unanimous decision. Finally the night was capped off by an upset win. Brandon Girtz won a unanimous decision win against UFC and WSOF veteran Melvin Guillard by utilizing his superior wrestling skills.
Legacy FC 46 has been announced for Oct. 2 and will be headlined by Bantamweights Steven Peterson and Irwin Rivera. In addition, Legacy FC 47 was also announced for Oct 16 with Clay Harvison and Jordan Rinaldi in the main event.
Contributing to the recent theme of promotions putting on one-night tournaments, WSOF has announced their own eight man competition for Nov. 20. It will feature such prominent Lightweights as: Islam Mamedov, Mike Ricci, Joao Zeferino, Rich Patishnock, Jorge Patino, Brian Cobb and two other yet to be named fighters.
UFC veteran Brandon Vera will fight for the ONE Heavyweight title against the undefeated Chi Lewis Parry.
Twenty-five year old UFC veteran Jordan Mein has announced his retirement from MMA. Despite his young age he is a veteran of 39 fights.
Bellator Middleweight Brandon Halsey will fight for the very belt he was forced to vacate at Bellator 144. His opponent will be Rafael Carvalho. The fight will serve as the night's main event.
RFA has completed their next months fight card (RFA 30) with the headliner featuring two UFC veterans. Middleweight Brock Jardine will take on Anthony Smith.
UFC Women's Bantamweight champion Ronda Rousey will not in fact fight Holly Holm on Jan 2. Rather, the two will meet at UFC 193 in November. The fight card takes place in Australia.
The Bellator 142 one-night Light Heavyweight tournament match-ups have been set. Phil Davis and Emanuel Newton will face off with "King Mo" fighting Linton Vessel. In addition a reserve bout between Francis Carmont and Philipe Lins has been announced.
At Legacy FC 44 Lightweight and TUF 21 veteran Carrington Banks worked his way to a unanimous decision win over Justin Reiswerg. In the main event Welterweight Alex Morono won his sixth fight with the promotion with a KO win over Valdir Araujo that came at 2:18 of round 3.
When it comes to Bellator 141, there's lots of news to cover. Women's Featherweight Marloes Coenen added to her impressive career by defeating Arlene Blencowe via armbar at 3:23 of round 2. Heavyweight Justin Wren returned to MMA after a five year hiatus and gutted out a three round unanimous decision win over Josh Burns. Lightweight Patricky "Pitbull" Freire defeated Saad Awad via unanimous decision. Finally the night was capped off by an upset win. Brandon Girtz won a unanimous decision win against UFC and WSOF veteran Melvin Guillard by utilizing his superior wrestling skills.
Legacy FC 46 has been announced for Oct. 2 and will be headlined by Bantamweights Steven Peterson and Irwin Rivera. In addition, Legacy FC 47 was also announced for Oct 16 with Clay Harvison and Jordan Rinaldi in the main event.
Contributing to the recent theme of promotions putting on one-night tournaments, WSOF has announced their own eight man competition for Nov. 20. It will feature such prominent Lightweights as: Islam Mamedov, Mike Ricci, Joao Zeferino, Rich Patishnock, Jorge Patino, Brian Cobb and two other yet to be named fighters.
UFC veteran Brandon Vera will fight for the ONE Heavyweight title against the undefeated Chi Lewis Parry.
Twenty-five year old UFC veteran Jordan Mein has announced his retirement from MMA. Despite his young age he is a veteran of 39 fights.
Bellator Middleweight Brandon Halsey will fight for the very belt he was forced to vacate at Bellator 144. His opponent will be Rafael Carvalho. The fight will serve as the night's main event.
RFA has completed their next months fight card (RFA 30) with the headliner featuring two UFC veterans. Middleweight Brock Jardine will take on Anthony Smith.
UFC Women's Bantamweight champion Ronda Rousey will not in fact fight Holly Holm on Jan 2. Rather, the two will meet at UFC 193 in November. The fight card takes place in Australia.
The Bellator 142 one-night Light Heavyweight tournament match-ups have been set. Phil Davis and Emanuel Newton will face off with "King Mo" fighting Linton Vessel. In addition a reserve bout between Francis Carmont and Philipe Lins has been announced.
Sunday, June 21, 2015
6/21/15
I've been lazy in my recent attempts to keep this Five Round Review consistent in the month of June. With several vacations looming I regretfully have to say that trend will continue. But, I couldn't resist getting one out early for this weekends three big events.
At ONE Championship 28 two single night tournament winners were crowned. Ze Wu won the Flyweight tournament by defeating both Hui Qiang Wu and Jianbing Yang. Di Yuan Huang won the Featherweight tournament by defeating both Jian She Tian and Jia Wen Ma. In the main event Featherweight Timofey Nastyukhin won his second straight fight by soccer kicks. The TKO over Yusuke Kawanago came at 1:32 of round 1.
Bellator 138 was an awkward, yet stacked fight card that went down on Friday. Heavyweight Bobby Lashley remained undefeated in the promotion with a second round TKO over Dan Charles at 4:14. Patricio Freire successfully defended his Featherweight belt in dramatic fashion after Daniel Weichel nearly finished him in round 1. Freire came back with a KO finish at :32 of round 2. The bad blood was settled in the main event as Kimbo Slice defeated Ken Shamrock via TKO at 2:22 of round 1. Former champions Michael Chandler and Daniel Straus also picked up wins at Bellator 138.
UFC Fight Night 69 saw Peter Sobotta earn his second win in his second stint with the promotion. Sobotta defeated Steve Kennedy via rear naked choke at 2:57 of round 1. Featherweight legend Tatsuya Kawajiri did just enough to defeat Dennis Siver by way of unanimous decision. Finally, Women's Strawweight champion Joanna Jedrzejczyk dominated challenger Jessica Penne, severely cutting her nose in the process. Jedrzejczyk's TKO win came at 4:22 of round 3.
Titan Fighting Championship events will now be exclusively aired on UFC Fight Pass. Their first event under the streaming service has been set for July 18 and will be headlined by a Lightweight title fight between UFC veterans Mike Ricci and Pat Healy.
Bellator once again is changing things up with "Bellator 141: Dynamite." The promotion has partnered up with GLORY Kickboxing and will feature two (possibly three) kickboxing contests alongside the MMA fights. Also on the fight card will be a one night Light Heavyweight tournament featuring notable fighters "King Mo", Emanuel Newton, Linton Vassell and Phil Davis. Not only that but the night will be capped off by a Light Heavyweight title fight between challenger Tito Ortiz and champion Liam McGeary.
At ONE Championship 28 two single night tournament winners were crowned. Ze Wu won the Flyweight tournament by defeating both Hui Qiang Wu and Jianbing Yang. Di Yuan Huang won the Featherweight tournament by defeating both Jian She Tian and Jia Wen Ma. In the main event Featherweight Timofey Nastyukhin won his second straight fight by soccer kicks. The TKO over Yusuke Kawanago came at 1:32 of round 1.
Bellator 138 was an awkward, yet stacked fight card that went down on Friday. Heavyweight Bobby Lashley remained undefeated in the promotion with a second round TKO over Dan Charles at 4:14. Patricio Freire successfully defended his Featherweight belt in dramatic fashion after Daniel Weichel nearly finished him in round 1. Freire came back with a KO finish at :32 of round 2. The bad blood was settled in the main event as Kimbo Slice defeated Ken Shamrock via TKO at 2:22 of round 1. Former champions Michael Chandler and Daniel Straus also picked up wins at Bellator 138.
