UFC blog for latest news, videos, results, betting odds, fighter interviews and MMA rumors - UFCmania.com

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• Bellator 34 results and recap for 'Lombard vs Shlemenko' on Oct. 28 in Hollywood
• 22-1. The streak is over as Zoila Frausto upsets Megumi Fujii via split decision at Bellator 34 on...
• WEC-ya: Reed Harris 'really happy' about UFC merger
• Binge and Merge: Is Urijah Faber one step closer to his dream of becoming a UFC champion? (Video)
• Gabriel Gonzaga released by the UFC
• It's a package deal! WEC cage girl Brittney Palmer will also be absorbed in the UFC/WEC merger...
• Ben Henderson has a 'Smooth' message for the 'other' UFC lightweights ...
• Strikeforce: Are you 'Down with Diaz?' (Video)
• Vitor Belfort: 'Wanderlei Silva has a big mouth'
• Strikeforce: Mike Kyle vs Roger Gracie postponed until January 2011
• UFC Quick Quote: Chris Lytle wants Carlos Condit
• UFCs big announcement: WEC to merge into UFC by January of 2011
• Dana White announcement reveals WEC will merge completely into UFC (Video)
• Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid embraces UFC endorsement from Dana White; top MMA fighters
• Strikeforce results and LIVE fight coverage for 'Henderson vs Babalu' on Dec. 4 in St. Louis
• Shane Carwin's surgery to repair his injured back has been set for Nov. 2, 2010. A return date has...
• Jason 'Mayhem' Miller talks new season of Bully Beatdown, Nick Diaz, Brock Lesnar and more (Video)
• Jon Fitch: Moving up to middleweight would be 'like a two-year process'

Bellator 34 results and recap for 'Lombard vs Shlemenko' on Oct. 28 in Hollywood Posted: 28 Oct 2010 07:51 PM PDT Bellator Fighting Championships held event number 34 tonight (Oct. 28) at the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino in Hollywood, FL. With the explosive hands of Hector Lombard and the sweeping submissions of Megumi Fujii, it was expected the night would be a veritable highlight reel. Instead, the judges were called on to decide all three televised fights. In the main event, Lombard was defending his 185-pound championship against season three middleweight tournament winner Alexander Shlemenko. "Shango" was a ball of fire from the opening bell but slowed down considerably once "Storm" proved to be a tough out. His takedowns controlled the fight throughout and angered the crowd considerably. Shlemenko tried to make it exciting, throwing plenty of spinning back fists and kicks. Had he landed one, what ended up being a rather pedestrian affair could have been a classic. Alas, it was not to be. Lombard extends his winning streak to 21 and called out Ronaldo "Jacare" Souza in the post fight interview. He may want to be careful what he wishes for. The other championship fight of the evening was highly anticipated and featured what many are calling a monumental upset. Season three women's junior flyweight tournament winner Zoila Frausto battled her way to a split decision victory over undefeated wrecking machine Megumi Fujii. The victory earned the "Warrior Princess" the first ever Bellator Women's 115-pound title.  Fujii commented before the fight that she was scared of Frausto's physical strength. It was painfully clear from the beginning the size disparity would play a rather large part in the bout. "Mega Megu" was reluctant to use her considerable grappling skills and paid a mighty price for it. Frausto felt she was the underdog and couldn't help but get emotional when asked about her victory. Tears fell freely although they were exclusive to her right eye, as her left eye was swollen shut. "I earned this," she said of her split decision win.  In the opener, Mike Bernhard was able to counter punch his way past Dragan Tesanovic to a unanimous decision. He said he didn't like being the guy to welcome the Russian to the U.S.A. and he would show him Americans do it better. For the purposes of this fight, he was right. It may not have been a night of barn burning action as many were anticipating, but it was entertaining nonetheless. Here are the Bellator 34 complete results: Main Card: Hector Lombard def. Alexander Shlemenko via unanimous decision (49-46, 49-46, 49-46) Zoila Frausto def. Megumi Fujii via split decision (48-47, 47-48, 49-46) Mike Bernhard def. Dragan Tesanovic via unanimous decision (30-27, 29-28, 29-28) Preliminary Card: Frank Carrillo def. Moyses Gabin via unanimous decision (30-27, 30-27, 30-27) Dan Cramer def. Igor Almeida via TKO (doctor stoppage) - Round 1, 2:36 Raphael Davis def. Tony Lopez via unanimous decision (30-27, 30-27, 30-27) J.P. Reese def. Bomnay Somchay via TKO (punches) - Round 1, 3:32

22-1. The streak is over as Zoila Frausto upsets Megumi Fujii via split decision at Bellator 34 on... Posted: 28 Oct 2010 06:33 PM PDT 22-1. The streak is over as Zoila Frausto upsets Megumi Fujii via split decision at Bellator 34 on Oct. 28 in Hollywood.

WEC-ya: Reed Harris 'really happy' about UFC merger Posted: 28 Oct 2010 04:56 PM PDT Props: MMA Weekly Quoteworthy: "It’s kind of like when you’re kid goes off to college, at first you’re not happy, but after you think about it for a while, you’re really happy. At the end of the day, I never imagined this thing would be where we’re at today. I’m extremely proud and happy that I was involved with something that will now be part of what may be, some day, the largest sports organization in the world. .... My goal wasn’t even to make money at this thing. I was a martial artist and I wanted to bring that honor that martial arts has into the sport. To be honest, today, I’m really proud of what we did, man. And Dana’s proud of what we did. We were so successful that the UFC had no other option than to bring these guys in and put them in their show. The UFC is obviously by miles the largest MMA organization in the world. The WEC built these divisions to a point where they are now going to be featured on the largest stage in MMA. Dana and Lorenzo and Frank are obviously extremely happy about what we were doing. This was a huge success." Current, but soon to be former, WEC General Manager and founder Reed Harris speaks lovingly about his promotion hitting the big time. Harris started the organization back in June of 2001 and with the recent announcement of a merger with it's parent company, the UFC, will also close it's doors after it's final event, WEC 53: "Henderson vs Pettis." Harris initially sold the WEC to Zuffa in 2006 but remained the face of the organization and is largely responsible for it's tremendous growth over the years. Although the WEC has folded into the UFC, he will still get the chance to see his fighters continue their careers as he will be given an undisclosed position with the UFC once the merger is complete.

Binge and Merge: Is Urijah Faber one step closer to his dream of becoming a UFC champion? (Video) Posted: 28 Oct 2010 01:27 PM PDT

Gabriel Gonzaga released by the UFC Posted: 28 Oct 2010 12:47 PM PDT Former number one heavyweight contender, Gabriel Gonzaga, has been released from his UFC contract after being defeated for the third time in his last four bouts, a unanimous decision loss to Brendan Schaub at UFC 121: "Lesnar vs. Velasquez" on Oct. 23 in Anaheim, California. "Napao" passed along the unfortunate news via his official twitter page. Gonzaga made his Octagon debut at UFC 56 back in November 2005 when he knocked out Kevin Jordan. The Brazilian went on to win two more fights before viciously knocking out Mirko "Cro Cop" Filipovic with a head kick, one that earned him a shot at then UFC heavyweight champion Randy Couture at UFC 74. The title match-up didn't go Gonzaga's way The BJJ black belt was not able to answer Couture's onslaught of attacks and the fight was finished in the third round. It was the first and only title shot "Napao" would receive. Gonzaga would return to action at UFC 80, only to be stopped again, this time getting finished by Fabricio Werdum when he couldn't answer "Vai Cavalo's" punches. Wins over Justin McCully and Josh Hendricks were much needed for Gonzaga, but he would once again find himself on the losing end when Shane Carwin knocked him senseless with one punch at UFC 96.  Many wondered if "Napao" would go back to his BJJ roots after three disappointing losses, but fans soon found out that Gonzaga was still devoted to his stand-up. With a KO loss to Junior dos Santos and a unanimous decision loss to "The Hybrid," Gonzaga finds himself looking for work. One has to think Gonzaga won't be out of a job for long. The question is, who will pick him up? Strikeforce? Bellator? Does he even want to compete? What do you think about the UFC's latest roster cut?

It's a package deal! WEC cage girl Brittney Palmer will also be absorbed in the UFC/WEC merger... Posted: 28 Oct 2010 12:38 PM PDT It's a package deal! WEC cage girl Brittney Palmer will also be absorbed in the UFC/WEC merger reports Fighters Only (via Bloody Elbow).

