UFC 94: Penn vs. St. Pierre Predictions

Welcome to our event picks for this weekend's UFC 94. The main event pits Lightweight champion BJ Penn against Welterweight champion George St. Pierre. So, without further ado, lets take a look at the UFC 94 fight card.

Main Card

Georges St. Pierre vs. B.J. Penn

Lyoto Machida vs. Thiago Silva

Karo Parisyan vs. Dong Hyun Kim

Nathan Diaz vs. Clay Guida

Stephan Bonnar vs. Jon Jones

Preliminary Card

Jon Fitch vs. Akihiro Gono

Jake O'Brien vs. Christian Wellisch

Chris Wilson vs. John Howard

Manny Gamburyan vs. Thiago Tavares

Matt Arroyo vs. Dan Cramer

Georges “Rush” St. Pierre (17-2)
vs.
BJ “The Prodigy” Penn (13-4-1)

Winfrey:
WOW! That is all I have to say. This has got fight of the year written all over it. There are a lot of keys to this fight so lets get started. BJ Penn has a distinct advantage in power in his striking, BJJ and chin. GSP has the advantage in wrestling, quickness of strikes, and athleticism. I think that it is very possible for Penn to win this fight. For him to do that, he HAS to come into this fight ready and willing to go five rounds. If he shows up in shape, I think he has a serious chance to win. For GSP, it’s simple. He needs to use his wrestling right away to make Penn work out of bad situations of the ground. He needs to frustrate Penn in any way he can, so Penn will get a little sloppy and use up that cardio. One key stat to look at in this fight is that 3 of Penn’s 4 losses have come outside of the LW division. St. Pierre will also hold a pretty significant size advantage in this fight. All in all, expect this one to be a great fight. It has had lots of hype, trash talk, and general excitement. This is one that could end in under a minute or be a 25 minute war.

Winner: Georges St. Pierre via TKO in Round 4

Stephens:

Gosh, I am so pumped for this fight! Great matchup for hardcore fans as well as a beautiful marketing ploy to casual fans with the two champions facing off. BJ is a little slower and tends to get overpowered easier at 170 and I think that's the determining factor in this fight. GSP is just too good of an overall MMA fighter to let his slip away.

Winner: Georges St. Pierre via TKO in Round 5

Phillip:

BJ Penn vs. GSP is the “Mega Fight” of 2009. It pits 2 fighters who are in their prime and both have a score to settle. Key for Penn is to rely on striking and his BJJ game and try not to burn out his gas tank in early rounds due to the adrenaline rush he’ll get trying to avenge his first lose to St. Pierre. GSP is the complete Mixed-Martial Artist who will need to use all of his weapons to fend off Penn and stay out of Penn’s pesky rubber guard. Should be “Fight of the Year” but we’ll see.

WINNER: B.J. Penn via Guillotine 4th Round.

Lyoto “The Dragon” Machida (13-0)
vs.
Thiago Silva (13-0)

Winfrey:
Nothing like a solid number one contender match. Both of these men are 13-0 and one them will be facing Rashad Evans for the title, when this fight is all over. For Silva to win, he needs to keep a fast, in your face pace against Machida. His best chance to win this fight is on the ground. If Silva lets Machida get comfortable and work his angles, then Silva will eat jabs and counters all night long. I have to give the nod here to Machida. I think he will fight a very smart, tactical fight and will finally earn his shot to become the LHW champion later in the year.

Winner: Lyoto Machida via Unanimous Decision

Stephens:

To be honest, I'm expecting a boring decision victory in this fight. Styles make great fights and to be honest Lyoto makes any fighter look boring. He's the epitome of an efficient fighter with no wasted movement or energy. Silva will likely try to fluster Machida early on but will not be able to find his groove due to Machida's backpeddling and counter striking skills. I could be wrong but I'm predicting a snore fest before the main event.

Winner: Lyoto Machida via Unanimous Decision

Phillip:

The Marathon Man Lyoto Machida facing the BEAST Thiago Silva is a LHW number 1 contender match up. Silva will look to cut off the cage and try to corner Machida then unload his heavy hands that pummeled our boy Houston Alexander. Machida will more than likely try to run around and win off counter-striking, but not this time, he is facing a man who will pursue and dish out the pain.

WINNER: Thiago Silva via TKO 2nd Round

Stephan “The American Psycho” Bonnar (11-4)
vs.
Jon “Bones” Jones (6-0)

Winfrey:
Fresh off a one year layoff, Bonner looks to get right back to his winning ways. Jones won his UFC debut in a decent effort. Jones has good, underrated wrestling with very athletic striking. Bonner has a very strong ground game and will probably look to get this fight there as soon as possible. If Bonner can shake the ring rust early, he should be able to win. If not, then Jones could continue his winning ways.

Winner: Stephan Bonner via Submission (Armbar) in Round 3

Stephens:

Stephan Bonner has had a tough go at it since losing twice to Forrest Griffin. I think his skills are vastly underrated and hopefully he proves it to us against an undefeated and heavy handed Jones. Jonse posses the skills to end this as quick as you can blink but I believe Bonner has learned his lesson about standing with strikers since the TUF Finale and is too smart to play "Bones" game.

Winner: Stephan Bonner via Submission (Triangle) in Round 2

Phillip:

Stephen Bonner is a good fighter but his year long layoff will do him in to the young up and coming Jon Jones. If the fight goes to the ground Bonner has a definite advantage with his skills as a BJJ artist. But if it stays standing I think Jones’s aggressiveness will tire out Bonner. This fight can go either way.

WINNER: Jon Jones with the UPSET by 3rd Round TKO.

Nate Diaz (10-2)
vs.
Clay “The Carpenter” Guida (24-9)

Winfrey:
Fight of the Night Potential? Definitely! I am personally stoked for this fight. Guida has been on a tear as of late, while Diaz is still unbeaten in his Octagon career. I really do not like Diaz, and personally I hope Guida pounds him. But, on to the analysis, Guida needs to stay in Diaz’s face and not let him use his length to out strike him. If Guida takes it to the ground, he will need to avoid Diaz’s vast submissions game. This one is tough to call, but I will take Guida.