UFC Fight Night 69 saw Peter Sobotta earn his second win in his second stint with the promotion. Sobotta defeated Steve Kennedy via rear naked choke at 2:57 of round 1. Featherweight legend Tatsuya Kawajiri did just enough to defeat Dennis Siver by way of unanimous decision. Finally, Women's Strawweight champion Joanna Jedrzejczyk dominated challenger Jessica Penne, severely cutting her nose in the process. Jedrzejczyk's TKO win came at 4:22 of round 3.
Titan Fighting Championship events will now be exclusively aired on UFC Fight Pass. Their first event under the streaming service has been set for July 18 and will be headlined by a Lightweight title fight between UFC veterans Mike Ricci and Pat Healy.
Bellator once again is changing things up with "Bellator 141: Dynamite." The promotion has partnered up with GLORY Kickboxing and will feature two (possibly three) kickboxing contests alongside the MMA fights. Also on the fight card will be a one night Light Heavyweight tournament featuring notable fighters "King Mo", Emanuel Newton, Linton Vassell and Phil Davis. Not only that but the night will be capped off by a Light Heavyweight title fight between challenger Tito Ortiz and champion Liam McGeary.
Monday, June 8, 2015
6/7/15
The busy weekend of MMA was kicked off with WSOF 21 in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. TUF veteran Micheal Hill won his third straight fight in the promotion with a split decision win over fellow Welterweight Mark Drummond. Blagoi Ivanov claimed the Heavyweight title with a guillotine win that came at 1:17 of round 3 over former champion Smealinho Rama. Ivanov was able to sink in the choke after severely stunning Rama with crisp striking. In the main event Lance Palmer successfully defended his Featherweight belt for the first time with a win over Chris Horodecki. Palmer won via rear naked choke at 4:28 of round 1.
At RFA 26 Welterweight Marcus Edwards, a veteran of the MFC and Titan FC, won a unanimous decision over Thiago Alves Cavalcante Rodrigues. TUF veteran Gilbert Smith won the Welterweight title over Benjamin Smith with a quick, out of nowhere armbar at 3:27 of round 3.
Saying UFC Fight Night 68 was a good fight card would be a severe understatement. The event tied a promotion record for most first round finishes (7). Featherweight prospect Brian Ortega defeated Thiago Tavares by way of TKO at 4:10 of round 3. The fight was good enough to earn "Fight of the Night". Dustin Poirier made a big move to Lightweight and defeated Yancy Medeiros via TKO at 2:38 of round 1. Heavyweight Ben Rothwell made another step up in the division with a first round front choke submission over Matt Mitrione at 1:54. And in the main event future hall of famer Dan Henderson had no problem defeating Tim Boetsch in a Middleweight contest. Henderson won via KO at just :28 of round 1.
The UFC has announced that Luke Rockhold will be next in line to fight Chris Weidman for the Middleweight belt. Also, in the Light Heavyweight division, Daniel Cormier will look to defend his title for the first time against Alxander Gustafsson.
The UFC has released 10 fighters which includes Flyweights Tim Elliot and Louis Gaudinot and Middleweight Dylan Andrews.
At RFA 26 Welterweight Marcus Edwards, a veteran of the MFC and Titan FC, won a unanimous decision over Thiago Alves Cavalcante Rodrigues. TUF veteran Gilbert Smith won the Welterweight title over Benjamin Smith with a quick, out of nowhere armbar at 3:27 of round 3.
Saying UFC Fight Night 68 was a good fight card would be a severe understatement. The event tied a promotion record for most first round finishes (7). Featherweight prospect Brian Ortega defeated Thiago Tavares by way of TKO at 4:10 of round 3. The fight was good enough to earn "Fight of the Night". Dustin Poirier made a big move to Lightweight and defeated Yancy Medeiros via TKO at 2:38 of round 1. Heavyweight Ben Rothwell made another step up in the division with a first round front choke submission over Matt Mitrione at 1:54. And in the main event future hall of famer Dan Henderson had no problem defeating Tim Boetsch in a Middleweight contest. Henderson won via KO at just :28 of round 1.
The UFC has announced that Luke Rockhold will be next in line to fight Chris Weidman for the Middleweight belt. Also, in the Light Heavyweight division, Daniel Cormier will look to defend his title for the first time against Alxander Gustafsson.
The UFC has released 10 fighters which includes Flyweights Tim Elliot and Louis Gaudinot and Middleweight Dylan Andrews.
Sunday, May 24, 2015
5/24/15
ONE Championship 27 saw one man defend his belt and another win an inaugural title. Thailand's Dejdamrong Sor Amnuaysirichoke won the inaugural Men's Strawweight championship with a unanimous decision win over Roy Doliguez. In the main event Japanese superstar Shinya Aoki utilized his world famous grappling to defeat Koji Ando by unanimous decision.
Even with the pulling of former Light Heavyweight champion Jon Jones from the fight card, UFC 187 was heavily hyped. It lived up to those expectations. Heavyweights Andrei Arlovski and Travis Browne took part in a slug fest that took home "fight of the night". Arlovski got the better of the brawl with a TKO win coming at 4:41 of round 1. Lightweight Donald "Cowboy" Cerrone earned his eighth straight win with a TKO victory over John Makdessi at 4:44 of round 2. Chris Weidman defeated Vitor Belfort via TKO at 2:53 of round 1 to retain his Middleweight belt. And finally, Daniel Cormier defeated Anthony "Rumble" Johnson by way of rear naked choke at 2:39 of round 3 to win the vacant Light Heavyweight championship.
The UFC has announced that they plan to host their first event in South Korea. The targeted date is November 28.
WSOF has released Women's Strawweight champion Jessica Aguilar who is ranked first in the world for the division.
Both RFA and WSOF signed several fighters to their respective rosters this past week. All three WSOF signees are Russian fighters.
Even with the pulling of former Light Heavyweight champion Jon Jones from the fight card, UFC 187 was heavily hyped. It lived up to those expectations. Heavyweights Andrei Arlovski and Travis Browne took part in a slug fest that took home "fight of the night". Arlovski got the better of the brawl with a TKO win coming at 4:41 of round 1. Lightweight Donald "Cowboy" Cerrone earned his eighth straight win with a TKO victory over John Makdessi at 4:44 of round 2. Chris Weidman defeated Vitor Belfort via TKO at 2:53 of round 1 to retain his Middleweight belt. And finally, Daniel Cormier defeated Anthony "Rumble" Johnson by way of rear naked choke at 2:39 of round 3 to win the vacant Light Heavyweight championship.
The UFC has announced that they plan to host their first event in South Korea. The targeted date is November 28.
WSOF has released Women's Strawweight champion Jessica Aguilar who is ranked first in the world for the division.
Both RFA and WSOF signed several fighters to their respective rosters this past week. All three WSOF signees are Russian fighters.
Sunday, May 17, 2015
5/17/15
At Bellator 137 former Bantamweight champion Eduardo "dudu" Dantas made a successful return with a unanimous decision win over Mike Richman. In the main event the Middleweight belt was going to be on the line, but that was not the case when champion Brandon Halsey missed weight. Regardless, Halsey defeated his opponent Kendall Grove via TKO at 2:25 of round 4. Halsey was stripped of his belt.
The Ultimate Fighting Championship made its debut in The Philippines for UFC Fight Night 66. Middleweight veteran Mark Munoz road off to the sunset of retirement with a unanimous decision win over Luke Barnatt. Middleweight Gegard Mousasi dominated Costas Philippou with a unanimous decision win. And in the main event Frankie Edgar, former Lightweight champion turned Featherweight contender, defeated Urijah Faber via unanimous decision and winning all five rounds in the process.