Ben Henderson has a 'Smooth' message for the 'other' UFC lightweights ... Posted: 28 Oct 2010 12:01 PM PDT He ... is ... coming ... according to his latest Facebook update: Just heard about the merger, I was out running and when I got home had a hundred missed calls and a thousand texts...I'm excited that's really cool but I have a dance on Dec.16th to get ready for first, that's the only thing I care about right now...BUT all of you other '55ers out there consider this your official notice, I'M COMING, it was always a matter of when but now we know and it's a lock, train hard... Where do you rank the WEC Lightweight Champion in the UFC's 155-pound division now that the promotions are merging? Does he make your top five? Top ten? "Smooth" will face the winner of Frankie Edgar vs. Gray Maynard to unify the WEC and UFC lightweight titles -- if he can get past Anthony Pettis at WEC 53 on Dec. 16.

Strikeforce: Are you 'Down with Diaz?' (Video) Posted: 28 Oct 2010 12:01 PM PDT Nick works the nunchucks at the 0:22 mark.

Vitor Belfort: 'Wanderlei Silva has a big mouth' Posted: 28 Oct 2010 11:28 AM PDT Props: Tatame.com Quoteworthy: Anderson is very versatile so you can’t have one settled game plan. The important thing is to be prepared for anything because he’s a great fighter. You can get there thinking things will go one way, but it can suddenly change. I know he’s the best in the world, but I can get intimidated by it. I don’t think anything (about Wanderlei Silva's comments), he’s a spectator and he can think whatever he wants to. If you have a mouth, you can say whatever you want and Wanderlei has a big mouth. But it’s about cheering, everyone can cheer for their favorite, and the important is to be respectful and know how to choose the right words. In February I’ll have my chance for the belt and let’s see how it’ll be. Is there a Brazilian beef brewing between Vitor Belfort and Wanderlei Silva? Apparently "The Phenom" doesn't like "The Axe Murderers" comments that he'll be "freaked out" by "The Spider" at UFC 126 on February 5. Will the Silva double-team rattle Belfort mentally on fight night? Or is he destined to do what no other UFC middleweight has done when he fights for the title over the Superbowl weekend?

Strikeforce: Mike Kyle vs Roger Gracie postponed until January 2011 Posted: 28 Oct 2010 11:19 AM PDT Looks like these two light heavyweight combatants will have to wait until 2011 to get back into the cage. Multiple time BJJ champion Roger Gracie and current King of the Cage champion Mike Kyle were scheduled to meet at Strikeforce: "Henderson vs Babalu" on Dec. 4 in St. Louis, Missouri, but apparently those plans have changed. The two light heavyweight contenders will still meet, but not until Jan. 29. Gracie weighs in on the postponement (via Graciemag): "Now I'll need to bring down the load in training. I was close to peaking, and now this happens. According to them, the fight will still be against Kyle, but I don't know the reason for the postponement. What can you do? Christmas and New Year's are done for me. Great present." Not much is known about a Strikeforce card in January other than a possible bout featuring Fedor Emelianenko. Gracie will come into this contest with a record of 3-0. His most recent bout was in May when he defeated Kevin Randleman with a rear naked choke in his Strikeforce debut. Kyle enters the contest at 17-7-1. "MAK's" most recent match-up was against "Abongo" Humphrey last July. Kyle finished the fight with a rear naked choke, and Strikeforce commentator Mauro Ranallo went as far as calling for a title shot for the 30-year-old light heavyweight. Could the winner be knocking on Rafael Cavalcante's door in the very near future? Or will they have to get through "King" Mo first? Stay tuned.

UFC Quick Quote: Chris Lytle wants Carlos Condit Posted: 28 Oct 2010 10:25 AM PDT "Even before he fought, I said basically I want to fight a top contender and a good, exciting fighter. I wanted to fight the winner of the Condit-[Dan] Hardy fight. After seeing Carlos knock Hardy out, it made me want it even more. He's looking really good right now, beating good people and he's a really exciting fighter. That's what I'm looking for." Chris Lytle is interested in facing former WEC welterweight champion Carlos Condit (via MMA Fighting). "Lights Out" is on a four fight winning streak. Most recently, Lytle defeated Matt Serra by unanimous decision at UFC 119, picking him apart in the standup. Condit is coming off a devastating knockout victory over former number one contender Dan Hardy in the first round at UFC 120. What do you think? Will "Lights Out" and the "Natural Born Killer" lock horns in the near future?

UFCs big announcement: WEC to merge into UFC by January of 2011 Posted: 28 Oct 2010 09:51 AM PDT Looks like Dana White's three-year plan for World Extreme Cagefghting (WEC) has been cut short by about two-and-a-half years. That's because Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) will finish what it started back in 2008, as the promotion today officially announced a company merger that will see the dissolution of the WEC with the last fight taking place in December of this year. But the WEC's loss will be the UFC's gain. The world's largest fight promotion will increase its number of weight divisions by two, adding the bantamweight (135-pounds) and featherweight (145-pounds) classes as well as doubling the roster of its already stacked lightweight (155-pound) division. Jose Aldo will now be recognized as the UFC Featherweight Champion and make his first title defense of the newly branded championship at UFC 125: "Resolution" on Jan. 1, 2011. The winner of the Dominick Cruz vs. Scott Jorgensen fight at WEC 53 will officially be recognized as the UFC Bantamweight Champion while the winner of Benson Henderson vs Anthony Pettis on Dec. 16 will face the winner of Frankie Edgar vs. Gray Maynard to unify the WEC and UFC lightweight titles. Get ready for some truly stacked events in Zuffa's 2011 fight campaign. The WEC first began downsizing a little more than a year ago, following a Sept. 2008 announcement that it would no longer support light heavyweight (205-pound), middleweight (185-pound) and welterweight (170-pound) divisions, instead focusing on lighter weight classes. In fact, WEC 37: "Torres vs. Tapia" on Dec. 3, 2008, was the last event to feature the heavier divisions -- nearly two years to the date of their final event, WEC 53: "Henderson vs. Pettis" on Dec. 16, 2010. The move enabled the promotion to showcase more lighter fighters more often on its cards and build more stars. Under the old format, several talented up-and-comers either didn't fight frequently enough or were buried on the non-televised portion of the cards. While this sudden influx of talent could cause many of the same problems early in the merger, the UFC's global expansion and increased televisions schedule will likely remedy that problem sooner rather than later. And perhaps the days of stretching out a pay-per-view fight card or scrambling to fill last-minute injury gaps may be reduced to a minimum. Like the first wave of ex-WEC fighters, including Chael Sonnen, Carlos Condit and Mark Munoz, a dozen or so fantasy match-ups that just a few months ago seemed impossible may finally come to fruition. Can Ben Henderson be just as "smooth" in the UFC? Who would win in a scrap between "Cowboy" Cerrone and Kenny Florian? Will Jose Aldo finally test the waters at 155? Let's not forget that more events with more fighters also translates into increased exposure and sponsorship opportunities, especially on a pay-per-view fight card. It's going to be an exciting 2011. Let's hear your take -- the good and the bad -- on today's big announcement.

Dana White announcement reveals WEC will merge completely into UFC (Video) Posted: 28 Oct 2010 09:41 AM PDT RIP World Extreme Cagefighting (WEC) | June 30, 2001 - December 16, 2010 (Last event is WEC 53)

Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid embraces UFC endorsement from Dana White; top MMA fighters Posted: 28 Oct 2010 07:33 AM PDT Don't call it a cockfight -- they've been here for years. Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC), once a political buzzword used to rally support from the terrified masses, has now become a powerful ally in Senator Harry Reid's 2010 campaign. What a difference a few years (and a few key demographics) can make. From the Senate Majority Leader (via Politico.com): "These, to me, are a fair street fight, and I've been around a few of those in my day. They have 31 different rules. That's a fair street fight. Of course people get hurt, but you get hurt playing basketball or football or baseball. I've just enjoyed this so much, and it's so good for Nevada." Showing their love, aside from UFC President Dana White, were former heavyweight champions Randy Couture, Frank Mir as well as former light heavyweight champion and MMA megastar Chuck Liddell. Even boxing's top draw, Manny Pacquiao, is getting in on the action. Whether or not the backing of combat sports will have a definitive impact at the polls, if nothing else, it's sure to have the liberals shaking in their boots. Or as Harry Reid alluded to, number 29 in the 31 different rules: "Timidity, including, without limitation, avoiding contact with an opponent."