Winner: Clay Guida via TKO in Round 2

Stephens:

Everyone's favorite lightweight will step into the octagon supercharged as usual against a "love him or hate him" personality in Nate Diaz. Diaz posses an abundance of skills where as Clay is still refining his to a well polished product. Guida can catapult himself into an elite fighter with a quality win where as Diaz would be able to be mentioned as a possible title challenger down the road. Both have a lot to win and lose in this fight which is when heart matters. Clay hasn't shown me anything but heart and desire where Diaz can sometimes be too concerned with outside the octagon issues.

Winner: "The Carpenter" via Unanimous Decision

Phillip:

Look For Nate Diaz to try to get Clay Guida in a triangle and give the middle finger to the crowd, cause that’s what he try’s to do every fight. But I think Guida’s insane aggressiveness will overwhelm that arrogant Diaz to the point he’s eating the UFC logo off Guida’s gloves.

WINNER: Clay Guida 1st Round KO.

Karo “The Heat” Parisyan (18-5)
vs.
Dong Hyun “Stun Gun” Kim (11-0-1)

Winfrey:
The first fight of the main card features the gatekeeper of welterweights, Karo Parisyan taking on Dong Hyun Kim. Both of these guys are Judo practitioners looking for a win. If Parisyan is healthy enough to be in the Octagon, then he should win this one, seeing as how he has fought a lot tougher opponents than Kim.

Winner: Karo Parisyan via Unanimous Decision

Stephens: Karo has always intrigued me as having more potential than he shows. "Stun Gun" has had two successful trips into the Octagon and will look to keep his streak going. Which I believe he will. Most people may see this as an upset but I don't think so. Kim is a better fighter with some quality fights ahead of him. He'll surprise people in this one and end it quicker than expected.

Winner: Dong Hyun Kim via TKO in Round 2

Phillip:

Which Karo Parisyan will we see??? The judo practitioner or the one that eats leather when getting the hell beat outta him? A fighter with so much potential who just doesn’t know how to grasp what he wants to accomplish. I’m taking Kim in this one. I don’t trust Karo.

WINNER: Dong Hyun Kim via TKO 1st Round.

Matt Arroyo
vs.
Dan Cramer

Winfrey:

This is an underwhelming match-up between two former TUF contestants. This is Cramer’s UFC debut and all I know about him is that he throws bombs. Arroyo is a polished submissions fighter, albeit with a 3-2 record. If Arroyo fights a smart fight, he should win. That is what I am banking on.

Winner: Matt Arroyo via Submission (Armbar) in Round 1

Stephens:

Arroyo has no reason to lose this fight. He is much better and will show it in this matchup. Pending Arroyo getting Coldcocker by Cramer, Matt wins easily.

Winner: Matt Arroyo via Submission (RNC) in Round 1

Phillip:

Arroyo hands down. Enough said.

WINNER: 1st Round Armbar.

Manny Gamburyan
vs.
Thiago Tavares

Winfrey:

This is a difficult bout for me to pick. Both fighters are coming off losses. One thing this fight won’t be is a standup battle. Neither of these two fighters has any striking ability, so look for this to be a ground fight. I think that Manny will maintain top position of Tavares for most of the fight, and might even score a submission. I wouldn’t bet on it.

Winner: Manny Gamburyan via Unanimous Decision

Stephens:

This is the inevitable grappling match. Both do happen to carry one TKO win on their records but both were early before the fight reached the ground. I'm thinking Tavares has the better overall MMA ground skills to pull off a submission.

Winner: Thiago Tavares via Submission (Kimura) in Round 2

Phillip:

Manny Gamburyan is coming off a brutal lose. I would like to pick him but his over-aggressiveness will do him in. I think Thiago Tavares has a better overall MMA game to get the victory.

WINNER: Thiago Tavares via RNC 1st Round

Chris Wilson
vs.
John Howard

Winfrey:

Welterweights clash in what could be the best fight, not on the main card. Howard is a newcomer who has held titles in various smaller MMA organizations. Wilson has 16 wins in his MMA career with most coming by TKO or submission, so he knows how to finish fights. I am going to say that Howard has a rude awakening, as Wilson will look to end this one early.

Winner: Chris Wilson via TKO in Round 2

Stephens:

Both fighters present well rounded abilities and can finish the fight from anywhere. Chris Wilson is probably the better fighter but Howard will be bigger and stronger and he has fought at 185 before. I'm going with my gut here.

Winner: John Howard via Split Decision

Phillip:

Chris Wilson has an odd way of striking and can handle his own on the ground so I’m gonna go with him jus because idk much about Jon Howard.

WINNER: Chris Wilson via 2nd TKO.

Jake O'Brien
vs.
Christian Wellisch

Winfrey:

When I look at this fight, I say to myself, “This is going to suck.” Basically, this is a loser goes home LHW bout. Neither fighter is impressive, which obviously doesn’t bode well in the ever deep talented LHW division. O’Brien should be able to use his wrestling to control Wellisch in what could be a very boring fight. If you’re attending the event in Las Vegas, I’d go get your refreshments during this one.

Winner: Jake O’Brien via Unanimous Decision

Stephens:

Just becuase of what Winfrey says about this fight I'm going opposite. Keep your seats during this one. Just trust me it'll be worth it...maybe.

Winner: Christian Wellisch via KO in Round 2

Phillip:

Wellisch has good power. Idk about O’Brien I think he’s kept around so guys can get easy wins. O’Brien can wrestle but that wont do much for him in this one.

WINNER: Wellisch via Unanimous Decision

Jon Fitch
vs.
Akihiro Gono

Winfrey:
Jon Fitch, fresh off his beating from GSP, returns to the Octagon to face Gono. Don’t know much about Gono other than that he has good submission skills and unorthodox striking. Fitch is looking to avenge his first UFC loss with a dominant victory. He should be able to accomplish this if he uses his wrestling and controls Gono on the ground. Fitch may not finish this fight, but Gono’s face will wish he had.

