Okay here are the Following the Flow Power Rankings. The fighters in each class are listed in a rough ranking with comments on the side. This isn't a pure talent level ranking system as that is not the only factor in determining who gets a title shot. Drawing ability is an important part of the decision making process on who fights who.
Heavyweight
Tim Sylvia - Tim gets another chance to take back a belt that he once had. I don't see it happening to be honest but I suppose there is a chance. What a Surprise that fight was, wow. Well we have a new champ and a 3rd match between these guys is assured. Next up for Sylvia will probably be Monson who seems like the only viable contender at this point. At least until Mir can get a little win streak under his belt and we see Sylvia/Mir 2.
Arlovski - Arlovski smelled blood and went in for the kill and Sylvia caught him. It's called killer instinct not being reckless Joe Rogan you hatorade sipping pansy. So who will Arlovski fight on his way back to Sylvia? Assuerio Silva would be my guess. Though the results of UFC 59 were a suprise things really couldn't have worked out better for the UFC. With Monson winning you get the next title contender. Andrei having to fight back to his belt will create more fights with the same pool of talent. Arlovski gets a shot at the title immediately, interesting.
Jeff Monson - Look for the Snowman to get the next title shot after Arlovski/Sylvia 2. He's rumored to be fighting at UFC 61 but who.....? Buentello? Vera?
Brandon Vera - I'm not sure what to do with Vera. It may be too soon to put him here but there just isn't anyone else to put ahead of him.
Paul Buentello - I think we'll see the Headhunter against Sylvia or Mir pretty soon. Personally I think Sylvia would be the better fight. Lots of hands but that reach would be hard to deal with. Ass. Silva would be another nice fight. Or maybe Vera.
Marcio Cruz - Cruz looked alright despite losing to Monson. Who next for Cruz? Mir?
Frank Mir - A crushing loss to an fellow grappler will knock Mir down a peg or two. Both in ego and in these rankings. He gets fed a can in Cristison next and should make quick work of the TUF guy.
Assuerio Silva - Someone give Silva a can to fight so we can see him do something. Please!
Seth Petruzzelli - Man I hope this is true that he'll be fighting in August. Seth needs a ground game but if he gets it he could be a contender in this weekest of UFC divisions.
Tom Murphy - With the dearth of contenders here Murphy might just have an opportunity at some big time names.
Brad Imes - Lost to Cristison
Dan Cristison - Beat Imes but doesn't have the name that Brad does.
Light heavyweight
Chuck Liddell - Liddell vs Sobral at UFC 62 i'm guessing. I don't see that ending much differently than the first time. I'll go out on a limb (no pun intended) and say it won't be a kick though.
Renato Sobral - Babalu deserves the next title shot and i'd like to see that rematch. Sobral isn't the same kid he was when he lost the first time. If Griffin wins it will be interesting to see who fights Liddel. I would hope Renato would get the shot. Rumor has it he's fighting Marvin Eastman next. Wha?! Shonie Carter wasn't available? Jeez. Deserves a title shot gets a can. S'okay Renato we know you're the man.
Tito Ortiz - The first round was vintage Tito. His boxing looked okay he had some nice counterpunches. Either his knee really, really went out or he threw that fight. How do you throw a fight you won? You make the UFC poster boy look really good, like he gained something in defeat. Which he did. I don't know that fight was just odd to look at, very odd. Regardless, if Tito can do what he did in the first round for whole fights........well that showdown with Chuck will be a bloodbath.
Ken Shamrock - I don't think he's going to beat Tito so look for him to face someone like Babalu or one of the TUF guys, if he doesn't retire like Randy.
Forrest Griffin - Okay so we hear that Forrest is working the standup in preparation for this fight but did anyone think it looked any better? I sure as hell didn't it. Maybe that was just a way of saying he's been working on his sprawl. Griffin, like he said, can go toe to toe with just about anyone and make it a fight. Well maybe I added the just about because lets be real Chuck would put him down in short order. I would like to see Griffin/Sobral.