Strikeforce results and LIVE fight coverage for 'Henderson vs Babalu' on Dec. 4 in St. Louis Posted: 28 Oct 2010 06:55 AM PDT Strikeforce is close to putting the finishing touches on its upcoming Showtime-televised fight card on Saturday, December 4, 2010, from the Scottrade Center in St. Louis, Missouri. "Henderson vs. Babalu" will feature a light heavyweight rematch between longtime veterans of the sport, Dan Henderson and Renato Sobral. "Hendo" defeated "Babalu" via majority decision under the RINGS banner way back in 1999. Also strapping on the gloves will be former NFL great and MMA sophomore Herschel Walker against an opponent to be named while welterweight sluggers Paul "Semtex" Daley and Scott Smith hook 'em up in "Hands of Steel's" 170-pound debut. In addition, newly-signed heavyweight Valentijn "The Python" Overeem will throw hands with heavyweight contender Antonio "Bigfoot" Silva. Here is the current Strikeforce: "Henderson vs. Babalu" line up: Main event: 205 lbs.: Dan Henderson vs. Renato Sobral Main card (Televised): 205 lbs.: Herschel Walker vs. TBA 185 lbs.: Robbie Lawler vs. Matt Lindland 265 lbs.: Valentijn Overeem vs. Antonio Silva 170 lbs.: Scott Smith vs. Paul Daley Under card (May not be broadcast): 170 lbs.: Jesse Finney vs. TBA MMAmania.com will provide LIVE blow-by-blow, round-by-round coverage of Strikeforce: "Henderson vs. Babalu," beginning with the Showtime telecast at 10 p.m. ET on Dec. 4. In addition, we will deliver up-to-the-minute quick results of all the under card action much earlier on fight night. We're still a couple of weeks away from showtime; therefore, feel free to share your thoughts and predictions for "Henderson vs. Babalu" in the comments section below. And remember that MMAmania.com will be the spot for the latest news and event-related highlights before, during and after the event. For the latest Strikeforce news and notes click here.

Shane Carwin's surgery to repair his injured back has been set for Nov. 2, 2010. A return date has... Posted: 28 Oct 2010 06:27 AM PDT Shane Carwin's surgery to repair his injured back has been set for Nov. 2, 2010. A return date has not been determined, according to MMA Fighting. For more on Carwin's sudden withdrawal from his UFC 125 fight against Roy Nelson click here.

Jason 'Mayhem' Miller talks new season of Bully Beatdown, Nick Diaz, Brock Lesnar and more (Video) Posted: 28 Oct 2010 06:22 AM PDT Will Miller and Diaz ever throw down? Or is one of these homies too scared?

Jon Fitch: Moving up to middleweight would be 'like a two-year process' Posted: 27 Oct 2010 05:36 PM PDT Props MMA Weekly: Quoteworthy: "It would be like a two year process for me to move up a weight class because I have unfinished business at 170. The thing is I would move up if Josh would win the title and defend it. So he’d have to hold on to it for a while. You’re talking about almost a year right there, with a win and defense. In that time I could fight GSP non-title, I could fight Jake Shields, I could fight Martin Kampmann, I could fight Carlos Condit. All those guys could be fought already, and after that there’s not much left to do in front of me. Then that would be the optimum time I would be looking for other challenges if I want to move up a weight class. If there’s no one else for me to compete with at 170 other than Koscheck, I’m going to move up." Former welterweight number one contender Jon Fitch makes it known that he still has no plans to fight his friend and training partner, Josh Koscheck. In fact, he believes that even if "Kos" defeats Georges St. Pierre for the title at UFC 124, there would still be a few fights left for him in the 170-pound division. Since making his way into the UFC in 2005, Fitch has racked up an impressive 13 wins with just one loss, all but one of which was contested at welterweight. Is the fact that there are a few fights left for him enough reason to stay in the division? Or should he move up a weight class and try his luck with the middleweights of the promotion sooner rather than later?

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UFC blog for latest news, videos, results, betting odds, fighter interviews and MMA rumors - UFCmania.com

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• The Ultimate Fighter (TUF) 12: Episode 7 recap and discussion
• Bellator 34 weigh in results for event in Hollywood, Fla., on Oct. 28
• 'Shogun' Rua: I can't worry about Jon Jones or Ryan Bader while Rashad Evans is standing in front of me
• "Olympic judo gold medalist Satoshi Ishii will take on New Zealand’s Antz Nansen in a mixed martial...
• UFC Quick Quote: Roy Nelson welcomes the challenge of Mirko Cro Cop
• Patrick 'The Predator' Cote released by the UFC
• Wanderlei Silva talks with Rafael Cordeiro about getting Chute Boxe back together.
• Alan Belcher gunning for 2011 return; can 'probably do contact by January'
• Hi hater: Todd Duffee doesn't understand why you would hate Brock Lesnar
• Bellator CEO Bjorn Rebney: 'I think Eddie Alvarez is the best 155-pounder in the world' (Video)
• Jake Shields 'embarrassed' by UFC 121 performance -- but still thinks he can beat Georges St. Pierre
• UFC results and LIVE fight coverage for The Ultimate Fighter (TUF) 12 Finale on Dec. 4 in Las Vegas
• UFC 123: Quinton 'Rithmetic' Jackson doesn't like MMA math (Video)
• UFC welterweight Jake Ellenberger (23-5) calls out "Fake" Shields. "...It's only a matter of time....
• UFC 121: 'Lesnar vs Velasquez' prelims broadcast draws 1.5 million viewers on Spike TV
• UFC Quick Quote: Efrain Escudero says his Zuffa release 'doesn't make sense'

The Ultimate Fighter (TUF) 12: Episode 7 recap and discussion Posted: 27 Oct 2010 06:34 PM PDT The Ultimate Fighter (TUF) Season 12, featuring welterweight coaches (and division rivals) Josh Koscheck and Georges St. Pierre, is back for Episode 7 and Sevak looks devastated after losing last week's fight. Not that it matters, but the teams gather for the formal fight announcement, which pits Dane Sayers and Sako Chivitchian. No one giving Sayers much of a chance in this one. Back at the house, talk surrounds the pending wild card pick. Unfortunately for Spencer Paige it won't be him as he's wrapped up in a cast after surgery. Jefferey Lentz is praying to the TUF gods that it will be him and he chews tabacky in between whiskey shots to help appease them. Team St. Pierre starts training and the drunken master is shouting at "Red Horse" to help him prepare for his upcoming fight. They end with a hug and Sayers takes the Cain Velasquez approach to selling his fight, hoping to honor his heritage with an upset win. Coach St. Pierre's strategy: Don't make this a technical fight on the ground. Commercial break gives us a sneak peek of "Rock Band 3" but wisely leaves out any cut-scenes of Tawny Kitaen on the hood of a Jaguar -- though I have to imagine a 49-year Kitaen writhing on the hood of a 2010 luxury car would definitely get people talking. In the training center, Koscheck "accidentally" chest bumps Brad Tate, identified as "medic" to the audience and "male nurse" to Kos, who starts playing up the angle until Tate becomes visibly agitated. I guess Koscheck can't break "Rush" so he starts to slowly deconstruct the hired help instead. Sako gives us his background, which is no doubt impressive, and hopes that his amateur accomplishments can translate into mixed martial arts success. He figures if he can survive being shot by gang-bangers, the Octagon should be a breeze. We shall see. Koscheck says that MMA will teach you discipline and respect -- two minutes after he's done clowning Nurse Tate. Coaches challenge! It's a homerun derby and St. Pierre looks about as comfortable as a Kleenex at a snot party. They have three innings to go yard and the pot is ten grand to the coach and $1,500 for each contestant. Koscheck is worried about bat rust, or something like that. St. Pierre wields his bat like he's playing whack-a-mole but manages to scrape together 10 points. Unfortunately it's 24 less than Koscheck, who tore the cover off the ball in his last couple at bats. Kos promises to duplicate that performance when they fight on Dec. 11, which I found humorous because he may indeed need that bat. Elimination fight #7: Dane Sayers (7-1) vs. Sako Chivitchian (5-0) Round 1: Sako shoots and gets guillotined. They drop to the floor. He powers out and is in great position having Sayers pressed against the cage. "Red Horse" gets to his feet. After some epic hugging he escapes and they break away. Leg kick misses for Sako. Dane punches at air. Lots of Soda Popinski-type footwork. Sako charges and Sayers wraps him up. They go to the cage but seem unhappy there so they hug their way to the other side of the cage. This is like an 80's wrestling match when Ken Patera would apply a body lock to catch his breath. They finally separate and Sako finds his range. That makes Sayers shoot but he can't hold the takedown or his mouthpiece. They hug out the final ten seconds of the round. Round 2: Sako Judos a charging Sayers but can't hold him so he does it again and this time has him grounded. Sayers has a guard that you could drive a Zamboni through and since Sako doesn't attempt to pass he uses the opening to escape and get back to his feet. They immediately hug and go to the cage. Sayers to the back of the head a few times just for laughs. Sayers almost has a takedown but Sako goes fencing for the second time in the fight to stay off his butt. There is so much hugging in this fight I feel like it's a support group for underachieving fighters. They ride out the clock in a sweaty embrace. Truly awful. Mercifully the judges have reached a decision. It goes to Sako -- but not by much I can say with confidence. This was supposed to be a squash match. Was Sayers heart (and hugs) enough to get him in as a wildcard? Nope. It goes to Aaron Wilkinson and Marc Stevens, who will slug it out next week to see who gets another chance at TUF stardom. Outside of Wilkinson and Stevens, no one looks happy about the decision. Stay tuned next week for the wild card elimination fight while Koscheck gets physical with Nurse Tate. See you in seven!