Winner: Jon Fitch via TKO in Round 3

Stephens:

Fitch is slightly being punished and slightly a product of unsaid rules of UFC events. Two lightweights usually open up so he can't fight there, Bonnar is trying to make a come back after being out for a year and the UFC wants his name to be in the news, and you can't put two 13-0 fighters battling for title contention on the undercard. So I believe Fitch is being penalized for the infamous one day firing; it's more of a refusal to break tradition for Fitch. With that being said, Fitch wins, no problem.

Winner: Jon Fitch via Unanimous Decision

Phillip:

This is the best fight not to be on the main card! What is Dana White thinking not putting Jon Fitch vs. Akihiro Gono on the main card. Besides GSP-Penn this should be the 2nd best welterweight fight of the night. Gono is a crafty veteran who knows the tricks of the trade. But from what Jon Fitch is saying he sounds like he is starting to become a dangerous fighter now, and is to much for Gono to handle.

WINNER: Jon Fitch via RNC 2nd Round.

Is Fedor the Best Ever?

With Fedor Emelianenko's quick KO of Andrei Arlovski at Affliction: Day of Reckoning, he easily solidified himself as today's top Heavyweight. Now holding wins over 5 former UFC Heavyweight champions, Dana is going to have to find some other reason to say he's overrated and hasn't fought top notch competition. But could we be still underrating "The Last Emperor"?

Are we getting to experience something that may not happen again in our lifetime?
No one else has been so dominate for this long. I'm aware MMA is a relatively young sport in comparison to the other major ones like baseball, football, basketball, etc, but Fedor can be mentioned with the likes of Hank Aaron, Lance Armstrong, Tiger Woods, and Michael Jordan.

Can you honestly tell yourself that anyone in MMA today would be favored to win in a match up with him? I can't. Even if you could take any past fighter in their prime I still believe they would be considered an underdog against Emelianenko. Is he unbeatable? No, but he makes it no easy task to do so. Andrei would have had to been perfect in his game plan, which apparently he wasn't, to win.

Fedor's calm demeanor and cerebral fighting style leaves him room for error whereas his opponent none. Andrei, Kevin Randleman, Rodrigo Nogueira, Tim Sylvia, Mark Coleman, Hong Man Choi, and Matt Lindland were given a chance to dethrone this man. Some had spots of success, and some could even say they had the upper hand. However, in the end, all it took was a split second brain lapse and Fedor either had his opponent asleep, tapping, or holding an injured limb.

He is so focused, composed, and always ready. That makes his adversary either be the better fighter for the every second for the match's entirety or lose. So, I say, sit back fans and enjoy this great time in Mixed Martial Arts because some day you may get to tell your grandkids about watching the most dominate fighter to ever step into a ring.

KO of the Week!

This is from UFC Fight Night 14 which took place on July 19, 2008 between Rory Markham and Brodie Farber. Try to figure out how it ends before it does.

Affliction: Day of Reckoning Results

Fedor Emelianenko defeats Andrei Arlovski (KO) in Round 1
Josh Barnett defeats Gilbert Yvel (Submission) in Round 3
Vitor Belfort defeats Matt Lindland (KO) in Round 1
Renato Sobral defeats Thierry Sokoudjou (Submission) in Round 2
Paul Buentello defeats Kiril Sidelnikov (TKO) in Round 3

Pick Results:
Brandon Stephens: 5-0
Phillip Hill: 1-4
Jake Winfrey: 4-1

Perfect Picks:
Brandon Stephens: 0
Phillip Hill: 0
Jake Winfrey: 0

Results to Date:
Brandon Stephens: 22-12
Phillip Hill: 8-7
Jake Winfrey: 24-10

Affliction Day of Reckoning Post Wrap.

Well..................................................................
where do I begin? I'll just say all my picks but 1 were wrong.

-Day of Reckoning did deliver in my mind. It was better than UFC 93. Before I begin I've been a Fedor doubter for the longest time, but after tonight I will say Fedor Emelianenko is the BADDEST MAN ON THE PLANET! Andrei Arlovski was controlling Fedor standing up for most of the short fight but, then Fedor got stunned by Andrei's quick strikes. Arlovski then tried a flying knee but got caught by a huge "Rashad Evans" like over-hand right from Fedor sending Arlovski crashing to the mat. Fedor remains the WAMMA Heavyweight Champion of the World and is now on a collision course with Josh Barnett.
-With that said Josh Barnett convincingly finished off Gilbert Yvel in the 3rd round of their battle. Yvel put up somewhat of a fight but it just was not enough to beat the Baby-Faced Assassin, who picks up a very well deserved submission due to strikes in the 3rd. With the win Barnett is now the number one contender for the WAMMA Heavyweight Championship and will face Fedor in a future Affliction event. It was a impressive and dominate victory by Barnett, and I was super impressed with his win.
-Going on the next fight. Matt Lindland vs. Vitor Belfort. With a loud exclamation point Belfort is back! Vitor cracked Lindland with a big left sending Lindland collapsing to the ring floor and Belfort quickly jumped on top and violently pounded Lindland into a coma, almost literally. It was a pretty crazy scene as people surrounded Lindland trying to administer aid, as Lindland was out cold for a good 2 minutes. When Lindland started to wake, his wrestling instincts took over and he tried to get a single-leg on one of the judges who was caring for him. Always a classic scene. This is a BIG win for Belfort so look for a prime macth-up the next time Vitor Belfort steps into the ring.
-The next fight put my boy Sokoudjou against Babalu Sobral. Sokoudjou came out of the gate with a dominate 1st round stuffing Babalu's takedown attempts and connecting with some good punches to take round 1. However, round 2 was another story. Bablu took Soko down and doled out some ground and pound before Big John McCarthy had to reset the two fighters in the middle of the ring after Soko's body was out of the ring. After the reset Babalu quickly applied the start of a anaconda choke then rolled over and forced Soko to tap in the 2nd round via anaconda choke. Who knows what is next for these two fighters, but I'm guessing Babalu will go back to StrikeForce and defend his Light-Heavyweight Title then come back for another Affliction show to possibly face Tito Ortiz???? I'm not sure about my boy Sokoudjou, he's sort of fallen off after dishing out beatings in Pride, I hope Tom Atencio finds him a cupcake that he can beatdown to regain his confidence back.
-Begining the main card was Paul Buentello vs. "Baby Fedor" Kirill Sidelnikov. The two came out swinging for the fences as Buentello gets the better of it connecting with punches. After the exchange Baby Fedor is sporting a sweet mouse under his eye a minute into the fight. Wow! Buentello connects with a couple more right hands before Kirill clinches Buentello obviously because he wants none of the stand-up. Buentello looked like B.J Penn when Penn fought Sean Shrek picking Kirill apart with the jab. Kirill couldnt keep his mouth-guard due to fatigue and the fact that The HeadHunter was picking him apart with jabs and uppercuts. Big John steps in and advises the doctor to look at Kirill and quickly throws in the towel for Kirill due to a horrible beating at the hands of The HeadHunter Paul Buentello. BIG BIG WIN for the crafty veteran. Of course I threw Buentello under the bus learning he was fighting a young gun with the nick-name of "Baby Fedor", but I guess there can only be one Fedor Emeilanenko and Kirill Sidelnikov is NOT a mirror image. Hats off to Buentello!