Ed Ruth, a three-time national championship wrestler at Penn State, has signed with Bellator.
UFC Heavyweights Josh Barnett and Roy "Big Country" Nelson will serve as coaches for "Road to UFC: Japan," a show similar to The Ultimate fighter where eight Japanese fighters will look to earn a spot with the promotion. Barnett and Nelson will meet later this year in a fight held in Japan.
The Ultimate Fighting Championship made its debut in The Philippines for UFC Fight Night 66. Middleweight veteran Mark Munoz road off to the sunset of retirement with a unanimous decision win over Luke Barnatt. Middleweight Gegard Mousasi dominated Costas Philippou with a unanimous decision win. And in the main event Frankie Edgar, former Lightweight champion turned Featherweight contender, defeated Urijah Faber via unanimous decision and winning all five rounds in the process.
Ed Ruth, a three-time national championship wrestler at Penn State, has signed with Bellator.
UFC Heavyweights Josh Barnett and Roy "Big Country" Nelson will serve as coaches for "Road to UFC: Japan," a show similar to The Ultimate fighter where eight Japanese fighters will look to earn a spot with the promotion. Barnett and Nelson will meet later this year in a fight held in Japan.
Sunday, May 10, 2015
5/10/15
The chances of MMA fans getting to see two large organizations go head to head is slim to none; but this past Saturday, RFA took on fellow AXS TV promotion Legacy FC. The competition, which featured four bouts of RFA vs Legacy, was friendly (between the two owners at least) but bragging rights were on the line. Mike Bronzoulis showcased his amped up cardio with a unanimous decision win over Dave Burrow to claim the vacant Legacy FC Lightweight title. Luke Sanders defended his RFA Bantamweight belt in dominating fashion with a unanimous decision win that almost rendered Terrion Ware, his opponent, blind. And in the main event Flyweight Alexandre Pantoja put RFA up 3-1 with a come from behind triangle choke over UFC veteran Damacio Page at 5:00 of round 2.
The Ultimate Fighting Championship made its way down to Australia for UFC Fight Night 65. The fight card, which was only shown on UFC Fight Pass, was exciting from start to finish. Light Heavyweight Sean O'Connell defeated Anthony Perosh via TKO at :56 of round 1. Middleweight Robert Whittaker continued his win streak with a win over Brad Tavares that came by way of KO at :44 of round 1. In the main event Heavyweight Stipe Miocic impressed with a win over seasoned veteran Mark Hunt. The dominating performance was capped off by a TKO at 2:47 of round 5.
Legacy FC 43 will be headlined by a fight between Brock Larson and Derrick Krantz. The fight will be for the vacant Welterweight title. UFC veteran Jacob Volkmann will also be on the card.
Former WSOF Lightweight title challenger Melvin "Young Assassin" Guillard has signed with Bellator FC.
The UFC has announced that they will be looking to build a physical spot for the UFC Hall of Fame. It is predicted that the location will be in Las Vegas.
The Ultimate Fighting Championship made its way down to Australia for UFC Fight Night 65. The fight card, which was only shown on UFC Fight Pass, was exciting from start to finish. Light Heavyweight Sean O'Connell defeated Anthony Perosh via TKO at :56 of round 1. Middleweight Robert Whittaker continued his win streak with a win over Brad Tavares that came by way of KO at :44 of round 1. In the main event Heavyweight Stipe Miocic impressed with a win over seasoned veteran Mark Hunt. The dominating performance was capped off by a TKO at 2:47 of round 5.
Legacy FC 43 will be headlined by a fight between Brock Larson and Derrick Krantz. The fight will be for the vacant Welterweight title. UFC veteran Jacob Volkmann will also be on the card.
Former WSOF Lightweight title challenger Melvin "Young Assassin" Guillard has signed with Bellator FC.
The UFC has announced that they will be looking to build a physical spot for the UFC Hall of Fame. It is predicted that the location will be in Las Vegas.
Sunday, April 26, 2015
4/26/15
ONE Championship 26 was perhaps the biggest event in the young promotions history, but it didn't end in the way fans expected. Young Featherweight prospect Mark Striegl made a successful ONE debut with a rear naked choke win over previously undefeated Casey Suire at 3:48 of round 1. The main event ended in bizarre fashion when Welterweight champion Ben Askren accidentally poked Luis "Sapo" Santos in the eye resulting in a no contest ruling. Askren will keep the belt for now and no rematch has been scheduled at this point.
Invicta Fighting Championship made its way back to Kansas City, the place where the promotion began, for Invicta FC 12. Women's Featherweight Faith Van Duin looked impressive against Amanda Bell with a second round rear naked choke at :38. Vanessa Porto avenged a previous loss to Roxanne Modafferi with a unanimous decision win in a Women's Flyweight contest. And in the main event Livia Renata Souza defeated Katja Kankaanpaa via triangle choke at 3:58 of round 4 to win the Women's Strawweight title.
At UFC 186, Middleweight Michael Bisping defeated C.B. Dollaway by unanimous decision. Light Heavyweight Quinton "Rampage" Jackson made his return to the promotion with a unanimous decision win over Fabio Maldonado. And in the main event Flyweight kingpin Demetrious "Mighty Mouse" Johnson dominated challenger Kyoji Horiguchi with an armbar coming with only a second left in the fight. The round 5 (4:59) stoppage was the latest in UFC history.
Bellator Welterweight champion Douglas Lima will look to defend his belt against Russian fighter Andrey Koreshkov at Bellator 140.
Bellator 139 will be headlined by a Heavyweight bout between Cheick Kongo and Alexander Volkov.
WSOF 22 will be highlighted by a Welterweight title fight between champion Rousimar Palhares and Jake Shields.
Olympic medalist Bilyal Makhov has signed with the UFC.
Invicta Fighting Championship made its way back to Kansas City, the place where the promotion began, for Invicta FC 12. Women's Featherweight Faith Van Duin looked impressive against Amanda Bell with a second round rear naked choke at :38. Vanessa Porto avenged a previous loss to Roxanne Modafferi with a unanimous decision win in a Women's Flyweight contest. And in the main event Livia Renata Souza defeated Katja Kankaanpaa via triangle choke at 3:58 of round 4 to win the Women's Strawweight title.
At UFC 186, Middleweight Michael Bisping defeated C.B. Dollaway by unanimous decision. Light Heavyweight Quinton "Rampage" Jackson made his return to the promotion with a unanimous decision win over Fabio Maldonado. And in the main event Flyweight kingpin Demetrious "Mighty Mouse" Johnson dominated challenger Kyoji Horiguchi with an armbar coming with only a second left in the fight. The round 5 (4:59) stoppage was the latest in UFC history.
Bellator Welterweight champion Douglas Lima will look to defend his belt against Russian fighter Andrey Koreshkov at Bellator 140.
Bellator 139 will be headlined by a Heavyweight bout between Cheick Kongo and Alexander Volkov.
WSOF 22 will be highlighted by a Welterweight title fight between champion Rousimar Palhares and Jake Shields.
Olympic medalist Bilyal Makhov has signed with the UFC.
Sunday, April 19, 2015
4/19/15
UFC on FOX 15 had every MMA fans attention this past Saturday. Four big time fights highlighted the main card, and boy did they deliver. Women's Strawweight prospect Paige VanZant kept her hype train going with a dominate unanimous decision win over Felice Herrig. Another young fighter, Featherweight Max Holloway, added another victory to his win streak after defeating Cub Swanson via guillotine at 3:58 of round 3. Middleweight Ronaldo "Jacare" Souza made quick work of late replacement Chris Camozzi with an armbar at 2:33 of round 1. And in the main event Middleweight Luke Rockhold earned the biggest win of his career. Rockhold defeated former UFC Light Heavyweight champion Lyoto Machida by way of rear naked choke at 2:31 of round 2. Rockhold's next fight will most likely be against the winner of Vitor Belfort and Chris Weidman for the Middleweight title.