Bellator 34 weigh in results for event in Hollywood, Fla., on Oct. 28 Posted: 27 Oct 2010 04:52 PM PDT Hollywood, FL. (October 27, 2010) — On the eve of Bellator Fighting Championships’ return to Hollywood, the fighters competing in tomorrow’s event participated in an official weigh-in earlier this afternoon. Participants included all 18 competitors in Thursday’s event, including Bellator Middleweight Champion Hector Lombard, Russian knockout artist Alexander "Storm" Shlemenko, #1 ranked pound-for-pound female fighter in the world Megumi "Mega Megu" Fujii and explosive striker Zoila "The Warrior Princess" Frausto. The official results of the weigh-in are as follows: MAIN CARD: Hector Lombard (183.25 lbs.) vs. Alexander Shlemenko (184.75 lbs.) @ 185 lbs. Megumi Fujii (113.5 lbs.) vs. Zoila Frausto (114.5 lbs.) @ 115 lbs. Mike Bernhard (185.75 lbs.) vs. Dragan Tesanovic (185.5 lbs.) @ 185 lbs.  Tony Lopez (204.5 lbs.) vs. Raphael Davis (205.25 lbs.) @ 205 lbs. UNDERCARD: William Kuhn (170 lbs.) vs. John Kelly ( 172.2 lbs.) @ 170 lbs. Ralph Acosta (135 lbs.) vs. Tulio Quintanila (135.5 lbs.) @ 135 lbs. Frank Carrillo (184.1 lbs.) vs. Moyses Gabin (184.25 lbs.) @ 185 lbs. Igor Almeida (184.5 lbs.) vs. Dan Cramer (185.5 lbs.) @ 185 lbs. Boumny Somchay (161 lbs.) vs. J.P. Reese (159.25 lbs.) @ 160 lbs. Bellator 34 will be broadcast live in prime time nationwide on Thursday on FOX Sports Net and during special Bellator highlight shows this Saturday night on NBC, and mun2.

'Shogun' Rua: I can't worry about Jon Jones or Ryan Bader while Rashad Evans is standing in front of me Posted: 27 Oct 2010 02:12 PM PDT Props: Tatame.com Quoteworthy: "Rashad is a great fighter, has a good boxing and Wrestling. On my weight class there're only tough guys, so it'll be like any other... I really don't know if it'll be him and I don't know the date, but I believe it'll be against him ... This is one of the most disputed divisions, since Pride, years ago... And it's good to have all these guys here, but I can't keep thinking about the second and the third guys on the line... I'll have a tough fight with Rashad and it'd be disrespectful to think about Jon Jones, Ryan Bader when I'll fight Rashad ... I'll give my best and I'll be focused for my next fight, not on the second and third to go." Mauricio 'Shogun' Rua is paying no mind to the challenges ahead of him should he successfully defend his UFC light heavyweight title against Rashad Evans. While Jon Jones and Ryan Bader do pose a threat to anybody in the UFC's 205-pound division, 'Shogun' believes there is enough on his plate already. Rua took full advantage of his rematch with then champion Lyoto Machida. 'Shogun' knocked out 'The Dragon' in the first round of their title fight at UFC 113 to capture the light heavyweight championship. Evans earned a shot at the belt he once owned when he defeated Quinton Jackson by unanimous decision at UFC 114. Let's hear some early predictions. Who walks away from this bout with gold around his waist? 'Suga' or 'Shogun?'

"Olympic judo gold medalist Satoshi Ishii will take on New Zealand’s Antz Nansen in a mixed martial... Posted: 27 Oct 2010 02:00 PM PDT "Olympic judo gold medalist Satoshi Ishii will take on New Zealand's Antz Nansen in a mixed martial arts matchup at K-1 World Max 2010 on Nov. 8 at Ryogoku Kokugikan in Tokyo." Props: Sherdog.com

UFC Quick Quote: Roy Nelson welcomes the challenge of Mirko Cro Cop Posted: 27 Oct 2010 12:15 PM PDT “I wonder if Lorenzo [Fertitta] is going to call Cro Cop to see if he wants to fight, he is [a] legend and has done some great things, would love the challenge, but as everybody knows I just like to fight the best and the challenges that it brings.” Roy Nelson was scheduled to meet Shane Carwin at UFC 125, but Carwin pulled out with neck and back injuries. One fighter who doesn't seem to mind facing "Big Country" is Mirko 'Cro Cop' Filipovic. The Croatian recently said, he doesn't mind being Carwin's replacement at UFC 125. Apparently, The Ultimate Fighter season 10 winner doesn't mind hooking up with the Pride 2006 Grand Prix winner either (via Fighters Only). If this fight does indeed go down, who do you have? Nelson or Cro Cop?

Patrick 'The Predator' Cote released by the UFC Posted: 27 Oct 2010 12:06 PM PDT Former number one middleweight contender, Patrick Cote, has been released from the UFC following his unanimous decision loss to Tom Lawlor at UFC 121 on Oct. 23 in Anaheim, California. "The Predator" dropped the unfortunate news via his official Twitter account earlier today. Cote made his first appearance inside the cage after nearly 20 months on the sidelines to tangle with Alan Belcher at UFC 113 from the Bell Centre in Montreal, Quebec, Canada, back on May 1. It did not end well. The Canadian was submitted by "The Talent" after a controversial piledriver left him stiffer than a frozen mukluk. It was Cote's first bout since shredding his knee while inside the Octagon opposite reigning division champion Anderson Silva at UFC 90 way back in October 2008. The "Spider" bout resulted in a technical knockout loss for the eight-year veteran, which he feels may have gone his way if the freak accident never happened. Cote underwent major ACL knee surgery following his loss to Silva and then again in late summer 2009 to repair a damaged MCL (in the same knee). The 185-pound class continued to see an influx of talented competitors in his absence, making his road back to the summit a long and difficult one. His loss to Lawlor marked his third straight inside the Octagon and the UFC had decided they'd seen enough. The good news is there are still plenty of options for him to compete in promotions outside of Las Vegas and with his name recognition, don't be surprised to see him back in the cage sooner rather than later. Strikeforce? MFC? Bellator? Let's hear your take on this latest release.

Wanderlei Silva talks with Rafael Cordeiro about getting Chute Boxe back together. Posted: 27 Oct 2010 11:50 AM PDT Wanderlei Silva talks with Rafael Cordeiro about getting Chute Boxe back together.

Alan Belcher gunning for 2011 return; can 'probably do contact by January' Posted: 27 Oct 2010 11:25 AM PDT "The Talent" is coming back. Alan Belcher told MMA Weekly his struggles with vision problems and when he plans to make his return to the UFC: "At first it looked promising. I had the first surgery, but when it detached a second time that's when it was real scary. It was like how many times are we going to have to go through this? I kind of had to do it all over again. It was kind of open, they weren't really sure. It was just taking it one day at a time. They thought I would get a lot of vision back and I might probably be able to fight again if I wanted to take the risk, but they weren't really sure. Now we're at where we're at now, it seems everything is healing good this time. The doctors said I can start exercising and I can probably be back doing contact as early as January." Belcher is looking to make his return to the Octagon after undergoing eye surgery twice for a detached retina. Belcher was on a roll in the UFC, winning four of his last five bouts. His most recent loss came by a controversial split decision to Yoshihiro Akiyama at UFC 100. Belcher disposed of Wilson Gouveia in the very first round of their bout at UFC 107 in December of last year. "The Talent" last stepped inside the Octagon in May of this year when he submitted Patrick Cote by rear naked choke. After having his title aspirations put on hold, Belcher looks to return to his goal of becoming the UFC middleweight champion.