Stephan Bonnar - Bonnar won a very, very close decision to Jardine but to be honest I would have called it for Keith. Bonnar did not look very impressive at all but then his ground game is probably his biggest asset right now and he didn't use it. Who next for Bonnar? According to rumor he gets Rashad Evans next and he should pull that out.
Alessio Sakara - He lost to Dean Lister but Sakara is still fighting at a higher level than the guys below him so he sits here still. I'd like to see him against Bonnar in a nice little boxing match. At least until Bonnar takes him down and submits him.
Rashad Evans - He beat Hoger but it wasn't a great win by any means so who next for Evans? Bonnar? Evans has the tools to beat him but I don't see it happening.
Keith Jardine - I kind of think Jardine got robbed in that fight with Bonnar, I think we'll see more of him.
Sam Hoger - He looked pretty good in his loss to Evans. He really hasn't lived up to the potential I saw in him when he was on TUF.
Middleweight
Rich Franklin - Marquardt will be next barring something bizarre or someone being brought it in and that should be a good fight. I wonder if it will happen this year though with all of Franklin's injuries.
Nate Marquardt - I suspect that this will be the next contender for Franklin's title. His hands might not be a quick as Loiseau's but who knows maybe a little heavier. He's got a few KOs on his record but 2 are with knees. Being a black belt in jiu-jitsu and training Muay Thai for years (according to an interview) I think Marquardt's all around game is better than the Crow so this could be a dangerous fight for Franklin.
Spider Silva - Where will Silva start? He's got a nice list of credentials so maybe he gets a title shot right off the bat? To me that says that the UFC thinks guys from the outside are better than the current contenders which seems bad for business. I'd pit Silva against Marquardt for the rank of #1 contender. Just announced today (5/30/06) that Silva fights Leben on 6/28/06
David Loiseau - Loiseau vs Spider Silva. I call it!
Evan Tanner - What next for the former champ? Horn hopefully.
Jeremy Horn - I am still bummed that Horn/Tanner didn't happen. Grrrrrr. He beat Sonnen, whoopdy doo. Hopefully Tanner/Horn will still happen.
Chris Leben - Leben didn't look all that impressive in his win over Luigi. Is it possible that Leben just wanted to prove that he can go in and dominate a fight for three rounds and win a decision? That's what it looked like to me. Going against Spider Silva will be a big test for Leben. The winner might get the next title shot though I am not sure how Marquardt fits into the picture.
Mike Swick - Yep I said it. Viva la Swickotine! I think Swick will beat Riggs.
Dean Lister - I'd love to see Lister and Horn rolling around like to tangled up pythons.
Joe Riggs - Riggs is over-rated. He didn't deserve a shot at Hughes and he lost.
Dave Terrell - Pretty much owned Scott Smith so expect to see more of him. He's be a nice matchup with Quarry.
Chael Sonnen - Lost to Jeremy Horn, yet again. I'd be surprised to see Sonnen in the Octagon anytime soon but then again I was surprised to see him get another shot this last time.
Trevor Prangley - Lost to Chael Sonnen, ouch. Too bad because I think he was on the fastrack to contendership by UFC.
Scott Smith - I wonder if he signed a three fight deal?
Welterweight
Matt Hughes - Yeah yeah yeah I called it, whoopdy doo. I think Hughes will pound out Gracie in short order but Gracie is no stranger to being the underdog. Hughes better be ready for GSP because in the first fight GSP was DOMINATING until giving up to an arm bar. Hughes has a busy next year or two ahead of him. GSP, Parisyan (i'm betteing), Penn and then Diaz after he wins TUF 4.
George St. Pierre - GSP will get his title shot soon and oh what a fight that will be. His confidence has to be soaring after beating BJ.
Carlos Newton - Rumor has it...okay I guess Newton said it...that he's coming back against a TBD opponent. Penn or Diaz maybe? I'd love to see Newton and Penn go at it. Hmm since Newton took a job as coach for the IFL I suppose this means he's not going to fight in the UFC.