Three bouts have been announced for UFC on FOX 16. The main event will feature a rematch between Bantamweight champion T.J. Dillashaw and Renan Barao. The co-main event will mark the return of Anthony "Showtime" Pettis as he faces off against Myles Jury. Finally, Jessica Eye and Miesha Tate will fight in a Women's Bantamweight contender fight.
Former UFC Light Heavyweight Phil Davis has signed with Bellator. Also signing with Bellator is former TUF contestant, Featherweight Justin Lawrence.
Cage Fury Fighting Championship has signed a television agreement with CBS Sports Network.
Several sources say former UFC Lightweight champion Benson Henderson will fight Micheal Johnson at the TUF 21 finale.
Three bouts have been announced for UFC on FOX 16. The main event will feature a rematch between Bantamweight champion T.J. Dillashaw and Renan Barao. The co-main event will mark the return of Anthony "Showtime" Pettis as he faces off against Myles Jury. Finally, Jessica Eye and Miesha Tate will fight in a Women's Bantamweight contender fight.
Former UFC Light Heavyweight Phil Davis has signed with Bellator. Also signing with Bellator is former TUF contestant, Featherweight Justin Lawrence.
Cage Fury Fighting Championship has signed a television agreement with CBS Sports Network.
Several sources say former UFC Lightweight champion Benson Henderson will fight Micheal Johnson at the TUF 21 finale.
Sunday, April 12, 2015
4/12/15
Even though injuries and other various things have plagued the last two World Series of Fighting fight cards, they still have managed to entertain. At WSOF 20 lightweight Nick Newell regained some of his momentum by earning a unanimous decision win over Joe Condon. The main event, which featured a last minute (or rather days) change, saw Middleweight champion turned Light Heavyweight contender dominate. David Branch defeated replacement fighter Jesse McElligott via Von Flue choke at 1:28 of round 2. Branch will now face Teddy Holder for the inaugural WSOF Light Heavyweight belt.
Bellator put some of their best Lightweights in the spotlight at Bellator 136. One of those was Marcin Held who won impressively via kneebar over Alexander "Tiger" Sarnavskiy at 1:11 of round 3. The submission was verbal (screams). Next up was Middleweight Rafael Carvalho who edged out a narrow split decision victory over kick boxer Joe Schilling. In the main event Lightweight champion Will Brooks came back from a slow start to defeat Dave Jansen via unanimous decision. Brooks will now attempt to defend his title against Held.
Two belts were up for grabs at RFA 25. The first, the vacant Middleweight strap, was won by Francisco France by way of unanimous decision over Gabriel Checco. The second title saw Featherweight champion Justin Lawrence successfully defend with a TKO win over Sam Toomer at 4:55 of round 1.
The weekend was capped off by UFC Fight Night 64. Light Heavyweight Jimi Manuwa got back on track with a unanimous decision win over hometown favorite Jan Blachowicz. In the main event Heavyweight legend Mirko "Cro Cop" avenged a previous loss to Gabriel Gonzaga with a third round TKO coming at 3:30. "Cro Cop" is now 6-0 in career rematch bouts.
A New Jersey judge has ruled in favor of Bellator in relation to the battle over Quinton "Rampage" Jackson's contract. This will result in "Rampage" being pulled from his UFC 186 co-main event fight. The UFC is still looking to reverse the decision.
Former Bellator Featherweight champion Pat Curran will fight Goiti Yamauchi in the Bellator 139 main event.
A fight between UFC Heavyweights Frank Mir and Todd Duffee will headline a UFC Fight Night card set for July 15.
Bellator put some of their best Lightweights in the spotlight at Bellator 136. One of those was Marcin Held who won impressively via kneebar over Alexander "Tiger" Sarnavskiy at 1:11 of round 3. The submission was verbal (screams). Next up was Middleweight Rafael Carvalho who edged out a narrow split decision victory over kick boxer Joe Schilling. In the main event Lightweight champion Will Brooks came back from a slow start to defeat Dave Jansen via unanimous decision. Brooks will now attempt to defend his title against Held.
Two belts were up for grabs at RFA 25. The first, the vacant Middleweight strap, was won by Francisco France by way of unanimous decision over Gabriel Checco. The second title saw Featherweight champion Justin Lawrence successfully defend with a TKO win over Sam Toomer at 4:55 of round 1.
The weekend was capped off by UFC Fight Night 64. Light Heavyweight Jimi Manuwa got back on track with a unanimous decision win over hometown favorite Jan Blachowicz. In the main event Heavyweight legend Mirko "Cro Cop" avenged a previous loss to Gabriel Gonzaga with a third round TKO coming at 3:30. "Cro Cop" is now 6-0 in career rematch bouts.
A New Jersey judge has ruled in favor of Bellator in relation to the battle over Quinton "Rampage" Jackson's contract. This will result in "Rampage" being pulled from his UFC 186 co-main event fight. The UFC is still looking to reverse the decision.
Former Bellator Featherweight champion Pat Curran will fight Goiti Yamauchi in the Bellator 139 main event.
A fight between UFC Heavyweights Frank Mir and Todd Duffee will headline a UFC Fight Night card set for July 15.
Sunday, March 29, 2015
3/29/15
Fight of the year candidates are few and far between, but this weekend, MMA fans were treated with two. One took place at Bellator 135 and the other was at WSOF 19.
Starting with Bellator 135, Light Heavyweight Francis Carmont earned his first victory inside the Bellator cage with a unanimous decision victory over Guilherme Viana. Bantamweights L.C. Davis and Japanese legend Hideo Tokoro slugged it out for a fight of the ages. Between the two of them there was several leg lock attempts, flying knees, head kicks and mad scrambles making for a FOTY candidate. In the end Davis came out with the split decision win. In the main event Marcos Galvao not only avenged a loss but also took home the Bantamweight belt in the process with his victory over Joe Warren. Galvao won via verbal submission (kneebar) much to the protest of Warren. The submission came at :45 of round 2.
Despite the WSOF 19 fight card being shook up with last minute bout replacements, it was one of the best in the promotions short history. Light Heavyweight Teddy Holder earned an upset over UFC veteran Thiago Silva with a TKO coming at 2:00 of round 1. Holder will move on to the Light Heavyweight tournament final. The main event saw yet another FOTY candidate. Justin Gaethje successfully defended his Lightweight belt by utilizing wild striking and nasty leg kicks against Luis Palomino. The win came by way of TKO at 3;57 of round 3.
Cage Warriors champions Nicolas Dalby and Tom Breese have signed with the UFC.
Cristiane "Cyborg" Justino has signed with the UFC. She will remain with Invicta FC until she makes a successful move down to the Women's Bantamweight division.
The Brazilian Athletic Commission has overturned the Leandro Silva vs Drew Dober fight to a no contest. Silva was originally awarded a win despite a referee mistake at the UFC Fight Night on March 21.
ONE Championship Lightweight title holder Shinya Aoki will next fight Koji Ando at One Championship 28 on May 22.
Starting with Bellator 135, Light Heavyweight Francis Carmont earned his first victory inside the Bellator cage with a unanimous decision victory over Guilherme Viana. Bantamweights L.C. Davis and Japanese legend Hideo Tokoro slugged it out for a fight of the ages. Between the two of them there was several leg lock attempts, flying knees, head kicks and mad scrambles making for a FOTY candidate. In the end Davis came out with the split decision win. In the main event Marcos Galvao not only avenged a loss but also took home the Bantamweight belt in the process with his victory over Joe Warren. Galvao won via verbal submission (kneebar) much to the protest of Warren. The submission came at :45 of round 2.