Hi hater: Todd Duffee doesn't understand why you would hate Brock Lesnar Posted: 27 Oct 2010 10:26 AM PDT From the Underground (via Bloody Elbow): "I do not understand why people think if he loses his next fight he will walk away?  I am not a fan nor do I hate the guy I think he has been very beneficial for the sport of mma and has earned his place with in the sport.  It just bothers me that people tear this guy down so much when he clearly is dedicated and has the tools to be great.  I honestly was rooting for cain(underdog shake up the division sounded fun) but the hate that brock has received is mind boggling and sickening. Can't we just be happy he went out an bared his soul in front of the whole world after committing his entire life to that moment against cain for four months prior.  I don't get it any more the dude deserves everyones respect whether you like him or not." Todd Duffee, a heavyweight prospect who was released from the UFC last month, speaks on the outcry amongst fans and media alike against Brock Lesnar after his first round drubbing at the hands of Cain Velasquez at UFC 121. Brock entered the fight with an aura of invincibility that Velasquez quickly stripped away with a barrage of punches that the big man could not withstand. After the loss, certain members of the media speculated as to whether or not Lesnar would decide to take his loss and go home. Duffee, despite Lesnar's track record, thinks the media needs to back off. Should we do just that or should we all be one big happy family as Todd wants us to be?

Bellator CEO Bjorn Rebney: 'I think Eddie Alvarez is the best 155-pounder in the world' (Video) Posted: 27 Oct 2010 10:26 AM PDT Will Strikeforce be willing to risk Gilbert Melendez to prove him wrong?

Jake Shields 'embarrassed' by UFC 121 performance -- but still thinks he can beat Georges St. Pierre Posted: 27 Oct 2010 09:44 AM PDT Props: MMA Weekly Quoteworthy: "It was horrible. After the first round I sat down and I was just completely exhausted. I was like ‘oh (expletive) ten minutes to go.’ I knew at that point I was just going to have to dig deep and keep fighting. I knew it was too important not to lose my UFC debut. I’m a little embarrassed by the whole situation, but all I can do from here is move forward and learn from my mistakes, and usually when you make a big mistake you end up getting a loss off that. I guess I made a big mistake and I was still able to get the ‘W.’ If I was fighting GSP that night I don’t think I would have won, to be honest. I just don’t see myself beating GSP being the way I felt that night, but I also don’t feel that’s me. I feel like I can go out there and beat him still." Former Strikeforce Middleweight Champion Jake Shields limps across the finish line after his Octagon debut at UFC 121 last Saturday night (Oct. 23) in Anaheim. The grappling guru was sucking wind after one round of fisticuffs against Martin Kampmann, but held on to squeak past "The Hitman" with a split decision win. Did Shields suffer from the debut blues? Or is he now a little fish in a big pond? Promotion President Dana White insists he's next up for the winner of "St. Pierre vs. Koscheck," but will Shields be ready? And can he redeem himself for his performance in Orange County?

UFC results and LIVE fight coverage for The Ultimate Fighter (TUF) 12 Finale on Dec. 4 in Las Vegas Posted: 27 Oct 2010 07:57 AM PDT Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) is close to putting the finishing touches on its upcoming Spike TV fight card from the "Pearl" at the Palms Casino Resort in Las Vegas, Nevada, on Saturday, Dec. 4, 2010. The Ultimate Fighter (TUF) 12 Finale will feature a showdown between the top two finalists from the Spike TV reality show, as well as a light heavyweight war featuring "The American Psycho" Stephan Bonnar taking on Croatian crusher Igor Pokrajac. Grappling gurus Kendall "Da Spyder" Grove and Demian Maia are also expected to do battle as well as gritty welterweight bangers Ricky "Horror" Story and Johny Hendricks. Here is the current TUF 12 Finale line up: Main event: 155 lbs.: Finalist No. 1 vs. Finalist No. 2 Main card (Televised): 205 lbs.: Stephan Bonnar vs. Igor Pokrajac 185 lbs.: Kendall Grove vs. Demian Maia 170 lbs.: Ricky Story vs Johny Hendricks Under card (May not be broadcast): TBA* *Fight not officially announced by the UFC MMAmania.com will provide LIVE blow-by-blow, round-by-round coverage of TUF 12 Finale, beginning with the Spike TV telecast at 9 p.m. ET on Dec. 4. In addition, we will deliver up-to-the-minute quick results of all the under card action much earlier on fight night. We're still a couple of weeks away from showtime; therefore, feel free to share your thoughts and predictions for "Bonnar vs. Pokrajac" in the comments section below. And remember that MMAmania.com will be the spot for the latest news and event-related highlights before, during and after the event. For the latest TUF 12 Finale news and notes click here.

UFC 123: Quinton 'Rithmetic' Jackson doesn't like MMA math (Video) Posted: 27 Oct 2010 07:25 AM PDT

UFC welterweight Jake Ellenberger (23-5) calls out "Fake" Shields. "...It's only a matter of time.... Posted: 27 Oct 2010 07:02 AM PDT UFC welterweight Jake Ellenberger (23-5) calls out "Fake" Shields. "...It's only a matter of time. Fake Shields is a fraud. Excuse me, Miss Piggy is a fraud." Props: Cagewriter

UFC 121: 'Lesnar vs Velasquez' prelims broadcast draws 1.5 million viewers on Spike TV Posted: 27 Oct 2010 06:59 AM PDT Spike TV's "UFC Prelims" special for UFC 121: "Lesnar vs Velasquez" on Oct. 23 drew 1.5 million viewers, the second straight increase in broadcast ratings since drawing a series-low 1.1 million for UFC 118 back in August. The two-fight broadcast from the Honda Center in Anaheim, California, featured Court McGee choking out fellow middleweight Ryan Jensen while the "Filthy" one, Tom Lawlor, out-pointed the venerable Patrick "The Predator" Cote. "UFC Prelims" pulled a 1.03 household rating including a 1.42 rating among men 18-49 and a 1.42 among men 18-34. Check out the full list of "UFC Prelims" telecast ratings (courtesy of MMA Weekly) after the jump. - UFC 103: 1.4 million viewers - UFC 104: 1.4 million viewers - UFC 106: 1.3 million viewers - UFC 108: 1.5 million viewers - UFC 109: 1.7 million viewers - UFC 111: 1.2 million viewers - UFC 114: 1.6 million viewers - UFC 115: 1.5 million viewers - UFC 116: 1.3 million viewers - UFC 118: 1.1 million viewers - UFC 119: 1.3 million viewers - UFC 121: 1.5 million viewers For complete UFC 121 results and blow-by-blow coverage of the main card action click here and here.

UFC Quick Quote: Efrain Escudero says his Zuffa release 'doesn't make sense' Posted: 26 Oct 2010 11:12 PM PDT "It was that Monday after my fight and I came back home from my parent’s and stuff, and first of all I was disappointed in my performance in the fight. I was kind of like sleeping, I had other things in my head instead of worrying about fighting. I’ll give it to (Charles) Oliveira, he capitalized on that little mistake and he came to fight, but I don’t know where I was at. Joe Silva was just like ‘we’re releasing you’ and at first I was like ‘whoa’, I didn’t know what to say, I was speechless. They know what they’re doing and for me it was weird because I don’t have consecutive losses. Yes, I lost to (Evan) Dunham, but Dunham’s one of the top guys right now, and I also lost to Oliveira, which are the only two losses in my whole career. Still to this day, it doesn’t make sense." Winner of the "Ultimate Fighter" season 8, Efrain Escudero, talks to MMAWeekly.com about his abrupt release from the world's premier MMA promotion after losing to Charles Oliveira at UFC Fight Night 22: "Marquardt vs Palhares". Coming out of his impressive run on the popular reality show, Escudero was thought to be one of the hottest young prospects in the UFC. However, he failed to impress in his five fights with the organization, posting an underwhelming 3-2 record. After coming into the Oliveira fight four pounds overweight (the second time he came in heavy in his UFC career), company President Dana White didn't think Escudero was driven enough to remain employed. He will have to work his way back into the UFC and that starts with a November 19 fight against an unnamed opponent in former WEC featherweight Chance Farrar's Desert Rage promotion. Is he good enough to turn things around and make his way back into White's good graces?