Karo Parisyan - God it's me again...please tell me Karo has been working some standup... God
...um.....thank you! Karo owned the Goat and his hands looked much, much improved. He whiffed the first one but from then on they were on target and you could hear the slap. With this newfound striking that makes him somewhat dangerous standing but even more dangerous on the ground which he showed against Thompson. Karo looked really improved and would be a big threat to guys like GSP and Penn. Looks like he gets a shot at Diego in August or so. That will be a great fight. I'm taking Karo to show everyone how one dimensional Diego is. I'm sorry I am just getting sick of ground and pound specialists.
BJ Penn - What now for the former champ? A drop down to lightweight or a shot at Parisyan? Maybe a shot at Gracie if & when he loses to Hughes?
Diego Sanchez - He scraped out a win against John Alessio but it was not convincing. I think it's time for Parisyan/Sanchez.
Nick Diaz - That fight with Sherk was great, maybe a fight of the year contender. It may not have been as explosive as many but the technique in it was fabulous. Diaz always impresses me with his technique, whether boxing or grappling. The kid's game is just beautiful to watch. If only he'd keep his mouth shut and do the thing. He seemed to show class with Sherk at the end of the fight but no telling what happened after the decision was announced. Diaz has lost several tough, close decisions. Maybe you can fault him for not finishing them but that just seems picky when you see a young guy with the all around skills that Diaz has. He'll be champ one day mark my words. TUF 4?!?!
Josh Neer - Looked good beating Stevenson and his starting to make a name for himself. The kid has a lot of heart and a good all around game.
Josh Koscheck - Beat Chalangov quickly so what's next for Koscheck? Maybe Diaz or Burkman or a rematch with Sanchez? Dave Menne?? Wow, Josh is going to lose.
Josh Burkman - Tough loss to Fitch. Next fight is Neer.......ouch that could be another loss.
Drew Fickett - I flat out don't like this guy.
Thiago Alves - A good striker who got caught by Spencer Fisher but was holding his own until then. I'd like to see him against Guillard or Cummo. He's facing Jon Fitch next in what could be a war.
Kit Cope - Work on that ground game man. If he gets another shot I think Diaz (if he isn't kicked from the UFC) would be interesting. Wait wait wait....Joe Riggs in a standup war! Yeah baby!
Melvin Guillard - I hope he sticks around the UFC until he can improve, he's got amazing potential. I saw his fight against Josh Neer and he was lighting up Neer. He looked powerful and quick...which is a nice combination to have.
Lightweight
Mark Hominick - A win over one-time champ Edwards puts him right here. But will Pulver come back?
Yves Edwards - Edwards was shocked by Hominick so maybe his next fight is Stout? Take it out on another Canadian eh?
Sean Sherk - Sherk looked pretty damn good against Diaz. His handspeed was excellent on the standup and he looked pretty comfortable. At 155 he will be devastating. MMAWeekly says that Sher fights the winner of KenFlo/Stout for the title. I'm not sure how Hominick gets left out of that picture but I guess he can get the first title shot. This is a stacked division to say the least.
Sam Stout - Right about here I would think. I think he would lose to Stevenson so Edwards would be a better matchup. Rumored to be fighting Kenny Florian at the TUF finale.
Spencer Fisher - This guy has as much game as Nick Diaz, look out. I really think that Fisher is better than Stout but since the Canadian has the victory he stays on top.
Kenny Florian - I guess he kind of stays still after not fighting. MMAWeekly says he'll be fighting Stout. I'll take KenFlo.
Joe Stevenson - After that last ugly fight Stevenson needs to prove himself again. Looks like he might be fighting Yves Edwards at UFC 61. I was disappointed in Stevenson in his last fight and he's show that strikers can connect on him and if Edwards connects it'll be a short night.
Duane Ludwig - Ludwig against Edwards would be a nice fight.
Luke Cummo - I want to see Cummo fighting and soon! Him and Ludwig would be a nice fight or maybe Fisher. Rumor has Cummo fighting Jonathan Goulet which should be a good fight. I'll take Luke.
