Miesha Tate

Strikeforce recently announced a match up between two of female MMA’s brightest rising stars. Kim Couture will face off with Miesha Tate on May 15th in a 135 pound showdown.

ShoMMA: Strikeforce Challengers will take place at the Save Mart Center in Fresno, California.

Couture showed that she is tougher than nails in her mixed martial arts debut with Kim Rose when her jaw was shattered in the early moments of the bout, only to battle back for the bouts duration while coming up on the short end of a hard fought unanimous decision. Couture recently rebounded from the loss with a first round TKO over Lina Kvokov in November of 2008.

It’s no mystery as to how Miesha “Takedown” Tate acquired her nickname. Tate joined up with the boys wrestling team in high school, and the strong wrestling background she brings to women’s MMA is something rarely seen in the sport. Tate’s has compiled a record of 5-1 since making the jump into the sport and has won her last four straight bouts.

While Couture was given an opponent that didn’t belong in the same ring as her in her last bout, she will not be afforded the same luxury against Tate. Tate is the real deal and this bout will answer any questions still lingering about Couture.

Stepping into the role of Frank Castle for the 2008 reboot is up-and-coming Irish actor Ray Stevensen. Stevensen succeeds where Lundgren and Jane failed; unlike the aforementioned actors, Stevensen’s portrayal of The Punisher is much more authentic and true to the character that has been depicted for years in the comic books.

In fact, Stevensen brings such an edge to the role that outside of Saw V and Rambo IV, The Punisher: War Zone rates as one of the most violent films of 2008.

After hunting down and killing hundreds of criminals, Castle graduates in this film to going head-to-head with the mob, and we’re not talking about the silly little crime syndicate spearheaded by John Travolta in the 2004 film.

But much like a tragic turn of events created Castle’s alter-ego as “The Punisher,” Castle creates his most formidable opponent in the form of Jigsaw, a man formerly known as mob kingpin Billy Russoti (played Dominic West of The Wire). Russoti takes on his new identity after a violent attack from “The Punisher” leaves him disfigured.

With a run time of 103 minutes, The Punisher: War Zone is best experienced in Blu-ray as the film’s ballet of violence takes on a new dimension.

Fans of The Punisher will also enjoy the special features that are included with the two-disk edition. In addition to audio commentary from the film’s director Lexi Alexander as well as the directory of photography, Steve Gainer, there are a host of featurettes such as the making of The Punisher: War Zone; the weapons of The Punisher; a character piece on Jigsaw; creating the look of “The Punisher“; and more.

If chick flicks and art house films are your deal then The Punisher: War Zone is not for you. But if you’re a guy who enjoys movies for guys, you won’t be disappointed.

Five Ounces of Pain makes media appearances on a regular basis with Caplan having appeared as a guest nationally on HDNet’s “Inside MMA,” FoxNews.com’s “FOX Fight Game,” the “The Scott Ferrall Show” on Sirius Satellite Radio, “Sirius Fight Club” with hosts Randy Gordon and Chris Thomas on Sirius, “Fight Network Radio” with host Mauro Ranallo on Hardcore Sports Radio in Canada and on Sirius in the States, “The MMAsh” with host “Carmichael Dave” on CBS Radio, and “The Mr. Sunshine Show” with host Steve Cofield on Fox Sports Radio.

Locally, he has appeared on ESPN Radio affiliates in Las Vegas (1100 AM), Orlando (1080 AM) and Philadelphia/Trenton (920 AM); on CBS Radio affiliates in Sacramento (1140), Washington D.C. (106.7 FM) and Dallas (105.3 FM); as well as stations in Toronto (590 AM), Oklahoma (1430 AM), Orlando (740 AM) and North Carolina (680 AM).

Internet radio credits include “The Sports Buzz,” “The Jordan Breen Show” on Sherdog Radio, Brian Fritz’s “Between the Ropes,” and MMA Rated Radio.

If you’re interested in scheduling Caplan for an appearance on your show, you can e-mail him at: SCaplan8@comcast.net

YOU CAN ENTER THE 5oz  Live EVENT Chatroom CLICK HERE!!! for full coverage.

Tonight’s scheduled card from the Nationwide Arena in Columbus, Ohio is as follows (with final weigh-in results in parenthesis):

MAIN CARD -

• Quinton Jackson def. Keith Jardine via unanimous decision
• Shane Carwin def. Gabriel Gonzaga via KO (punch)~1:09~Round 1 (257.5)
• Matt Brown def. Pete Sell via TKO~1:32~Round 1
• Matt Hamill def. Mark Munoz via knockout ~3:53~Round 1
  
• Gray Maynard def. Jim Miller via unanimous decision

PRELIMINARY CARD -

• Tamdan McCrory def. Ryan Madigan via TKO ~3:35~Round 1 (170)
• Kendall Grove def. Jason Day via TKO ~1:32~Round 1
• Jason Brilz def. Tim Boetsch via unanimous decision
• Brandon Vera def. Michael Patt via TKO~ 1:27~Round 2
• # Shane Nelson def. Aaron Riley via TKO ~ :44~Round 1
  

MAIN CARD -

• Quinton Jackson (205) vs. Keith Jardine (204)
• Shane Carwin (259.5) vs. Gabriel Gonzaga (257.5)
• Matt Brown (170.5) vs. Pete Sell (170)
• Matt Hamill (205) vs. Mark Munoz (204.5)
• Gray Maynard (155) vs. Jim Miller (154.5)

PRELIMINARY CARD -

• Ryan Madigan (169) vs. Tamdan McCrory (170)
• Jason Day (184.5) vs. Kendall Grove (185)
• Tim Boetsch (205) vs. Jason Brilz (204)
• Michael Patt (204.5) vs. Brandon Vera (205)
• Shane Nelson (155) vs. Aaron Riley (155)

UFC 96 is set to go down this Saturday at the Nationwide Arena in Columbus, Ohio. And what would a major UFC PPV extravaganza be without a Pain Poll courtesy of the staff of 5 Oz.?

Here’s our preview with our picks…

Main Card Bouts (televised on pay-per-view) -

Quinton Jackson vs. Keith Jardine

Lee Gerowitz: Yes, Jardine can beat Jackson. Matter of fact, any mixed martial artist can beat their opponent in any given fight. This is not breaking news. The bottom line is this: if a focused “Rampage” shows up to fight and doesn’t allow Jardine to leg kick him into frustration, he wins in a decisive manner. Jackson by TKO, round one.

Dustin James: A lot of people are bad mouthing this main event, but I happen to like it. Jardine is a big underdog here, yet he always seems to do better in that role. Jackson is coming off a huge KO win over Wanderlei Silva, who just defeated Jardine in thirty six seconds at UFC 84. Will Jardine use the same kicks he used to defeat Chuck Liddell and wear down Jackson much like Forrest Griffin did in the same fashion last summer? Perhaps, but I personally can’t see it. Winner: Jackson via KO in Round 1.

Cory Brady: I know, I know, Jardine wins fights he’s not supposed to. Well this fight will definitely be the exception to that rule. Jardine doesn’t do well against compact, explosive fighters and Jackson is just that. Winner: Jackson by knockout.

Brendhan Conlan: The first thing I want to say is that Quinton Jackson deserves an immense amount of respect for stepping up to fight Jardine instead of sitting on his hands while Rashad Evans recovered from his championship win. Jackson is risking his shot at the gold against a man with wins over a number of top-level light heavyweights, so again, make Aretha Franklin proud and show the man some R-E-S-P-E-C-T. I think Jardine’s best hope at winning, or at least avoiding the taste of canvas for as long as possible, will be to attack Quinton’s legs with the powerful kicks he’s known for delivering. Beyond that, “Rampage” seems to have rededicated himself to Mixed Martial Arts since his loss to Forrest Griffin, and based on previous performances, he has a far better chance of knocking Jardine out than the reverse being true. Then again, has there been any better camp than Greg Jackson’s as of late when it comes to preparing fighters for success? No matter how the actual bout unfolds, I think it’s safe to say the UFC 96 main event is going to be extremely entertaining from start to finish, and fans are in a win-win situation because Rashad Evans’ first title-defense is going to come against a “Top 3″ 205-pound fighters regardless of who wins between Jardine and Jackson. Winner: Quinton “Rampage” Jackson, TKO, round 2.

Caleb Newby: Leg kicks of doom? I think we may be overrating that. If that’s all we’re talking about for Jardine to win, we have to think Rampage’s camp is aware as well. One thing we can’t underrate is Jardine’s KO-ability against a heavy striker like Rampage. Plus, I love the earmuff boxing defense. Winner: Quinton Jackson – TKO, Rd1

David Andrest: Who said “Leg kicks of doom”??   That is hysterical…Leg kicks of doom…it’s not like Pat Berry is fighting or heaven forbid Tong Po. I want to pick Jardine but Jackson is not Liddell.  Jackson is not a one trick pony.  I’m sure Greg Jackson will have a plan but what can it be?  Outlast Rampage and out work him?  That is really the only way I see Jardine having a shot.  That is not likely.  Winner: Jackson KO

Bryan Levick: I see this as a way for the Greg Jackson camp to get a firsthand look at Rampage. While Jardine is clearly no pushover I truly believe he is being thrown to the wolves here. Rampage will stop at nothing until he gets his title back and Jardine will play the role of sacrificial lamb here. Jackson via 2nd round TKO.

Gabriel Gonzaga vs. Shane Carwin

Lee Gerowitz: Based on the quality of the fight, at least on paper, this is the “real” main event. Gonzaga should be awfully tough to beat. Go to the ground and he can submit you. Stay standing and he can decapitate you with a kick. Then there’s Carwin: 10 fights, 10 wins, five by submission, five by KO. But the difference-maker in this fight will be experience. Staying with the “focused” theme; if Gonzaga enters the octagon focused, he should be able to take advantage of potential openings by the less-experienced Carwin and win via submission. If he enters the Octagon lacking focus, he’ll leave the octagon without any recollection of how he got his ass handed to him, because he’ll get knocked the !%#&! out. I’ll go with the veteran. Gonzaga by submission, round one.

Dustin James: Carwin is really stepping up his level of competition here. We will finally get to see if this guy is for real. While I’m a huge fan of Gonzaga’s, it seems the guy always lets me down in his big fights. I keep playing this fight in my head and the outcome keeps ending up with Carwin ground and pounding his way to a victory. Winner: Carwin via KO in Round 2.

Cory Brady: This is my personal fight of the night. I can’t wait to see this match up. All the questions will be answered about Carwin in this one. I hope it goes to the second round at least and it’s a war. I can’t explain how much I’m looking forward to this fight! Oh yeah, a pick. Tough call. Winner: Carwin by TKO in a WAR!

Brendhan Conlan: Let’s hope the UFC reinforces the mat when Carwin and Gonzaga get called to action as it needs to be ready to accommodate 500-pounds of furious muscle, bone, and bac khair. Both behemoths are skilled grapplers, hit hard, and won’t be afraid to let the leather fly once the cage door closes. I expect the winner of this bout to challenge either Brock Lesnar or Frank Mir depending on who holds the UFC Heavyweight Championship after UFC 98. I’m going to give a slight edge to Carwin simply because he has yet to be put in a difficult position, let alone beaten, while “Napao” has been TKO’d three times in his career. Granted, those losses were to Fabricio Werdum and Randy Couture, but it still shows he can be left crumpled on the canvas. He has also shown a susceptibility to being taken down and Carwin is a very solid wrestler. Carwin may not have faced the level of competition Gonzaga has, but a win over the tough Brazilian would put him at 11-0 with at least ten of those wins coming in the first round. Being that the UFC hands out title-shots like they’re candy at Halloween, I’d certainly have no problem with Carwin testing his might against Lesnar or Mir. Winner: Shane Carwin, TKO, round 1.

Caleb Newby: I was leaning taking Carwin in an effort to ride the current hot trend and to give a personal “take that” to Gonzaga for KOing my dear Cro Cop. Well, that was awhile ago and I should let it go and Gonzaga is the vastly more experienced and rounded fighter here. It would be great to see Carwin win and really become a star, but Gonzaga is a big leap. Winner: Gabriel Gonzaga – Sub, Rd2

David Andrest: Simple pick.  If Gonzaga comes in under 250  he wins.  If not Carwin will smash is face in a violent way.  Winner: The Scale.

Bryan Levick: I believe Gonzaga is one of the more talented fighters in the world today. He has good striking and world class jiu-jitsu, but it is his heart and conditioning that scare me. Carwin while he is 10-0 has not fought anyone near the top 25 and this is a huge step up in competition for him. I think Gonzaga knows what is at stake for him and he will show up ready, willing and able to make an example out of Carwin. Gonzaga via second round submission.

Matt Hamill vs. Mark Munoz

Lee Gerowitz: Will this become a wrestle-fest or will these two scrap their wrestling abilities and slug it out? If Munoz is smart, he should avoid the ground and suck Hamill into a boxing match – which would be a mistake for Hamill. Not that Hamill couldn’t win a stand up war with Munoz, but because he needs to utilize his main weapon: wrestling. Hamill ignored his wrestling game against Rich Franklin and got schooled. Munoz is no Franklin, Hamill needs to fight a smart fight. I think he will. Hamill by TKO via ground and pound, round two.

Dustin James: This should be a great battle between two terrific wrestlers. Munoz has looked solid thus far in his career and is really stepping up his level of competition here. I’d look for Hamill to try and keep the fight standing in hopes of scoring a knockout. I can honestly see the fight going either way, but I gotta go with the experience of Hamill here. Winner: Hamill via decision.

Cory Brady: A battle between two wrestlers. I’ll be honest and say I’m not too excited about this one. Hopefully Hamill keeps it standing and makes it exciting. Either way he’s going to win. Winner: Hamill by TKO.

Brendhan Conlan: This is an evenly matched pairing with one important exception. Munoz and Hamill are both championship-level wrestlers and deserve respect in that regard without doubt. However, “The Philippine Wrecking Machine” is a good, multi-faceted striker while Hamill relies on power without giving much thought to defense or technique. He is sloppy and has shown little improvement since debuting in the UFC three years ago. Winner: Mark Munoz, TKO, round 2.

Caleb Newby: Wrestler vs. wrestler… ugh. Can we pick someone to win based only on their being a good guy and likable? I mean, that’s not why I pick Franklin but it could be. Anyway, Hamill has the experience and I honestly have no idea who will out wrestle the other. With that being a question mark, I’ll go with the fella that has been here before and knows the routine. Winner: Matt Hamill – Decision

David Andrest: Let me clue you in Newby.  Hamill is the better wrestler and it’s not close.  I like Munoz and see him as a good prospect.  I really don’t understand the matchmaking here  Matt Hamill vs. a younger Matt Hamill. Winner: Matt Hamill.

Bryan Levick: A battle of two skilled collegiate wrestlers is what we have here, but is either guy that much better than the other when it comes to striking? I think many fans will assume that Hamil will have the advantage when it comes to wrestling but Munoz actually was a Division 1 national champion while Hamil competed at a Division III school. Don’t be too surprised here when Munoz ekes out a close unanimous decision here. I don’t think we will see as much wrestling as people would assume. When two top notch wrestlers go up against one another they tend to try and bang it out on their feet.

Gray Maynard vs. Jim Miller

Lee Gerowitz: This is a fight that could leave UFC and MMA novices going, “Huh? Why are they rolling around on the ground like that daddy? Huh?” However, if this fight plays out like it should on the ground, Joe Rogan might wet himself with his analysis. If he does, look for that to be the focus of the upcoming “Post Card From The Couch: UFC 96.” This is also the fight that will make Sigfried & Roy fans of mixed martial arts. Oh, I forgot to analyze! Maynard will be just a tad stronger than Miller in each and every round. Maynard by decision.

Dustin James: This is a great fight and an extremely difficult one to pick. Maynard should be able to pick up a split decision victory here. Winner: Maynard via decision.

Cory Brady: Best matched fight on the card by far. Miller is an animal but Maynard is the real deal, he will show it in this one. Winner: Maynard by unanimous decision.

