Friday, December 31, 2010

Shinya Aoki embarrasses himself in brutal loss at Dynamite!! 2010

Shinya Aoki is one of the world's best fighters at 155 pounds but there are times you wonder if his mind strays. He accepted a ridiculous fight at K-1's year ender and paid the price.

After a round fought under kickboxing rules, Aoki tried a sloppy a shot and got destroyed by a knee to the face from Yuichiro Nagashima. Aoki was out cold for several minutes. He made it less than 15 seconds into the second round.

Aoki (on the left) acted like a clown in the opening round. The three-minute long round, waged under K-1 rules but with four ounce gloves. Aoki tried to avoid a real fight by illegally clinching and throwing Nagashima to the mat. He also tried several  goofy pro wrestling-style dropkicks, and attempted to vault himself off the ropes a few times. The result of the shenanigans was Aoki falling to the floor and wasting away the round.

Apparently, Nagashima expected a quick shot in the second and was waiting to deliver that big knee. In 2009, some considered Aoki the No. 1 lightweight in the world. He lost a one-sided fight to Gilbert Melendez in 2010 and now this debacle. 

Source: http://sports.yahoo.com/mma/blog/cagewriter/post/Shinya-Aoki-embarrasses-himself-in-brutal-loss-a?urn=mma-302053

Willa Ford Xenia Seeberg Yamila Diaz Yvonne Strzechowski Zhang Ziyi

UFC 125: Somebody done pushed up the wrong Mohican this time, bro

Source: http://www.mmamania.com/2010/12/31/1906050/ufc-125-somebody-done-pushed-up-the-wrong-mohican-this-time-bro

Penélope Cruz Pink Piper Perabo Poppy Montgomery Portia de Rossi

MMANews.com Talks To Cain Velasquez About Dos Santos, Title Win, Fedor

By <a href="mailto:chris.howie@hotmail.com">Chris Howie</a><br>
MMANews.com Staff<br><br>

Cain Velasquez is fresh off dethroning Brock Lesnar of the UFC Heavyweight strap and has Junior Dos Santos sitting in wait as he is likely to defend the title for the first time in April at UFC 129 in Toronto, though the fight hasn?t been officially announced by the UFC.<br><br>
The new Heavyweight Champion has been on the road more often than not and has seen the fan support around him sky rocket, something he feels at home with despite being away from home ?It?s been fantastic. I hear from fans all over the world. There is so much support behind me and it feels great. It?s been crazy (since winning the title). I?m definitely on the road a lot but that comes with the territory. The UFC is the best MMA organization in the world and to be a major part of that is an honor. At heart I?m a family man but I love all the support I receive from the fans and I can?t wait to go home and defend my title. ?.<br><br>
When he does return home the number one contender for a shot at the title, Junior Dos Santos, will be waiting for his crack at becoming the top dog in the Heavyweight division. Dos Santos has displayed dangerous striking since making his UFC debut, winning all six of his fights, five of them stoppages due to strikes. .<br><br>
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A dangerous opponent, yes, but one Velasquez feels a win over helps establish his place among the best, ?Junior is a great fighter. He has incredible stand up and I expect nothing less than a war. I want to fight the best. I came into this sport to be the best and the only way to achieve that is to go face-to-face with best. It?s a hard road to keep this belt around my waist, but I?m up for the challenge.? .<br><br>

2-0 when he entered the UFC and now 9-0 in his career, the 28 year old Velasquez has faced stiff competition on his way to the top including Cheick Kongo, Ben Rothwell, and Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira before stopping who many believed would hold the title for a long time, Brock Lesnar. It took him 4:12 and won him knockout of the night honors and UFC knockout of the year honors and despite derailing the perceived unstoppable freight train Velasquez stays humble in talking about Lesnar ?He is a great fighter, we both trained hard for the fight. It was a great feeling knowing all the hard work paid off.? .<br><br>

All the hard work comes from time spent at his team?s gym in San Jose, CA, at the <a href=http://www.akakickbox.com/>American Kickboxing Academy</a> which features the likes of UFC stand outs Josh Koscheck, Jon Fitch, Mike Swick, and Phil Baroni, as well as others such as former USA Olympic Wrestling Team Captain Daniel Cormier and former Strikeforce Lightweight Champion Josh Thomson. ?My advantage will be to train the best I can and be surrounded by my camp that pushes the best out of me every day. I truly believe I have the best camp in the world. They really push me. My camp (AKA) pushes me to be the best. Day in and day out. I wouldn?t be where I am without them. ?.<br><br>
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Velasquez comes from a strong wrestling base having been a two time NCAA Division 1 All American and feels that although his wrestling base is a good one to start from, his drive to be a complete fighter in all aspects of the sport will help keep him where he is today ?Historically wrestlers have done very well but I truly believe you need to be well rounded in all aspects. Is it a must? I believe so. I believe every fighter has something you can learn from. I aim to be complete. To stay on top you need to be good at every aspect. I hope to achieve that.? .<br><br>

Staying on top is something one of his idols, Fedor Emelianenko did for most of his career. The Russian is coming of his first loss and only recently, since the likes of Velasquez himself have come onto the scene, has he seen himself out of the top spot on heavyweight rankings. Despite Emelianeneko?s last outing, Velasquez still sees him as his dream opponent and gives his takes on the Russian?s legendary career ?Absolutely(he is still relevant). He is a legend and one fight does not define a career of dominance.? .<br><br>

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MMANews.com would like to thank <a href= http://www.bsnonline.net/>BSN</a> for setting up this interview between us and Cain. While we spoke Cain also explained his involvement with BSN and how their products have benefited him: .<br><br>

On his involvement with BSN: ?Any fighter will tell you that diet and supplementation are key to maximizing your ability. BSN is the best of the best and I am happy to represent their brand. Plus I get all the free product I need!? .<br><br>

On what works for him: ?Recovery products are the most important for me. Cellmass and Syntha-6 are my two favorite products. ?.<br><br>

How their products can help you: ?Whatever their training need may be the have a product to support your goals. it is always important to fuel you body to allow it to recover. Protein is the key to that and BSN?s Syntha-6 makes refueling pretty easy!? .<br><br>

Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

Source: http://www.mmanews.com/home.php

Kylie Bax Lacey Chabert Laetitia Casta Lake Bell Larissa Meek

UFC Announces Date in Toronto UFC 131 April 30 - UFC 131

The Fight Network presents a news brief on the announcement that the UFC would be coming to Toronto's Rogers Centre for UFC 131 on Apr. 30

Source: http://mmalice.com/ufc-131/ufc-announces-date-in-toronto-ufc-131-april-30-video_4e2013d03.html

Christina Aguilera Christina Applegate Christina DaRe Christina Milian Christina Ricci

Chael Sonnen and Dan Henderson. Who's better?

Who would win and how?