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• American Kickboxing Academy, one of the best MMA gyms 'on Earth' (Video)
• Jason 'Mayhem' Miller explains backstage skirmish with Nick Diaz, still wants to fight him
• UFC 121 medical suspensions and injuries for 'Lesnar vs Velasquez' on Oct. 23 in Anaheim
• UFC 121 fighter salaries and paydays for 'Lesnar vs Velasquez'
• Dana White: Jose Aldo needs to decide what he 'wants to do' moving forward
• UFC Quick Quote: Josh Koscheck plans to knockout Georges St. Pierre, piss off 22,000 Canadians
• UFC President Dana White, aside from being one of AskMen.com's top 49 most influential men of 2010,...
• Chad Mendes: 'I don't want to be one of those boring fighters'
• Dana White confirms to Comcast Sportsnet's Fight Fix (via MMA Weekly) that Jon Jones will meet Ryan...
• WEC 52: Damacio Page vs Demetrious Johnson on tap for Nov. 11 in Las Vegas, Nevada
• Ben Askren: I know I can 'punch harder'
• Mirko 'Cro Cop' has a message for the UFC when they start shopping for Roy Nelson's next opponent:
• UFC 122: Winner of Nate Marquardt vs Yushin Okami 'guaranteed' 2011 middleweight title shot
• Anthony "T.J." Waldburger withdraws from his UFC 124 preliminary-card fight against Matt Riddle due...
• Back injury forces Shane Carwin to withdraw from UFC 125 fight with Roy Nelson
• Programming alert: 'Countdown to UFC 123' debuts Nov. 15 on Spike TV
• UFC Heavyweight Champion Cain Velasquez appears on 'George Lopez Tonight' (Video)
• UFC 124 results and LIVE fight coverage for 'St. Pierre vs Koscheck II' on Dec. 11 in Montreal

American Kickboxing Academy, one of the best MMA gyms 'on Earth' (Video) Posted: 26 Oct 2010 07:50 PM PDT Cain Velasquez? Check. Josh Koscheck? Pending. Jon Fitch? Maybe. Any coincidence that they all train in the same place? Which gym is better right now?

Jason 'Mayhem' Miller explains backstage skirmish with Nick Diaz, still wants to fight him Posted: 26 Oct 2010 05:12 PM PDT Jason Miller and Nick Diaz have had beef ever since Strikeforce: "Nashville," when "Mayhem" jumped in the cage to call out then champion Jake Shields and ended up getting jumped by the boys from the 209. He has been calling for a fight with Diaz ever since. Those calls went largely unanswered, but the San Jose-based promotion may face more pressure to set up the fight after yet another confrontation, this time backstage after Strikeforce: "Diaz vs Noons II" earlier this month. Plenty of stories came out regarding what went down that night. Now we can hear it straight from the horse's mouth courtesy of MMAFighting.com. Here's a snip: "I had just finished doing interviews in the back room, and I was walking the same way that he was coming down, and I was actually going to be like, 'Hey, good job, Nick.' But he's coming towards me and he starts mad-dogging me! I was like, really? You're really going to mad-dog me right now? You just fought for 25 minutes! Before I knew it, he had a water bottle hidden down by his side and he threw it at me. I moved out of the way and it hit [training partner] Ryan Parsons in the stomach. I was like, 'Man Ryan, he doesn't like you.' Then we got into some kind of juvenile 'F--- you' match. I was like, 'F--- you bro, you're not even going to do anything.... Actually, as he was walking off or being ushered off, I was like, 'Hey, it's cool, just stay at 170.' Since that's his whole thing is, he won't fight me because he's at 170 [pounds]. Even though he'll fight KJ [Noons], who's not at 170. That's cool for KJ to have to come up, but he won't fight me even though he's talking all this sh-t on me for like five years now, and jumped me on national television." He also goes on to say that the only one holding up a fight between the two is Diaz himself. Mayhem is coming off an arm-triangle submission victory over MMA legend Kazushi Sakuraba and has now won two in a row since his decision loss to Shields. Diaz, meanwhile, has strung together eight consecutive wins of his own and is the current Strikeforce welterweight champion. Will Strikeforce President and CEO Scott Coker finally figure out a way to put together this fight? Or will we continue to have to listen to Miller tell Diaz, "Don't be scared, homie?"

UFC 121 medical suspensions and injuries for 'Lesnar vs Velasquez' on Oct. 23 in Anaheim Posted: 26 Oct 2010 04:00 PM PDT The California State Athletic Commission (CSAC) today issued its list of medical suspensions for UFC 121: "Lesnar vs. Velasquez," which took place on Saturday, Oct. 23, 2010, from the Honda Center in Anaheim, California. With several of the bouts ending early (and violently), there were quite a few fighters who were flagged follow up visits with their doctors, including former UFC Heavyweight Champion Brock Lesnar, who could be riding the bench for up to six months unless cleared by an ophthalmologist. Newly crowned 265-pound kingpin Cain Velasquez escaped unharmed. Also getting a mandatory vacation was UFC newcomer Jake Shields, who joins Lesnar on the 180-day list after suffering bleeding in the eye and blurred vision in his welterweight win over Martin Kampmann. But that's not all. Here is the complete list of UFC 121 injuries and their medical instructions: Brock Lesnar: Suspended 45 days, 30 days no contact for knockout. 60 days for left cheek laceration, and possibly 180 days unless cleared by ophthalmologist. Jake Shields: Suspended 180 days with no contact for 180 days unless cleared by an ophthalmologist for bleeding in eye and blurred vision. Diego Sanchez: Suspended 180 days with no contact for 180 days until cleared by physician for possible right wrist fracture. Paulo Thiago: Suspended for 60 days with no contact for 60 days unless cleared by physician for laceration. Tito Ortiz: Suspended 45 days with no contact for 30 days for a hard bout. Brendan Schaub: Suspended 45 days with no contact for 30 days for a hard bout. Gabriel Gonzaga: Suspended 45 days with no contact for 30 days for a hard bout. Court McGee: Suspended 45 days with no contact for 30 days for a hard bout. Suspended 180 days or until cleared by physician for possible right hand fracture. Ryan Jensen: Suspended for 45 days with no contact for 30 days for a hard bout. Patrick Cote: Suspended 180 days with no contact for 180 days unless cleared by an ophthalmologic exam for his retina. Chris Camozzi: Suspended 60 days with no contact for 60 days until cleared by physician for left brow lacerations. Dongi Yang: Suspended 45 days with no contact for 30 days for a hard bout. Gilbert Yvel: Suspended 45 days with no contact for 30 days. Just a quick reminder: Fighters often return to action much quicker once doctors give them the green light. The lengthy suspensions are just a precaution in most cases. For complete UFC 121 results and blow-by-blow coverage of the main card action click here and here.

UFC 121 fighter salaries and paydays for 'Lesnar vs Velasquez' Posted: 26 Oct 2010 03:49 PM PDT The official fighter purses for those who competed at UFC 121: "Lesnar vs. Velasquez" this past Saturday night (Oct. 23) from the Honda Center in Anaheim, Calif., were released earlier today by the California State Athletic Commission (CSAC). Main event participants, former UFC Heavyweight Champion Brock Lesnar ($400,000) and newly crowned division champion Cain Velasquez ($200,000), accounted for nearly half of the $1.5 million disclosed payroll. Former UFC Light Heavyweight Champion Tito Ortiz came in second to Lesnar, earning $250,000 in defeat to former Ultimate Fighter (TUF) student Matt Hamill ($58,000). Also hitting the six-figure mark was Diego Sanchez, who banked $100,000 for toppling Brazilian supercop Paulo Thiago ($18,000). Here is the complete list of UFC 121 payouts: Cain Velasquez: $200,000 (includes $100,000 win bonus) Brock Lesnar: $400,000 Cain Velasquez defeated Brock Lesnar via TKO (Strikes) Round 1 Jake Shields: $150,000 ($75,000 win bonus) Martin Kampmann: $27,000 Jake Shields defeated Martin Kampmann via Split Decision Diego Sanchez: $100,000 ($50,000 win bonus) Paulo Thiago: $18,000 Diego Sanchez defeated Paulo Thiago via Unanimous Decision Matt Hamill: $58,000 ($29,000 win bonus) Tito Ortiz: $250,000 Matt Hamill defeated Tito Ortiz via Unanimous Decision Brendan Schaub: $20,000 ($10,000 win bonus) Gabriel Gonzaga: $67,000 Brendan Schaub defeated Gabriel Gonzaga via Unanimous Decision Court McGee: $30,000 ($15,000 win bonus) Ryan Jensen: $10,000 Court McGee defeated Ryan Jensen via submission (arm-triangle choke) Round 3 Tom Lawlor: $20,000 ($10,000 win bonus) Patrick Cote: $21,000 Tom Lawlor defeated Patrick Cote via unanimous decision Daniel Roberts: $16,000 ($8,000 win bonus) Mike Guymon: $8,000 Daniel Roberts defeated Mike Guymon via Submission (Anaconda Choke) Round 1 Sam Stout: $32,000 ($16,000 win bonus) Paul Taylor: $16,000 Sam Stout defeated Paul Taylor via Split Decision Chris Camozzi: $16,000 ($8,000 win bonus) Dongi Yang: $8,000 Chris Camozzi defeated Dongi Yang via Split Decision Jon Madsen: $16,000 ($8,000 win bonus) Gilbert Yvel: $30,000 Jon Madsen defeated Gilbert Yvel via TKO (Strikes) Round 1 Keep in mind the salaries listed above do not include fight bonuses, sponsorships, percentages and other unofficial payments. It also does not include deductions for expenses such as insurance, taxes, etc. For example, the UFC often hands out extra cash for "Fight of the Night," "Knockout of the Night" and "Submission of the Night." To check out these figures for UFC 121 go here. The total base fighter payroll for the blockbuster pay-per-view (PPV) event, which attracted an official crowd of 14,856 attendees and a boku gate of $2.2 million, was $1.513 million. For complete UFC 121 results and blow-by-blow coverage of the main card action click here and here.