Brendhan Conlan: I’m as excited about this particular fight as any other contest taking place on the card. Maynard and Miller and both excellent young lightweights who have the potential to challenge for UFC gold by 2010 if they continue progressing as expected. Maynard lives up to his nickname – “The Bully” – with his strength and ability to smother opponents on the mat. Miller has a more-exciting approach to Mixed Martial Arts but doesn’t sacrifice technique for aggression. I think his wrestling is good enough to counter Gray’s takedown attempts and his jiujitsu skills will allow the East Coaster to defend from his back if necessary. I also think XTreme Couture’s Maynard will be prepared in that regard and I won’t be surprised if he attempts to turn the bout into a boxing match instead of risking a triangle or armbar from the bottom. It’s a difficult fight to pick, and while I personally would enjoy seeing Miller win, I think the former Big 10 wrestler will find a way to out-muscle him and maintain the zero in his loss column. Winner: Gray Maynard, Judges’ Decision.

Caleb Newby: Maynard, until proven otherwise or until facing top flight lightweight competition, is going to be my new Machida. What’s that mean? Whenever he’s fighting, I pick him to win by decision. Winner: Gray Maynard – Decision

David Andrest: Maynard is getting very close to being “That guy”.  The one that will have a hard time finding top level fights.  At 155 if you are going to lose you need to at least do it with style.  A loss by UD to Maynard is something that most top level lightweights cringe at the thought of.  The only person who fears it more is Joe Silva. Rumor has it that watching Maynard’s fights are going to part of a radical new treatment for sleep apnea.  Winner: Maynard-Decision

Bryan Levick: I was all aboard the Maynard bandwagon until he fought Rich Clementi and did absolutely nothing but lay on top of him. That showed me that he has not evolved much since he came into the UFC and training at Xtreme Couture has not expanded his game. Miller on the other hand was very impressive in his victory over Matt Wiman in December. This was his 8th victory in a row and he took the fight on extremely short notice after Frankie Edgar was injured, he practically got off the plane from his honeymoon and stepped into the cage and thoroughly dominated Wiman. I Like Miller in this one via unanimous decision as he makes a bigger name for himself in the UFC.

Matt Brown vs. Pete Sell

Lee Gerowitz: Matt Brown should not get down…to the ground, that is. If I’m Brown – and I’m not, unless he enters the octagon looking as if he just went on a 24-hour Dunkin’ Donuts binge – I put the full-court press on Sell, make it a brawl and test his chin immediately. Brown by TKO, round three

Dustin James: The UFC really has high hopes that these two will put on a spectacle here. Matt Brown has looked impressive in his UFC run thus far and will need to be in tip top shape in order to defeat the more experienced Sell. Winner: Sell via decision

Cory Brady: I hate having to call this fight because both of these guys are realy cool in person. I could literally flip a coin on this one. It may end up being fight of the night, just wait and see. Winner: Sell by knockout.

Brendhan Conlan: I was originally a bit hum-ho about this match-up and questioned why a bout between two fighters entering the Octagon with a combined record of 16-11 were being slotted for airtime on a PPV. After all, neither man is close to welterweight contendership and neither is expected to do much in the future given that particular division’s talent pool. Then I gave it a little more thought. Both Matt Brown and Pete Sell love to scrap. They punch with reckless abandon and aren’t afraid to keep moving forward regardless of the damage they’ve taken. On top of that, Brown hails from Ohio so he’ll be looking to impress the fans in Columbus and Sell is coming off a UFC 90 win over Josh Burkman. Contrary to my initial take on this bout, I’m actually somewhat excited about what Brown and Sell will deliver on Saturday and I think it definitely has “Knockout of the Night” potential. Winner: Matt Brown, TKO, round 3.

Caleb Newby: Call me spoiled, but it bothers me that I have to discuss this fight on the main card. I’m hard pressed to overly care, really. Hey, at least I admitted it. Winner: Pete Sell – Drago Punch, Rd2

David Andrest: Newby..You’re spoiled.  But I see your point.  Why in the world would the UFC put two guys who will swing for the fences together on PPV.  Who wants to see two fighters who will throw caution to the wind and just swing on eachother open up a night of PPV fights.   How in the world did this make main card with all the other exciting options available………… Winner: Drago via TKO.

Bryan Levick: This one has slugfest written all over it and for good reason these guys like to stand and bang. If Matt Brown has shown anything in his 3 fights with the UFC it is that he is as tough as nails. Sell made his debut at welterweight a successful one defeating Josh Burkman at UFC 90. Sell’s ground game is so underrated because he has a crowd pleasing style but don’t let that fool you he trains under one of the best practitioners of jiu-jitsu in Matt Serra. I see Sell pulling off a submission in the third round after two rounds of non-stop action. Score one for Long Island, New York.

Non-televised Preliminary Bouts -

Brandon Vera vs. Mike Patt

Lee Gerowitz: Again, anything can happen, but this is Dana White and the UFC saying, “Brandon Vera, we want you to remain in the UFC, here you go.” And this is me saying, “Brandon Vera, you will remain in the UFC – Mike Patt, you won’t – so here you go.” Vera by KO, round one.

Dustin James: There’s a lot of pressure riding on Brandon Vera in this fight. He’s lost three out of his last four and the fight he actually won, he didn’t look too good. Michael Patt made his UFC debut at UFC 88 in a losing effort to Tim Boetsch, however Patt took that fight on extremely short notice so who knows how the guy will look with a full training camp under his belt. Vera should be extremely motivated for this one as his UFC career could be on the line. Winner: Vera via KO in Round 1

Cory Brady: I know there are a lot of people that want Vera to lose this one but he won’t. Unless he slips on a banana peel, Vera wins this fight easily. Winner: Vera by knockout.

Brendhan Conlan: I can’t help but wonder where Vera would be at this moment in time if he’d avoided the nearly yearlong layoff he experienced after dismantling Frank Mir in 69 seconds at UFC 65. He’s lost three of his last four fights and looked piss-poor against Reese Andy in his 205-pound debut. However, I think Mike Patt will be the cure for whatever is ailing the affable Californian, as Patt is a submission specialist with below-average standup abilities. Simply put, I fully believe that Patt won’t be able to handle “The Truth”. If Vera turns in anything other than a dominating performance against a guy who Tim Boetsch took out in two minutes last September, I have a sinking feeling the Filipino superstar will find himself at risk of being on the UFC’s chopping block based on the amount of money he’s getting paid. Winner: Brandon Vera, TKO, round 1.

Caleb Newby: Vera sure has fallen, hasn’t he? If Andrest is doing this Pain Poll, I know what he’ll say here so I won’t take his thunder. Oh wait, yes I will. He’ll say how Vera has never proved he deserved the hype and is way overrated. He’ll also probably take Vera to lose here. Not this guy. I’ll take another tenetive fight out of Vera to win. Winner: Brandon Vera – Decision

David Andrest: To say Vera has fallen would imply he was once elevated above prospect status.  So NO, he hasn’t fallen.  Since annoucing to the world that he had plans to hold the  Light Heavyweight and Heavyweight titles at the same time, Vera has done well to hold onto his roster spot. That’s the TRUTH.   Will he beat Mike Patt??  Holding true to a promise I made right here in a previous pain poll, I will never pick Vera to win. Winner: Mike Patt via arm triangle.

Bryan Levick: Oh how the mighty have fallen. It wasn’t all that long ago while competing as a heavyweight Vera was calling out light heavyweight champion Chuck Liddell in his quest to hold titles in two different weight classes. Now he is on the undercard of a UFC ppv that frankly isn’t all that star studded. Vera has looked awful in his two fights at 205 going 1-1. He defeated Reese Andy via lackluster unanimous decision and lost a split decision to Keith Jardine. He recently signed an extension but needs to step it up a notch or three to remain relevant. Patt lost his debut in the UFC to Tom Boetsch and was unimpressive, Vera should be able to land a nice head kick or utilize his Muay Thai for a 1st round TKO.

Kendall Grove vs. Jason Day

Lee Gerowitz: Many folks believe that both of these fighters are fighting for their UFC survival. Which hopefully equates to both fighters bringing their A-games to the octagon. A 6-foot-6 Grove should be too much for Day too handle. Grove by decision.

Dustin James: Jason Day is a talented fighter with some nice wins under his belt. He tried to stop the train known as Michael Bisping at UFC 85 but was knocked out in the first round. Now he steps into the Octagon with another “TUF” winner, who just so happens to be in desperate need of a win in order to avoid being cut from the UFC. Groves is notorious for his weak chin and I can see that coming into play here. Winner: Day via KO in Round 1

Cory Brady: This is a pretty good match up. Hopefully they both realize that it’s a sink or swim fight and swing for the fences. Winner: Grove by decision.

Brendhan Conlan: Without a doubt in my mind this is the most important fight of Kendall Grove’s career. I understand he won TUF 3 but losing to Ed Herman would not have had the impact on his career that falling to Jason Day potentially could (i.e. the unsavory possibility he becomes the first non-comeback TUF champ cut from the promotion). A loss to the talented Canadian would make Grove 1-3 in his last four Octagon appearances with the lone victory coming in a split decision over the late Evan Tanner. Since earning that dubya, the Hawaiin has been out of action for nearly nine months. Jason Day is in a similar boat in terms of a hiatus from the eight-sided cage, though prior to falling to Michael Bisping at UFC 85 he had won five fights in a row over opponents including Alan Belcher, David Loiseau, and Jonathan Goulet. I think he’ll start a new streak this Saturday night, as Grove is overly reliant on his grappling and has only TKO’d one opponent in fourteen pro fights. He’s also shown he has if not a glass jaw, one forged from ceramic pottery. “Dooms” Day, on the other hand, has only been knocked out once in the past five years and has a jiujitsu game to counter any web “Da Spyder” attempts to weave. Winner: Jason Day, TKO, round 2.

Caleb Newby: Is Kendall Grove or Joe Stevenson in more danger of getting cut? I know Grove won last, but I think maybe him. Grove looked good against Tanner and seemed to have a fire lit under him. First instict was to go with a submission, but let’s change that up on account of lankyness. Winner: Kendall Grove – TKO, Rd2

David Andrest: I just don’t know.  I want to care.  Winner: Kendall Grove.

Bryan Levick: It is put up or shut up for Grove as he was put on notice by Dana White this past week. He seems to have rededicated himself to the sport after the birth of his daughter and will look to utilize his height and reach advantage over the Canadian Day. I see Grove winning via 2nd round TKO utilizing some strong knees against the game but over-matched Day.

Tim Boetsch vs. Jason Brilz

Lee Gerowitz: If Boetsch is successful at keeping Brilz at a distance with his usual barrage of kicks, he will win this fight. Boetsch by KO, round two.

Dustin James: This is a difficult fight to pick. Brilz still considers himself to be a “part-time fighter”, so it always scares me to pick him. Boetsch is a tough dude who can take a beating but I’m not sure if he will be able to withstand Brilz’s submission attack. Winner: Brilz via submission in Round 2

Cory Brady: Boetsch is just too powerful with his hands and that will be the difference in this bout. Winner: Boetsch by TKO.

Brendhan Conlan: To be honest, I’d never heard of Jason Brilz prior to this PPV which initially made me want to label him as target practice for Boetsch. That being said, it turns out Brilz is 16-1-1 and has shown the ability throughout his career to both submit his opponents and render them unconscious. “The Barbarian” is a tough draw for Brilz in his PPV debut but beating him is not an insurmountable task for someone with Brilz’ apparent abilities. After giving it a little more consideration than I originally thought was necessary, I think this fight is actually a very even match-up and ultimately either man’s to win. Winner: Tim Boetsch, Judges’ Decision.

Caleb Newby: We know how this is SUPPOSED to go at least. Winner: Tim Boetsch – KO, Rd1

David Andrest: Are you kidding me.  Winner: Tim Boetsch- KO

Bryan Levick: Boetsch looked great in his debut against David Heath basically throwing him around like a rag doll but was brought back down to earth against Matt Hamil at UFC 88. He came back to win his last fight against Mike Patt and will look to string together victories for the first time in his UFC career. Brilz has an impressive 16-1 record against inferior opponents including a TKO stoppage against Patt back in 2003. He looks to have solid submissions and will have to get Boetsch down first before he can attempt to submit him which I don’t see happening. Boetsch via unanimous decision.

Tamdan McCrory vs. Ryan Madigan

Lee Gerowitz: Madigan may be unbeaten, but he will receive a rude introduction to the big leagues in his hello-goodbye appearance at UFC 96. McCrory by submission, round one.

Dustin James: Madigan is a pretty big underdog going into this fight and I can’t see McCrory struggling too badly with him. Winner: McCrory via submission in Round 1

Cory Brady: McCrory is finally going to have his chance to shine against Madigan. it’s about time because McCrory is a banger and he’s going to show it in this one. Winner: McCrory by knockout.

Brendhan Conlan: While Madigan appears to be a good prospect given the 5-0 record he’s racked up in smaller companies, I think he has no better than a puncher’s chance at best of taking home the win in his UFC debut. McCrory is a 22-year old fighting machine in the body of a bookworm. He is slippery on the ground, has an arsenal of submissions and escapes to pull from, and brings a relatively dangerous set of stand-up skills into each and every fight. His clinch is good. His Muay Thai in general is for that matter. Couple those abilities and the fact Madigan will almost certainly be feeling a few butterflies before competing in front of the traditionally huge Columbus crowd that will have assembled for the event, and I think there can be little doubt “The Barn Cat” will claw his way to victory once again. Winner: Tamdan McCrory, TKO, round 1

Caleb Newby: Who am I going to take? As if you had to ask. MEOW! … it’s late and I’ve had a long day. Cut me some slack. Winner: Tamdan “THE BARNCAT” McCrory – TKO, Rround 2.

David Andrest: This fight reminds me of a Beatles tune “Hello Goodbye.” Winner: McCrory via armbar.

Bryan Levick: McCrory is coming off a submission loss to Dustin Hazelett which is nothing to be ashamed off. Madigan is making his UFC debut and is 5-0 in his career. I like McCrory’s versatility and his height advantage which is at least 4”. He has shown good striking skills and can pull off a sub when he needs too. At this point I don’t know much about Madigan so I will go with what I know and choose McCrory via unanimous decision.

Aaron Riley vs. Shane Nelson

Lee Gerowitz: Shane Nelson disappointed in the latest season of The Ultimate Fighter. And while he may have bounced back by earning a “W” on that season’s live finale against George Roop, Riley, a crafty veteran, is not Roop. Fact is, Nelson has been more hype than anything else thus far, and this fight will only support that theory. Riley by decision.

Dustin James: Aaron Riley definitely has the advantage in the experience department, which is why I have to give him the nod in a fight that I’m sure ends up going to the judges. Winner: Riley via decision

Cory Brady: This should be a fun fight. Anything can happen in this one. Winner: Riley by TKO.

Brendhan Conlan: The ringside officials will definitely be earning their money during UFC 96’s curtain-jerker. Nelson has gone to decision in 10 of his 14 professional appearances while Riley has been subject to the judges’ scorecards in his last four fights. With both men having solid submission skills backed up with mediocre striking, it’s safe to say a large portion of this match-up will take place on the ground and result in essentially a fifteen-minute stalemate. I think Riley’s experience and slightly-superior strength will ultimately be the difference-maker in things and allow him to keep Nelson on his back more often than not. I fully expect him to send yet another long face back to B.J. Penn’s training center in Hawaii when things are said and done. Winner: Aaron Riley, Judges’ Decision.

Caleb Newby: ARGH. Winner: Aaron Riley – Decision.

David Andrest: Riley’s nickname is the Pirate??  I guess you learn something new everyday.  Unlike some writers I’ll leave the booty jokes at home this week.  Winner: Aaron Riley- decision.

Bryan Levick: Nelson was a contestant on The Ultimate Fighter this past year and trains with B.J. Penn. He earned a split decision victory over housemate George Roop at The Ultimate Fighter 8 finale. Riley is coming off a fight of the night victory over the since exiled Jorge Gurgel. He has the edge in experience and has faced some stiff competition in his career including Robbie Lawler, Eddie Alvarez, Chris Lytle and Yves Edwards (two times). With that being said I will go with Riley via unanimous decision as these two have a penchant for going the distance.

To start, the UFC is looking to bring in some Japanese talent to the promotion. They are very close to a new deal with Caol Uno, with published reports indicating he could return to the UFC at UFC 99. The UFC has also expressed major interest in both Norifumi “Kid” Yamamoto and Satoshi Ishii.

However, one guy White has not had discussions with is the former PRIDE lightweight champion Takanori Gomi.