Source: http://www.mmaforum.com/ufc/85903-chael-sonnen-dan-henderson-whos-better.html

Cameron Diaz Cameron Richardson Camilla Belle Carla Campbell Carla Gugino

K-1 Dynamite!! 2010 Results: Alistair Overeem Demolishes Todd Duffee in Quick Fashion

Source: http://www.bloodyelbow.com/2010/12/31/1905686/k-1-dynamite-2010-results-alistair-overeem-demolishes-todd-duffee-in

Kelly Hu Kelly Monaco Kelly Ripa Kelly Rowland Kerry Suseck

Article: Atari Announces New Downloadable Co-Op D&D game

You can view the page at http://ninjashoes.net/forum/content.php?326-Atari-Announces-New-Downloadable-Co-Op-D-D-game

Source: http://ninjashoes.net/forum/showthread.php?71745-Article-Atari-Announces-New-Downloadable-Co-Op-D-amp-D-game&goto=newpost

Sean Sherk Dennis Siver Jeremy Stephens Joe Stevenson Sam Sout

UFC Fight for the Troops 2, January 22

UFC Fight for the Troops 2
Saturday, January 22, 2011
Fort Hood
near Killeen, TX
Airing on Spike
MAIN CARD


* Evan Dunham (#9 Ranked Lightweight) vs. Melvin Guillard
* Tim Hague vs. Matt Mitrione
* Mark Hominick (#9 Ranked Featherweight) vs. George Roop
* Pat Barry vs. Joey Beltran
* Cole Miller vs. Matt Wiman

PRELIMINARY CARD

* Yves Edwards vs. Cody McKenzie
* Mike Guymon vs. DaMarques Johnson
* Chan Sung Jung vs. Rani Yahya (#9 Ranked Bantamweight)
* Willamy "Chiquerim" Freire vs. Waylon Lowe
* Amilcar Alves vs. Charlie Brenneman

Source: http://www.mmatorch.com/artman2/publish/Upcoming_Events_42/article_7370.shtml

Jared Rollins Diego Sanchez Ben Saunders Matt Serra George Sotiropoulos

Funny Whitewater Kayaking Quotes on the River Chica Blog

OK, they’re not really whitewater kayaking quotes, but they should be.� I checked out Ky Delaney’s blog and she has a great article with quotes from 1800′s miners that apply really well to kayaking.� Check out the whole River Chica blog post for 1800′s miner quotes on ‘paddling the gnar’, ‘being a dirtbag’, and ‘on [...]

Source: http://www.ireneskayakingblog.com/other-stuff/funny-whitewater-kayaking-quotes-on-the-river-chica-blog/

Johnny Rees Matt Riddle Jorge Rivera Amir Sadollah Alessio Sakara

UFC 125 Press Conference Video

by Michael David SmithDana White and several UFC fighters will speak at the UFC 125 press conference.UFC President Dana White, lightweight champion Frankie Edgar, No. 1 contender Gray Maynard and others will all meet the media on Wednesday for the UFC 125 press conference, and we'll stream the video here at MMAFighting.com.

The pre-fight press conference usually includes some pre-fight trash talk, although Edgar and Maynard have been awfully quiet on that front. The UFC may be counting on the talkative Leben to sell the pay-per-view.

The press conference begins at 4 PM ET and the video is below.


 

Permalink | Email this | Linking Blogs | Comments

Source: http://www.mmafighting.com/2010/12/29/ufc-125-press-conference-video/

Marisa Miller Marisa Tomei Marla Sokoloff Marley Shelton Mary Elizabeth Winstead

UFC NEWS: "Bruce Leroy" meets Mackens Semerzier at UFC Fight Night 24 in March

By: Jamie Penick, MMATorch Editor-in-Chief

LogoUFC_150_697.jpg
The Ultimate Fighter reality series has had its fair share of characters. Some of them stand out over the rest as being more visible, and perhaps more obnoxious, than others, but it leads to television time for those fighters.

For the twelfth season, that character was Alex "Bruce Leroy" Caceres. After losing in his quarterfinal matchup against Team GSP teammate and future runner up Michael Johnson, however, Caceres didn't appear at the season's live finale.

But his shot is coming, as MMAJunkie.com reports that Caceres will drop to the featherweight division to meet four time WEC veteran Mackens Semerzier at UFC Fight Night 24 in March.

Per the report, an injury kept him out of the finale event and a bout against Nam Phan, but he'll now get his shot. The 22-year-old has a 4-2 record overall in his young career, and picked up two exhibition submission wins while in The Ultimate Fighter house.

Semerzier is out to right his ship in this UFC debut after three consecutive losses in the WEC. After making his debut with a shocking submission upset over BJJ black belt Wagnney Fabiano, Semerzier lost his next three fights. His most recent outing, a split decision loss to Cub Swanson at WEC 52 in February, took home the Fight of the Night bonus, and his performances earned him a shot in the Octagon with the UFC-WEC merger.

UFC Fight Night 24 takes place on March 26 from Seattle, Wash., headlined by a light heavyweight bout between Tito Ortiz and Antonio Rogerio Nogueira.

Link to Original Source Article

Penick's Analysis: I'm glad to see Semerzier getting a shot in the UFC despite the three fight losing streak. He had a real case for getting the nod in the Swanson fight, and it was such an excellent back and forth bout that Zuffa officials obviously thought it warranted giving him a chance. It's a do or die fight, and against the flashy and quick Caceres he'll have a chance to put on a great fight again. Cacares is entertaining, and he's got some skill, but he's still really raw as well. This fight could be a lot of fun, though, and it's definitely going to contend for "Fight of the Night" on this card.

Source: http://www.mmatorch.com/artman2/publish/UFC_2/article_7985.shtml

Karen Carreno Karolína Kurková Kasey Chambers Kat Von D Kate Beckinsale

Dana White defends UFC's ION Television deal, says future plans uncertain

LAS VEGAS - While the UFC's recent announcement that preliminary bouts from this weekend's UFC 125 event would be broadcast on ION Television left many MMA fans scratching their head, UFC president Dana White said those same fans should be busy celebrating the deal.

"Every fan that wanted to see the prelims should be doing Diego Sanchez 'Yes Cartwheels' down the street right now," White said. "We got it on free TV."

Instead, White said he has received some questions and complaints regarding the upcoming broadcast. However, the UFC boss believes the situation is a win-win for all involved.


Source: http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/mmajunkie/~3/lq2caquytxk/dana-white-defends-ufcs-ion-television-deal-says-future-plans-uncertain.mma

Portia de Rossi Rachael Leigh Cook Rachel Bilson Rachel Blanchard Rachel Hunter

Thursday, December 30, 2010

what time is dynamite! on at?

id like to order and tune in but i am having a hard time finding it listed

i thought it was at midnight tonight. i am in the pacific time zone...