Now to quick Prelim Results and thoughts.

-Jay Heiron dominates as he crushed Jason High with a Roy Jones like left hand sending High to the mat then delivered insurance punches to end the fight. Heiron wins again so Tom Atencio should look to put him on the Main Card next Affliction show Heiron fights on.
-Dan Lauzon was moved down to the prelims after Chris Horodecki was forced to out due to bulging disk in his neck. Bobby Green stepped up with short noticed to fight The Upgrade. Both come out throwing absolute bombs at each other, Green knee'd Lauzon in the balls 3 times which led to a 2 point deduction but that didn't matter as the fight went to the mat and Dan Lauzon got on Bobby Green's back and got him in a Rear-Naked Choke in the 1st Round.
-Antonio Rogerio Nogueira aka "Lil Nogueira" took out Vladamir Matyushenko in a somewhat boring fight. The 1st round was a borefest. The 2nd had quality action, Nogueira ended the fight with a big knee and a left hand to rock Matyushenko and one final knee to the chin did Matyushenko in.
-LC Davis defeats Bao Quach in a featherweight showdown. Quach won the 1st round and looked to dominate from there. But Davis came out a different man in the 2nd, after escaping some submission attempts by Quach Davis tee'd off on him when the fight went back to the feet. 3rd round showed Davis ground and pounding out unanimous decision.
- Albert Rios defeated Antonio Duarte by unanimous decision. This Fight was pace-controlled, which was in favor of Rios.
-Brett Cooper wins via TKO by strikes against Patrick Speight. Cooper unleashed a Junior Dos Santos like right uppercut that did Speight in.

Overall a great second show by Tom Atencio of Affliction and Golden Boy Productions. All the fights were action packed and definitely has a knockout of the year canidate in Fedor Emelianenko and his over-hand right. The ring-side annoucers were a whole lot better, it's just Tito Ortiz was saying some outlandish things. Its good to see John Mccarthy where he belongs, in the ring reffing fights. All in all I cant wait for Afflictions next PPV.

Affliction: Day of Reckoning Predictions

Well it's time for our pre-fight thoughts and picks for Affliction's Day of Reckoning Saturday, January 24th. The Main Event puts WAMMA Champion Fedor Emeilanenko defending his title against Andrei Arlovski.

MAIN CARD

Fedor Emeilanenko vs. Andrei Arlovski

Josh Barnett vs. Gilbert Yvel

Vitor Belfort vs. Matt Lindland

Renato "Babalu" Sobra vs. Sokoudjou

Paul Buentello vs.Kiril Sidellnikov

Fedor Emelianenko (6 Foot, 233 Pounds) 28-1

Vs.

Andrei Arlovski (6-4, 240 Pounds) 14-5

Phil Hill:

Its about time Fedor is fighting a actual fighter. Finally, Tom Atencio has some sense and picked Andrei Arlovski to fight Fedor. They say that Fedor is a absolute animal. But I haven’t seen him fight anybody. He’s an appearant sambo world champion and hits harder than a wrecking ball. But not so fast, Andrei Arlovski is a former UFC world champion and can actually fight unlike many of Fedor opponents in the past. There's one BIG key in this fight and that would be Mr. Freddie Roach cornering Arlovski. Roach is a world renowned boxing instructor in which many have found success under Roach. So this should be a entertaining fight but in the end Arlovski offers to much than Fedor can handle.

WINNER: Andrei “The Pitbull” Arlovski via TKO 4^th Round

Winfrey:
When I first look at this fight, I automatically think quick finish. Fedor is stepping into the ring against a very game Andrei Arlovski. Arlovski’s last 3 fights have been victories by TKO. Fedor has been on a tear, albeit against lesser fighters. This one to me is simple. If Andrei is going to win, it’s going to be on the feet. Fedor has the big edge on the ground. That being said, he still rocks in his striking. I can’t pick against him until he proves that he can lose.

Winner: Fedor Emelianenko via TKO in Round 2

Stephens:
Fedor is just way too much of a mixed martial artist for this fight. I’m agreeing with Josh Barnett who says Fedor’s striking is perfect for MMA. Andre can learn to box all he wants but it won’t matter when he’s on his back with Emelianenko pounding his head in.

Winner: Fedor Emelianenko via Submission (armbar) in Round 2

Josh Barnett (6-3, 250 Pounds) 22-5

Vs.

Gilbert Yvel (6-2 225 Pounds) 35-12-1

Phil Hill:
Josh Barnett has been on a roll as of late is coming off a devastating knock-out win over Pedro Rizzo. Gilbert Yvel is a accomplished Muay Thai striker who has his violent winning streak going. This fight should be one of the candidates for Fight of the Night.