“I haven’t talked with Gomi,” stated White.

Also from PRIDE, Mirko Cro Cop had a very difficult time adjusting to the UFC. The Croatian parliament member was only 1-2 in three UFC fights during 2007. However, in spite of the underwhelming performance, White has not closed the door on a possible return.

“I’ve spoken to Cro Cop as well,” White said. “I’m not sure what he wants to do right now.”

The big star out there is Cro Cop’s former opponent Fedor Emelianenko. Emelianenko’s management and White have famously gone back and forth in the media many times over the past few years about Emelianenko’s possible entrance into the UFC.

While both sides previously made disparaging comments about one another, White is now taking a gentler approach when it comes to the consensus top heavyweight. White now admits interest in Emelianenko.

“I want Fedor too,” said White. “I do. I’d like to see him fight in the UFC.”

A huge crowd of approximately 3,500 fans saw UFC welterweight champion Georges St. Pierre and UFC lightweight champion B.J. Penn meet the mandated welterweight limit of 170 pounds for Saturday’s main event.

Penn, who was depicted on the documentary series UFC Primetime as having taken a vacation during the heart of his training camp, not only made 170 but he ended up weighing in two pounds under at 168 pounds.

Surprisingly, Penn was the crowd favorite at the weigh-ins with many fans having traveled from his native state of Hawaii to see him fight this weekend. Those same fans booed St. Pierre heavily when it was his turn to hit the scale.

The 10 bout card will also pit Karo Parisyan against Dong Hyun Kim in what will mark Parisyan’s first fight since last April. Reports have circulated in the last 24 hours that the UFC lined up a potential replacement out of concern that Parisyan would be forced to withdraw for the fight. However, barring an unforeseen setback, Parisyan vs. Hyun is all set for Saturday after Parisyan weighed in at 170 pounds. His opponent, Kim, weighed in at 171 pounds and is expected to have a sizable reach advantage.

Also expected to have a big reach advantage is season five lightweight champion from The Ultimate Fighter Nate Diaz. Diaz, who is 5-0 since entering the UFC, towered over his opponent, Clay Guida.

Another highlight from the weigh-ins was former PRIDE star Akihiro Gono weighing in at 171 pounds while wearing an afro wig. Right before the pre-fight staredown, Gono removed his wig and offered it to Fitch in an act of goodwill. Fitch played right along and adorned the afro while photographers took pictures of the two.

Complete weigh-in results for UFC 94 are as follows:

Main Event -

• UFC welterweight champion Georges St. Pierre (170) vs. UFC lightweight champion B.J. Penn (168) in a 170-pound title bout

Televised Main Card -

• Light Heavyweight (205 lbs.): Lyoto Machida (206) vs. Thiago Silva (206)
• Light Heavyweight (205 lbs.): Stephan Bonnar (206) vs. Jon Jones (206)
• Lightweight (155 lbs.): Nate Diaz (156) vs. Clay Guida (156)
• Welterweight (170 lbs.): Karo Parisyan (170) vs. Dong Hyun Kim (171)

Non-televised Preliminary Card -

• Welterweight (170 lbs.): Jon Fitch (171) vs. Akihiro Gono (171) w/fabulous Afro
• Lightweight (155 lbs.): Manny Gamburyan (155) vs. Thiago Tavares (155)
• Welterweight (170 lbs.): Chris Wilson (170) vs. John Howard (171)
• Light Heavyweight (205 lbs.): Jake O’Brien (205) vs. Christian Wellisch (206)
• Welterweight (170 lbs.): Matt Arroyo (171) vs. Daniel Cramer (171)

Fedor Emelianenko vs. Andrei Arlovski

Caleb Newby: Fedor wins with his superior ground game and by just being Fedor. If this stays on the feet, it could get interesting. Still, Fedor is the longest running rock of consistency we have in this sport. I suspect Arlovski gets pummeled on the ground. Winner: Fedor Emelianenko – GnP, Rd1

Jonathan Snowden: The MMA world has been largely silent about this match, perhaps the best heavyweight matchup we’ll see this year. Arlovski is a good test for Fedor. He punches with power and has good quickness for a heavyweight. When the fight goes to the ground, he’s also dangerous with submissions.

It’s rare a fighter of his caliber would be such an overwhelming underdog, but Arlovski has lost the faith of many fans after his chin was found lacking by Tim Sylvia. That may be the difference in this fight. Fedor can take a punch, while Arlovski will likely crumble the first time he is tagged with Fedor’s heavy hands. Fedor, Submission, Round 2.

Christopher Dolan: Arlovski will pose a huge threat to Fedor, probably his biggest in the past three years. Arlovski’s boxing skills will be the making or breaking point during the course of this bout. I want to say I see an upset happening but I see Fedor winning this fight in the second round via TKO.

Cory Brady: To me, Arlovski’s only chance in this one is to stay on the outside, use movement an prevent Fedor from swarming him. He won’t be able to. Fedor is just way too fast, explosive and natural for Arlovski. I see Fedor mauling Arlovski very early on in this one. Fedor by TKO

David Andrest: Since the day this fight was announced, I’ve had the feeling Arlovski was going to win. My pick is not based in logic or common sense.  Arlovski is the bigger fighter, should have better hands, longer reach…………oh hell who am I trying to fool, it’s a gut feeling. Maybe it’s something I ate.   Arlovski  via tko

Nick Travaglini:Arlovski has been working his boxing for months with one of the best trainers in the world in Freddie Roach. Unfortunately for Arlovski, its not boxing, its MMA. The rhythm is different, the footwork is WAY different, and the timing and combos are different. There have been much better pedigree pro boxers who have tried and failed in MMA. Arlovski has never had a good ground game, he resembles a fish out of water on the floor and his guard can be passed rather easily. Fedor is to explosive on the feet, and even if Arlovski manages to get Fedor into trouble in the striking, he will just takedown Arlovski and submit him there. I like Arlovski, but he is overmatched here. It will take a completely well rounded MMA fighter to dethrone Fedor from his perch, and Arlovski is not it. Fedor via submission round 1.

Lee Gerowitz: Okay kids, I’m on vacation so my picks will be brief and to the point. As will this fight.
Fedor by submission, Round 2

Brendhan Conlan: Fedor Emelianenko, TKO, RD1

Josh Barnet vs. Gilbert Yvel

Caleb Newby: Not exactly sure why this is the fight Affliction deemed worthy for the number two slot. Barnett should win and better win. A Barnett vs. the main event winner is a great next fight. Winner: Josh Barnett – Submission, Rd1

Jonathan Snowden:Barnett should easily outclass Yvel here. Gamblers have to be a little nervous, because Josh is the kind of fighter who would do something stupid like stand with Yvel to prove he can. I think he’ll be smart, get a quick submission, and hope the promotion survives long enough to match him with Fedor. Barnett, Submission, Round 1.

Christopher Dolan:This might be the fight I am most excited about on the card. Yvel is a monster of a fighter but Barnet should be able to neutralize him with his wresting ability. As long as Barnet isn’t caught with a punch I like for him to win the fight via submission in the second round.

Cory Brady: Barnett will have little problems taking Yvel to the floor and using his extremely superior submission skills to make short work of Yvel en route to a long overdue match up with Fedor. Barnett by submission.

David Andrest: This fight will go to the floor, when it does Barnett wins with ease.  Barnett by submission

Nick Travaglini:Yvel could catch Barnett and knock him out cold. We all know Yvel is a phenomenal striker. But Barnett is just to good in every other facet of MMA to lose this match. I expect Barnett to take Yvel down immediately and work some ground and pound and submit him rather quickly. Barnett via submission round 1.

Lee Gerowitz: Barnett by submission, Round 1
Brendhan Conlan: Josh Barnett, Submission, RD2

Matt Lindland vs. Vitor Belfort

Caleb Newby: Lindland wasn’t overly impressive in his last outing, and I want to believe Belfort is on the upswing. I’ll take what I’m assuming is the upset. Winner: Vitor Belfort – Decision

Jonathan Snowden:A few years ago, this is an easy win for Lindland. Unfortunately, I didn’t like the signs of aging I saw in his last fight. He still has all the tools to beat Belfort. Luckily for Lindland, Belfort will almost certainly quit if the fight goes to the ground and he has Lindland on top of him for three rounds. I like Lindland here, but need more convincing to consider him among the top fighters at 185. Lindland, Decision.

Christopher Dolan:Part of me is saying to go with Lindland in this fight, but I’m having a problem pulling the trigger. With that being said I’ll go with Belfort winning this fight in the second round via TKO.

Cory Brady: Lindland looked like crap against Negao. He was rocked several times by a guy that is not known for his striking. I know I’m going out on a limb here but I feel that Lindland is way over rated and I’m thinking Belfort will have the momentum and explosiveness that it will take to expose him. Belfort by knockout- second round.

David Andrest: This is a tough fight for me to call.  I suppose Lindland could wet blanket his way to victory.  But on this night  I’m going to pick  Belfort via TKO

Nick Travaglini:Everyone is waiting for the “Old Vitor” to return and wreck havoc on the MMA scene. I think the old Vitor is buried and gone. I see Lindland controlling position for most of the fight and winning on the score cards. But it seems the Team Quest guys are having problems with cardio lately, as Sokoudjou, Henderson, and Lindland all gased out badly in their last fights. If Vitor can hang in til the third round, he should be able to steal a 3rd round tko win over Lindland.

Lee Gerowitz: Belfort by decision
Brendhan Conlan: Matt Lindland, Judges’ Decision

Renato “Babalu” Sobral vs. Rameau Thierry Sokoudjou

Caleb Newby: I love me some Sokoudjou and hope he comes on strong here, but I can’t take him. He still has a future in the sport, but Babalu is a very good fighter. I figure Babalu can finish Sokoudjou after he inevitably gasses. Winner: Renato “Babalu” Sobral – Submission, Rd3

Jonathan Snowden:Babalu may be the best fighter in the world to never win a major championship in his career. He’s really good everywhere and has the kind of mean streak you need to be a success. We know who he is as a fighter.

I think we have a better idea of what kind of fighter Sokoudjou is now too. He was a little overrated after two flash knockouts. More time in the cage has exposed plenty of weaknesses and Babalu is a fighter that makes you pay for any mistakes. I don’t think this was the right opponent to get Rameau back on track. Babalu, Decision.

Christopher Dolan: Sokoudjou has the ability to be a top five fighter but for whatever reason he is extremely inconsistent. Babalu will be a huge challenge for him, but I’m going to stick with Sokoudjou who will win this fight via decision.

Cory Brady: Babalu is by far, the superior ground fighter in this match up and the gap between the two will be too much for Sokoudjou. I don’t see Sokoudjou being able to keep Babalu off of him for very long. Babalu by early submission.

David Andrest: Again  this fight will go to the ground.  once there Babalu will win via what ever choke he feels like.  Babalu via submission

Nick Travaglini:This is a bad style matchup for Sokoudjou, and I have to question the wisdom in taking this fight after the run he just had in the UFC. Sobral is an intelligent fighter if he keep his cool. Babalu will take down Sokoudjou and submit him rather quickly. Babalu via submission round 1.

Lee Gerowitz: “Babalu” by submission, Round 2
Brendhan Conlan: Renato “Babalu” Sobral, Judges’ Decision

Paul Buentello vs. Kiril “Baby Fedor” Sidelnikov

Caleb Newby: While I am a fan of Sidelnikov and his nickname, Buentello may be too much for this young fighter to handle at this stage in his career. I am seriously tempted to go with the kid but I can’t pass up the experience of a true vet like Buentello. I could be very wrong. Winner: Paul Buentello – Decision

Jonathan Snowden:I don’t see “Baby Fedor” doing well here. Bunetello hits hard and will try his best to propel his win here into a main event agains the real Fedor. Buentello, KO, Round 1.

Christopher Dolan: The key in this fight will be how long it lasts. Baby Fedor is 5-0 when the fight ends in the first round but 0-2 when it goes longer. I’m not enthralled with Buentello so I’m going to go with Baby Fedor via TKO in the first round.

Cory Brady: Baby Fedor has a super sweet nickname and an awesome training camp but that won’t stop him from being punished by the older and more experienced Buentello. Buentello by knockout.

David Andrest: someone really hates this kid  and wanted to doom his future from the start.  “Baby Fedor” ??   Head Hunter  TKO Round 2

Nick Travaglini:Another interesting matchup between two heavy hitters. If Sidelnikov can avoid getting sucked into a stand up brawl with Buentello, he should use his strikes to take Buentello down and use his ground and pound to set up a submission. Sidelnikov via submission round 2.

Lee Gerowitz: Um, yeah…and I’m “Baby Brad Pitt.” Buentello by destruction/TKO, Round 2

Brendhan Conlan: Paul Buentello, KO, RD2

Antonio Rogerio Nogueira  vs. Vladimir Matyushenko

Jonathan Snowden:The Janitor has been wiping the map with the competition since losing to Arlovski in 2003. But none of the guys he fought in the IFL had the superlative skills of Antonio Rogerio Nogueira. Rogerio has even better boxing than his more famous brother, while maintaining a fundamentally sound ground game. This is actually a rematch of a fight on the mostly forgotten UFO card in 2002. That Rogerio had just three pro fights and none against top opponents. He’s come a long way since then, while Vlad is pretty much the same fighter. I think it’s a different experience for the Russian this time around. Rogerio, Submission, Round 3.

Christopher Dolan: Matyushenko already holds a decision victory over Nogueira but I see this one playing out differently. I like Nogueira to take this fight via decision.

Cory Brady: Hardest fight on the card for me to call and perhaps the most overlooked. The janitor has the superior wrestling and Lil Nog has the better submissions and maybe a little better boxing. I’m going to flip a coin on this one. Heads, Matyushenko, tails, Nogueira…..heads. Vladimir by hard fought decision.

David Andrest: Toss up fight.  Really it is.   Because Brady took Vladimir  I’m going to go with Nogueira via decision.

Caleb Newby: Like everyone else said, this is hard fight to call. I’m going to be swayed by my ambivalence for the IFL when it was around. Logical? No. I also like the Nogueria brothers, so it’s really just personal bias here. Winner: Antonio Rogerio Nogueira – Decision

Nick Travaglini:A rematch of their previous meeting back in August of 2002 which Matyushenko won. This is a good fight but Matyushenko does not have the most exciting fighting style. Could turn in a grinder on the ground with Matyushenko controlling position for most of the fight. I do not think Matyushenko wants to stand with Nogueira for any extended period of this fight. I will take Matyushenko via unanimous decision.

Lee Gerowitz: Matyushenko by decision
Brendhan Conlan: Vladimir Matyushenko, Judges’ Decision

Jay Hieron vs. Jason High

Jonathan Snowden:Hieron’s game was advancing by leaps and bounds when the IFL collapsed beneath the weight of their millions of dollars of debt. His wrestling has been great since college. At Xtreme Couture, he’s added a solid standup attack and is one of the very best fighters in his weight class that isn’t a major television star. High is undefeated, but hasn’t fought anyone like Hieron. Welcome to the big leagues kid. Hieron, TKO, Round 1.

Christopher Dolan:High comes into this fight undefeated, but I don’t think he’ll leave in the same fashion. I like Hieron to win this fight via submission in the third round.

Cory Brady: High is a prospect to watch in the future no doubt, but Hieron is way too experienced and well rounded for him at this point in his career. Hieron by TKO.

David Andrest: I think this fight is way more competitive than most are predicting.  Still I gotta pick Hieron via tko

Caleb Newby: Hieron via the experience and having faced better competition argument.Winner: Jay Hieron – TKO, Rd2

Nick Travaglini:High is a nice prospect, but this is too much to soon. Hieron is a beast and will dominate this fight. Hieron via round 2 tko.
Lee Gerowitz: Jay Hieron TKO, Round 1
Brendhan Conlan: Jay Hieron, TKO, RD3

L.C. Davis vs. Bao Quach

Jonathan Snowden:Davis has one loss on his record, to Wagney Fabiano. No shame in that. I think his game is too well rounded for Quach, a fighter that has been around forever and never managed to succeed against anyone of consequence. If Quach does pull out a win here, it will be by decision and you will be happy it wasn’t on PPV. Davis, Decision.

Christopher Dolan: Both men are hot coming into this fight and will put on a great show. I like Davis to win the fight via decision.