Dana White: Jose Aldo needs to decide what he 'wants to do' moving forward Posted: 26 Oct 2010 03:34 PM PDT Props: Fight Fix (via Tatame.com) Quoteworthy: "Here’s the thing, Jose Aldo’s been talking about moving up to 155lbs. Well, we had a slot and said, 'alright, you want to move up to 155 pounds and fight Kenny Florian?' and he said, 'uh, never mind.' It depends on what this kid wants to do. If he wants to stay in the WEC and defend that title, that’s cool, but they were talking at one point about moving to [155] so we talked to him and said, ‘how would you like to move to the UFC’s ’55-pound division and take on Kenny, and they turned it down" UFC President Dana White confirms that he did indeed ask WEC Featherweight Champion Jose Aldo to fight two-time 155-pound number one contender Kenny Florian inside the Octagon in December, which his camp decided to turn down in favor of a fight against Mark Hominick or Josh Grispi in January. Florian is now scheduled to battle Evan Dunham at UFC 126. The Brazilian has essentially cleaned out the 145-pound division with flare and impunity. But is White's decision to move him along so fast -- not even moving him up to the WEC 155-pound division -- signal a possible transition of the better fighters of the sister promotion being folded into the UFC roster sooner than we expect? Or is Aldo simply so talented that he's the exception to the rule -- he needs to be on pay-per-view (PPV)? Let's hear your thoughts, Maniacs.

UFC Quick Quote: Josh Koscheck plans to knockout Georges St. Pierre, piss off 22,000 Canadians Posted: 26 Oct 2010 03:19 PM PDT "I think the first time me and Georges faced off, I think mentally I was all ‘this guy is a karate guy.’  I didn’t believe he could possibly take me down. I didn’t think that was an option. Throughout my camp my mental game was work on my stand-up, work on my stand-up, because this guy isn’t going to be able to take me down, one of the things about Georges St-Pierre is he’s a fast learner. There’s definitely a lot more to it than wrestling. And that’s something I’ve learned over the past couple of years is it’s just not wrestling, I gotta become a complete fighter. I think I’ve become a better fighter than the first time Georges fought me. I’m coming here well prepared. I’m gonna be ready to come in here and put on a good show and come out with a victory. My goal coming into this fight is definitely to knock Georges out. They’re gonna be yelling for Georges and my goal is to piss 22,000 people off and come out of here with a nice new shiny belt and hop on a plane and get home as quickly as I can." -- Number one welterweight contender Josh Koscheck tells MMAWeekly.com about his getaway plan after he finishes 170-pound champion Georges St. Pierre in front of his hometown crowd at UFC 124 in Montreal, Quebec, Canada, on Dec. 11. Not too long ago Matt Serra had a similar strategy at UFC 83, telling the hostile crowd at the weigh in, "If you're pissed right now, wait until Saturday night." Serra ended up eating those words after getting punished by "Rush" en route to a technical knockout loss. What are the odds that "Kos" can back up his trash talk on fight night and actually pull off a championship robbery in front of 22,000 distraught fans -- good, better than good or downright bad? Either way, something tells me the Mounties should crack out the riot gear just in case that prediction is accurate.

UFC President Dana White, aside from being one of AskMen.com's top 49 most influential men of 2010,... Posted: 26 Oct 2010 01:01 PM PDT UFC President Dana White, aside from being one of AskMen.com's top 49 most influential men of 2010, will make a "major announcement" this Thursday (Oct. 28) according to a recent UFC press release.

Chad Mendes: 'I don't want to be one of those boring fighters' Posted: 26 Oct 2010 12:22 PM PDT Props: Pro MMA Radio Quoteworthy: (In regards to his last fight) "My ground and pound wasn't up to par. I felt like in the past I've done better with it and I was too content in the fight just holding him. I don't want to be one of those boring fighters and I feel like I was in that fight." Despite going 8-0 in his MMA career and finishing four of his fights, Chad Mendes feels he has room for improvement. The WEC featherweight prospect won his last bout against Cub Swanson by unanimous decision, but he's not satisfied with his performance. "Money" meets Javier Vazquez at WEC 52 on Nov. 11 in Las Vegas, Nevada. Does Chad Mendes have the ability to finish Vazquez?

Dana White confirms to Comcast Sportsnet's Fight Fix (via MMA Weekly) that Jon Jones will meet Ryan... Posted: 26 Oct 2010 11:51 AM PDT Dana White confirms to Comcast Sportsnet's Fight Fix (via MMA Weekly) that Jon Jones will meet Ryan Bader at UFC 126.

WEC 52: Damacio Page vs Demetrious Johnson on tap for Nov. 11 in Las Vegas, Nevada Posted: 26 Oct 2010 11:39 AM PDT A bantamweight bout is brewing between two top contenders at WEC 52 on Nov. 11 in Las Vegas, Nevada. Those contenders are Damacio Page and Demetrious Johnson, who will replace the injured Eddie Wineland. Sources confirmed to MMA Weekly that the two combatants have verbally agreed to the bout. Page comes into the contest with a record of 12-4. "The Angel of Death" has made an impact in the WEC going 3-1 with wins over current number one contender Scott Jorgensen, Marcos Galvao and Will Campuzano. Page's lone WEC loss came at the hands of former bantamweight champion Brian Bowles. With a few more wins, Page could be on his way to a title shot. "Mighty Mouse" stands in his way. Johnson was undefeated prior to making his WEC debut against Brad Pickett. In that bout, he displayed his standup ability, but was neutralized by Pickett's takedowns. The loss didn't keep "Mighty Mouse" down for long. Johnson recovered from the loss with a unanimous decision victory over previously unbeaten competitor Nick Pace.  In the main event of WEC 52, former WEC featherweight champion Urijah Faber makes his bantamweight debut against top contender Takeya Mizugaki. Also on the card, top featherweight prospect Josh Grispi looks to be one step closer to a title shot when he meets Erik Koch. Joseph Benavidez looks to rebound after losing a title bout to champion Dominick Cruz as he battles Wagnney Fabiano. Chad Mendes looks to avoid the first loss in his career by knocking ending Javier Vazquez's two-fight winning streak. For more on WEC 52: "Faber vs Mizugaki," stick with MMAmania.com.

Ben Askren: I know I can 'punch harder' Posted: 26 Oct 2010 10:32 AM PDT Props: Sherdog Quoteworthy: "I’ve only been punching stuff for about a year. Literally, I didn’t start boxing or hitting anything until September of 2009. I heard [Good’s] corner taunting me with, ‘He punches like a girl.’ Maybe I do now, but I ain’t always going to punch like a girl. There’s a lot of places that I can get better. I can punch harder. I can finish better on top."  The new Bellator welterweight champion, Ben Askren, hasn't been ignoring his critics. The 2008 Olympic wrestler has been able to neutralize his opponents with ease since making his MMA debut, but in his seven career victories Askren has only had one knockout. Askren has been criticized by fans for his performance against Lyman Good. In the championship bout, the Lions Den challenger mostly focused on putting the champion on his back and keeping him there until the bell sounded. It wasn't until an upkick followed by a triangle choke attempt where Askren was in real danger. Askren was able to escape and win the fight, however, when Good went for an arm instead of a choke. Sound off maniacs. What will it take for Ben Askren to win you over?

Mirko 'Cro Cop' has a message for the UFC when they start shopping for Roy Nelson's next opponent: Posted: 26 Oct 2010 09:52 AM PDT And it sounds like the Croat (via Fighter's Only) has one ear pasted to the phone: "I know nothing about it, this is the first I heard of it. But it would be an interesting fight for sure. I think Roy’s style matches very well with mine, we could have a good fight. I didn’t hear anything from the UFC yet, but lets see if they call me." Anyone else interested in this fantasy match-up now that Shane Carwin has pulled out of the UFC 125 event? Or should Filipovic try to avenge his loss to Gabriel Gonzaga? There are plenty of options for both fighters after "The Engineer" blew out his back, but which one makes the most sense for the direction of the heavyweight division? What say you?