Despite the WSOF 19 fight card being shook up with last minute bout replacements, it was one of the best in the promotions short history. Light Heavyweight Teddy Holder earned an upset over UFC veteran Thiago Silva with a TKO coming at 2:00 of round 1. Holder will move on to the Light Heavyweight tournament final. The main event saw yet another FOTY candidate. Justin Gaethje successfully defended his Lightweight belt by utilizing wild striking and nasty leg kicks against Luis Palomino. The win came by way of TKO at 3;57 of round 3.
Cage Warriors champions Nicolas Dalby and Tom Breese have signed with the UFC.
Cristiane "Cyborg" Justino has signed with the UFC. She will remain with Invicta FC until she makes a successful move down to the Women's Bantamweight division.
The Brazilian Athletic Commission has overturned the Leandro Silva vs Drew Dober fight to a no contest. Silva was originally awarded a win despite a referee mistake at the UFC Fight Night on March 21.
ONE Championship Lightweight title holder Shinya Aoki will next fight Koji Ando at One Championship 28 on May 22.
Sunday, March 22, 2015
3/22/15
The Heavyweight title was on the line at Legacy FC 40. Cody East retained that title with a TKO victory over Brice Ritani-Coe at 1:41 of round 2.
Titan Fighting Championship did something on Friday they had never done in their history, put four belts up for grabs in a single night. At Titan FC 33 the Bantamweight title was won by Brett Johns. Johns defeated Walel Watson via rear naked choke at 3:06 of round 2. Chase Gormley won the Heavyweight strap with a somewhat controversial unanimous decision over Jon Madsen. UFC veteran Pat "BamBam" Healy won a gritty split decision over Kurt Kinser to win the Lightweight belt. And finally Kurt Holobaugh defeated then champion Desmond Green via split decision to win the Featherweight title.
The Ultimate Fighting Championship made its way down to Brazil for UFC Fight Night 62. Women's Bantamweight Amanda Nunes defeated Shayna Baszler via TKO at 1:56 of round 1. Welterweight Erick Silva earned a win over Josh Koscheck by guillotine at 4:21 of round 1. And in the main event Welterweight Damien Maia defeated undefeated fighter Ryan LaFlare by way of unanimous decision.
Former Bellator Middleweight champion Alexander Shlemenko has tested positive for banned substances following his win over Melvin Manhoef.
Bellator Light Heavyweight champion Liam McGeary has signed a multi-fight extension with the promotion.
UFC Women's Bantamweight champion Ronda Rousey will next defend her belt against Bethe Correia at UFC 190 in Brazil.
Legacy FC and RFA have announced that they will host a cross-promotional event on May 8.
Titan Fighting Championship did something on Friday they had never done in their history, put four belts up for grabs in a single night. At Titan FC 33 the Bantamweight title was won by Brett Johns. Johns defeated Walel Watson via rear naked choke at 3:06 of round 2. Chase Gormley won the Heavyweight strap with a somewhat controversial unanimous decision over Jon Madsen. UFC veteran Pat "BamBam" Healy won a gritty split decision over Kurt Kinser to win the Lightweight belt. And finally Kurt Holobaugh defeated then champion Desmond Green via split decision to win the Featherweight title.
The Ultimate Fighting Championship made its way down to Brazil for UFC Fight Night 62. Women's Bantamweight Amanda Nunes defeated Shayna Baszler via TKO at 1:56 of round 1. Welterweight Erick Silva earned a win over Josh Koscheck by guillotine at 4:21 of round 1. And in the main event Welterweight Damien Maia defeated undefeated fighter Ryan LaFlare by way of unanimous decision.
Former Bellator Middleweight champion Alexander Shlemenko has tested positive for banned substances following his win over Melvin Manhoef.
Bellator Light Heavyweight champion Liam McGeary has signed a multi-fight extension with the promotion.
UFC Women's Bantamweight champion Ronda Rousey will next defend her belt against Bethe Correia at UFC 190 in Brazil.
Legacy FC and RFA have announced that they will host a cross-promotional event on May 8.
Sunday, March 15, 2015
3/15/15
ONE Championship 25 - formerly known as "ONE FC" - started off the weekend of MMA action. Women's Flyweight Ann Osman earned a first round rear naked choke victory over Walaa Abbas at 2:23. And Brazilian Flyweight Adriano Moraes successfully defended his belt against Asuka Mikami by unanimous decision.
CES MMA 28, the newest promotion to the AXS TV fight network, saw Lightweight Luis Felix defeat last minute replacement Reggie Merriweather by way of a devastating head kick followed up by punches. The TKO stoppage came at 4:29 of round 1. In the main event Welterweight and former Judo Olympian Rick Hawn got past Derek Loffer with an easy unanimous decision.
At XFC international 9 Bruno Azevedo claimed the Flyweight title with a unanimous decision win over Allan Nascimento.
UFC 185 saw two challengers win championships but before that former Welterweight champ Johny Hendricks defeated Matt Brown by unanimous decision. The first title fight saw Joanna Jedrzejczyk of Poland win her country its first ever UFC belt. Jedrzejczyk dismantled former Women's Strawweight champion Carla Esparza with crisp striking en route to a TKO at 4:17 of round 2. The second title fight featured a five round beating from challenger Rafeal dos Anjos. Dos Anjos dismantled former Lightweight champion Anthony Pettis in all aspects of the sport. Dos Anjos won via unanimous decision.
World Series of Fighting has signed masked crime fighter Ben Fodor who is known as "Phoenix Jones". Fodor recently became a hot commodity after being featured in an ESPN documentary.
Bellator has signed three Women's Featherweights including former UFC fighter Alexis Dufresne.
CES MMA 28, the newest promotion to the AXS TV fight network, saw Lightweight Luis Felix defeat last minute replacement Reggie Merriweather by way of a devastating head kick followed up by punches. The TKO stoppage came at 4:29 of round 1. In the main event Welterweight and former Judo Olympian Rick Hawn got past Derek Loffer with an easy unanimous decision.
At XFC international 9 Bruno Azevedo claimed the Flyweight title with a unanimous decision win over Allan Nascimento.
UFC 185 saw two challengers win championships but before that former Welterweight champ Johny Hendricks defeated Matt Brown by unanimous decision. The first title fight saw Joanna Jedrzejczyk of Poland win her country its first ever UFC belt. Jedrzejczyk dismantled former Women's Strawweight champion Carla Esparza with crisp striking en route to a TKO at 4:17 of round 2. The second title fight featured a five round beating from challenger Rafeal dos Anjos. Dos Anjos dismantled former Lightweight champion Anthony Pettis in all aspects of the sport. Dos Anjos won via unanimous decision.
World Series of Fighting has signed masked crime fighter Ben Fodor who is known as "Phoenix Jones". Fodor recently became a hot commodity after being featured in an ESPN documentary.
Bellator has signed three Women's Featherweights including former UFC fighter Alexis Dufresne.
Sunday, March 8, 2015
3/8/15
After last weekends bulk of MMA events, this weekend only had one major promotion in action. At RFA 24 Bantamweight Derrick Minner earned a dominating unanimous decision win over Marvin Blumer. Marvin's brother fared a little better with a crazy spinning back fist KO win. The fight which took place in the Bantamweight division saw Melvin Blumer's KO land on Jeff Curran at 4:58 of round 1. Finally, Benjamin Smith defeated Indalecio Tat Romero via TKO at 4:32 of round 3 to win the Welterweight belt.