Cory Brady: Quach has been on a role as of late but no type of momentum will prepare him for the extremely impressive Davis. This will a good test for Davis, but a test that he will pass with flying colors. Davis by knockout.

David Andrest: Bao Quach. I just like saying the name.    Davis will win this fight in impressive fashion. Davis via KO.

Caleb Newby: I AM SO EXCITED FOR THIS FIGHT!! Ok, not really. Winner: L.C. Davis – Decision

Nick Travaglini:This is a very interesting fight to me. Davis is the favorite here, coming out of the Militech camp with only one loss to Wagney Fabiano. Big hitter with very good cardio. Quach impressed me greatly in his win over Mark Oshiro in Icon. I am taking Davis to win via 3rd round tko, but would not be surprised if Quach pulled out a decision win.

Lee Gerowitz: Davis by decision
Brendhan Conlan: L.C. Davis, Submission, RD3

Antonio Duarte vs. Albert Rios

Jonathan Snowden:Duarte’s nickname is “Tigre” which is awesome. If he fights with half the ferocity of the original MMA Tigers (Vernon White and Marcelo Tigre) he will do well. To channel a bit of Jeff Foxworthy: When you’re picking fights based on a guy’s nickname, this might be a dark match. Duarte, Submission, Round 2.]

Christopher Dolan: Duarte should be able to win this fight and in quick fashion with a first round submission.

Cory Brady: This is another tough fight to call. I’ll give the edge to Duarte because of his dangerous submission game. Duarte by submission.

David Andrest: Really hard fight to call.  Duarte by sub

Caleb Newby: Snowden stole my methodology for this pick. I need to find something else. I was going to go against Rios because he lost once via heel hook. Then I see Duarte also lost via heel hook. So fooy on that. How about Duarte because he finishes more of his fights, and with varried submissions? Don’t look at me like that. It’s all I got. Winner: Antonio Duarte – Submission, Rd2

Nick Travaglini: I like Rios and I see big things in the future for him, but this is Duarte’s fight to lose. Duarte via unanimous decision.

Lee Gerowitz: Duarte by decision
Brendhan Conlan: Antonio Duarte, Judges’ Decision

Brett Cooper vs. Patrick Speight

Jonathan Snowden:Cooper is the guy who upset Rory Markham in the IFL. On the strength of that solid win, I’ll give him the edge here. Cooper, KO, Round 1

Christopher Dolan: In a tough one to call but I’ll look for Speight to bounce back from the first loss of his career with a decision victory over Cooper.

Cory Brady: Cooper has really been on fire lately and I expect for him to continue his winning streak against the very game Patrick Speight. Cooper by TKO.

David Andrest: How could anyone pick against Cooper in this fight?  Cooper KO round 1

Caleb Newby: I have no idea Mr. Andrest! Winner: Brett Cooper – TKO, Rd2
Nick Travaglini: Brett Cooper vs Patrick Speight – Cooper is a dynamic fighter and turning into a stellar up and comer. This has all the makings of a showcase fight, Cooper via tko rd 1.

Lee Gerowitz: Cooper TKO, Round 1
Brendhan Conlan: Brett Cooper, TKO, RD2

CLICK HERE TO ENTER LIVE EVENT CHAT

DENNIS SIVER def. Nate Mohr via TKO ~ 3:47, round 3.

THOMASZ DRWAL def  Ivan Serati  via  TKO~ 2:02, round 1.

ERIC SCHAFER def. Antonio Mendes via TKO~ 3:35, round 1.

MARTIN KAMPMANN def. Alexandre Barros via TKO~ 3:09, round 2.

JOHN HATHAWAY def. Tom Egan via TKO~ 4:36, round 1.

MARCUS DAVIS def. Chris Lytle by split decision.

ALAN BELCHER def. Denis Kang  via sub ~ 4:36, round 2.

ROUSIMAR PALHARES def. Jeremy Horn via unanimous decision.

MAURICIO RUA def. Mark Coleman via TKO~ 4:36, round 3.

DAN HENDERSON def. Rich Franklin by split decision

Rich Franklin vs. Dan Henderson

Michael Huckaby: Everywhere I go all I see are comments from fans, fighters and analysts stating Henderson can neutralize Franklin and he has the advantage in this particular matchup. To quote the great mind of Socrates, hooey! As with every other fight fan around, these are two of my favorite fighters to ever step into a ring. I have to put that aside and picture the fight. Too many people seem to forget Rich Franklin would be the #1 p4p fighter on the planet if it weren’t for Anderson Silva. You can make arguments about Franklin at 205lbs or what Silva took out of him but as of this second I haven’t seen enough to prove Dan Henderson, at this point in his career, can win a decision on Rich Franklin. Franklin will get tagged but win the standup in this fight. His wrestling is good enough to keep Henderson at bay and his BJJ will get him off the bottom, not that Henderson would stop him there. This will be a war that could go either way but my mind is telling me Rich Franklin is still the guy he was before Anderson Silva. Winner: Rich Franklin, decision.

Caleb Newby: I like Franklin here. I just don’t understand why so many people underestimate him or don’t consider him an elite fighter. The thing that baffled me the most was how a good number of people were taking Hamill over him. I just don’t get it. Anyhow, this fight will be much tougher than Franklin’s Hamill fight. If both fighters fight as they have of late, Franklin should earn a tough decision victory. He has all of the tools and well rounded game to pull this one out and avoid a Hendo haymaker and stave off the majority of the takedown attempts thrown his way. The biggest monkey wrench in my prediction is if Henderson is consistently looking to grapple instead of trade. Should Henderson manage to get takedowns fairly regularly and not spend too terribly long in the stand up game, Henderson should be able to rack up an easy decision. Random question, do you think Henderson is going to try to fight from the clinch… being as he claimed to be better than Silva with the clinch before their fight and with Franklin’s well documented problems versus Silva? That’s neither here nor there, just wondering. Winner: Rich Franklin – Decision

Brendhan Conlan: It goes without saying that there’s a lot on the line for both Dan Henderson and Rich Franklin in their main event clash. Each is looking to further establish his legacy in MMA by beating a competitor most would consider among the sport’s all-time greats. Each is hoping to move one more rung up the proverbial ladder with a goal of getting a shot at promotional gold. And, even better (note: sarcasm), each is going to win a 6-8 month gap between fights in order to tape a reality show! Removing all the outside factors and just getting into the nitty-gritty of their individual skillsets, this particular battle of 205-pounders could go down as one of the top bouts in 2009 and it’s still January. The former UFC middleweight champion, Franklin, has more tools in his stand-up box than Dan Henderson but lacks the Team Quest founding father’s wrestling or devestating right hand. “Ace” has knockouts to be sure…just ask Nate “The Rocked” Quarry…but Henderson has shown his one-punch putdown power to a number of his peers. I think he’ll utilize both his Olympic-level grappling and heavy hands to leave Franklin dazed and confused, though not quite at an Anderson Silva level of decimation. Speaking of which, Henderson is the only man to have won a round in the UFC against “The Spider”. Doesn’t that count for something? Regardless, I’m going to sit back, enjoy, and root for both of these class acts no matter whose hand is raised at the end of the show. I implore you all to do the same, because the real winners of this crown-jewel of a headliner are we long-time fans of Mixed Martial Arts who have been longing for this particular battle between PRIDE/UFC icons for a number of years. Winner: Dan Henderson, TKO, RD 2
Jonathan Snowden: I’m really excited to see this matchup because both guys have plenty of question marks. Franklin is the best fighter in the world at 185 pounds, with the lone exception of the amazing Anderson Silva. Can that success continue against bigger men? For Henderson, the clock is ticking on what has been a hall of fame career. Does he still have enough left to make one last title run? Like I said:  plenty of questions. The answer? Franklin, Decision.

Lee Gerowitz : This is an incredibly tough fight to call. I think Henderson needs to take Franklin down to the ground and out-wrestle him to win this fight. I don’t see Franklin allowing the fight to stay on the ground if it goes there. Both are well-rounded fighters, but I see Franklin picking Henderson apart over the course of three rounds. Franklin by decision.
Chris Dolan : Rich Franklin fighting Dan Henderson is a treat for fight fans, but a tough bout to pick a clear-cut winner in. Both men have made a great decision moving to light heavyweight where they can fight at a more comfortable weight, and avoid Anderson Silva. As for this fight I like Henderson. He dominated Rousimar Palhares who is considered one of the best jiu-jitsu fighters in the world. He’ll look to give Franklin a steady dose of his right hand and if he does he’ll win this fight. On the other hand Franklin has only lost to Lyoto Machida and Silva, twice, in his career, so if he were to defeat Henderson it wouldn’t catch me by surprise. In the end I think Henderson will win via TKO in the third round.
Cory Brady: Henderson always has the ability to knock anyone out with one punch and his wrestling makes him a serious threat to take Franklin to the canvas and maul him but he won’t. Franklin’s takedown defense is very polished and his striking will be too accurate and technical for Henderson. Franklin by decision.

David Andrest: Great match up.  Two guys in pretty much the same spot.  LIMBO.  This could go either way, but  I’m taking   Franklin via Decision.

Mauricio “Shogun” Rua vs. Mark Coleman

Michael Huckaby: To be fair I can’t really be impartial here. I’ve disliked Mark Coleman for years and the mouths of Hammer House in general. On top of that, Coleman hasn’t won a fight in about three years…. and that was Shogun’s broken arm. I look for Shogun to come out, swing away, get taken down and then come back when Coleman inevitably gets tired of gets swept. From there it will be a clinic of punches and kicks with Coleman trying to avoid and failing at takedowns until the ref hops in or he taps to the strikes. Winner: Shogun Rua, TKO, Rd2.

Caleb Newby: Not much of a question here. Shogun was widely considered the number one light-heavyweight when Wanderlei Silva and Chuck Liddell were the PRIDE and UFC champions, respectively. Then one loss and some injury time off later, he’s all but forgotten about. While Coleman was a pioneer in MMA, I don’t think many people give him a real shot here unless the ringrust monster bit Shogun hard. Huckaby pretty much nailed the way this fight should look. Winner: Mauricio “Shogun” Rua – Submission, Rd1

Brendhan Conlan: There is no fighter who I’d rather see succeed in 2009 more than Mauricio Rua. “Shogun” has gone from being considered the top Mixed Martial Artist in the world to a legitimate question mark. Injuries sustained both in the ring and out have slowed him and, as a result, he has yet to prove himself inside the Octagon. It will be interesting to see how Coleman, especially at the age of 44, is affected by the drop from heavyweight to light heavyweight. I think his best bet is to try and take Rua down, then pound him out. If the fight makes it beyond the first round, which I think it will, conditioning should be in the favor of the twenty-something Brazilian and allow him to finish “The Hammer” off. Then again, after “Shogun” came into his fight against Forrest Griffin looking like he had “sho” eaten a lot of doughtnuts during training camp, it’s hard to know exactly what fans should expect at UFC 93. Winner: Mauricio “Shogun” Rua, Submission, RD 3

Jonathan Snowden: The UFC has done a great job of promoting Coleman with their Countdown special. I’ve actually heard people saying they were putting money down on an ancient wrestler who has never bothered to expand his game. This is how Vegas keeps all those lights on up and down the strip at night. Rua, KO, Round 1.

Lee Gerowitz : This is a battle of rust. Whoever is sharper wins this fight. And I expect Coleman, who is also cutting down to 205, to have major issues. If Rua displays the form he claims he will, this fight will be over quickly. It’s “hello-goodbye” for Coleman. Rua by TKO, round one.

Chris Dolan : Mauricio “Shogun” Rua will look at avenge his 2006 loss to Mark Coleman when both men were in Pride. Shogun had his arm broken after Coleman picked him up and slammed him to the mat. Before his loss to Forrest Griffin, Shogun was considered the best light heavyweight in the world and I expect him to regain that form starting Saturday night. Coleman hasn’t competed since he lost to Fedor Emelianenko back in October of 2006, and I think the layoff will show in this fight. If Shogun can keep the fight standing he should be able to control the tempo of the fight. Shogun will win this fight via TKO in the second round.

Cory Brady: Obviously both these guys are coming off of extended layoffs so they’re even in the ring rust department. Shogun is just a better all around fighter and I expect him  to come out on fire, ending this one early. Shogun by knockout.

David Andrest: As I sit in awe of Gerowitz working in a Beetles refrence, I’ll make it unanimous.  Shogun via TKO

Denis Kang vs. Alan Belcher

Michael Huckaby: This has to be one of the two hardest fights for me to pick on this card. Everything in my mind is telling me to pick Alan Belcher but I wouldn’t be able to forgive myself if Kang destroys him in the first round. Belcher should probably win but he doesn’t connect enough for me to be sure of it and in the end I don’t have the guts to put it down. If Belcher was just a TOUCH more accurate I could pull that trigger. Winner: Denis Kang, TKO, Rd3.

Caleb Newby: What a road Kang has had. From 22 fights straight without a loss to losing his next three out of four, Denis has set things back on the right track with a two fight winning streak coming into his UFC debut. I’ll be of more faith that Kang has found his rhythm and will look the part of a contender that will get people talking about him once again. Winner: Denis Kang – TKO, Rd1

Brendhan Conlan: I’m among the group of MMA-aholics who is thrilled to see Denis Kang finally make his way into the UFC. I’ve always felt he was an exciting, well-rounded fighter who has a marketable style in the ring as well as potential based on his diverse heritage. I don’t think the transition from ring to cage will affect him much based on his tenure at American Top Team and overall experience in Mixed Martial Arts. I think Alan Belcher, who has admitted that Kang is a competitor he’s looked up to for some time, may suffer from a combination of youth and adulation when face-to-face with the former PRIDE standout. The mental part of fighting is a huge factor and locking up with someone you once idolized is rarely a good thing. Just look back to Georges St. Pierre’s first bout against Matt Hughes if you need any proof. I think it my cause Belcher to come out slow and eventually slip up against Kang. Winner: Denis Kang, TKO, RD 1

Jonathan Snowden: Finally, the UFC debut of Denis Kang. Kang is a guy that just looks like a fighter. He’s a great athlete with all the tools. The knock on Kang is that he’s never beaten a great fighter. Luckily, Belcher is not a great fighter. Kang, TKO, Round 2.

Lee Gerowitz : The question to me is, which Kang will we see show up? I’m guessing we’ll see Kang at his best, simply because he’s making his UFC debut and he knows what’s on the line here. Belcher may hang with Kang – rhyme 100% intentional – but somewhere in round two, Kang will bang. Thank you very much. Kang by TKO, round two.

Chris Dolan : Submission specialist Denis Kang makes his UFC debut against Alan Belcher. Belcher has been very up and down in his UFC career and will have his hands full with the very talented Kang. I don’t think Kang will have much trouble with Belcher as he should be able to take him down and control the fight on the ground. I like Kang via submission early in the second round.

Cory Brady: Kang has been hot and cold throughout his career and it’s hard to say which Kang will show up. The same thing can be said for Belcher but I expect his takedown defense to be good enough to keep this one standing and for him to stop Kang with strikes early on. Belcher via TKO.

David Andrest: I really enjoy Denis Kang as a fighter.  I’m very happy to see him in the UFC where he belongs.  With that said  I fully expect Belcher to be sharper in this fight.  Belcher via TKO

Rousimar Palhares vs. Jeremy Horn

Michael Huckaby: I just can’t pick Horn again until I see something. Horn has always been open to submissions but it’s never been this obvious before. My real question is whether Palhares will be able to finish Horn or if he’ll ride out a decent sized decision. I say Palhares on top means less of a chance for a finish as Horn will work strong from his back and take damage. I’m sticking with that. Winner: Rousimar Palhares, decision.