WINNER: Josh "The Baby-Faced Assassin" Barnett via KO 1st Round.

Winfrey:
Barnett is always solid. Don't know much about Yvel other than that he is a Muy-Thai artist. This will probably be a HW stand-up war for 3 rounds, though it could end early. I think that Barnett will end this one on the ground.

WINNER: Josh Barnett via TKO in Round 1

Stephens:
Barnett is better in every facet of the game. Yvel just doesn’t have any way to win. Barnett has everything to lose after being promised the winner of the Main Event if he pulls out a win.

Winner: Josh Barnett via Submission (RNC) in Round 3

Vitor Belfort (6 Foot 185 Pounds) 17-8

Vs.

Matt Lindland (6 Foot 185 Pounds) 21-5

Phil Hill:
Vitor Belfort vs. Matt Lindland is the match up of dynamic striker against dynamic wrestler. Back in the old UFC days Vitor Belfort use to be an absolute monster! KO-ing every opponet in sight, Then he got a little crazy and had to go find himself now he’s back and judging by his last fight looks rejuvenated and ready to brawl. Matt Lindland on the other hand is a straight wrestling beast. He can take the best down at will seemingly with ease and can usually pound out a victory. I’m pretty sure this fight will go the distance if Lindland has his way. But Vitor has power packed punches. So we’ll see.

WINNER: Matt “The Law” Lindland via Unanimous Decision

Winfrey:
Vitor Belfort is such a mystery to me. He has all the potential to be a flat out stud, yet he is so inconsistent that it makes me sick. Lindland is one of the top wrestling HW's in the world. Belfort is on a 3 fight winning streak, while Lindland has tasted defeated in the hands on a Democratic Congresswoman. I really like Belfort in a decision.

Winner: Vitor Belfort via Unanimous Decision

Stephens:
Belfort has been very inconsistent in his career but has the potential to be amazing. Lindland is very solid with great wrestling. I think Belfort puts it all together, at least for this fight, because of his work with Extreme Couture camp.

Winner: Vitor Belfort via unanimous decision

Renato "Babalu" Sobral (6-1 205 Pounds) 30-7

Vs.

Sokoudjou (6 Foot 205 Pounds) 5-3

Phil Hill:
The next fight interest me a lot. It pits one of my favorite fighter Thierry Sokoudjou against Renato Babalu Sobral. Sokoudjou is a Judo expert while Babalu is a BJJ tactition. If the fight hits the mat Babalu definitely has the advantage unless Sokoudjou and Team Quest have cleaned up his ground game. But be careful Sokoudjou has big time power in his fist and can knockout the best just ask Ricardo Arona and Lil Nog. Babalu also can stand up and bang equally well just ask Bobby Southworth how razor sharp Babalu’s elbows are. This fight can go either way but I’m leaning towards Sokoudjou.

WINNER: Sokoudjou via TKO 2nd Round.

Winfrey:
Phil's favorite Sokoudjou takes on a grisly veteran in Babalu. Babalu has very good submissions and underrated striking. I think he takes this one to the ground, and submits Sokoudjou.

Winner: Renato Sobral via RNC in 3rd Round

Stephens:
Babalu has been on an absolute tear as of late while Sokoudjou has been very lack luster after he was billed as the next big thing. Cardio plays a huge factor in this one giving the easy edge to Sobral.

Winner: Renato “Babalu” Sobral via TKO in Round 3

Paul Buentello (6-2 245 Pounds) 26-10

Vs.

Kiril Sidellnikov (5-11 195 Pounds) 4-2

Phil Hill:
The final fight on the main card is Paul Buentello against the self proclaimed “Baby Fedor” Kirill Sidelnikov. I don’t know much about Kirill but the only thing I do know is he has the ability to finish fights. Buentello is heavy-handed and can finish fight himself, so this fight will prolly be a standing slugfest.

WINNER: Kiril Sidellnikov via KO 1st Round.

Winfrey:
I like Sidellnikov.

Winner: Sidellnikov via TKO in 2nd Round

Stephens:
Paul is a good striker with decent submissions. Sidelnikov or “Baby Fedor” has good power but has been beat by Antonio Mendes who just got schooled by Erik the Red at UFC 93. So based on those simple MMA math equations I’m going with Paul.

Winner: Paul Buentello via Submission (Kimura) in Round 1

What happens if BJ Penn beats GSP?

Evening Gents, I thought it was time for an article. Though it hasn't been promoted enough (I kid, I kid), we all know about the superfight next weekend between Welterweight Champion George St. Pierre and Lightweight Champion BJ Penn. GSP is probably a slight money line favorite in this fight and I think that is about right, seeing as he is the better fighter and will be fighting in his weight class. However, what will happen to both divisions if BJ were to pull off the victory. Let's look at some scenarios:

1) A fight with Kenny Florian. Since losing to Sherk 3 years ago, Florian has been on an absolute tear, winning his last 6 fights, including solid wins over Joe Stevenson and Roger "I'd rather model than fight" Huerta. To me, Florian is long overdue for a title shot, and I hope that, if BJ wins, that Dana won't keep Kenn waiting....again.

2) A fight with Welterweight number one contender Thiago Alves. To me, this seems more likely. BJ would already be at 170, and if he doesn't take a lot of damage in the GSP fight, should be able to take this fight on a shorter notice and a shorter camp. Alves is 9-2 inside the Octagon with credible wins over Matt Hughes, Josh Koscheck, and Karo Parisyan. He would be a tough matchup against Penn, so it would definitely be a fight I'd like to see.

3) Although Dana say no and disagrees, a fight with Middleweight champion Anderson Silva. If GSP wins, that is what is on the horizon. That being said, if BJ wins, his ego will prolly want that same piece of the pie. BJ is a crazy MF'er and is willing to fight anyone that UFC puts in front of him. This one is a long shot, but don't be surprise to hear internet rumors of this one soon after a BJ Penn victory.