Burt Watson "Babysitter to the stars" has announced his departure from the UFC. Watson served as the promotions event coordinator.
Bellator Middleweight champion Brandon Halsey will attempt to defend his belt for the first time against former UFC fighter Kendall Grove. The fight will take place at Bellator 137.
Kelvin Gastelum and Efrain Escudero have been named as the coaches for the upcoming TUF: "Latin America 2" season.
WSOF Middleweight champion David Branch has moved up to Light Heavyweight to begin a run at a second belt under the promotion. His first fight at his new weight class will be against Ronnie Markes at WSOF 20. Meanwhile Light Heavyweight Thiago Silva, who was previously scheduled to fight Markes, will now face Matt Hamwill at WSOF 19. The two fights will serve as a four man tournament for the title.
ONE FC Welterweight champion Ben Askren will look to defend his belt against Luis "Sapo" Santos at ONE FC: "Valor of Champions" on April 24.
Burt Watson "Babysitter to the stars" has announced his departure from the UFC. Watson served as the promotions event coordinator.
Bellator Middleweight champion Brandon Halsey will attempt to defend his belt for the first time against former UFC fighter Kendall Grove. The fight will take place at Bellator 137.
Kelvin Gastelum and Efrain Escudero have been named as the coaches for the upcoming TUF: "Latin America 2" season.
WSOF Middleweight champion David Branch has moved up to Light Heavyweight to begin a run at a second belt under the promotion. His first fight at his new weight class will be against Ronnie Markes at WSOF 20. Meanwhile Light Heavyweight Thiago Silva, who was previously scheduled to fight Markes, will now face Matt Hamwill at WSOF 19. The two fights will serve as a four man tournament for the title.
ONE FC Welterweight champion Ben Askren will look to defend his belt against Luis "Sapo" Santos at ONE FC: "Valor of Champions" on April 24.
Sunday, March 1, 2015
3/1/15
Legacy FC 39 kicked off the busy weekend of MMA. Former UFC Featherweight Daniel Pineda defeated Tom Webb via triangle choke at :49 of round 1. Leonardo Leite claimed the Middleweight title with a TKO win over Larry Crowe coming at 2:19 of round 2.
Next was the return of Invicta Fighting Championship. At Invicta FC 11 Women's Strawweight Alexa Grasso kept her undefeated record intact with a unanimous decision win over Mizuki Inoue. The main event saw Women's Featherweight champion Cristiane "Cyborg" Justino retain her belt with a destructive :46 TKO of Charmaine Tweet.
Bellator 134 titled "The British Invasion" saw the Englishmen take care of business. Light Heavyweight Linton Vassell defeated veteran Rameau Thierry Sokoudjou by TKO at 3:18 of round 2. Welterweight bad boy Paul "Semtex" Daley was unable to finish Andre Santos but did earn a unanimous decision. Though he is not British, Muhammed "King Mo" Lawal made a successful move to Heavyweight with a split decision win over former UFC fighter Cheick Kongo. In the main event Liam McGeary took home the Light Heavyweight title and simultaneously broke Emanuel Newton's seven fight win streak with a unanimous decision.
At UFC 184 Welterweight Jake Ellenberger snapped his three fight losing streak with an impressive win via north south choke. The win, which came at 4:20 of round 2, left his opponent Josh Koscheck drooling and gasping for air before the tap came. Women's Bantamweight Holly Holm made a successful UFC debut with a close split decision win over Raquel Pennington. And in the main event :14 is all it took for the champion Ronda Rousey to defeat Cat Zingano. Rousey defended her Women's Bantamweight belt in her signature fashion - with an armbar.
UFC Heavyweight champion Cain Velasquez will look to defend his belt at UFC 188 in June against interim champion Fabricio Werdum. The fight will take place in Mexico.
Heavyweight Kevin Ferguson, better known as "Kimbo Slice" will return to MMA to take on Frank Shamrock at Bellator 138.
Next was the return of Invicta Fighting Championship. At Invicta FC 11 Women's Strawweight Alexa Grasso kept her undefeated record intact with a unanimous decision win over Mizuki Inoue. The main event saw Women's Featherweight champion Cristiane "Cyborg" Justino retain her belt with a destructive :46 TKO of Charmaine Tweet.
Bellator 134 titled "The British Invasion" saw the Englishmen take care of business. Light Heavyweight Linton Vassell defeated veteran Rameau Thierry Sokoudjou by TKO at 3:18 of round 2. Welterweight bad boy Paul "Semtex" Daley was unable to finish Andre Santos but did earn a unanimous decision. Though he is not British, Muhammed "King Mo" Lawal made a successful move to Heavyweight with a split decision win over former UFC fighter Cheick Kongo. In the main event Liam McGeary took home the Light Heavyweight title and simultaneously broke Emanuel Newton's seven fight win streak with a unanimous decision.
At UFC 184 Welterweight Jake Ellenberger snapped his three fight losing streak with an impressive win via north south choke. The win, which came at 4:20 of round 2, left his opponent Josh Koscheck drooling and gasping for air before the tap came. Women's Bantamweight Holly Holm made a successful UFC debut with a close split decision win over Raquel Pennington. And in the main event :14 is all it took for the champion Ronda Rousey to defeat Cat Zingano. Rousey defended her Women's Bantamweight belt in her signature fashion - with an armbar.
UFC Heavyweight champion Cain Velasquez will look to defend his belt at UFC 188 in June against interim champion Fabricio Werdum. The fight will take place in Mexico.
Heavyweight Kevin Ferguson, better known as "Kimbo Slice" will return to MMA to take on Frank Shamrock at Bellator 138.
Sunday, February 15, 2015
2/15/15
Thursday night MMA is a rare occurrence, but when it happens it makes for a great early start to the weekend. WSOF 18 did jut that by giving fans Thursday night fights. Lightweight Shane Campbell made a successful WSOF debut with a win over Derek Boyle via TKO at :31 of round 3. In the main event Marlon Moraes defended his Bantamweight belt against Josh Hill by unanimous decision.
At Bellator 133 one of the best Women's Featherweight fighters in the world, Julia Budd, earned a unanimous decision win over Gabrielle Holloway. German Featherweight Daniel Weichel kept his winning streak alive by defeating former champion Pat Curran via split decision. And in the main event former Middleweight champion Alexander Shlemenko landed a crazy spinning back fist to knockout Melvin Manhoef at 1:25 of round 2.
Legacy FC 38 saw top Flyweight prospect Jason Sampson earn a quick TKO victory over Joseph Sandoval at 1:36 of round 1. The main event featured former UFC Lightweight fighter Anthony Njokuani against Dave Burrow. Burrow was able to pull off the upset by way of armbar at 1:28 of round 3.
At UFC Fight Night 60 Welterweight Neil Magny pushed his win streak to six with an impressive win over Kiichi Kunimoto via rear naked choke at 1:22 of round 3. Featherweight Max Holloway cruised past Cole Miller for a unanimous decision win. In the main event former Lightweight champion Benson Henderson moved up to Welterweight to face Brandon Thatch. Though Henderson did not fair well early on, he kept with his relentless pace and won via rear naked choke at 3:58 of round 4.
UFC Flyweight champion Demetrious "Mighty Mouse" Johnson will defend his belt against Kyoji Horiguchi in the co-main event of UFC 186.
The fight between UFC Middleweight champion Chris Weidman and Vitor Belfort has once again been moved. The fight will now take place on May 23.