Source: http://forums.ufc.production.sparkart.net/showthread.php?t=70012&goto=newpost

Penélope Cruz Pink Piper Perabo Poppy Montgomery Portia de Rossi

You tell us: The best fighter in 2010

The days of dominant, nearly unbeatable champs may be gone. Or are they? Georges St. Pierre and Anderson Silva continued their rolls but Brock Lesnar, Urijah Faber, Lyoto Machida and B.J. Penn all tumbled down the ladder. The most shocking fall from dominance came when Fedor Emelianenko lost for the first time in 10 years against Fabricio Werdum.

The changing landscape in many weight classes allowed some new names to emerge for Fighter of the Year honors. Who was the best of the best in 2010? You tell us. Winners will be announced on Dec. 30. 

Cain Velasquez (Heavyweight) -- From his early days in the UFC, Velasquez, 28, was touted as the future of the division. Some doubt arose when several 265-pound behemoths began to smash through the division while Velasquez had some trouble finishing his opponents. Velasquez re-established himself as a huge prospect when he buried Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira in February. Before UFC 121, he was dwarfed by Lesnar's persona outside the Octagon and even more so during the staredown at the weigh-ins. After three minutes of knocking heads, Lesnar was literally running for cover. Velasquez's mix of stamina, boxing, takedown defense and wrestling strength will make him tough to knock off. The kid is also a perfectionist. 

Jose Aldo (Featherweight) -- The Brazilian is the youngest guy on this list, but he may have the most potential to tear through 2011 in more dominant fashion than he did so this year. Aldo's striking, especially his kicks are scary. He left Faber's legs looking looking diseased after giving him the boot for 25 minutes. Aldo followed that up by toying with Manny Gamburyan. He may be the kind of champ who can dominate  multiple weight classes.

Alistair Overeem (Heavyweight) -- He may not be the best fighter outside the Zuffa family, but he's the guy who's generating the most excitement. The Dutch striker is massive, which constantly raises questions about how he's put on so much mass. There's no questions about what he's done in the cage and ring. Brett Rogers was a handful for Fedor. For Overeem, he was a horse-meat sandwich. That was Overeem's only MMA win in 2010, but he added to his resume by entering the strange world of K-1 and emerging as the winner of the heavyweight grand prix. He beat out a field with tons of veteran experience and opened up potentially massive revenue streams in Japan. His legend also made for the best MMA song of 2010.

Georges St. Pierre (Welterweight) -- You know you're good when fans and media rip you for not winning the right way. GSP continued his dominance by adding two more victories to his eight-fight win streak. He broke Josh Koscheck's face and nearly ripped off Dan Hardy's limbs. He didn't lose a round in two five-round fights. He also embarrassed Koscheck as a coach on "The Ultimate Fighter" and showed non-MMA fans that you can be a gentleman outside the cage and coldblooded inside.

Frank Edgar (Lightweight) -- Edgar compiled an 11-1 record before 2010 and all anyone could ask the kid was when he was going to drop down to 145 pounds. Few gave him a shot against B.J. Penn, who looked like he was ready for a two or three run as the man at 155. Edgar was the perfect matchup for Penn. His boxing was solid enough to avoid Penn's big shots and his constant movement threw the Hawaiian off his game. Edgar shocked Penn at UFC 112 and did it again in even more convincing fashion at UFC 118. He also proved not everyone from the Jersey Shore is a chemically enhanced animal with an orange spray-on tan.

Source: http://sports.yahoo.com/mma/blog/cagewriter/post/You-tell-us-The-best-fighter-in-2010?urn=mma-299729

Malia Jones Malin Akerman Mandy Moore Maria Bello Maria Menounos

Roller coaster of 'Truth': The ups and downs of Brandon Vera

Brandon Vera will face Thiago Silva in his 12th UFC fight on Saturday at UFC 125. Vera knows the ups and downs of the UFC like few other fighters.

Early Career Hill: After wrestling for Old Dominion University and the United States Air Force, Vera tried MMA and started his career with two quick wins. He then didn't fight again until the pre-Zuffa WEC heavyweight tournament. Vera won that with TKOs of Mike Whitehead and Fabiano Scherner.

Great Mountain of 2006: Vera started off his career in the Octagon in style. In 2006, he rattled off three straight first-round knockouts of Assuerio Silva, Justin Eilers, and the one that really made his name, Frank Mir.

Valley of the Heavyweights: The Mir win was supposed to give Vera a title shot, but a contract dispute kept him out of the Octagon for nearly a year. His return was wrecked by Tim Sylvia, who took a decision from him, and then Fabricio Werdum, who TKOed him in the first round.

Light Heavy Hill: After those losses, Vera realized that despite his height, he was not a heavyweight. His first fight at 205 pounds was decent: a decision over Reese Andy at Fight Night 14. 

Valley of the Mean Dean: Light heavyweight didn't stay so welcoming for Vera. Keith Jardine -- at the time, one of the hotter prospects in the UFC's 205-pound division -- took a split decision from Vera at UFC 89.

Back in the W Column Hill: Vera needed wins to keep his job, and he got them over Michael Patt, a TKO by leg kicks at UFC 96, and Krysztof Soszynszki, a decision at UFC 102.

Valley of the Main Event: Vera's last two fights have been main events and losses. First, he dropped a disputed decision to MMA legend Randy Couture at UFC 105. Next, he became part of the Jon Jones highlight reel, losing a TKO after Jones delivered a massive elbow that broke Vera's face in three places.

This leads him to the UFC 125 bout with Silva, a fight that will either right the course for Vera or give him his third loss in a row. Will we see a hill or a valley out of the Truth this weekend?

Source: http://sports.yahoo.com/mma/blog/cagewriter/post/Roller-coaster-of-Truth-The-ups-and-downs-of-?urn=mma-301495

Paul Taylor Chris Wilson Yoshiyuki Yoshida Ricardo Almeida Alan Belcher

Strikeforce champ Nick Diaz signs multi-year contract extension

Strikeforce welterweight champion and potential free agent Nick Diaz will not test the open market.

Strikeforce officials today announced that the popular and sometimes controversial Diaz has signed a new multi-year agreement with Strikeforce.

"I'm looking forward to continuing my career with Strikeforce," Diaz stated in today's release.


Source: http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/mmajunkie/~3/-NG_ZI1ZnI8/strikeforce-champ-nick-diaz-signs-multi-year-contract-extension.mma

Alexis Bledel Ali Campoverdi Ali Larter Alice Dodd Alicia Keys

Chuck Liddell retires

The big�announcement Dana White promised at today’s press conference in lieu of the UFC 125�hype�was the retirement of Chuck Liddell. As he ended his UFC fight career, he was given a new job. The Iceman was officially given the title of Executive VP of Business of Development. From the UFC press release: At today?s live [...]

Source: http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/Payout/~3/ETWen4H89M8/

Carla Gugino Carmen Electra Carol Grow Carrie Underwood Cat Power

A Clip with Australian Jye Kearney

We bet you didn't know Jye Kearney was the next big thing out of the southern hemi. Check and impressive first part from the 17 year old with a refreshing lack of park clips--nothing but powder and street rails for this kid...