UFC 122: Winner of Nate Marquardt vs Yushin Okami 'guaranteed' 2011 middleweight title shot Posted: 26 Oct 2010 09:37 AM PDT Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) today 'guaranteed' that the winner of the UFC 122 main event between Nate Marquardt and Yushin Okami would be next in line for a 185-pound title shot after they throw down on Nov. 13 in Oberhausen, Germany. From the promotion's official press release: Two of the world's best middleweight (185 lbs.) mixed martial arts fighters, Denver's Nate Marquardt and Japan's Yushin Okami, will square off in the main event of "UFC 122" on Spike TV Saturday, November 13 at 9:00pm ET/PT (same day tape). Emanating from Konig-Pilsener-Arena in Oberhausen, Germany, the winner of the Marquardt-Okami bout is guaranteed a shot at the UFC middleweight title currently held by Anderson Silva. While the belt is currently held by "The Spider," there is no "guarantee" it will be his after Superbowl weekend. That's because he'll be defending it against fellow Brazilian Vitor Belfort at UFC 126 on Feb. 5 in Las Vegas. And "The Phenom" has Chael Sonnen to thank. Sonnen levied a performance so dominant (in a losing effort) against Silva back on Aug. 7, that UFC President Dana White promised an immediate rematch, and slotted a now-healthy Belfort against Yushin Okami at UFC 122. Then the California State Athletic Commission (CSAC) came along with charges of drug use against Sonnen, effectively benching him for one year (or until his appeal is heard) following his UFC 117 career performance. Enter Nate Marquardt. After a "Great" performance against Rousimar Palhares on Sept. 15, Marquardt relieved Belfort of his duties in Germany and will now face "Thunder" for the chance to challenge the winner of the UFC 126 title fight. That cleared the way for the Silva vs. Belfort championship bout in February (one that was originally scheduled for UFC 112 in Abu Dhabi until Belfort had shoulder surgery). It seems the division may finally be working itself out. We hope. For a complete archive of UFC 122: "Marquardt vs. Okami" news and notes click here.

Anthony "T.J." Waldburger withdraws from his UFC 124 preliminary-card fight against Matt Riddle due... Posted: 26 Oct 2010 09:36 AM PDT Anthony "T.J." Waldburger withdraws from his UFC 124 preliminary-card fight against Matt Riddle due to an undisclosed injury. Props: First Round Management

Back injury forces Shane Carwin to withdraw from UFC 125 fight with Roy Nelson Posted: 26 Oct 2010 08:01 AM PDT Looks like UFC heavyweight hopeful Roy Nelson has been left at the altar. That's because his belly-to-bicep battle royal with persnickety power-puncher Shane Carwin has been temporarily toe-tagged after "The Engineer" was forced to withdraw from their UFC 125 co-main event on Jan. 1 in Las Vegas due to a burdensome back attack. And the bad news came right from Carwin himself: "I am going to pull out of the fight with Roy Nelson. As many of you know I have been having some back pain. I had an MRI yesterday and I have some damage that may really require surgery. If the doctors do not have to perform surgery then I will be out 8-12 weeks. If they do have to perform surgery I do not know how long I will be out of action ... I owe myself, I owe my fans the best show I can give them. I need to get healthy. I am going to be speaking with the surgeon this week about the surgery. My thoughts are if the surgery fixes it why add 8-12 weeks of physical therapy, epidurals and traction if surgery may still be needed. The good news is the doctors said I can work on my cardio (they must have seen my last fight lol) with this injury." Carwin held the division's Interim title when former champion Brock Lesnar had his intestines all up in a bunch late last year. Upon his return, the WWE-turned-MMA star survived a first round blitzkrieg to come back and submit the Greg Jackson-disciple via arm-triangle choke at UFC 116 on July 3. It was Carwin's first loss in 12 appearances and now the former collegiate wrestling champion will have to wait just a little bit longer before he can exorcise his cardio demons from earlier this summer. And with more than two full months to go, the chances of Nelson finding a new opponent are far from remote. Perhaps he can serve as a rebound fight for ex-champion Brock Lesnar, or maybe even settle that long-standing feud with Frank Mir, who is probably looking for any excuse to get back into the cage and erase the memories of his UFC 119 stinker against Mirko "Cro Cop" Filipovic in Indianapolis. A win is critical for "Big Country" at this point in his UFC career, as he was on the fast-track to bigger and better opportunities within the division until he ran headfirst into a Brazilian roadblock named Junior dos Santos at UFC 117 last August. "Cigano" took home the unanimous decision win and the right to challenge Cain Velasquez in the first quarter of 2011. The loss snapped Nelson's undefeated streak since graduating from the tenth season of The Ultimate Fighter (TUF), but you can bet your bottom dollar that a win over another top name like Mir would carry him right back to the top of the contender's list. Stay tuned. UFC 125: "Resolution" will be headlined by lightweight champion Frankie Edgar, as he defends his title in a rematch against undefeated challenger Gray Maynard. Chris Leben vs. Brian Stann and Thiago Silva vs. Brandon Vera have also been announced for the Jan. 1 pay-per-view. Keep it locked in to MMAmania.com for more updates to this still-developing fight card.

Programming alert: 'Countdown to UFC 123' debuts Nov. 15 on Spike TV Posted: 26 Oct 2010 07:24 AM PDT Countdown to UFC 123: "Rampage vs. Machida" will debut Monday, Nov. 15 at 11:00 p.m. ET on Spike TV to promote the upcoming pay-per-view (PPV) event scheduled for the the Palace of Auburn Hills in Detroit, Michigan, on Saturday, November 20. The network special will provide a glimpse into the preparation and training camps of the fighters set to headline the show, featuring former UFC Light Heavyweight Champions Quinton "Rampage" Jackson and Lyoto "The Dragon" Machida. UFC.com currently lists replays of "Countdown to UFC 123" at the following times: Wednesday, Nov. 17 at 7 p.m. ET Saturday, Nov. 20 at 6 p.m. ET Remember that MMAmania.com will provide LIVE blow-by-blow, round-by-round coverage of UFC 123, beginning with the pay-per-view telecast at 10 p.m. ET on Nov. 20. In addition, we will deliver up-to-the-minute quick results of all the under card action much earlier on fight night. For the latest UFC 123 fight card and rumors click here.

UFC Heavyweight Champion Cain Velasquez appears on 'George Lopez Tonight' (Video) Posted: 26 Oct 2010 06:40 AM PDT

UFC 124 results and LIVE fight coverage for 'St. Pierre vs Koscheck II' on Dec. 11 in Montreal Posted: 26 Oct 2010 06:36 AM PDT Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) is close to putting the finishing touches on its upcoming pay-per-view fight card from the Bell Centre in Montreal, Quebec, Canada, on Saturday, Dec. 11, 2010. UFC 124: "St. Pierre vs. Koscheck II" will be headlined by welterweight champion Georges St. Pierre taking on fellow Ultimate Fighter (TUF) 12 coach Josh Koscheck. Thiago Alves and John Howard as well as Dustin Hazelett and Mark Bocek are also expected to hook 'em up. TUF champions Joe Stevenson and Mac Danzig have also been scheduled to throw down. Here is the current UFC 124 line up: Main event: 170 lbs.: Georges St. Pierre vs. Josh Koscheck Main card (Televised): 170 lbs.: Thiago Alves vs. John Howard 155 lbs.: Jim Miller vs. Charles Oliveira 265 lbs.: Sean McCorkle vs. Stefan Struve 170 lbs.: Ricardo Almeida vs. T.J. Grant Under card (May not be broadcast): 155 lbs.: Joe Stevenson vs. Mac Danzig 155 lbs.: Mark Bocek vs. Dustin Hazelett 170 lbs.: Matthew Riddle vs. Anthony Waldburger 185 lbs.: Jason MacDonald vs. Rafael Natal* 185 lbs.: Joe Doerksen vs. Dan Miller *Fight not officially confirmed by UFC.com MMAmania.com will provide LIVE blow-by-blow, round-by-round coverage of UFC 124, beginning with the pay-per-view telecast at 10 p.m. ET on Dec. 11. In addition, we will deliver up-to-the-minute quick results of all the under card action much earlier on fight night. We're still a couple of weeks away from showtime; therefore, feel free to share your thoughts and predictions for "St. Pierre vs. Koscheck II" in the comments section below. And remember that MMAmania.com will be the spot for the latest news and event-related highlights before, during and after the event. For the latest UFC 124 news and notes click here.

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