Caleb Newby: Palhares wins this via submission. After discussing this in the The Duel this week, I really can’t see it going any other way than Palhares’. Horn isn’t the fighter he once was and Palhares is a phenom on the ground. The real question is when does it end. Sooner than later I say. Winner: Rousimar Palhares – Submission, Rd1

Brendhan Conlan: Rousimar Palhares is every bit and more the grappler “Gumby” is. He’s younger and more athletic. Jeremy Horn hasn’t finished an opponent in over two-and-a-half years. He’s lost four of his last six fights. To be quite blunt, at this point in his career he is living off of reputation and experience, and I’m fairly certain UFC 93 will be his last appearance inside the Octagon. A win over Palhares in his final at-bat would be monumental and possibly prolong his release but I just don’t see it happening. Fight #104 for Horn may not just be a loss but an ugly one at that. Winner: Rousimar Palhares, Judges’ Decision

Jonathan Snowden: I love Jeremy Horn, one of the sports all-time cerebral assassins. This is a man who has won more than 70 fights in a career that has taken him all over the globe. He’s seen the sport change dramatically and, unfortunately for Horn, it isn’t a sport where a Jeremy Horn can thrive anymore. He’s got all the knowledge and skill. What he doesn’t have is exceptional athleticism. When your opponents are all bigger, faster, stronger, and nearly as skilled, well, you could be in a lot of trouble. Palhares, Submission, Round 3.

Lee Gerowitz : The bottom line here is Horn can be submitted now – and Palhares is an excellent submission specialist. Horn needs a win to stay in the UFC, but he won’t get it. The gas tank has to be nearly empty. If you’re a Jeremy Horn fan, get out the Kleenex, because this will be his last fight in the UFC. Palhares by submission, round two.

Chris Dolan : Jeremy Horn will look at avoid a third straight loss in the octagon but it might be unavoidable as he faces Rousimar Palhares. Look for Palhares to end this fight in the second round via submission.  Palhares by submission, round two.
Cory Brady: Both of these fighters strengths are their submissions but Palhares’ is much more explosive. Palhares should win easily by submission early on in this passing of the torch match.Palhares by submission

David Andrest: Let’s count the ways Jeremy Horn could likely win this fight…………….Winner Palhares via Submission Round 1.

Marcus Davis vs. Chris Lytle

Michael Huckaby: I would have leaned toward Lytle but I’m afraid he is going to stand and trade with Davis hoping to get the best of the boxing. Davis will win the standup and even when Lytle tries the ground game I don’t think he’ll be able to take Davis out. Everyone loves Chris Lytle but the fact remains that finishing strong fighters with his submissions just isn’t happening. It’s possible and I’ll be rooting for it 100% but as per the gameplan in my head I have to go Davis. Winner: Marcus Davis, decision.

Caleb Newby: This will be a lot of fun. Again, not to repeat myself from The Duel but Davis is the better striker and both men seemingly just want to stand and trade. With that being the case combined with Lytle’s toughness, I have to give it to Davis via decision in an all out war. Winner: Marcus Davis – Decision

Brendhan Conlan: John Witherspoon, better known David Allen Grier’s mushroom-sporting father in “Boomerang”, has apparently gotten in the ears of Marcus Davis and Chris Lytle because both fighters are without-a-doubt approaching Saturday with one general strategy in mind – BANG, BANG, BANG, BANG!!! Their bout has all the makings of a “Fight of the Night” given each man’s boxing ability, general tenacity, and durable chin. Neither man has been knocked out in his professional MMA career and they can attribute their collective trio of TKOs to cut-based stoppages. I have a shiny coin to thank for my pick in this match-up of hard-fighting welterweights. It’s truly that close a call. Winner: Chris Lytle, TKO (cuts), RD 3

Jonathan Snowden: Here’s the night’s Zuffa special:  two men looking to brawl and making no attempt at takedowns or grappling. A boxing match with four ounce gloves. That makes picking a winner tough. The loser is the first guy to get hit on the chin. I say that will be Lytle. Davis, KO, Round 3.

Lee Gerowitz : When you have two guys fighting whose nicknames are “The Irish Hand Grenade” and “Lights Out,” it’s safe to say that the chances of someone getting K.T.F.O. is high. In addition, both men are former professional boxers. This has potential “Fight of the Night” written all over it. I expect a three-round war. Davis by decision.

Chris Dolan : Marcus Davis has found a lot of success in England and I like for it to continue in his bout with Chris Lytle. This fight will go the distance with Davis coming out on top via a unanimous decision. Davis by decision.

Cory Brady: A gentleman’s agreement between two sluggers to stand up and trade for the entire bout? I’m looking forward to this one, that’s for sure. Lytle told me recently that nobody is above getting knocked out and I’m going to go out on a limb and say that neither is Marcus Davis. Lytle by knockout in a slugfest

David Andrest: I like both of these fighters, and if they do decide to stand and trade, it’s going to be a very exciting few minutes.  I think Davis has better hands, and I honestly would’nt be shocked to see Davis win via sub.   Winner: Davis via KO

Martin Kampmann vs. Alexandre Barros

Michael Huckaby: A gimme fight to get the fun Kampmann back in the game after that freakish Marquardt fight. The standup in this fight is going to be an absolute joke as Kampmann will do whatever he wants until Barros falls or tries to grapple. Kampmann will either kill him on the feet or get on the bottom of take longer to work for something. Winner: Martin Kampmann, KO, Rd1.

Caleb Newby: Knockout of the night? I say yes. Kampmann will win. Barros isn’t UFC caliber, which makes sense as he is on a UK show where seemingly half the fighters aren’t UFC caliber. There isn’t much more to say about this one as it should be over and done with quite quickly. Winner: Martin Kampmann – KO, Rd1

Brendhan Conlan: Barros, whose picture on Sherdog reminds me of a Battletoad for some reason, is a tough draw for “The Hitman” in his welterweight debut. The Brazilian product is riding a nine-fight win streak though none of his dubyas have come against opponents the level of Kampmann. I don’t expect the change in division to affect the young Dane as it might others who were dropping down, as my understanding is that he didn’t generally need to cut pounds when competing as a middleweight. I think Barros’ jiujitsu is good enough to cancel out Kampmann’s very solid ground skills. In truth, he’d be smart to focus on taking things to the mat if he wants to come out victorious in the bout. Martin’s kickboxing and stand-up in general are equivalent to his submissions, and for that matter, they’re also along the lines of ether but without the sleep-inducing chemical’s attached warning label. Winner: Martin Kampmann, Judges’ Decision

Jonathan Snowden: A huge step up in class for Barros, but this is a man who is no beginner. I saw him fight Aaron Riley back in 2002 at the first Absolute Fighting Championship. Joe Silva is looking to get Kampmann back on track. Kampmann, KO, Round 2.

Lee Gerowitz : Kampmann drops to welterweight and is a man on a mission, while Barros is another fighter making his UFC debut. Kampmann, coming off of a devastating loss to Nate Marquardt, feels right at home at welterweight, which IS bad news for Barros. I fully expect to see an aggressive, confident Kampmann dominate. Kampmann by submission, round two.

Chris Dolan : Alexandre Barros is making his UFC debut but look for Martin Kampmann to spoil it by winning this fight via TKO in the second round. Kampmann by tko, round two.

Cory Brady: Easiest pick of the night. Kampmann will make short work of  Barros finally picking up that highlight reel knockout we all know he is capable of.Kampmann by tko, round one.

David Andrest: Kampmann should dominate start to finish.  Kampmann TKO round One.

Ivan Serati vs. Thomasz Drwal

Michael Huckaby: Serati has the punchers chance but Drwal will bum rush and unload shots. Serati has that limited chance to get some side shots in but there is a better chance than not that Serati falls on his face early. Winner: Thomasz Drwal, TKO, Rd1.

Caleb Newby: Just like if Paddington Bear fought Curious George, Thomasz Drwal will dominate Ivan Serati with a carnivorous ferocity that won’t last more than five minutes due to marmalade infused ground and pound. Bet you didn’t see that analogy coming. Winner: Thomasz Drwal – TKO, Rd1

Brendhan Conlan: In one of UFC 93′s multiple throwdowns with national pride on the line, Poland’s Thomasz “Gesundheit” Drwal is looking to beat Italian Ivan Serati in hopes of getting back on another win streak comparable to the thirteen-bout run he had going before being knocked out by Thiago Silva during one of Zuffa’s other European vacations (UFC 75). The smart approach for Drwal would be to use his grappling ability to try and neutralize Serati’s power, but I honestly see both men going toe-to-toe from the opening bell until one of them crumples to the canvas. Winner: Ivan Serati, TKO, RD 1
Jonathan Snowden: Drwal has been in the Octagon before. That gives him the edge. Drwal, Decision.

Lee Gerowitz : This is another fight that has slugfest written all over it. To me, the difference is, Drwal has been in the octagon before and Serati has not. Drwal’s last fight was his UFC debut and a loss to Thiago Silva. Serati is not Silva. Anything can happen, but I give Drwal the edge because he’s been here before. Drwal by TKO, round one.

Chris Dolan : Thomasz Drawl lost his only fight in the UFC to Thiago Silva but there is no shame in losing to Alves. Drwal should give Ivan Serati problems in his UFC debut and will make short work of him with a first round TKO. Drwal by TKO, round one.
Cory Brady: Both of these guys like to bang and I don’t see this one lasting more than one round. Drwal was overwhelmed in his first fight in the octagon with Thiago Silva  but he won’t be against Serati. Drwal by knockout

David Andrest: Thomasz Drawl is the better fighter, Thiago Silva beat him but Serati is no Thiago Silva.  Drwal TKO Round One.

Tom Egan vs. John Hathaway

Michael Huckaby: Thomas Egan is Irish and I’ll stick to the idea that’s the reason he’s fighting on this card so early in his career. I won’t doubt Egan has the superior standup but Hathaway should get this on the ground and work his magic fairly quickly. I don’t see this lasting long enough for Egan to get another UFC UK show appearance in the future. Winner: John Hathaway, submission, Rd1.

Caleb Newby: Boxer and a wrestler. Both are UFC rookies, so there goes the old “UFC jitters” argument. Instead I’ll go with the other tried and true method. A wrestler over a striker when you don’t have enough info on the striker. Ground and pound till the ref steps in. Winner: John Hathaway – TKO, Rd1

Brendhan Conlan: Thanks to Hathaway vs. Egan, if Jimmy Lennon’s ring announcing duties carried over to the UFC, fans in Dublin would undoubtedly have an opportunity to hear him say “Someone’s ’0′ must go!” The bout also provides UFC 93 with a classic throwback to the historical rivalry between Ireland and England, as Hathaway is from the land o’ Harry Potter and Egan from the Emerald Isle. I know very little about either fighter, but my gut tells me that Hathaway will come away victorious based on having three-times the in-ring experience as Egan and also having shown the ability to both submit and knockout his opponents. Additionally, I can see the fight’s resident Irishman being thrown off by Hathaway having a normal first name. Tom Egan’s three wins to date are against guys named “Jonny”, “Arturas”, and my personal favorite, “Mindaugus Myle”. Winner: John Hathaway, TKO, RD 1

Jonathan Snowden: Even though Hathaway is a Cage Rage prospect, I’ve got to go with Egan. If only because he appeared with me on Oliver Copp’s Tough Talk podcast. Egan, TKO, Round 2.

Lee Gerowitz : Both men are undefeated, but both men are also making their UFC debuts. Maybe both will just pee themselves and we’ll call it a draw. Not likely. I see these two trying to make big statements by coming out swinging. I’ve never seen them fight, but my research tells me that this should be an action-fight and that Hathaway’s experience gives him the edge. Hathaway by TKO, round two.

Chris Dolan : The undefeated John Hathaway will make his UFC debut vs. Tom Egan and will keep his winning ways going, improving to 10-0 with a first round TKO of Egan. Hathaway by TKO, round one.

Cory Brady: This one’s tough to call. Two undefeated prospects that I know very little about. Hathaway has more experience, I’m going with him. Hathaway via knockout.

David Andrest: While it might be nice for the hometown guy to win, it’s not happening in this fight. Hathaway via TKO round two.

Nate Mohr vs. Dennis Siver

Michael Huckaby: Just on paper this looks like a bad matchup for Mohr and that’s probably too bad. Siver will use his strength to get control and I don’t think Mohr is big enough or good enough to stop Siver. The question is if Siver will stop the fight or ride on Mohr for 15 minutes. Winner: Dennis Siver, submission, Rd2.

Caleb Newby: This really is a loser leaves the UFC fight. Not that I know for certain, but it’s a safe guess. Want to know what another safe guess is? I’ll tell you… Winner: Dennis Siver – KO, Rd1

Brendhan Conlan: Nate “My Nickname by Default is ‘The Great’” Mohr is 8-5 with all of his losses coming via submission. Based on his previous difficulty on the mat, my feeling is that Siver’s reputation as a grappler is going to be more than Mohr can handle. Winner: Dennis Siver, Submission, RD 1
Jonathan Snowden: Siver is a submission specialist. Mohr has lost all his fights on the ground. Think the UFC is trying to build a German fighter for their debut in Cologne later this year? Siver, Submission, Round 1.

Lee Gerowitz : Mohr and Siver have just two wins combined in seven UFC fights. The loser can kiss the UFC goodbye, at least for now. Siver is a submission fighter, Mohr is not. Siver will try to take this one down to the ground and force Mohr to say “No Mohr.” Horrible joke, horrible matchup in my opinion. Siver by submission, round three.

Chris Dolan : Nate Mohr has had an up and down career in the octagon but I like for him to pick up the victory over Denis Siver via unanimous decision. Nate Mohr via decision.

Cory Brady: Mohr is more well rounded than Siver and should be able to manage the decision victory that will send Siver on a vacation from the UFC.Nate Mohr via decision.

David Andrest: A guy who loses on the ground vs. a ground fighter.  Winner Siver sub

Eric Schafer vs. Antonio Mendes

Michael Huckaby: I really don’t want to pick this fight. Mendes is better than he showed in the Silva fight but Schafer just has the experience advantage against better competition. This goes to the ground, Schafer takes some punishment, in the end I think Schafer has enough to pull off a mid fight submission after a Mendes mistake. Winner: Eric Schafer, submission, Rd3.

Caleb Newby: I am having a definite problem overly caring about this undercard. I wanted to admit that now and apologize. That out of the way, I’m taking Schafer here. If Huckaby can be all gaga over Lytle because they share a home state, I can take a guy because he’s from my original home state, the land of cheese, Wisconsin. What? That reasoning sucks? Fine… and because I think Schafer will take Mendes down and control the positioning battle before maneuvering in for a submission. Winner: Eric Schafer – Submission, Rd2

Brendhan Conlan: This bout has quite a bit of potential for a curtain-jerker and should kick off UFC 93 on the right note. As they say, styles make fights, and the cliche could not be more true than it is in the case of Schafer’s ground-based arsenal being paired against Mendes’ knockout-friendly striking. I expect Mendes to come out firing with “Red” weathering the storm until he can procure a takedown. Schafer is coming off a winning performance against the brick-bodied Houston Alexander so I’m positive he’ll be prepared to defend any sort of stand-up attack Mendes can mount. Mendes won’t be as easy to submit as Alexander was, but the Brazilian is still susceptible to being tapped out by someone with Schafer’s jiujitsu skills (as are most fighters). I can see Mendes gassing out after a relentless cycle of takedowns, positioning, and submission attempts, so I’m going to give the nod to the man who will also be the obvious crowd favorite.
Winner: Eric Schafer, Submission, RD 2

Jonathan Snowden: This should be a real even fight. When in doubt, go with the guy that has a big show pedigree. That’s Schafer. Schafer, Decision.

Lee Gerowitz : Mendes is another fighter on the card whose last fight was a loss to Thiago Silva. Meanwhile, Schafer submitted Houston Alexander last September. This could be another “loser goes home” fight. So the question is, who will submit to that pressure? If Mendes can keep the fight standing, he has a shot. But based on his performance on the ground against Silva, I expect Schafer to take this one to the ground and finish Mendes. Schafer by submission, round two.

Chris Dolan : I like Eric Schafer to pull out another victory in the octagon over Antonio Mendes with a third round submission victory.  Schafer by submission, round 3.

Cory Brady: Schafer will have little problems latching onto Mendes and overwhelming him on the canvas for an early submission. My prediction, arm triangle, Schafer. Red by submission

David Andrest: Schafer will contol from bell until Mendes is sleeping.   Winner  Schafer via sub round one.

I think you see my problem with these articles.

PRO: Cartoon fights. I am for this. When Sapp vs. Kinniku Mantaro was announced I couldn’t help but think of the possibilities. After the fight I began matchmaking. What about Giant Silva vs. Fred from Scooby Doo? Charlie Brown vs. Zulu? What about the Powerpuff Girls against Gina Carano, Felice Herrig and Michelle Waterson? You’d buy a pay-per-view of that and don’t you lie.