Source: http://www.frqncy.com/news/2010/12/28/a-clip-with-australian-destroyer-jye-kearney

Monet Mazur Monica Bellucci Monica Keena Monica Potter Monika Kramlik

I found footie pajamas!!!

I’m just bummed I didn’t find them last week before my Pajama party!

Source: http://mstracylee.com/2010/12/i-found-footie-pajamas.html

Anna Paquin AnnaLynne McCord Anne Marie Kortright April Scott Arielle Kebbel

Poll results: Up next for GSP? Voters want Anderson Silva or Jake Shields

Following a recent win over Josh Koscheck at UFC 124, UFC welterweight champion Georges St-Pierre's future now appears uncertain.

UFC president Dana White and even Koscheck's own trainer admit St-Pierre pretty much has cleaned out the 170-pound division.

But in our latest MMAjunkie.com poll, voters picked a potential next opponent for GSP, and one welterweight and one middleweight were the clear favorites.


Source: http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/mmajunkie/~3/4XK-qtmxWe0/poll-results-up-next-for-gsp-voters-want-anderson-silva-or-jake-shields.mma

Brooke Burns Busy Philipps Cameron Diaz Cameron Richardson Camilla Belle

Blindsight (Video)

We have the full movie for you courtesy of �Hulu! Set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Himalayas, Blindsight follows the gripping true-life adventure blind Tibetan teenagers on a climbing expedition up formidable Mount Everest. Six blind teenagers climb the … Continue reading

Source: http://www.prana.com/blog/2010/12/26/blindsight-video/

Antonio Mendex Kazuhiro Nakamura Goran Reljic Mauricio Rua Eric Schafer

MMA Marketplace: What's this? MMA shirts with no skulls?

In lamenting Silver Star's Nazi shirt, we pointed out that the problem with many MMA shirts is that they are completely unoriginal. To avoid using the wrong skull, how about just not using any skulls at all?

Reader K.J. Gould shared with us an MMA clothing company which does just that. Check out the shirts made by Cage Hero.

These shirts are pretty amazing. The designs have a comic-book feel, and stick to their motto of "The Hero Comes From Within." The best part is that the hero doesn't cost all that much. Their shirts cost around $24, well under the price point of many MMA shirts that are covered in skulls. 

Source: http://sports.yahoo.com/mma/blog/cagewriter/post/MMA-Marketplace-What-s-this-MMA-shirts-with-no?urn=mma-301264

Avril Lavigne Bali Rodriguez Bar Refaeli Beyoncé Bianca Kajlich

MMAjunkie.com Radio: Xtreme Couture boxing coach Gil Martinez (in studio)

Mere hours after a loaded PRIMETIME return to the air, MMAjunkie.com Radio brings you another memorable episode as Xtreme Couture boxing coach Gil Martinez joins the crew in studio.

Martinez previews this week's UFC 125 event and breaks down what it will take for his student, Gray Maynard, to take the UFC lightweight title. Martinez also discusses other Xtreme Couture products, including UFC 126 headliner Vitor Belfort.

MMAjunkie.com Radio airs from 12-2 p.m. ET (9-11 a.m. PT) live from the Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino's Race & Sports Book. Listen to and watch a video stream of the two-hour show at www.mmajunkie.com/radio.


Source: http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/mmajunkie/~3/8MFwZMhamRE/mmajunkie-com-radio-xtreme-couture-boxing-coach-gil-martinez-in-studio.mma

Ashley Olsen Ashley Scott Ashley Tappin Ashley Tisdale Asia Argento

Wednesday, December 29, 2010

STRIKEFORCE NEWS: Nick Diaz vs. Evangelista "Cyborg" Santos on January 29 for Strikeforce Welterweight Championship

By: Jamie Penick, MMATorch Editor-in-Chief

LogoStrikeforce2010_105_45.png
Nick Diaz may not be fighting Jason "Mayhem" Miller on January 29, but he will be defending his Strikeforce Welterweight Championship.

According to a report from MMAFighting.com, Diaz has agreed to meet Evangelista "Cyborg" Santos for the title on the card from the HP Pavilion in San Jose, Calif.

It will be Diaz's second title defense since winning the belt in January of this year over DREAM Welterweight Champion Marius Zaromskis. He most recently defeated K.J. Noons in a five round decision in October.

Santos is getting a title shot in only his second fight at welterweight. The former middleweight and husband of Strikeforce Women's 145 lb. Champ Cristiane "Cyborg" Santos moved down in June, where he finished Zaromskis in the first round himself. His only other appearance in Strikeforce was a split decision loss to Joey Villasenor in a middleweight bout in June of 2009.

The January 29 event will air live on Showtime, and will also feature a Championship bout in the middleweight division between Robbie Lawler and Ronaldo "Jacare" Souza.

Link to Original Source Article

Penick's Analysis: It just goes to show the state of this division when Santos, who is only 1-1 in Strikeforce and 18-13 overall in his career, is getting a title shot after just one fight in the weight class. Still, Santos was very impressive in his bout against Zaromskis, and should provide a tough challenge for Diaz. Santos is a large welterweight who hits very hard, and it should make for an exciting fight. This card is stacked for Strikeforce, and it's going to be a big event for the fans in San Jose.

Source: http://www.mmatorch.com/artman2/publish/Affliction2/article_7918.shtml

Veronica Kay Veronika Vaeková Victoria Beckham Victoria Pratt Victoria Silvstedt

Reminder: Countdown to UFC 125 begins Dec. 29 on Spike TV

Go behind the scenes with UFC lightweight champion Frankie Edgar and challenger Gray Maynard as they prepare for their title fight at UFC 125 Resolution. Countdown to UFC 125 begins Wednesday, Dec. 29th on Spike TV at 11:30 pm ET. Reminder: Countdown to UFC 125 begins Dec. 29 on Spike TV is a post from: [...]

Reminder: Countdown to UFC 125 begins Dec. 29 on Spike TV is a post from: MMA Interplay UFC News

Source: http://www.mmainterplay.com/ufc-news/reminder-countdown-to-ufc-125-begins-dec-29-on-spike-tv-52771/

Kenny Florian Hermes Franca Manny Gamburyan Matt Grice Tyson Griffin

UFC 125 Press Conference Video

Filed under:

Dana White and several UFC fighters will speak at the UFC 125 press conference.UFC President Dana White, lightweight champion Frankie Edgar, No. 1 contender Gray Maynard and others will all meet the media on Wednesday for the UFC 125 press conference, and we'll stream the video here at MMAFighting.com.

The pre-fight press conference usually includes some pre-fight trash talk, although Edgar and Maynard have been awfully quiet on that front. The UFC may be counting on the talkative Leben to sell the pay-per-view.

The press conference begins at 4 PM ET and the video is below.