Vinny Magalhaes is the final addition to the WSOF four man tournament. the tournament is designed to crown their first ever Light Heavyweight champion. His first round fight will be against Matt Hamill.
At Bellator 133 one of the best Women's Featherweight fighters in the world, Julia Budd, earned a unanimous decision win over Gabrielle Holloway. German Featherweight Daniel Weichel kept his winning streak alive by defeating former champion Pat Curran via split decision. And in the main event former Middleweight champion Alexander Shlemenko landed a crazy spinning back fist to knockout Melvin Manhoef at 1:25 of round 2.
Legacy FC 38 saw top Flyweight prospect Jason Sampson earn a quick TKO victory over Joseph Sandoval at 1:36 of round 1. The main event featured former UFC Lightweight fighter Anthony Njokuani against Dave Burrow. Burrow was able to pull off the upset by way of armbar at 1:28 of round 3.
At UFC Fight Night 60 Welterweight Neil Magny pushed his win streak to six with an impressive win over Kiichi Kunimoto via rear naked choke at 1:22 of round 3. Featherweight Max Holloway cruised past Cole Miller for a unanimous decision win. In the main event former Lightweight champion Benson Henderson moved up to Welterweight to face Brandon Thatch. Though Henderson did not fair well early on, he kept with his relentless pace and won via rear naked choke at 3:58 of round 4.
UFC Flyweight champion Demetrious "Mighty Mouse" Johnson will defend his belt against Kyoji Horiguchi in the co-main event of UFC 186.
The fight between UFC Middleweight champion Chris Weidman and Vitor Belfort has once again been moved. The fight will now take place on May 23.
Vinny Magalhaes is the final addition to the WSOF four man tournament. the tournament is designed to crown their first ever Light Heavyweight champion. His first round fight will be against Matt Hamill.
Sunday, February 8, 2015
2/8/15
After a week long absence, Pablo Diablo's Five Round Review is back! Last week was a bad week to take off with everything happening in regards to failed drug tests between Anderson Silva and Nick Diaz. Either way, it is time to recap what went down this past week in the world of MMA.
At RFA 23 Featherweight Raoni Barcelos rebounded from a loss by knocking out Jamal Parks at 2:31 of round 1. Middleweight Gabriel Checco looked impressive with a TKO win over Joseph Henle at just 1:14 of round 1. The main event, a Bantamweight contender match, was an instant classic as Terrion Ware out pointed Joe Murphy to win via unanimous decision.
UFC 184 now has a set lineup with the finalization of a match-up between Women Bantamweight fighters Holly Holm and Raquel Pennington. The bout, which was scheduled for an earlier event but scratched because of an injury suffered by Holm, will serve as the co-main event. Holm is seen by many as a fighter who can compete with champion Ronda Rousey.
Former UFC fighter Pat "BamBam" Healy and Kurt Kinser will fight for the Lightweight title at Titan Fighting Championship 33. The event already had three title fights on the card; the addition of this fight brings it up to four.
Bellator Lightweight champion Will Brooks will defend his belt against Dave Jansen at Bellator 136.
At RFA 23 Featherweight Raoni Barcelos rebounded from a loss by knocking out Jamal Parks at 2:31 of round 1. Middleweight Gabriel Checco looked impressive with a TKO win over Joseph Henle at just 1:14 of round 1. The main event, a Bantamweight contender match, was an instant classic as Terrion Ware out pointed Joe Murphy to win via unanimous decision.
UFC 184 now has a set lineup with the finalization of a match-up between Women Bantamweight fighters Holly Holm and Raquel Pennington. The bout, which was scheduled for an earlier event but scratched because of an injury suffered by Holm, will serve as the co-main event. Holm is seen by many as a fighter who can compete with champion Ronda Rousey.
Former UFC fighter Pat "BamBam" Healy and Kurt Kinser will fight for the Lightweight title at Titan Fighting Championship 33. The event already had three title fights on the card; the addition of this fight brings it up to four.
Bellator Lightweight champion Will Brooks will defend his belt against Dave Jansen at Bellator 136.
Sunday, January 25, 2015
1/25/15
The Ultimate Fighting Championship made its way to Stockholm, Sweden for UFC on FOX 14. The first fight on the main card kicked things off with a bang as Featherweight Sam Sicilia knocked out Akira Corassani at 3:26 of round 1. In the next fight, Light Heavyweight Ryan Bader kept things standing for a majority of the time, earning a split decision win over Phil Davis. In the co-main event Middleweight Gegard Mousasi defeated Dan Henderson with an unusual TKO at just 1:10 of round 1. The main event capped off the night impressively as Light Heavyweight Anthony "Rumble" Johnson destroyed former contender Alexander Gustafsson. Johnson stopped Gustafsson with a TKO coming at 2:15 of round 1, earning him a date with champion Jon Jones.
MMA legend Mirko "CroCop" has resigned with the UFC and will headline a fight card in Poland against Gabriel Gonzaga. The fight, which is a rematch, will be in April.
UFC and Strikeforce veteran Cung Le has announced his retirement from combat sports.
With the loss of Welterweight champion Douglas Lima from the Bellator 134 fight card, the promotion has decided to add a super fight between Muhammed "King Mo" Lawal and Chieck Kongo. the fight will take place in the Heavyweight division.
Titan Fighting Championships has announced three of its four title fights for Titan FC 33 which takes place on March 20. Featherweight Desmond Green will look to defend his belt for the first time against Kurt Holobaugh. Jon Madsen and Chase Gormley will fight for the vacant Heavyweight strap. Finally, Walel Watson and undefeated Brett Johns will fight for the vacant Bantamweight title.
MMA legend Mirko "CroCop" has resigned with the UFC and will headline a fight card in Poland against Gabriel Gonzaga. The fight, which is a rematch, will be in April.
UFC and Strikeforce veteran Cung Le has announced his retirement from combat sports.
With the loss of Welterweight champion Douglas Lima from the Bellator 134 fight card, the promotion has decided to add a super fight between Muhammed "King Mo" Lawal and Chieck Kongo. the fight will take place in the Heavyweight division.
Titan Fighting Championships has announced three of its four title fights for Titan FC 33 which takes place on March 20. Featherweight Desmond Green will look to defend his belt for the first time against Kurt Holobaugh. Jon Madsen and Chase Gormley will fight for the vacant Heavyweight strap. Finally, Walel Watson and undefeated Brett Johns will fight for the vacant Bantamweight title.
Sunday, January 18, 2015
1/18/15
The first busy weekend of mixed martial arts in 2015 was kicked off with Bellator 132. Light Heavyweight Virgil Zwicker redeemed himself with a split decision win over Houston Alexander. In a number one contender Featherweight contest, Georgi Karakhanyan impressed with a guillotine choke that put Bubba Jenkins to sleep at 1:49 of round 1. It was announced after the fight that Karakhanyan would face the winner of the main event between Featherweight champion Patricio "Pitbull" Freire and Daniel Straus. As the event came to an end, "Pitbull" emerged victorious in a slug fest over Straus. The title win came by way of rear naked choke at 4:49 of round 4.
At WSOF 17, Lightweight Joe Condon defied all odds after going down two rounds to none in a fight with Johnny Nunez that he took on days notice. Condon sunk in a guillotine choke that led to the win over Nunez at 4:22 of round 3. In the main event Welterweight Jake Shields did what he does best. After a rocky start, Shields took Brian Foster down and won via rear naked choke at 2:51 of round 1. Shields will now fight WSOF Welterweight champion Rousimar Palhares for the belt.