PRO: Chatbox. Scrolling a chatbox, as I do street corners for hookers, I saw, “breuer:I train my dogs jui jitsu, lol, and they get down pretty well.” Oh breuer, your brand of comedy will never get old…. I bet he knows a strong red lipstick lock. I’ll leave that joke for you to get.

CON: Yellow cards. I used to be a fan of yellow cards when I wanted action in my fights from Japan. Now I feel the entire idea is stale. While watching I came up with a new system I think you’ll like. The ref will pull out an orange and green card called the “Oompa Loompa Stick” as the crowd goes, “ohhhhhhhhh!” Then a midget will hop into the ring and kick both fighters in the testicles for stalling. The crowd will laugh as the fighters fall to their knees and everyone will have a merry time. You’re welcome.

CON: Sapp’s mentality and ground game. Honestly. I picked a cartoon character over Bob Sapp simply because he didn’t care any longer. How can you have that many fights and still gas out and have no ground game after 90 seconds? This is a man that used to care but after the Fujita fight he just enjoyed throwing haymakers and then quitting if the fight wasn’t over yet. I hate stepping into the head of an athlete but Sapp kills me over and over again. He doesn’t care enough for a fight against Nortje but he’s completely prepared for an amateur wrestler in a cartoon mask? Maybe he should stick to that Pros and Joes show on Spike instead of Pros and Cons.

PRO: Adjustment. I would like to make a DVD called, “MMA: Adjustment!” It will be a DVD filled with fighters changing their attire only to get absolutely destroyed by a strike from their opponent. It will include fights like Wanderlei Silva vs. Nakamura and now Bob Sapp vs. Tanaka. How great was it when Tanaka got punched in the face and had to adjust his mask only to eat another punch that sent him out? It was beautiful, really.

CON: EXC’s People.

This is only one of many. Perhaps the reason the company folded was how pathetic the people in charge happened to be. Now you’re seeing this picture and thinking, “haha, TBD!” Well it just so happens that 0:41 of Rd1 was the exact time it took for Bubba McDaniel to defeat Hose. Yet it says Hose beat TBD in the same amount of time. This is only one of many I decided to save. Well run company gentlemen, you should be proud of yourselves.  They had names wrong, weights wrong and a lack of fighter profiles.  I can’t get a job I want but this guy is probably on at Microsoft right now.

PRO: David Blaine. Nothing of importance, I just like David Blaine. Screw you for hating magic.

CON: Phone cords. Have you looked at your phone cord lately? Is it still the tangled, silly nonsense that it has always been? Have they not come up with a better design for the phone cord? Should I be mocked for this? Yes, but it’s still true. “We can put a man on the moon” but we can’t make a straight phone cord.  Ladies and gentlemen, Jerry Seinfeld.

PRO: Okami/Lister. Thank you for the most obvious result in the history of the sport.

PRO: Mir/Lesnar II. Every single person on the planet thought Nogueira would destroy Mir, probably to a decision result. While this fight isn’t exactly for #1 in the world, it is a test of your MMA judgment. Sorry Dana, it’s true no matter what you say to the internet folk that they are the only people that will read your opinions anyway. Mir absolutely destroyed Lesnar in their first fight and little has really changed since then. Lesnar can probably defend better and land better shots to the face while Mir probably wants it even more and has his submission skills at an all-time high. Who do you have? This fight should be the top early 2009 expert pick. You pick this correctly and you coast for the rest of the year. If you’re wrong you should have to work your way back up. I’m 0-3 on Lesnar UFC fights so I’ll consider myself an idiot. Can you 50/50 this better than I?

PRO: Jordan Breen.  He told me he’d touch my penis lovingly on AIM.  He and his hair need to be stopped.

CON: Fighter of the Year.  We here at 5 Oz. are going back and forth with one another about who should be named Fighter of the Year.  Anderson Silva, Rashad Evans, Brock Lesnar, Miguel Torres, Shinya Aoki…. the list goes on and on.  This has been a long debate involving me getting Andrest out of prison for assault and Caplan to settle a lawsuit for battery.  You can be sure that when the announcement is made that much effort has been put into the verdict.

“We’re definitely going to Germany,” said White. “That’s for sure.”

Another country they planned on heading to in 2009 was the Philippines. White said that those plans are temporarily on hold. The UFC is still working through getting all the necessary clearances in the country.

Along with international growth, the UFC has plans to go to some new cities in the United States – notably some northeast towns.

“New York and Boston in 2009,” White said.

Before a show can take place in New York, MMA needs to be legalized in the state. Thus far, the UFC has not been successful in getting the sport cleared. White is confident that they’ll get past any hurdles.

“We’re going to get New York done.”

Phillipe Nover vs. Efrain Escudero (Lightweight Finals)

Adam Morgan: This is the ideal matchup for Nover as Escudero is a wrestler who wants to prove to the world that he can strike. He did an okay job against Junie Browning but he won’t have the luxury of fighting and unconditioned fighter when he steps in against Nover. Nover is a complete fighter all the way around and as long as he’s able to stay off his back he should have Efrain beat anywhere else. Ideally Nover will keep the fight standing and pick Efrain apart on the feet. Nover will be the contract winner in the lightweight division, no doubt. Phillipe Nover via TKO, round two.

David Andrest: Well rounded fighter vs. wrestler.  Escudero appears to be a nice enough guy, and after this loss he will get the tougher road to stardom of the two.  Winner: Phillipe Nover  Sub  Armbar Round 1.

Cory Brady: Both of these guys are very well put together fighters. there has been a lot of noise made about Nover being the next Anderson Silva and I expect for him to be the favorite coming into this one. Do not count Escudero out. There is no area of the game that Nover is gong to overwhelm him in. Escudero is an experienced wrestler with a well rounded submission game with constantly improving stand up. With that said. I expect Nover to walk away with the victory tonight. His striking is on another level than Escudero’s and he was recently awarded his black belt in jiu-jitsu. This one will be more competitive than most people think. Winner: Nover TKO Round 2

Ryan Bader vs. Vinny Magalhaes (Light Heavyweight Finals)

Adam Morgan: Vinny already has some of the best jiu jitsu in all of MMA and certainly in the light heavyweight division. He is one of the most decorated grapplers competing in MMA today. Bader will want the fight on the ground. So will Vinny. But Bader can’t be content to just lay on Vinny like he has some of his previous opponents. Vinny has far too many ways to win, especially if the fight is on the ground. Bader’s best bet would be to test Vinny’s standup but I doubt that will happen. His natural instinct is wrestling and that will ultimately be his downfall. Magalhaes is just far too talented. Vinny Magalhaes via submission, round two.

David Andrest: I really do not know what Bader can bring into this fight that Vinny hasn’t seen done already and done better.  Vinny being the former BJJ instructor at Team Quest and now training with Xtreme Couture has never been at a loss for top level training partners with a wrestling background.  Word on the street is Bader will use his wrestling to keep the fight standing because he feels he is the better striker of the two.  Bader had better keep it on the feet as that is his ONE way to win.  With only one way to win i can not pick him.  Winner  Vinny Magalhaes sub round 1.

Cory Brady: This is the one fight on the card that has me going back and forth the most. I truly believe that the result of this fight will depend on where it ends up. If Bader can dictate where the fight goes i feel he has the more crisp, powerful striking. I could see him catching Vinny in the second round or winning a decision if he decides to keep it on the feet which I think he is very capable of doing. Obviously Vinny’s strengths are on the ground and I think it will be extremely difficult for Bader to either finish Vinny or grind out a decision on the mat. All in all I expect Bader’s wrestling to be the key factor in the fights outcome. He will keep the fight standing and show that he is not as one dimensional as some would believe. Winner: Bader TKO Round 2

Kevin Burns vs. Anthony Johnson

Adam Morgan: As long as Johnson can stay out of eye poke territory he should be able to lock this one up. Burns is a gamer and showed that he can hang in there in their last fight but ultimately Johnson is too much of an athlete with a lot of power and a growing overall game. Burns has some decent jiu jitsu and okay standup but Johnson will be too much for him over the course of three rounds. I don’t think Johnson finishes the fight but he will do enough to win. Anthony Johnson via unanimous decision.

David Andrest: Anthony Johnson was the better fighter the first time, and nothing has changed. Burns is a good fighter but Johnson is just a notch better everywhere.   Winner: Johnson  KO Round 2

Cory Brady: Johnson will come out on fire in this one and stop Burns Early. Burns presented many problems for Johnson outside of the eye poke in the pairs first meeting but this fight will look very differently. Johnson has been completely focused during his training camp with Cung Le in this one and he should add another clip to his hilghlight reel in what will be a grudge match Winner: Johnson KO Round 1

Jason McDonald vs. Wilson Gouveia

Adam Morgan: Jason MacDonald is one of the best gatekeepers in all of MMA and this is a good test for Gouveia in his second fight at middleweight. MacDonald possesses a strong jiu jitsu game but Gouveia is no slouch on the ground either and has the better striking. MacDonald is a gamer and isn’t easily finished but Gouveia has too many weapons for MacDonald to deal with. Add that to the fact that he should be the bigger fighter going into the fight and the chips are stacked in his favor. Wilson Gouveia via TKO, round three.

David Andrest: Jason MacDonald is the BEST gatekeeper in MMA.  He wins the fights he should win, and the top guys find their way past him.  Wilson Gouveia just hasn’t impressed upon me that he is elite, and those are the guys that get past “The Athlete”  Winner  McDonald  Decision

Cory Brady: An interesting match up between two very well rounded middleweights. MacDonald will have the advantage in the wrestling department while Gouveia will hold the edge in the submissions with both men considered to be threats standing. This is one of those fights that really depends on where it goes. I feel as if Gouveia will hold a slight edge in most areas. If it goes to the ground, Gouveia is a threat to submit anyone and on the feet he has shown that he can end the fight in a blink of an eye. It will be a closely contested match up until the end. Winner: Gouveia Submission Round 2

Junie Browning vs. Dave Kaplan

Adam Morgan: There are a lot of questions surrounding this fight, specifically whether or not Browning’s conditioning has improved since the show. According to everything that Browning has been saying he has been training non-stop since the show and hopes to put on a good show come the finale. Kaplan is a known commodity in the fight, however, and has a good chin along with a well-rounded game, especially on the ground. There are too many unknowns surrounding Browning coming into this fight which makes him a hard pick. Dave Kaplan via submission, round two.

David Andrest:  Here is what I know. We have never seen Junie Browning in shape. I’ve been told by reliable sources that Junie is in incredible shape, has the best footwork they have seen in such a young fighter.  Davd Kaplan is training with Frank Mir,  which immediately makes me question his cardio.  I have no doubt that Mir will have Kaplan convinced he is smarter than Browning.  Fortunately, a right hook couldn’t care less what the capital of Guam is.   Winner  Junie Browning  KO round 1.

Cory Brady: These guys both have very similar styles. Both like to stand and bang and neither is afraid to go to the ground. Browning never trained at a traditional striking camp before his appearance on the show and has since hooked up with Shawn Tompkins at Xtreme Couture. Look for Tompkins to bring out all the raw talent that is inside of Browning and the cardio will not be a problem. Kaplan’s a good fighter but Browning has the potential to be a great fighter. Winner: Browning TKO Round 1

Krzysztof Soszynski vs. Shane Primm

Adam Morgan: Soszynski has a future inside the UFC. Primm does not. Soszynski has good hands, good wrestling, and serviceable jiu jitsu. Plus he comes from a good camp. He should take Primm out with ease. Krzysztof Soszynski via TKO, round one.

David Andrest: Soszynski has NO future in the UFC, Primm is young and has room to grow.   Soszynski has good hands?  Good Wrestling? and servicable jiu jitsu? what would give me that idea his record…. 15-8-1 .  Yeah he has played the sacrificial lamb to some big names, but he has multiple losses to people you have and will never hear of.   He looked slow and sluggish each time I’ve seen him, and being knocked out 4 times in his career, perhaps he should decide he doesn’t like getting punched in the face.   Primm also comes from a good but young camp, and if the fight hits the ground I expect him to win.  Winner Shane Primm via  Armbar Round 3.

Cory Brady: Soszynski is a well rounded fighter but I feel as if Primm has the potential to be a serious force in the future at 205. His dimensions, striking and submissions could present some serious problems for a lot of guys at light heavyweight. The question is, is Primm ready for a guy of Soszyniski’s caliber yet? I think so. Winner: Primm Submission Round 2

Eliot Marshall vs. Jules Bruchez

Adam Morgan: Jules Bruchez seems to have some decent heart but showed the least amount of talent of anyone at light heavyweight on the entire show. Marshall’s length and jiu jitsu game should be enough to overwhlem Bruchez, especially once the fight hits the ground. Bruchez will be outclassed and out of a job. Eliot Marshall via submission, round one.

David Andrest: Eliot Marshall has been given a gift.  A win on the TUF 8 Finale, will he take it?  Jules, as Adam said showed good heart, but he simply isn’t at the level he needs to be at to compete at this level. Winner Eliot Marshall via sub round 1

Cory Brady: Bruchez has a lot of potential but Marshall is already starting to recognize his. I don’t see many ways for Jules to win against the more well rounded Marshall. I feel like Marshall dictates where this fight goes and decides how he wants to win. Winner: Eliot Submission Round 1

Kyle Kingsbury vs. Tom Lawlor

Adam Morgan: Kingsbury is the better athlete, comes from the better camp, and has more fight experience. Lawlor will want to take the fight to the ground and if he gets it there he could smother Kingsbury. Kingsbury should want to keep this thing standing and trade punches with Lawlor but he could very well get taken down. Close call, but I like Kingsbury due to the intangibles mentioned above: better athlete, better camp, more experience. Kyle Kingsbury via unanimous decision.

David Andrest: I’d like to just copy paste again and switch names, that is exactly how I feel, I’ll save everyone the reading.  Winner Tom Lawlor via unanimous decision.

Cory Brady: This is a very well matched fight. This could very well end up being one of the best fights of the night depending on how long it lasts. I see these guys trading for a good chunk of the fight in a bout where I could almost flip a coin to determine the winner. Winner: Lawlor TKO Round 2

Shane Nelson vs. George Roop

Adam Morgan: Shane Nelson is a very talented fighter that we unfortunately didn’t get to see a whole lot of on the show due to his early exit against Efrain Escudero. Nelson has a very strong jiu jitsu game and what he lacks in skill he makes up for in heart. Roop was one of the last picks in the house for a reason. He’s not on the level that Nelson is on. The only thing going for Roop will be his size advantage and his reach. Once the fight hits the ground, though, Nelson should dominate. Shane Nelson via submission, round two.

David Andrest: This has the potential to be fight of the night.  This is the best matched fight of the evening. In my mind this is a rare situation where I think both fighters are better than we witnessed on the television show.   I like them both, and would love to see them go to the WEC and better their respective games.   Winner  George Roop via decision

Cory Brady: This is another fight that has the potential to be extremely exciting. Nelson is very well rounded but Roop will be able to control where the fight goes. He has the more crisp striking and more powerful wrestling. Roop could out strike Nelson or punish him on the ground. The choice is his. Winner: Roop TKO Round 2

Rolando Delgado vs. John Polakowski

Adam Morgan: Based on the only two fights I’ve seen out of these guys I like Delgado a little better. He fought hard against Junie Browning and took some of his best shots and kept coming forward. Polakowski will wilt under that kind of pressure. Roli Delgado via unanimous decision.

David Andrest: From the little I was able to see of Roli Delgado, I just don’t think he is on par with Polakowski.   Polakowski is an absolute warrior in the true sense of the word, anyone who has seen his previous fights in the WEC knows the only way Delgado wins this fight is by killing Polakowski.   Winner John Polakowski via KO  round 2.

Cory Brady: Polakowski will show how tough and exciting he is in this one. He has a tenacious style and can go full force for the entire 15 minutes. He won’t have to go fifteen minutes in this one but it will be exciting while it lasts. Winner: Polakowski KO Round

Josh Koscheck vs. Yoshiyuki Yoshida

Adam Morgan: Yoshida is one of the best fighters from Japan that the UFC has signed but I don’t think he’ll have what it takes to topple Koscheck. Yoshida’s judo, submissions, and ground and pound game are beast but I doubt that he’ll be able to put Koscheck on his back due to Kos’ strong wrestling background and judo training under Dave Camarillo. Kos is the more explosive athlete with more Octagon experience. I expect a spirited performance out of Yoshida but I see Koscheck coming out on top. Josh Koscheck via unanimous decision.