Source: http://www.mmafighting.com/2010/12/29/ufc-125-press-conference-video/

Christina Ricci Chyler Leigh Ciara Cindy Crawford Cindy Taylor

Five Ounces 2010 Year-End Awards: Oops, Oohs, and Arghs

The final week of 2010 has arrived, and though the year may not have delivered on the public?s long-standing dream of flying cars and laser-blasters it was certainly a period filled with memorable months from a Mixed Martial Arts viewpoint. We witnessed champions fall in dramatic fashion, rise from the ranks to become divisional kings, [...]

Source: http://fiveouncesofpain.com/2010/12/29/five-ounces-2010-year-end-awards-oops-oohs-and-arghs/

Esther Cañadas Eva Green Eva Longoria Eva Mendes Evangeline Lilly

Huge SD! Match For Next Week, NXT Video, Ventura Note

– Added to next week’s edition of WWE SmackDown! is Rey Mysterio vs. Alberto Del Rio in a 2 out of 3 falls match.
– Devin Cutting sent this along: Canadian cable channel OLN will be airing a marathon of Conspiracy Theory with Jesse Ventura from 11 AM (ET) on December 31st, 2010 to 3 AM (ET) on January 1st, 2011.
E Wrestling News

Source: http://www.ifight365.com/2010/12/huge-sd-match-for-next-week-nxt-video-ventura-note/

BJ Penn Alvin Robinson Sammy Schiavo Sean Sherk Dennis Siver

Discussing the Inevitable: Why Zuffa Should Merge the UFC and WEC

Source: http://www.watchkalibrun.com/2010/10/1/1723771/discussing-the-inevitable-why-zuffa-should-merge-the-ufc-and-wec

Michelle Obama Michelle Rodriguez Michelle Trachtenberg Mila Kunis Milla Jovovich

Scuba Diver Girls Mark Lionfish in the Virgin Islands

It was only our second day in the US Virgin Islands when we started hearing about the invasion of the Lionfish around the Islands…and by the end of the day…we would be part of the solution! Our day started out at the Frenchman’s Reef Marriott, our home away from home while on St. Thomas. We [...]

Source: http://scubadivergirls.com/blog/?p=7410

Shania Twain Shanna Moakler Shannon Elizabeth Shannyn Sossamon Shiri Appleby

UFC 130, May 29

UFC 130
Saturday May 28
TBA
Las Vegas, NV
Airing on PPV

MAIN CARD


* Thiago Alves (#6 Ranked Welterweight) vs. Rick Story

Source: http://www.mmatorch.com/artman2/publish/Upcoming_Events_42/article_7938.shtml

Forrest Griffin Andre Gusmao Matt Hamill Jeremy Horn James Irvin

When Sharks Attack...Why Sharks Attack

Source: http://www.getoutdoors.com/goblog/index.php?/archives/4014-When-Sharks-Attack...Why-Sharks-Attack.html

Elisabeth Röhm Elisha Cuthbert Eliza Dushku Emilie de Ravin Emma Heming

UFC NEWS: Randy Couture's lawyer and rep says retirement talk premature

By: Jamie Penick, MMATorch Editor-in-Chief

CoutureRandy_210_44.jpg
While Randy Couture's statement on Twitter Tuesday night, and a subsequent post on his Facebook page, make it appear that the 47-year-old UFC Hall of Famer is ready to hang up the gloves and walk away from MMA, his lawyer and representative Sam Spira has a different take on the situation.

Couture posted last night on Twitter, "I think I'm at the end of it y'all. It's time." He then followed up with a clearer message on Facebook:

"It's time to move on and focus on all the other amazing things going on in my life," he wrote.

However, Spira says the comments were a bit premature, and that Couture isn't quite done just yet.

"There's been no official announcement," Spira said in comments made to MMAJunkie.com. "There's been no decision. Any announcements or decisions would be likely coordinated with the UFC."

Couture's statements on the matter were clarified last night with reports that he'd be willing to come back for fights against Mauricio "Shogun" Rua or Lyoto Machida, but neither fight is likely anytime soon.

Link to Original Source Article

Penick's Analysis: Despite Spira's denial here, Couture certainly sounds like a guy that's ready to walk away at this point. He's got his movie career heating up, he's not getting any younger and it might just be time for him. Of course, he's come back from retirement before, so you can never rule out a return, but I think we've probably seen the last of Randy Couture in the Octagon.

[Randy Couture art by Cory Gould (c) MMATorch.com]

Source: http://www.mmatorch.com/artman2/publish/UFC_2/article_7851.shtml

Connie Nielsen Cristina Dumitru Daisy Fuentes Dania Ramirez Danica Patrick

Mongonex

The final DVS InNOventors commercial describes Mongonex, a product designed to help mongo pushers push properly.

Source: http://theskateboardmag.com/blogs/templeton-elliott/2010/12/28/mongonex/

Amanda Righetti Amanda Swisten Amber Arbucci Amber Brkich Amber Heard

UFC NEWS: Anthony Njokuani vs. Edson Barboza heading to UFC 128 in New Jersey

By: Jamie Penick, MMATorch Editor-in-Chief

LogoUFC_150_691.jpg
Seven fight WEC veteran Anthony Njokuani has drawn a very tough test for his UFC debut, as MMAJunkie.com reports that he will meet undefeated prospect Edson Barboza at UFC 128 in March.

Njokuani posted a 4-3 record in his seven fights in the UFC's sister organization, most recently finishing Edward Faaloloto by TKO in the second round at WEC 52 in November. All four of his wins in the WEC came by TKO.

Barboza made quite an impression in his UFC debut, destroying Mike Lullo's legs with kicks during their three round preliminary card bout at UFC 123. Barboza's leg kick assault had damaged Lullo badly by the end of the second round, and a few more kicks delivered in the third brought a stop to the fight. The 24-year-old ran his record to 7-0 with the win, with all seven of his victories coming by stoppage.

UFC 128 is set to air live on pay-per-view on March 19 from the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey.

Link to Original Source Article

Penick's Analysis: This is a good fight for this card. Barboza looked very impressive against Lullo, but Njokuani is a hard hitting veteran with some good performances under his belt. Barboza will likely be the rightful favorite, but it will be a tough test and far from an easy fight. It's a very good lightweight matchup and should be an excellent fight.

Source: http://www.mmatorch.com/artman2/publish/UFC_2/article_7956.shtml

Mike Swick Evan Tanner Houston Alexander Reese Andy Tim Boetsch

Tuesday, December 28, 2010

Dogma

is hilarious

Source: http://forums.ufc.production.sparkart.net/showthread.php?t=69736&goto=newpost

Rachel Blanchard Rachel Hunter Rachel McAdams Rachel Nichols Rachel Perry

Jesse's WEAKly Report 2.3

Burtner's report from Think Thank headquarters: "This WEAK was part dream part nightmare and I still don't know if I've woken up. A million problems and a jib ain't one. WA-BAH!"