Other Scenarios:
> Penn vacates his LW title to fight WW for the next few fights (Unlikely)

> He retires! (Not Going to Happen)

> His ego gets SO enormous, that he challenges Fedor for the unification of the LW, WW and WAMMA belts.

This fight sets up a plethora of possibilites and opportunities for both fighters. I personally hope that GSP wins, because then I get to see Anderson Silva vs. George St. Pierre. I really want to see that fight folks. Well, that should about do it for this one. Feel free to post your own scenarios and comments, as well as commenting on my own. That's a wrap.

KO Video of the Week!

This weeks video pits Anderson "The Spider" Silva vs. James "Sandman" Irvin (UFC Fight Night 14).
This was Silva's LHW debut and, as usual, he didn't fail to impress.

UFC 93 Results

Dan Henderson defeats Rich Franklin (Split Decision)
Mauricio “Shogun” Rua defeats Mark Coleman (TKO) in Round 3
Alan Belcher defeats Denis Kang (Submission) in Round 2
Marcus Davis defeats Chris Lytle (Split Decision)
Rousimar Palhares defeats Jeremy Horn (Unanimous Decision)
Martin Kampmann defeats Alexandre Barros (TKO) in Round 2
Eric Schafer defeats Antonio Mendes (TKO) in Round 1
Tomasz Drwal defeats Ivan Serati via (KO) in Round 2
John Hathaway defeats Thomas Egan (TKO) in Round 1
Dennis Siver defeats Nate Mohr (TKO) in Round 3

Pick Results:
Brandon Stephens: 6-4
Phillip Hill: 7-3
Jake Winfrey: 8-2

Perfect Picks:
Brandon Stephens: 0
Phillip Hill: 1
Jake Winfrey: 1

Results to Date:
Brandon Stephens: 17-12
Phillip Hill: 7-3
Jake Winfrey: 20-9

UFC 93 Thoughts

Well, there wasn't a whole lot of fireworks at 93 but at least the Irish thought it was better than the potato famine. With all the undercard fights ending in some form of TKO, the fans who attended got to see some quality action. Those of us that watched the main card on PPV were left with many mixed emotions.
The Davis/Lytle fight was almost as great as the overthetop build up by the UFC. The split decision was more out of respect in that match in my opinion as I felt Davis won every round.
Belcher surprised ALMOST everyone with his guillotine choke. Kang was dominating every aspect of the fight until he got tired and sloppy. He didn't even try to get out of the choke becuase he had already lost his desire to be in there. I'm going to write that loss off as slight stage fright against a quality opponent who took advantage of his superior OCTAGON experience.
In the Palhares/Horn fight I almost fell asleep. Horn was outclassed in every facet with the exception of cardio training. Had Palhares been in shape as the crafty Horn was the fight would never went all rounds. Rousimar got to exhibit his power and strength but was lacking in his finishing ability. Rogan did get on my nerves praising Horn though. I haven't seen so much praise for someone getting dominated since Winfrey talked about Ken Shamrock losing in...well any of his fights after Kimo.
Which brings me to another fighter who should've been told to hang up the gloves, Mark Coleman. He looked like the Coleman we knew for all of about 1:36 of the first round. After this point he was not very effective at much of anything but did manage to show anyone else that the way to beat Rua is the takedowns. Rua did not bring his A game to this fight either though. He looked sloppy, unprepared, and very slow. I don't see how Dana could give this the Fight of the Night. I was flabbergasted when I saw that fact. The simple fact that Coleman mentioned another rematch left me screaming that I did not want to see that again. But there is a rematch I wouldn't mind, Hendo and Rich.
The main event did prove to live up to the hype, however. Both men left it in the cage. Even though it was controversial, it was still a great fight to watch. What may have happened without the incidental headbutt? Or without the eye poke that came when Henderson was looking the worst he had in the fight and Rich was finally getting his strikes to land solid? We'll never really have those answers but maybe the split decision (another controversially part of the fight) will push Joe Silva and Dana White to put this fight together again.
Overall, the event lacked some luster and that defining moment. Was it worth $45? Not to me but I've paid for worse. I'm optimistic that UFC 94 will more than make up for it!

UFC 93 Predictions!

UFC 93 PREDICTIONS: Welcome to a more sophisticated version of our event picks. UFC 93 is next on the schedule and it promises to be a good PPV to help kickstart the 2009 year, after a fantastic 2008 season. So, without further ado, here is the fight card for UFC 93.

MAIN CARD
Dan Henderson vs. Rich Franklin
Mark Coleman vs. Mauricio “Shogun” Rua
Alan Belcher vs. Denis Kang
Jeremy Horn vs. Rousimar Palhares
Marcus Davis vs. Chris Lytle

PRELIMINARY CARD
Alexandre Barros vs. Martin Kampmann
Antonio Mendes vs. Eric Schafer
Thomasz Drwal vs. Ivan Serati
Tom Egan vs. John Hathaway
Nate Mohr vs. Denis Siver

Rich Franklin (24-3) 6’1 205 lbs
vs.
Dan Henderson (23-7) 6’1 205 lbs

Brandon Stephens:
This should prove to be a quality fight. Rich is enjoying his life at 205 as is Henderson. I’d gain weight to avoid Anderson too after I took poundings like they both did. Henderson probably has better power behind his punches but Rich will be the much more polished fighter in the octagon. Rich hasn’t lost to anyone besides Silva since 2003 and I see no reason for this to change now.
Winner: Rich Franklin via Unanimous Decision

Jake Winfrey:

This battle between this two experienced LHW’s promises plenty of fireworks. This is a very difficult fight to pick, because both of these fighters are very even. Many factors come to my mind when I try to predict this fight. For Franklin, I believe that he needs to keep this on the feet, because Henderson is the far superior wrestler, and even though Franklin has good submissions and submission defense, he will probably be overwhelmed on the ground. Cardio and motivation play a role in this fight. Franklin’s cardio is proven, while Henderson’s has been shaky his last 3 fights. Franklin might not have a lot of motivation for this fight, because he really has nowhere to go in a stacked LHW division. All in all, it should be an entertaining fight, but I will give the nod to Dan Henderson.