Cory Brady: Yoshida is riding an eight fight win streak but he’s going up against the wrong guy this time.Koscheck will be determined not to drop two fights in a row and one of two things can happen here. Koscheck comes out on fire and closes the show early or he controls the fight with his wrestling on his way to a very safe win. Either way Koscheck wins this one. Winner: Koscheck KO Round 2

David Andrest: Yoshida is a much better fighter than many will give him credit for, and the match up with Koscheck could prove to be an upset in the minds of alot of people. I want to pick Yoshida, but I can’t.  Yoshida finishes fights, Koscheck doesn’t get finished.  Yoshida doesn’t win decisions, Koscheck does. WinnerK Koscheck via Decision

Mike Swick vs. Jonathan Goulet

Adam Morgan: Goulet’s chin may possibly be the most suspect chin in all of mixed martial arts. Swick is a devastating striker and he’s looking much more comfortable at 170 lbs. All of this makes for a recipe for disaster for Goulet who I doubt will get out of the first round in this one. Swick has yet to really put an opponent down with his striking at 170 and this is the showcase fight for him on national television. Mike Swick via TKO, round one.

Cory Brady: This will be an extremely exciting fight while it lasts. Goulet’s style will force Swick to really fight hard and there will be fireworks when he turns it up. The main thing is that although Goulet is very good in all areas of the game, Swick is just a little better. Winner: Swick Decision

David Andrest: Subscribing to my idea that no matches are made in the UFC without purpose, I have to agree with Adam Morgan.  On the surface this match appears to be a showcase for Swick to look impressive at 170.  Winner Mike Swick  via  Swick Out  Round 1

Steve Cantwell vs. Razak Al-Hassan

Adam Morgan: Steve Cantwell has been on a tear since losing to Brian Stann, avenging that loss and beating two other opponents in that same time. However, if Cantwell can’t beat Al-Hassan his UFC career may be short lived for the time being. Al-Hassan is a credible opponent but Cantwell has fought the tougher fights on the bigger stages and this should be a victory for him as long as he can stay away from Al-Hassan’s dangerous striking. If he can do that, and he should, this should be a W for Cantwell. Steve Cantwell via TKO, round two.

Cory Brady: Al-Hassan is coming in as a dark horse that has potential to really spoil the show for Cantwell. He won’t though. Cantwell has an aggressive style and powerful hands. He will provide some exciting fights in the UFC in the future without a doubt. Winner: Cantwell KO Round 1

David Andrest: Cantwell is a solid fighter with great power, i expect him to win this fight with very little trouble.  Winner: Cantwell  via KO Round 1

Tim Credeur vs. Nate Loughran

Adam Morgan: This should be a good battle of grapplers as both men are submission specialists. This will be Loughran’s second fight in the UFC while Credeur faced a host of middleweights on TUF 7 and has competed against some of the better middleweights in all of MMA during his career. Loughran is a young stud who has a good game but Credeur’s experience in big fights and his overall experience on the ground should be the deciding factor in this bout. If it stays on the feet, Credeur has shown that he has no problem standing and banging either. Tim Credeur via submission, round two.

Cory Brady: Creduer has looked great recently and Loughran has never looked bad. neither of these guys let fights go the distance so I fully expect a finish in this one. Loughran has submitted eight of the nine guys he has defeated but he will not be able to submit Credeur who is a black belt in jiu-jitsu. I wouldn’t be surprised if this fight stays on the feet for the most part. Winner: Credeur KO Round 2

David Andrest: UFC fans have never seen the best of Tim Creduer. I suspect tonight will be a coming out party for Creduer as I also believe his experience will play a major role…………along with him being the better fighter in all areas.  Winner: Creduer via  sub  Round 2.

Matt Wiman vs. Jim Miller

Adam Morgan: Wiman has been on a roll since coming off TUF 5, railing off four straight victories with one of them coming in brutal fashion over a legitimate top tier lightweight in Thiago Tavares. Wiman is dangerous on the feet and on the ground but Jim Miller is no joke himself, especially on the ground. If Miller is able to get this to the ground, and I think he will, Wiman will be in for a long night as Miller is a highly regarded jiu jitsu practitioner under Renzo Gracie. This should be one of the best scraps of the evening for sure but I’m picking against Wiman (again) in favor of the uber-talented Miller. Jim Miller via submission, round two.

Cory Brady: Wiman looked amazing in his “Fight of the Night” win against Thiago Tavares but Miller is a different kind of fighter. I expect Miller to fight a much safer, slower paced fight than Tavares did and come away with an extremely competitive victory. Winner: Miller Decision

David Andrest: Adam Morgan has picked against Matt Wiman. This is reason enough for me to consider him my lock of the night.  Winner Wiman Decision

Luigi Fioravanti vs. Brodie Farber

Adam Morgan: It’s only fitting that a fight night that involves the military has Luigi Fioravanti, a former Marine, on the card. Fioravanti is a dangerous striker who likes to clinch and win ugly, ugly fights. Farber is coming off a devastating KO loss to Rory Markham in a fight where he was actually doing halfway decent until catching a kick to the jaw. I don’t know exactly who to pick here but Fioravanti has the experience and will definitely have the crowd behind him. Luigi Fioravanti via unanimous decision.

Cory Brady: Fioravanti packs an incredible punch for his size. Farber looked like he was a little sloppy with his stand up in his last fight so I fully expect for Fioravanti to have himself something for the highlight reel once this one is finished. Winner: Fioravanti KO Round 2

David Andrest: Fioravanti is a beast.  He looked much better than expected against Diego Sanchez in their last fight, I highly doubt Farber will be able to finish him.  I have nothing against Farber I just feel Fioravanti is better everywhere and will win and look impressive doing so.  Winner Fioravanti KO Round 1

Steve Bruno vs. Johnny Rees

Adam Morgan: This is without a doubt a fight where the winner stays and the loser gets cut. Both men are coming off losses, Bruno to Chris Wilson and Rees to Nate Loughran. Bruno is a very powerful striker with good wrestling skills. He almost reminds you of Phil Baroni with the way he fights. Rees is a submission fighter who has a cupcake record and Bruno will put his lights out. Steve Bruno via TKO, round one.

Cory Brady: This is a really tough one to call. Rees aka “The Hater Hurter” has a really sweet nickname and a lot of wins over guys that not many people have heard of. Bruno went the distance with the extremely tough Chris Wilson in his last bout so I think he will be a little too much for Rees who was submitted in his last fight by Nate Loughran. Winner: Bruno Decision

David Andrest: I agree with most people that this is a loser go home fight.  I haven’t seen enough from either of them to give the advantage over the other.  Winner: Steve Bruno via decision

Ben Saunders vs. Brandon Wolff

Adam Morgan: Saunders has the better skills, the better camp, and the better heart. After this fight it’s time for him to start facing some better competition. Ben Saunders via submission, round one.

Cory Brady: Brandon Wolff could surprise a lot of people in this one. he is not as well known as Saunders but relatively equal in many areas.The deciding factor will be octagon experience. Saunders is used to the bright lights and attention that the UFC brings and he should be able to keep cooler on his way to a submission victory. Winner: Saunders Submission Round 2

David Andrest: Saunders is seriously overlooked at 170, he has all the tools to work his way into the mix in a very strong division.  Saunders has an unusual style that will cause problems for many people as he continues to improve.  Brandon Wolff is a good up and coming fighter, but just will not have the tools to beat Saunders.   Winner: Ben Saunders via Sub Round 2 (* sub of the night)

Corey Hill vs. Dale Hartt

Adam Morgan: Yet another loser leaves town matchup. Hartt is 0-1 in the UFC with his loss to Shannon Gugerty but has since improved his training with camps like Cobra Kai jiu jitsu and Xtreme Couture. As for Hill, you don’t ever hear much about him but the freakish lightweight is someone that Pat Miletich was raving about not too long ago. If Hill has it together, he could be an unstoppable lightweight with his reach at 6’4” and his ridiculous athleticism. However, if he doesn’t, then Hartt has an excellent opportunity to do his thing. Tough call here, but I’m going to go with Corey Hill. Corey Hill via TKO, round three.

Cory Brady: I am not convinced that Corey Hill is the real thing just yet. He always seems a little awkward and out of his element in the octagon. Hartt is hungrier than ever and I think he has the well rounded skill set to beat a guy like Hill. Winner: Hartt KO Round 2

David Andrest: This isn’t a tough call at all.  Hill is better on his feet, and now that Hill is training with Rob Kahn at Gracie Tampa, I expect his ground game is far better than it has ever been.  At 6′ 4″ with  all the tools I think we’ll see the “best Cory Hill” we’ve ever seen……LOL sorry.    Winner: Corey Hill via sub Round 2

Eddie Sanchez vs. Justin McCully

Adam Morgan: Eddie Sanchez can wrestle but he likes to stand and bang. Justin McCully can wrestle. And when two wrestlers get together they usually end up standing the whole time. And when that happens, the fight favors Sanchez. Bye, bye McCully. Eddie Sanchez via TKO, round two.

Cory Brady: I know that according to MMAth McCully should have the edge in this one. McCully recently had a decision win over Antoni Hardonk whle Sanchez was knocked out by the Dutchman in his last outing. Well I don’t care about MMAth. Sanchez has very heavy hands and I think he will catch McCully sooner rather than later. Winner: Eddie Sanchez KO Round 1

David Andrest: The only thing McCully has lacked is conditioning.  I have it on good authority that this will not be an issue this time out.  Winner: Justin McCully  decision.

Faber already has a plan in mind. It clearly includes another match-up with Brown.

“Definitely, there will be a rematch,” said Faber.

Unfortunately, Faber may have to wait a while before getting his chance to regain the title. Brown suffered a rib injury in the first fight, and Brown was clearly grimacing as he left the cage.

As a result, Faber is getting ready for the interim fight.

“I’ve heard January 25th as a tentative date. It is to be announced as to where it will be, but I think it could be San Diego.”

When asked about a potential opponent, Faber was quick to answer with another WEC fighter.

“Possibly Jose Aldo,” said Faber.

“I don’t have anything set yet, I had two more fights to do at Elite and now I’ll see what I’m gonna do,” Rua is quoted as telling Brazilian MMA site Tatame.com. “I’ll speak with my manager and look for another event, maybe in Japan. I don’t have anything right yet, but I believe Japan is a good opportunity.”

Before signing with EliteXC, Rua was a mainstay with the Japan-based PRIDE Fighting Championships for several years, compiling a 6-7 record under the PRIDE banner while competing in multiple weight classes.

Rua was the first-ever fighter to hold an EliteXC title following his second round TKO over Joey Villasenor during a co-promote between EliteXC and Strikeforce in June of 2007. The win earned Rua possession of the promotion’s then-vacant middleweight title.

He lost the title to Robbie Lawler during EliteXC’s “Uprising” event in September of the same year but proceeded to go undefeated in his next two fights. He was rewarded with a fight against Benji Radach during EliteXC and CBS’ third installment of Saturday Night Fights earlier this month. After several heated exchanges, Rua finally succumbed to Radach’s power and was TKO’d at 2:31 of round 2.

Despite the ProElite’s impending bankruptcy, Rua is taking the news in stride and is ready to move on.

“I already heard some rumors about that, but I wasn’t imagining that it’d happen so fast,” Rua said in the interview. “They did some events and they couldn’t make it, now it’s time to go after new opportunities, train hard and wait for another contract. I’ll continue training hard here to be ready for my next fight.”

The main event of the evening features UFC middleweight champion Anderson Silva as he takes on Canadian Patrick Cote.

In other action late replacement Josh Koscheck will face off with Thiago Alves in the welterweight showdown. Also former UFC lightweight champion Sean Sherk will battle up and coming superstar Tyson Griffin in a much anticipated lightweight match.

Hit F5 on your keyboard to refresh, as play-by-play is updated in real time. Feel Free to join in the discussion in our comments section.

Josh Burkman vs. Pete Sell
Round 1-Mike Reid is the referee for this fight. Burkman gets a low kick countered by a right hand from Pete Sell. Drago tries for a takedown but Josh cancels that and they clinch. Burkman gets a good right hook that hurts Pete. Josh then gets the takedown and is in half guard. He lands several elbows. Burkman gets Sell’s right arm and holds it with his left leg but is unable to do anything. Drago gets the arm free and gets full guard. The referee stands them up. The clinch up against the cage and Sell goes for a takedown which Burkman whizzered out of. First round ends. 10-9 Burkman

Round 2-The round starts off with both fighters throwing jabs and straights but none doing damage. Drago is able to land a right and tries for a double leg takedown but Burkman says no way. Josh lands a jab that sends Sell backwards. Burkman gets in a body kick about 1/2 way through the round. They clinch then separate. Pete gets a left to Burkman’s midsection. Sell gets in a few more shots. Pete gets a nice over hand right to Burkman’s midsection. Josh is throwing wild shots. Drago throws only to miss and Burkman gets the takedown. Round two over. 10-9 Sell

Round 3-Pete Sell comes out with a swollen right eye. Josh Burkman lands with a knee to the body of Drago. They clinch. Drago attempts a takedown but Burkman says it is not gonna happen. Both fighters exchange a few punches. Burkman goes for a takedown but Sell stuffs it. Sell gives Josh a left jab to the chin. Pete is able to land several more quick shots before Burkman gets the takedown, but Sell finds himself on top. Sell sets up the guillotine but the buzzer sounds ending the fight. 10-9 Sell

Unanimous Decision-Pete Sell 29-28

Hermes Franca vs. Marcus Aurelio
Round 1- The referee in charge of this bout is Todd Frederickson. The tension is thick and the referee  has to separate them before the fight even starts due to Franca bumping Aurelio while passing by him inside the Octagon.  The action begins with Franca going for a flying knee that misses but he is able to land a low kick. Franca is able to get in kicks to Aurelio’s lower legs and thighs. Marcus misses with several shots before landing a nice jab. Franca gets in another kick answered with a right by Aurelio. The first round closes out with more kicks from Franca. 10-9 Franca.

Round 2-Franca comes out in round 2 with more kicks. Marcus is throwing fists but nothing really doing any damage. Hermes is counters with a nice combo: left jab,right cross, and then a low kick. Aurelio sets up a combo that connects but not much damage from it. Both fighters exchange but no solid shots from either. They exchange again with both fighters landing decent shots. Round two ends with a hard low kick from Franca. 10-9 Franca.

Round 3-Round three starts off with Franca again throwing leg kicks. The kicks are getting to Aurelio and he is visibly frustrated. Aurelio shoots for a takedown but is unable to get it. When Franca throws another kick Aurelio is able to catch it and get the takedown. Marcus passes to half guard and lands several strikes. Franca is able to get guard and then stand. As Franca is getting to his feet Aurelio lands a knee to Franca’s head. Referee Fredrickson stops the fighters and says it was an illegal knee. Replays seem to show that it was a legal knee. The fight resumes with Franca landing a leg kick. Aurelio tries for a single leg takedown and they end up in the clinch. The separate and Franca throws a combo that misses. The round ends. 10-9 Franca

Unanimous Decision Hermes Franca. 29-28, 29-28, 30-27.

Franca attempts to shake hands with Marcus Aurelio but Marcus refuses. Hermes then flips him off.

Dan Miller vs. Matt Horwich
Round 1- Referee Mike Reid is officiating this fight. Dan Miller starts off with a superman punch followed with a takedown. Miller is in full guard after Matt Horwich tries a leg lock. Matt then uses rubber guard to secure a gogoplata, and then an omaplata, neither work. Horwich gets guard and wants to use the cage to stand up. They scramble and Matt is on top after Miller shoots. Horwich ends up on his back . There is little going on and the fighters stand up. Miller lands a left jab and a right straight to the face of Matt Horwich. They go back to the ground and Horwich looks to secure another omaplata. The round ends. 10-9 Miller.

Round 2-Dan Miller gets a takedown but Horwich is able to get it back to standing and they clinch. Miller gets Horwich’s arm and falls to guard. Horwich uses rubber gurad to get an omaplata and is able to get on top and looks to pass guard. Dan now tries to use the rubber guard but with no results. The fighters scramble and Horwich is able to get Miller’s back. Matt locks in a body triangle and works on a rear naked choke. Miller is able to defend but ends up mounted. Horwich is able to land some ground and pound forcing Miller to give up his back. Horwich is working on a rear naked choke again as the round ends. 10-9 Horwich.