Source: http://www.frqncy.com/news/2010/12/24/jesses-weakly-report-2.3

Rich Franklin Kendall Grove Dan Henderson Ed Herman Martin Kampmann

WEC 53 Results: Kamal Shalorus Beats Bart Palaszewski

by Michael David SmithKamal Shalorus used great wrestling and a dominant ground-and-pound display to dominate Bart Palaszewski in the first round of their fight at WEC 53, then slowed down but hung on well enough to win a split decision.

"I put all my strength into finishing him," Shalorus said of the way he slowed down after that great first round. "I will show you an exciting fight next time."

For Shalorus, the next time will be in the UFC. Palaszewski, however, may not be joining him there after the UFC absorbs the WEC.

 

Permalink | Email this | Linking Blogs | Comments

Source: http://www.mmafighting.com/2010/12/16/wec-53-results-kamal-shalorus-beats-bart-palaszewski/

Esther Cañadas Eva Green Eva Longoria Eva Mendes Evangeline Lilly

Shinya Aoki And Yuichiro Jienotsu Nagashima Interviews For Dynamite!! 2010

Shinya Aoki And Yuichiro “Jienotsu” Nagashima will fight each other in a MMA/K-1 mixed-rules bout.














DREAM “Dynamite!! 2010″
Date: Dec 31, 2010
Location: Saitama, Japan
Venue: Saitama Super Arena
Broadcast: HDNet (North America)
* Satoshi Ishii vs. Jerome Le Banner
* Sergei Kharitonov vs. Tatsuya Mizuno
[...]

Source: http://www.mmatko.com/shinya-aoki-and-yuichiro-jienotsu-nagashima-interviews-for-dynamite-2010/

Jon Fitch Akihiro Gono Jonathan Goulet Dan Hardy Dustin Hazelett

Exclusive pictures from UFC 124

Check out the exclusive pictures by Tracy Lee from UFC 124, including a determined GSP, an overjoyed Jim Miller and the punch that Joe Stevenson ran directly into. 

Source: http://sports.yahoo.com/mma/blog/cagewriter/post/Exclusive-pictures-from-UFC-124?urn=mma-295231

Radha Mitchell Raquel Alessi Rebecca Mader Rebecca Romijn Reese Witherspoon

STRIKEFORCE NEWS: Nick Diaz vs. Evangelista "Cyborg" Santos on January 29 for Strikeforce Welterweight Championship

By: Jamie Penick, MMATorch Editor-in-Chief

LogoStrikeforce2010_105_45.png
Nick Diaz may not be fighting Jason "Mayhem" Miller on January 29, but he will be defending his Strikeforce Welterweight Championship.

According to a report from MMAFighting.com, Diaz has agreed to meet Evangelista "Cyborg" Santos for the title on the card from the HP Pavilion in San Jose, Calif.

It will be Diaz's second title defense since winning the belt in January of this year over DREAM Welterweight Champion Marius Zaromskis. He most recently defeated K.J. Noons in a five round decision in October.

Santos is getting a title shot in only his second fight at welterweight. The former middleweight and husband of Strikeforce Women's 145 lb. Champ Cristiane "Cyborg" Santos moved down in June, where he finished Zaromskis in the first round himself. His only other appearance in Strikeforce was a split decision loss to Joey Villasenor in a middleweight bout in June of 2009.

The January 29 event will air live on Showtime, and will also feature a Championship bout in the middleweight division between Robbie Lawler and Ronaldo "Jacare" Souza.

Link to Original Source Article

Penick's Analysis: It just goes to show the state of this division when Santos, who is only 1-1 in Strikeforce and 18-13 overall in his career, is getting a title shot after just one fight in the weight class. Still, Santos was very impressive in his bout against Zaromskis, and should provide a tough challenge for Diaz. Santos is a large welterweight who hits very hard, and it should make for an exciting fight. This card is stacked for Strikeforce, and it's going to be a big event for the fans in San Jose.

Source: http://www.mmatorch.com/artman2/publish/Affliction2/article_7918.shtml

Drew McFedries Yushin Okami Rousimar Palhares Nate Quarry Johnny Rees

Inside MMA 449: Best of 2010

ShareThis

Source: http://www.ufcrundown.com/blog/inside-mma-449-best-of-2010/

Roan Carneiro Luke Cummo Marcus Davis Brodie Farber Luigi Fioravanti

Submission of the Year: Fabricio Werdum Taps Out Fedor Emelianenko

Filed under: ,

In a year with no shortage of brilliant submissions the No. 1 maneuver of the year isn't a a crazy flying one, it's Fabricio Werdum's triangle choke/armbar attack over Fedor Emelianenko.

And in doing so, Werdum accomplished a feat no other fighter has been able to in Fedor's decade in the business, and that is to definitively finish Fedor in a fight, essentially ending Fedor's aura of invincibility.

Source: http://www.mmafighting.com/2010/12/26/submission-of-the-year-fabricio-werdum-taps-out-fedor-emelianen/

Jamie Varner Matt Wiman Thaigo Alves Matt Arroyo David Bielkheden

JAPAN NEWS: Alistair Overeem vs. former UFC heavyweight Todd Duffee reportedly set for Dynamite!! 2010 on New Year's Eve

By: Jamie Penick, MMATorch Editor-in-Chief

hdnet_logo_4.jpg
Strikeforce Heavyweight Champion Alistair Overeem may finally have an opponent for the Dynamite!! 2010 event in Japan on New Year's Eve next week. According to a report from Ariel Helwani at MMAFighting.com, former UFC heavyweight Todd Duffee has agreed to face Overeem on short notice on the card.

Duffee had initially teased at the fight on his Facebook page, though shortly thereafter deleted the initial comment. However, Helwani reports that the fight now appears set.

Considering Duffee turned down a bout with Antonio "Bigfoot" Silva in Strikeforce earlier this month, the move comes as somewhat of a surprise. The 25-year-old was released from the UFC earlier this year following his first career loss, to Mike Russow at UFC 114 in May.

This will also be Overeem's first MMA fight since May, as he took a break from the sport to capture the K-1 World Grand Prix Championship earlier this month. His last MMA bout saw him defeat Brett Rogers at a Strikeforce event in St. Louis, a bout which was his first title defense for the organization since winning the belt in 2007.

The Dynamite!! 2010 New Year's Eve event will air live in North America on HDNet next week.

Link to Original Source Article

Penick's Analysis: Duffee's a much better name on short notice for this fight than Bobby Lashley. Duffee's in for an extremely tough fight, but he's got the power that, should he connect early, can absolutely shock and damage Overeem. Of course, this is a fight Overeem should win, especially on short notice, but Duffee's still a prospect that has potential. This is kind of a "no lose" situation for Duffee in trying to get a payday here. If he loses to Overeem, he's lost to someone that a lot of fans consider one of the best heavyweights in the world. If he wins it's one of the more shocking upsets in MMA. Either way, he gets paid, and is fighting a bigger name than Antonio Silva. It makes sense on Duffee's part. For Overeem, he definitely has much more to lose should the unthinkable happen, but this is a chance for him to get a win over a prospect taken more seriously than Lashley.