Winner: Dan Henderson via Split Decision

Phil Hill:

Franklin-Henderson should be a straight stand-up war! I hate when Joe Silva puts two fighters I like against each other because I don’t know who to pick. But I’m taking Dan Henderson due to the fact he has a Muhammad Ali haymaker for a right hand. Given Henderson’s wrestling background he also has an advantage if the fight goes to the floor. But don’t get me wrong Rich Franklin is a great fighter who has knocked out his fair share of opponents but I think Dan Henderson will take this one.
WINNER: Dan Henderson via knockout. 2nd Round.

Mauricio “Shogun” Rua (16-3) 6’1 205 lbs.
vs.
Mark Coleman (15-8) 6’1 205 lbs.

Brandon Stephens:
Ah, the ol’ grudge match. You got to love it. Coleman won their 2006 PRIDE fight when Rua landed awkwardly on his arm dislocating his elbow only 47 seconds into the fight. Coleman has been on a 2 year hiatus with only a loss to #1 heavyweight in the world Fedor Emelianenko also in 2006. He is, however, 1 of the 5 fighters to be inducted into the UFC Hall of Fame. Rua comes in wanting to prove the first fight was a fluke. He’s won 4 of his last 5 fights after he faced Coleman.
Winner: “Shogun” Rua via TKO in Round 1

Jake Winfrey:

A rematch from a 2006 Pride event marred with controversy, Coleman and Rua look to lock horns again. In the first fight, Rua dislocated his elbow trying to stop a takedown, losing a fight that most figured he would win. I look for this fight to be over rather quickly. The only strength Coleman has is his wrestling. He is also coming out of retirement, which doesn’t always bode well (See Shamrock, Couture). Rua has the edge in striking, submissions, and overall game. This shouldn’t make it out of the first round, but if it does, it will be because Rua got tired of smashing Coleman.

Winner: Shogun Rua via TKO in Round 1

Phil Hill:
Shogun vs. Mark Coleman is a grudge match from back in the Pride days. Coleman broke Shogun’s arm with a big slam and continued to beat on Shogun while he was writhing in pain. That eventually, led to both corners nearly fighting each other. But that was then this is now and sorry Mark Coleman you’re going to get mauled by Shogun like a pack of Rottweilers attacking a prime rib.
WINNER: Shogun Rua via knockout in the first minute of the 1st Round.


Denis Kang (31-10-1) 6’2 185 lbs
vs.
Alan Belcher (13-5) 5’11 185 lbs

Brandon Stephens:
Kang makes his octagon debut against a very game Belcher. Belcher has had mixed results since joining the UFC amassing a 4-3 record with wins via KO, TKO, submission, and decision. Kang has been busy fighting in Japan and comes in with a 3-2 record in his last 5 fights but both losses coming by Top 10 Middleweights. This should prove to be a good indicator as to which of the fighters have a stake to a long career in the UFC.
Winner: Denis Kang via Submission (Armbar) in Round 2

Jake Winfrey:

This is an interesting middleweight bout. Belcher is a solid MW, who has plenty of UFC experience. Kang, however, makes his Octagon debut after a long stint with Pride. Kang is known mostly for his good kicks and solid submission game. These Pride guys are hit and miss, but I like Kang and his ability to bring it to Belcher. I give the nod to Kang.

Winner: Kang via RNC in Round 2

Phil Hill:

Denis Kang and Alan Belcher should be a pretty sweet fight. Kang has loads of international experience and Belcher is always a game fighter. Belcher tends to defeat guys he shouldn’t beat and loses to the ones he should beat. Kang is coming off a loss in the middleweight tournament of D.R.E.A.M. so it should be pretty entertaining or super boring but who knows.
WINNER: Dennis Kang via Unanimous Decision

Marcus Davis (15–4) 170 lbs 5’10
vs.
Chris Lytle (26-16–5) 170 lbs 5’11

Brandon Stephens:
This should be a war! Both like to throw heavy hands and have no qualms if their opponent does the same. I’m calling Fight of the Night on this one. Both are becoming very popular fighters and the winner will likely cement his place as a must see for future fights.
Winner: Marcus Davis via TKO in Round 2

Jake Winfrey:

This bout has all of the makings for fight of the night, and possibly fight of the year. Two very experience welterweights square off in this one. The Irish Hand Grenade had been on a tear, until a recent slip-up against Mike Swick. Lytle, known more as a gatekeeper, has very heavy hands and will look to stand and trade with Davis. Davis, however, will whether the early storm, and finish Lytle soon thereafter.

Winner: Marcus Davis via Unanimous Decision

Phil Hill:

Marcus Davis vs. Chris Lytle is another one of those fights that can be really boring or really above average. Both are up there in age and really are just game fighters holding down the welterweight division. Marcus Davis is a good boxer and should be able to control Lytle.
WINNER: Marcus Davis via Unanimous Decision

Rousimar Palhares (8-2) 5’8 185 lbs
vs.
Jeremy Horn (80-18-5) 6’2 185 lbs

Brandon Stephens:
Jeremy Horn’s body has to break down eventually, right? With over 100 pro fights in his 12 year career he averages an unheard of 8.5 fights a year. He fought 13 times in one year back in 1998. Those facts are exactly why I’m picking the young submission tactician to make Horn tapout.
Winner: Rousimar Palhares via Submission (Heel Hook) in Round 3

Jake Winfrey:

Decent fight, and nothing more. It might have the potential for submission of the night. Horn is coming off of 2 one-sided losses, while Palhares is coming off a decision loss to Dan Henderson. I believe that Horn will be overwhelmed by Palhares’s aggression and submission game. This should end early.
Winner: Palhares via RNC in Round 1

Phil Hill:

If things go according to plan then Jeremy Horn/Rousimar Palhares is going to be a technical ground battle. Both fighter are BJJ experts but both are coming off losses and need a much needed win. So if you’re into technical BJJ battles then this is your fight.
WINNER: Rousimar Palhares via rear-naked choke in the 1st round.