Round 3-Both fighters touch gloves to start round 3. Miller gets a takedown. Horwich uses rubber guard and attempts another omaplata. Miller is able to pass but only for a moment. Horwich secures full guard. Horwich has his back against the cage and just seems to sit there. Miller then is able to get several strike in. They continue on the ground staying active but nothing really going on. Dan Miller lands several punches cutting Horwich under the right eye. Round 3 ends as Horwich landed a upkick. 10-9 Miller.

Unanimous Decision Dan Miller. Scored 29-28 by all 3 judges.

Spencer Fisher vs. Shannon Gugerty
Round 1-Gugerty starts round 1 with an attempt to takedown Spencer Fisher. Shannon gets double under hooks and is able to take Fisher down. Once there, Gugerty is not able to do anything from the top position and loses it as Fisher is able to stand. There is a little dirty boxing against the cage and Gugerty tries for another takedown. Gugerty lands a knee to the stomach of Spencer Fisher. The fighters clinch and separate. Spencer connects with a big right hand that drops Shannon Gugerty. Fisher lets him get up and throws again. The 1st round ends with Fisher ground and pounding Gugerty. 10-9 Fisher.

Round 2-Gugerty starts out round 2 with a high kick that misses and causes him to slip and fall. He gets up and the two fighters clinch. Fisher gets Gugerty’s back up against the cage. They separate. A little bit of dirty boxing then Gugerty throws a low right kick just as Fisher misses with a right hand. Fisher gets the takedown and Gugerty looks for a guillotine. Gugerty stands while still holding the choke. He lets go of the choke and throws a flurry of punches. Fisher eats several of these to the face but Spencer is able to block two high kicks that followed. The round ends. 10-9 Gugerty.

Round 3- The 3rd round starts out with the fighters in the clinch. Gugerty gets the takedown but Fisher is able to lock in a deep triangle. Gugerty’s face is beet red but he is giving the referee the thumbs up. Finally, 3:56 into the round Gugerty taps.

Winner- Spencer Fisher via triangle submission. 3:56 Round 3.

Thales Leites vs. Drew McFedries
Round 1-Referring this fight is Mark Fenell. The fight starts with a big right hand from Drew McFedries that stuns Leites. Thales is able to recover and gets a slam takedown. Once on the mat, Leites passes guard and gets McFedries’s back. Leites sinks in the hooks and gets the rear-naked choke. Referee Mike Fenell stops the contest at 1:18 in round 1. Winner via rear-naked choke submission-Thales Leites, 1:18 Round 1.

Sean Sherk vs. Tyson Griffin

Tyson Griffin walks in to Survivor’s “Eye of the Tiger”. He seems calm.

Sean Sherk comes walks in to a rock song that I am not familiar with. He looks serious and ready!
Round 1-Referee in charge of the Octagon for this fight is David Smith. The fighters dance around feeling each other out. Sherk shoots and gets the takedown. He gets Tyson’s back and sinks in the choke while riding piggy back across the ring so Griffin could talk to his corner. Griffin shakes Sean loose. They are in the clinch and Griffin gets a few good knees in before Sherk takes him down. Griffin is able to stand and they are clinched against the cage. Referee tells them to work. Big right hand by Tyson. The go to the center of the cage and exchange. Sherk gets some nice shots in. Body shot by Griffin. They continue to exchange. Griffin gets in a head kick. Griffin shoots and Sean is able to stuff it. Sean spins and gets Tyson’s back. Griffin is able to get out. Good exchanges. Sherk’ stand up looks very good. Buzzer. Exciting Round! 10-9 Sherk.

Round 2-Sherk comes out and shoots and gets Griffin down with his back against the cage. Griffin stands up and they move to the center of the Octagon and exchange. Sherk throws a nice right hand. They are throwing for the fences! Sherk combo with the hands follows with a low kick. Griffin gets abouther good body shot. Griffin two low leg kicks. They both exchange hard hits. Back and forth. Sherk continues to throw nice uppercuts. Griffin is breathing hard with 1:20 left in the round. Sherk goes for a takedown but it doesn’t happen. They continue to exchange hard blows and kicks. Randy is in Griffin’s corner and you can hear him yelling to Griffin. The buzzer sounds. Great fight! The crowd is very into this fight.10-9 Griffin

Round 3- Griffin comes out throws some heat that stuns Sherk. They continue to exchange. They are both still throwing as hard as they can. Sherk nice uppercut followed by a high knee. Sherk came out in round three with cuts under both eyes. The left eye is more swollen than the right. Tyson’s face is also showing damage. They continue to exchange back and forth. Sherk’s nose is bleeding now. Sherk throws a nice combo. The crowd goes nuts at the 1:00 minute mark. Sherk good right hand. the both let loose with 20 seconds left. The buzzer rings. This was a super exciting fight. It is difficult to score but I score it in favor of Griffin.10-9 Griffin

The judges scored the fight: 30-27, 29-28, 29-28 for a Unanimous Decision. Winner-Sean Sherk.

The crowd booed very loudly with the decision. They continued to boo throughout Sherk’s interview with Joe Rogan. Very close fight.

Fabricio Werdum vs. Junior dos Santos
Round 1-Referee for this fight is Marc Fennell. Werdum starts the action with a low kick. Santos ends the fight suddenly with a huge right uppercut. Santos followed with two shots to the downed Werdum, but the fight was already over. Junior dos Santos via KO 1:20 Round 1.

Rich Clementi vs. Gray Maynard
Round 1-The referee in charge of the Octagon for this fight is Todd Fredrickson. The fighters come out and touch gloves. The first minute is spent feeling each other out. Maynard throws a nice right hand. The continue to dance around the cage. No Love gets in a high kick. At the 3:00 mark the crowd starts to boo at the lack of action. Maynard shoots but give it up and throws a knee. Maynard is swinging but missing. Maynard gets the takedown. The Bully is in Rich’s guard and is getting some body shots in. Clementi gets a few shots from bottom. The buzzer rings. 10-9 Maynard.

Round 2-Maynard shoots but Clementi is able to stuff it. Maynard gets the takedown and they scramble. Maynard gets a standing guillotine. Clementi is able to escape the hold and they go back to the ground with Clementi holding Maynard’s arm in a lock. Maynard was able to get out of that. Gray has Clementi in a neck hold but Rich has Gray’s leg. Maynard sweeps around and gets the back of No Love. They scramble and the round ends with Maynard on top. 10-9 Maynard.

Round 3-Maynard comes out and slams Clementi to the canvas. The referee Rich to tell the fighters to work. Clementi scrambles but Maynard is able to maintain top position. Rich gets some elbows to Gray’s head from the bottom. Maynard gets side control and moves to pass to the mount. Rich escapes out through Maynard’s legs. Maynard endures and gets the back of Rich Clementi. Rich scrambles up and Maynard gets a takedown. They are up and another take down by Maynard. Loud boos from the crowd with over :25 seconds left. Round 3 ends with Gray Maynard in the top position controlling the fight. 10-9 Maynard.

Winner via UD- Gray Maynard.

Josh Koscheck vs. Thiago Alves
Round 1-Bruce Buffer announces that the referee for this fight is Dr. David Smith. Alves gets a nice right jab in followed by a low kick. Kos slips while attempting a kick. Alves threw a juge right and knocks Kos down, hurting him. He continued after him with a combo and kick. Kos grabs Thiago’s leg and somehow is able to recover. He was rocked. Thiago throws a head kick and connects. Josh hits Alves with a good right straight. Kos gets another right and a body shot as well. Thiago gets a loud low kick. Kos shoots and has Thiago up against the cage in the clinch with 1:00 minute left. Thiago is able to move the fight back to the middle of the Octagon. The buzzer rings. The fighters tap gloves and head to their corners.10-9 Alves.

Round 2-Round 2 continues the stand up fight with Koscheck getting some good shots and kicks. They exchange and Kos gets a nice kick that backs Thiago up. Kos moves forward and gets a knee to the body of Thiago and they clinch. Alves throws two high kicks that connect but do not damage. Kicks by Kos in return. The crowd is growing louder over these leg kicks. Alves is continuing to throw hard kicks. Kos shoots for a takedown with a single leg. Thiago has stuffed it and they are clinched against the cage. The referee tells them to work. Koscheck has a body lock on Thiago, but Alves has underhooks in. The buzzer rings.10-9 Alves.

Round 3-The fighters come out and exchange low kicks. Alves drops Josh with two kicks. He jumps on Kos and they scramble. Koscheck is able to get free but he was hurt from that exchange. He is able to recover quickly. They continue the stand up exchange and Koscheck tells the referee that he was poked in the eye. The referee checks it out and then they go back to the fight. Next Thiago gets poked in the eye from a straight right. The referee restarts the fight with just over 90 seconds remaining. Thiago is pushing forward and is rocking Kos with kicks and a big knee to the head. More hard leg kicks and hard jabs and a right hook. The both start swinging with everything. The buzzer rings but the fighters do not hear it and continue the fight to the ground. The ref, Dr. David Smith grabs them and ends the fight. 10-9 Alves.

Winner by Unanimous Decision-Thiago Alves. Judges scored it: 30-27, 29-28, 30-27.
Anderson Silva vs. Patrick Cote

Cote comes in smiling and as though he hasn’t a care in the world. He interacts with the fans throughout the entire walk.

Silva dances and smiles coming in. He is holding his head high and sings along with his entrance music. He is very relaxed looking but yet you can see he is focused.
Round 1-The referee for the middleweight championship fight is Herb Dean. Cote swings and misses. The first minute shows no action. They continue to dance and size each other up. Silva inside leg kick, checked by Cote. Anderson with two nice leg kicks. Another is check. Cote responds with his own low kick. Cote high kick. Anderson switches his fight stance. Silva with a hard kick. Cote smiles. They both start to exaggerate their leg movements while mocking each other. Silva low kick. Cote switches his stance. Anderson ends the round with a high kick. The buzzer rings and both fighters bow to each other.

Round 2-Cote starts the round with an inside leg kick. Silva connects with a combination and just misses with a head kick. Cote answers with a spinning back fist that connects but doesn’t cause any damage. Silva gets a takedown against the fence. The Spider is able to get a few elbows through Cote’s guard and Cote gets an elbow to Silva’s head from the bottom. Silva stands and back away and then puts out his hand to help Cote get to his feet and resume the fight standing. Wow, what a gentleman. Anderson starts to throw his hands around to throw Cote off. Patrick shoots for a leg, and then shoots again with both fighters against the cage. Silva gets some knees in from the clinch before the round ends.

Round 3-Cote lands an overhand right and a leg kick to start off round 3. Patrick Cote pops out his right knee and falls to the mat. Patrick struggled to his feet in pain and intended to continue the fight. Referee Herb Dean told Cote that he was not able to continue. Winner via TKO 0:39 into Round 3-Anderson Silva.

Ortiz appeared destined to sign with Affliction after finally parting ways with the UFC. However, to this day, Ortiz and Affliction have not come to terms on a contract. Sobral has still not wavered on a potential match-up.

“That is my dream fight,” said Sobral, “I’d fight him for free. I’d whip that ass for free.”

Sobral and Ortiz undoubtedly had multiple opportunities to get to know each other. They both fought in the UFC for many years. Apparently, that time didn’t go very well.

“I don’t like his attitude,” said Sobral, “it would be awesome to fight him.”

Nate Diaz (9-2 MMA, 4-0 UFC) is the brother of supremely talented problem-child Nick Diaz. Not only do they share a distaste for “mean-muggin”, but a true aptitude for submission fighting. Nate is a brown belt under Cesar Gracie in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, but definitely operates at a black belt level as 7 of his 9 professional wins are from submissions. He defeated Manny Gamburyan in the finale of the Ultimate Fighter season 5 when Gamburyan separated his shoulder and had to concede the victory even though most perceived that Gamburyan was winning the fight. Since winning the ultimate fighter in somewhat controversial fashion, Diaz seems to exhibit a desire to prove his legitimacy in each of his fights. As a result, Diaz has capped off a 4 fight winning streak inside the UFC with a stunning come-from-behind victory over a very tough and underrated Kurt Pellegrino by triangle choke. With his middle-finger laden win Diaz has served notice that he is a threat to everyone in the lightweight division.

Although Diaz is a very talented BJJ practitioner, he is still an evolving fighter. Diaz is severely lacking in the wrestling department. He has a tendency to get bullied by stronger fighters with superior wrestling, as Pellegrino did when he used his wrestling to ride and pummel Diaz for the first 5 minutes of their tilt. But Nate showed he is as head-strong as his brother, never giving up even after being utterly dominated in the round. Diaz is very resilient, what he lacks in physical strength he makes up for with his length and patience on the ground in the submission game. He waits for mistakes and will set up multiple submissions when he sees an opening. Diaz’s overall length gives his stand up an added dimension as well that very few possess in the lightweight division, even though he is still learning how to use it to his best advantage. Diaz also lacks the overall strength to do any real damage to an opponent, but his striking is effective enough to force opponents into poor decisions. He is still learning how to set up his takedowns with his striking, which is not necessarily a bad thing. Diaz possesses a weak single leg take down and relies too much on his greco clinch. Lucky for him it doesn’t matter if he gets the takedown or is taken down himself, as his guard is absolutely treacherous. The definition of perilous, Diaz has proven that his guard is one place most lightweights do NOT want to be for long as it may be the most active guard in the division.

Josh Neer (24-6-1 MMA, 3-3 UFC) is a very savy veteran at a very young age. He trains at the Miletich camp and exhibits the standard “tough as nails” attitude that all of the MFS fighters possess. He is not outstanding in one area but is above average everywhere that a fight can go. Neer is a lifetime wrestler who has evolved into a complete fighter over the last few years and his fights show it. After fighting his whole career at 170lbs, he never seemed to be able to get that big win to put him on the map. He followed impressive wins over Melvin Guillard and Joe Stevenson in the UFC with disappointing losses to Josh Burkman and Nick Diaz. Looking for a second chance at the big time at 170lbs, he was building momentum in smaller shows until his fight with Mark Miller in the IFL. He simply got caught and was knocked out in 54 seconds, but it was enough to push Neer to make a change. A drop to lightweight followed and the UFC gave him a new lease on life. He had a dominating and imposing win over a very formidable Din Thomas. Although it was a unanimous decision, he pushed the pace and had stretches of complete mastery over Thomas. Neer proved he is going to be a menace at lightweight.

While Neer does not excel in one specific area, he brings all the intangibles that make him the type of opponent that fighters try to avoid. He has a ton of experience. He has excellent cardio. He has a cement chin. He is deceptively strong. He is extremely aggressive and in your face for the length of the fight.

Neer’s stand up is very crisp and he is extremely accurate with his strikes. He also only throws to connect, he is not one to throw punches in bunches and waste energy. He is a very good wrestler and his BJJ game is above average for most fighters coming out of MFS as they are not known for a staggering ground game. He is new to 155lbs division, only fighting twice, and both wins. He is 7-1 in his last 8 fights since leaving the UFC.

This fight is going to be a back-and-forth affair with a very high pace in the first round. I think Neer is going to be extremely confident in his ability to force the action and effectively bully Diaz around the ring and possibly into poor decisions. And I think that confidence may be his undoing. Diaz is a fighter capable of losing 14 minutes of a 15 minute fight and then catch you in a dazzling submission to snatch victory from the jaws of defeat. Will Neer’s submission defense be enough to effectively ground and pound Diaz, or will he abandon his ground game altogether and choose to push the stand up battle?

Look for Neer to dominate the fight early on and possibly damage Diaz heavily in the first round, as he is self-admittedly a very slow starter. Diaz will finally get some extended periods on the ground in the second round, and there is where he will catch Neer being over-aggressive with his ground and pound for the triangle choke tapout. A win for Neer goes a long way towards establishing him in the upper tier of an extremely crowded lightweight division. But a win for Diaz moves him into the top five or ten at 155lbs and one more marquee win away from a title shot. Josh Neer is a durable and hard-nosed fighter, but Nate Diaz is an extremely talented grappler riding a wave of confidence right now which should be too much for Neer’s tenacity to overcome.