Source: http://www.mmatorch.com/artman2/publish/Other_News_4/article_7930.shtml

Lauren Conrad Lauren German LeAnn Rimes Leeann Tweeden Leelee Sobieski

Gray Maynard Video Blog For His UFC 125 Fight With Frankie Edgar

Gray Maynard Video Blog For His UFC 125 Resolution Fight With Frankie Edgar.





I thought this video had been slowed down for the effect until I heard other people speaking.




var s1 = new SWFObject("http://www.mmatko.com/player-viral.swf","JW","480","420","9");
s1.addParam("allowscriptaccess", "always");
s1.addParam("allowfullscreen","true");
s1.addParam("wmode","transparent");
s1.addParam("flashvars","file=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Rml7FekhZXI");
s1.addVariable("enablejs", "true");
s1.write("mediaspace");




Source: http://www.mmatko.com/gray-maynard-video-blog-for-his-ufc-125-fight-with-frankie-edgar/

Whitney Able Whitney Port Willa Ford Xenia Seeberg Yamila Diaz

My favorite fight of 2010: Edson Barboza vs. Mike Lullo

My top fight of the year will not show up on any top ten lists. It didn't show up on any of our "You Choose" polls, and since it aired after the main event of UFC 123, it's not even one that many MMA fans saw.

But the fight that stood out the most to me in 2010 was Edson Barboza's win over Mike Lullo, because it was the first time I saw my cousin fight in the Octagon. Though Mikey, errr, Lullo lost, I've never been so proud.

Mikey called me on Nov. 10 to share the good news. He was replacing the injured Darren Elkins at UFC 123, a card that, coincidentally, I was planning to cover in person. I was floored. After Mikey's last fight, a third-round submission of Tyler Combs, I thought that he was ready for the next level but had no idea that the next level would come so quickly.

I was nervous before weigh-ins, since I hadn't talked to Mikey yet that day. An interview with the UFC's Marc Ratner distracted me, but as soon as that was over, I couldn't calm down until I saw him on the scale. I was so anxious that I didn't even notice that internet sensation Antoine Dodson was sitting in front of me. When I finally heard Joe Rogan say the name "Mike Lulll-ooooo," I had tears in my eyes.

Mikey is my cousin on my mother's side, and Lullo is a family name we take pride in. There have been Lullos who served in wars and built businesses from the ground up. My grandfather (Mikey's great uncle) John Lullo Sr., was a prizefighter in the 1920s. Seeing the name Lullo on the screen above the UFC weigh-ins took my breath away.

Though my Cagewriter duties kept me busy, I was able to hang out with Mikey the night before the fights. We went to dinner and watched "Couples Retreat," a truly terrible movie, the night before the fight, and I watched a calmness come over my cousin. Usually, he's like a ball bouncing around a pinball machine, but he had finally relaxed. He was ready to fight.

He had the third fight in on the UFC 123 undercard, and I'll be honest. I had a hard time concentrating on the first two bouts: Tyson Griffin's questionable (to put it mildly) decision loss to Nik Lentz, and Paul Kelly's TKO of T.J. O'Brien. I just wanted to see Mikey.

As I was sitting on press row, I had to stay professional and abide by the rule of no partisan cheering. I could hear my relatives. A bus full of Mikey's friends and family had driven in from suburban Chicago that afternoon, and they were not quiet. As much as I wanted to join them in yelling "MIKEY!" I sat quietly in my seat. Dave Meltzer kindly agreed to write up the fight story so I could concentrate on watching my cousin fight.

Mikey started off strong, but I grew concerned when he couldn't get a takedown. He is a submission wiz, but even when he was in the right position to get a gogoplata, he couldn't finish. I became more concerned when Barboza started to use whipping kicks to batter Mikey's legs, shuddering every time I heard the loud smack from the kicks.

But he kept standing. I could tell he was in pain, and though the MMA journalist in me thought, "He needs to keep going and make a good impression," the protective cousin in me just wanted it to end. How much more could he take? 

After the end of the second round, I thought the fight was going to be stopped. Mikey was limping badly, but when the horn sounded, he returned to the center of the cage, ready for more. Barboza knocked his legs out from underneath him a few times, and finally, the fight was stopped. Mikey had lost his debut in the UFC, and had to be carried out by his cornermen. 

After the Fight

I had to shake that off. Karo Parisyan and Dennis Hallman would soon be walking out for their fight, and I had to file Meltzer's story about Mikey's loss. In retrospect, having work to focus on helped me to keep it together. 

There was an intermission a few fights later, and I accompanied a fellow reporter to Mikey's prep room. He greeted me with a huge smile, saying, "Hi cuz!" Though his knee was wrapped up and covered in ice and his face was bruised, he assured me that he was OK. 

I hugged him and said again and again how proud I was of him. Though I tried my damnedest to hold them in, my tears flowed. Staying professional didn't matter any more. My cousin had just taken a fight on 10 days notice, just a month removed from his last fight, and had showed he was as tough as nails. Pride wasn't a strong enough word to cover what I felt. 

After I saw him, I updated our family that he was doing OK, and returned to my job. Writing fight reports and briefs from the press conference was much easier after seeing Mikey smile and say, "I'm fine." The night went on. Phil Davis invented a new submission, B.J. Penn knocked out Matt Hughes, and Quinton "Rampage" Jackson won a close decision over Lyoto Machida.

When I finally finished my work, I had no interest in going to post-fight parties. I just wanted to see my family, so I headed to fight hotel. A large group of loved ones were gathered, and had plenty of questions for me. "Who won Fight of the Night? Why did Tyson Griffin lose? When is the UFC coming to Chicago?" I answered them best that I could, and heard from Mikey that there was no structural damage on his knee. Phew.

Scanning the restaurant, I noticed that Barboza and his family and friends were sitting just a table away. I smiled. Mikey noticed where I was looking and said, "Oh yeah! We talked. We took a picture together. Nice guy."

Call me sentimental, but Barboza and Lullo gave me my favorite fight of the year. If you ever are lucky enough to see a beloved family member get in the Octagon, it will be your favorite, too. 

Source: http://sports.yahoo.com/mma/blog/cagewriter/post/My-favorite-fight-of-2010-Edson-Barboza-vs-Mik?urn=mma-299500

Ana Paula Lemes Ananda Lewis Angela Marcello Angelina Jolie Anna Faris

Barcelona: A Place For Everyone

Playboard has all 40 minutes of the new Euro video, Barcelona: A Place For Everyone.