Martin Kampmann (13-2) 6’0 170 lbs
vs.
Alexandre Barros (13-5) 5’9 170 lbs

Brandon Stephens:
Kampmann makes the smart move down to 170 where his skills will be much more on display. Barros comes into his Octagon debut on a 9 fight win streak. He’s not known for his KO power as most of his wins come via decision, and all those being against lesser opponents from Bazil. I think Kampmann takes Alexandre down and pounds on him.
Winner: Martin Kampmann via TKO in Round 1

Jake Winfrey:

I am really looking forward to this fight. Kampmann seems to be fully recovered from his injuries and loss to Nate Marquardt at UFC 88. Kampmann brings to the table very good submissions and a chin that is only matched by Ken Shamrock (I kid!). Barros is a very aggressive fighter, who comes in riding a 9 fight winning streak. This is too tough to call, but I will go with Kampmann

Winner: Kampmann via Unanimous Decision

Phil Hill:

I’m gonna go ahead and say I don’t know anything about Alexandre Barros and Martin Kampmann will take him easily.
WINNER: Martin Kampmann via Knockout 2nd Round.

Eric Schafer (10-3-2) 6’3 205 lbs
vs.
Antonio Mendes (15–3) 6’3 205 lbs

Brandon Stephens:

Schafer is a UFC veteran but not a very memorable one unless you’re a hardcore fan. Mendes comes into to his sophomore UFC event after a loss to Thiago Silva at UFC 84. He was on an 11 fight win streak before that and I look for him to unimpressively get back to his winning ways.
Winner: Antonio Mendes via Unanimous Decision

Jake Winfrey:

Two middle of the road fighters meet in this LHW bout. Schafer is fresh off a submission win over the ALWAYS deadly Houston Alexander, while Mendes is coming off a TKO loss to top contender Thiago Silva. Mendes should keep this fight up for a few minutes with his striking and kicks, but it will ultimately get to the ground, where Schafer will take over.

Winner: Eric Shafer via Armbar in Round 1

Phil Hill:

Eric Schafer is coming off a win against our man Houston Alexander. Antonio Mendes is coming off a loss against Thiago Alves. Schafer is good on the ground and I don’t know much about Mendes due to the fact he got picked apart by Thiago Alves.
WINNER: Antonio Mendes via Unanimous Decision

Ivan Serati (10-2) 6’1 205 lbs
vs.
Tomasz Drwal (14-2) 6’0 205 lbs

Brandon Stephens:
Both fighters present with impressive records and hammers for fists. Drwal could win this by submission or ground and pound if it goes to the ground and if Serati isn’t careful he’ll get beat in the stand up as well. Unless Drwal misses every punch in the first two rounds and gasses as usual in the third he wins by something decisive.
Winner: Tomasz Drwal via KO in Round 2

Jake Winfrey:

Serati is making his UFC debut against Drwal whose only fight in the UFC was a TKO loss to Thiago Silva. Serati is a crafty veteran, who possesses good standup skills. Drwal, however, is a very solid fighter who has only tasted defeat once in the past 4+ years. Give it to Drwal

Winner: Drwal via TKO in Round 2

Phil Hill:

The next match Tomas Drwal and Ivan Serati could have the potential to be good if both jus stand there and knock the hell out of each other. But I’ve seen very little of both, so I’ll take Drwal cause he has more UFC experience.
WINNER: Tomas Drwal 3rd Round TKO via strikes

Thomas Egan (3-0) 5’11 170 lbs
vs.
John Hathaway (9-0) 5’10 170 lbs

Brandon Stephens:

Undefeated fighters clash in the undercard fight and if Lytle and Davis don’t deliver this is my second choice for Fight of the Night. If this doesn’t get aired, I’d be sure to check it out somewhere on the net the next day because I have a feeling it’ll be worth it.
Winner: John Hathaway via TKO in Round 2

Jake Winfrey:

Never heard of these two fighters. I’ll go with John Hathaway, because he has the same last name as Anne Hathaway……and she’s hot.

Winner: John Hathaway via Unanimous Decision

Phil Hill:
John Hathaway is undefeated and I think the UFC gave him a cupcake to beat up on. So he should dominate this bout.
WINNER: John Hathaway 2nd Round Knockout

Nate Mohr (8-5) 5’9 155 lbs
vs.
Dennis Siver (12-6) 5’7 155 lbs

Brandon Stephens:
Mohr will finally get his first UFC stoppage in this fight. His only other UFC win was a unanimous decision. Siver’s submission defense just isn’t polished enough to pull this out.
Winner: Nate Mohr via Submission (Triangle) in Round 1

Jake Winfrey:

Siver record in the UFC is 1-4. If he wants to fight in the UFC, he desperately needs a win. Unfortunately, Nate Mohr is no a push over. His last fight was over a year ago, where he got his knee torn up pretty bad. This should be an easy win for Mohr, as he will give Siver his UFC walking papers.

Winner: Mohr via TKO in Round 1

Phil Hill:
Both Denis Siver and Nate Mohr are coming off losses and both need to win to stay in the UFC simple as that.
Winner: Nate Mohr via Unanimous Decision.

Video of the Week!

Ken and Tito Highlights!!!! (UFC 40)

A very controversial decision. Was the towel thrown in, or just accidentally dropped? I think we can all say that at the end of this fight, Ken got the best of the exchanges.

KO of the Week (Link Inside!)

This week's video comes courtesy of The Land of the Rising Sun at Sengoku No Ran which took place over the past weekend. The fight features Maximo Blanco vs. Seigo Inoue. This was definitely an interesting finish. I couldn't get the embed code to work but trust me it's worth the click. If the embed codes gets fixed I'll change it.

http://www.myvideofight.com/video/sengoku/sengoku-7-maximo-blanco-vs-seigo-inoue/index.html

End of the Year MMA Compilation

Enjoy!!!