UFC Fight Night 59 saw Middleweight Uriah Hall continue his win streak with a TKO (doctor stoppage) over last minute replacement Ron Stallings. Lightweight Donald "Cowboy" Cerrone won his second fight in the span of 15 days with a unanimous decision win over former champion Benson Henderson. Featherweight Conor McGregor earned a title shot with a main event win over Dennis Siver. The TKO win came at 1:54 of round 2 after a dominate performance by McGregor. He is now set to fight champion Jose Aldo at a yet to be determined date.
Heavyweight MMA veteran Pat "HD" Barry made a successful return to kickboxing at Legacy Kickboxing 1. He defeated Demoreo Dennis by split decision.
UFC Women's Strawweight champion Carla Esparza will attempt her first title defense at UFC 185 when she takes on Joanna Jedrzejczyk.
Former UFC Light Heavyweights Thiago Silva and Matt Hamill have both signed with World Series of Fighting and will take part in a four man tournament to determine the promotions first Light Heavyweight champion.
Kimbo Slice has signed with Bellator.
UFC Bantamweight champion T.J. Dillashaw will fight Renan Barao in a title rematch at UFC 186.
At WSOF 17, Lightweight Joe Condon defied all odds after going down two rounds to none in a fight with Johnny Nunez that he took on days notice. Condon sunk in a guillotine choke that led to the win over Nunez at 4:22 of round 3. In the main event Welterweight Jake Shields did what he does best. After a rocky start, Shields took Brian Foster down and won via rear naked choke at 2:51 of round 1. Shields will now fight WSOF Welterweight champion Rousimar Palhares for the belt.
UFC Fight Night 59 saw Middleweight Uriah Hall continue his win streak with a TKO (doctor stoppage) over last minute replacement Ron Stallings. Lightweight Donald "Cowboy" Cerrone won his second fight in the span of 15 days with a unanimous decision win over former champion Benson Henderson. Featherweight Conor McGregor earned a title shot with a main event win over Dennis Siver. The TKO win came at 1:54 of round 2 after a dominate performance by McGregor. He is now set to fight champion Jose Aldo at a yet to be determined date.
Heavyweight MMA veteran Pat "HD" Barry made a successful return to kickboxing at Legacy Kickboxing 1. He defeated Demoreo Dennis by split decision.
UFC Women's Strawweight champion Carla Esparza will attempt her first title defense at UFC 185 when she takes on Joanna Jedrzejczyk.
Former UFC Light Heavyweights Thiago Silva and Matt Hamill have both signed with World Series of Fighting and will take part in a four man tournament to determine the promotions first Light Heavyweight champion.
Kimbo Slice has signed with Bellator.
UFC Bantamweight champion T.J. Dillashaw will fight Renan Barao in a title rematch at UFC 186.
Sunday, January 11, 2015
1/11/15
While this weekend lacked MMA events and many fans were looking forward to next weekends triple header, Resurrection Fighting Alliance attempted to cure the need for the sport for the time being. Featherweight Mark Dickman, who was forced to forfeit 50 percent of his fight purse due to missing weight horrendously, defeated Donald Sanchez via kimura at 1:37 of round 1. The main event was originally scheduled to be for the vacant Welterweight belt. Instead Chidi Njokuani missed weight and proceeded to out strike Gilbert Smith to a unanimous decision. Because Njokuani missed weight, he was unable to obtain the belt even with the win, resulting in the title remaining vacant.
Ex UFC Heavyweight champion Tim Sylvia has announced his retirement from the sport.
After his UFC 182 co-main event win over Myles Jury, Lightweight Donald Cerrone will step in to replace Eddie Alvarez against Benson Henderson. This marks a 15 day turn around for Cerrone. The fight will take place at UFC Fight Night 59.
UFC Light Heavyweight champion Jon Jones has tested positive for cocaine metabolites and has checked himself into rehab.
Bellator Middleweight Joe Schilling has signed with GLORY (kickboxing) and plans to compete for both promotions in 2015.
UFC President Dana White has announced that former Middleweight champion Anderson Silva will receive a title shot with a UFC 183 win over Nick Diaz.
With the Robbie Lawler and Johny Hendricks Welterweight title trilogy taking shape, would be contender Rory MacDoanld has found a fight elsewhere. MacDoanld will face off against Hector Lombard at UFC 186 in Montreal.
Ex UFC Heavyweight champion Tim Sylvia has announced his retirement from the sport.
After his UFC 182 co-main event win over Myles Jury, Lightweight Donald Cerrone will step in to replace Eddie Alvarez against Benson Henderson. This marks a 15 day turn around for Cerrone. The fight will take place at UFC Fight Night 59.
UFC Light Heavyweight champion Jon Jones has tested positive for cocaine metabolites and has checked himself into rehab.
Bellator Middleweight Joe Schilling has signed with GLORY (kickboxing) and plans to compete for both promotions in 2015.
UFC President Dana White has announced that former Middleweight champion Anderson Silva will receive a title shot with a UFC 183 win over Nick Diaz.
With the Robbie Lawler and Johny Hendricks Welterweight title trilogy taking shape, would be contender Rory MacDoanld has found a fight elsewhere. MacDoanld will face off against Hector Lombard at UFC 186 in Montreal.
Sunday, January 4, 2015
1/4/15
While many were looking forward to UFC 182, only the hardcore MMA fans were zoned in on IGF Inoki Bom-Ba-Ye 2014. The year end fight card featured such veterans as Shinya Aoki, Satoshi Ishii and Mirko "CroCop". Aoki, the ONE FC Lightweight champion, defeated Yuki Yamamoto via twister submission at 1:21 of round 1. Heavyweight Chris Barnett earned a TKO victory over Shinchi Suzukawa at 1:57 of round 1. And in the main event, Heavyweight MMA legend Mirko "CroCop" dispatched of Satoshi Ishii by TKO (head kick and punches) in round 2.
IGF wasn't the only promotion to host a New Year's Eve event. Deep - Dream Impact 2014 took place at the famous Saitama Super Arena in Japan. A total of 22 fights were featured. Flyweight Yuki Motoya earned the biggest win of his career with a victory over Matt Manzanares via TKO at 3:17 of round 3. The night was capped off with Lightweight Satoru Kitaoka defeating Yoshiyuki Yoshida by unanimous decision.
UFC 182 was supposed to start off 2015 with a bang for the promotion but it fell short of that goal with a main card filled entirely of decisions. Lightweight contender Donald "Cowboy" Cerrone defeated young up and comer Myles Jury by unanimous decision. The main event saw Light Heavyweight champion Jon Jones cruise past Daniel Cormier to a decision win.
The UFC has announced that with a win over Dennis Siver at UFC Fight Night 59, "The Notorious" Conor McGregor would be next in line to challenge Featherweight champion Jose Aldo.
IGF wasn't the only promotion to host a New Year's Eve event. Deep - Dream Impact 2014 took place at the famous Saitama Super Arena in Japan. A total of 22 fights were featured. Flyweight Yuki Motoya earned the biggest win of his career with a victory over Matt Manzanares via TKO at 3:17 of round 3. The night was capped off with Lightweight Satoru Kitaoka defeating Yoshiyuki Yoshida by unanimous decision.
UFC 182 was supposed to start off 2015 with a bang for the promotion but it fell short of that goal with a main card filled entirely of decisions. Lightweight contender Donald "Cowboy" Cerrone defeated young up and comer Myles Jury by unanimous decision. The main event saw Light Heavyweight champion Jon Jones cruise past Daniel Cormier to a decision win.
The UFC has announced that with a win over Dennis Siver at UFC Fight Night 59, "The Notorious" Conor McGregor would be next in line to challenge Featherweight champion Jose Aldo.
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