Source: http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/MostlySkateboarding/~3/iXaQ-lrig4Q/barcelona-place-for-everyone.html

Joanne Montanez Jodi Lyn OKeefe Jolene Blalock Jordana Brewster Josie Maran

Monday, December 27, 2010

Tyra McCart-Swanson Interview

After a year of around-the-world travel, Tyra McCart-Swanson returned to California and found a home at the O.A.R.S. headquarters in Angels Camp. She's worked here for over five years now, and currently resides as the adventure consultant for Utah & Wyoming. Her favorite snack is chips & salsa, and she listens to a solid amount [...]

Source: http://whitewaterraftingblog.oars.com/post/tyra-mccart-swanson-interview

Avril Lavigne Bali Rodriguez Bar Refaeli Beyoncé Bianca Kajlich

Bouldering Burbage photos

Finally a little sun! Yesterday I went climbing in Burbage (specifically Burbage south boulders) in the Peak District near Sheffield. I’m really glad I’ve got these boulders within 15 minutes of my home.
Although in a climbing wall / gym I’m happy on 6a/6b the techniques on grit boulders are a different world: lots of smearing [...]

Source: http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rock-climbing-blog/~3/PHWoVUBXWM8/philsheard

AnnaLynne McCord Anne Marie Kortright April Scott Arielle Kebbel Ashanti

The Backcountry Hikers? Frontcountry Dilemma: Tent Camping vs. RVing

Does this describe you? (1) You hike frequently, so you spend a lot of time driving to trailheads, many of which are remote, some of which are accessible only via unpaved roads. You ask more of your vehicle than do most people. You either own a vehicle with high clearance and perhaps 4WD, or you [...]

Source: http://www.hikingcamping.com/blog/2010/11/the-nomads%e2%80%99-dilemma-tent-camping-vs-rving/

Bonnie Jill Laflin Bridget Moynahan Britney Spears Brittany Daniel Brittany Lee

Dustin Hazelett cut by UFC after latest loss

The proverbial adage ?three strikes and you?re out? rang true this week for Dustin Hazelett, as it appears he has been released by the UFC after dropping a third consecutive fight in the Octagon. Hazelett was submitted by fellow BJJ blackbelt Mark Bocek a little less than two weeks ago at the promotion?s latest venture [...]

Source: http://fiveouncesofpain.com/2010/12/22/dustin-hazelett-cut-by-ufc-after-latest-loss/

Rousimar Palhares Nate Quarry Johnny Rees Matt Riddle Jorge Rivera

UFC 127 Ties UFC 115 For Sellout Record

<B>By MATT MOLGAARD<BR>
MMANEWS.COM Staff Writer</B><BR><BR>

UFC officials have announced that the promotions return to Australia for UFC 127 has sold out in just 30 minutes. The lightning fast ticket sales matched the record set by UFC 115, which took place in Canada on June 12th. The event was headlined by a light heavyweight clash between former champions Rich Franklin and Chuck Liddell.<BR><BR>

UFC 127 will be held at the Acer Arena in Sydney, and is headlined by a welterweight clash between perennial contender Jon Fitch and former champion B.J. Penn. Both men have come up short in clashes with welterweight champion Georges St. Pierre; a win for either man could line up another shot at the 170 pound title.<BR><BR>

Also on tap for UFC 127 are bouts pitting Michael Bisping versus Jorge Rivera, George Sotiropoulos versus Dennis Siver and Carlos Condit versus Chris Lytle.<BR><BR>

Source: http://www.mmanews.com/home.php

Selita Ebanks Shakara Ledard Shakira Shana Hiatt Shania Twain

You tell us: The best fighter in 2010

The days of dominant, nearly unbeatable champs may be gone. Or are they? Georges St. Pierre and Anderson Silva continued their rolls but Brock Lesnar, Urijah Faber, Lyoto Machida and B.J. Penn all tumbled down the ladder. The most shocking fall from dominance came when Fedor Emelianenko lost for the first time in 10 years against Fabricio Werdum.

The changing landscape in many weight classes allowed some new names to emerge for Fighter of the Year honors. Who was the best of the best in 2010? You tell us. Winners will be announced on Dec. 30. 

Cain Velasquez (Heavyweight) -- From his early days in the UFC, Velasquez, 28, was touted as the future of the division. Some doubt arose when several 265-pound behemoths began to smash through the division while Velasquez had some trouble finishing his opponents. Velasquez re-established himself as a huge prospect when he buried Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira in February. Before UFC 121, he was dwarfed by Lesnar's persona outside the Octagon and even more so during the staredown at the weigh-ins. After three minutes of knocking heads, Lesnar was literally running for cover. Velasquez's mix of stamina, boxing, takedown defense and wrestling strength will make him tough to knock off. The kid is also a perfectionist. 

Jose Aldo (Featherweight) -- The Brazilian is the youngest guy on this list, but he may have the most potential to tear through 2011 in more dominant fashion than he did so this year. Aldo's striking, especially his kicks are scary. He left Faber's legs looking looking diseased after giving him the boot for 25 minutes. Aldo followed that up by toying with Manny Gamburyan. He may be the kind of champ who can dominate  multiple weight classes.

Alistair Overeem (Heavyweight) -- He may not be the best fighter outside the Zuffa family, but he's the guy who's generating the most excitement. The Dutch striker is massive, which constantly raises questions about how he's put on so much mass. There's no questions about what he's done in the cage and ring. Brett Rogers was a handful for Fedor. For Overeem, he was a horse-meat sandwich. That was Overeem's only MMA win in 2010, but he added to his resume by entering the strange world of K-1 and emerging as the winner of the heavyweight grand prix. He beat out a field with tons of veteran experience and opened up potentially massive revenue streams in Japan. His legend also made for the best MMA song of 2010.

Georges St. Pierre (Welterweight) -- You know you're good when fans and media rip you for not winning the right way. GSP continued his dominance by adding two more victories to his eight-fight win streak. He broke Josh Koscheck's face and nearly ripped off Dan Hardy's limbs. He didn't lose a round in two five-round fights. He also embarrassed Koscheck as a coach on "The Ultimate Fighter" and showed non-MMA fans that you can be a gentleman outside the cage and coldblooded inside.

Frank Edgar (Lightweight) -- Edgar compiled an 11-1 record before 2010 and all anyone could ask the kid was when he was going to drop down to 145 pounds. Few gave him a shot against B.J. Penn, who looked like he was ready for a two or three run as the man at 155. Edgar was the perfect matchup for Penn. His boxing was solid enough to avoid Penn's big shots and his constant movement threw the Hawaiian off his game. Edgar shocked Penn at UFC 112 and did it again in even more convincing fashion at UFC 118. He also proved not everyone from the Jersey Shore is a chemically enhanced animal with an orange spray-on tan.

Source: http://sports.yahoo.com/mma/blog/cagewriter/post/You-tell-us-The-best-fighter-in-2010?urn=mma-299729

Mía Maestro Michael Michele Michelle Behennah Michelle Branch Michelle Malkin