Melvin Guilliard - Not sure if this is do-able or not but it could allow him some breathing room for away from the welterweights but then again with so many people coming down here maybe he'd be better at 170.
Jorge Gurgel - Finally we see Jorge fight. It's rumored he's going to be facing Mark Hominick which would be a nice fight.
Sunday, May 28, 2006
Sunday, April 16, 2006
Power Rankings 4/16/06
Okay here are the Following the Flow Power Rankings. The fighters in each class are listed in a rough ranking with comments on the side. This isn't a pure talent level ranking system as that is not the only factor in determining who gets a title shot. Drawing ability is an important part of the decision making process on who fights who.
Heavyweight
Tim Sylvia - Tim gets another chance to take back a belt that he once had. I don't see it happening to be honest but I suppose there is a chance. What a Surprise that fight was, wow. Well we have a new champ and a 3rd match between these guys is assured. Next up for Sylvia will probably be Monson who seems like the only viable contender at this point. At least until Mir can get a little win streak under his belt and we see Sylvia/Mir 2.
Arlovski - Arlovski smelled blood and went in for the kill and Sylvia caught him. It's called killer instinct not being reckless Joe Rogan you hatorade sipping pansy. So who will Arlovski fight on his way back to Sylvia? Assuerio Silva would be my guess. Though the results of UFC 59 were a suprise things really couldn't have worked out better for the UFC. With Monson winning you get the next title contender. Andrei having to fight back to his belt will create more fights with the same pool of talent.
Jeff Monson - Hell he might get a title shot if the UFC doesn't come up with some better talent. Monson/Sylvia could be a good fight.
Paul Buentello - I think we'll see the Headhunter against Sylvia or Mir pretty soon. Personally I think Sylvia would be the better fight. Lots of hands but that reach would be hard to deal with. Ass. Silva would be another nice fight. Or maybe Vera.
Marcio Cruz - Cruz looked alright despite losing to Monson. Who next for Cruz?
Frank Mir - A crushing loss to an fellow grappler will knock Mir down a peg or two. Both in ego and in these rankings.
Assuerio Silva - A poor debut puts this guy below any other legit contenders but he is still better than 90% of the other heavyweights that the UFC can muster. Rumored to be fighting Vera next that could be a good one.
Brandon Vera - He's more suited for LHW but with the dearth of talent in this division he's a player. It will be interseting to see if he can beat Silva
Tom Murphy - With the dearth of contenders here Murphy might just have an opportunity at some big time names.
Brad Imes - Lost to Cristison
Dan Cristison - Beat Imes but doesn't have the name that Brad does.
Light heavyweight
Chuck Liddell - Liddell vs Sobral at UFC 61 i'm guessing.
Renato Sobral - Babalu deserves the next title shot and i'd like to see that rematch. Sobral isn't the same kid he was when he lost the first time. If Griffin wins it will be interesting to see who fights Liddel. I would hope Renato would get the shot. Rumor has it he's fighting Marvin Eastman next. Wha?! Shonie Carter wasn't available? Jeez. Deserves a title shot gets a can. S'okay Renato we know you're the man.
Tito Ortiz - The first round was vintage Tito. His boxing looked okay he had some nice counterpunches. Either his knee really, really went out or he threw that fight. How do you throw a fight you won? You make the UFC poster boy look really good, like he gained something in defeat. Which he did. I don't know that fight was just odd to look at, very odd.
Ken Shamrock - I don't think he's going to beat Tito so look for him to face someone like Babalu or one of the TUF guys, if he doesn't retire like Randy.
Forrest Griffin - Okay so we hear that Forrest is working the standup in preparation for this fight but did anyone think it looked any better? I sure as hell didn't it. Maybe that was just a way of saying he's been working on his sprawl. Griffin, like he said, can go toe to toe with just about anyone and make it a fight. Well maybe I added the just about because lets be real Chuck would put him down in short order.
Stephan Bonnar - Bonnar won a very, very close decision to Jardine but to be honest I would have called it for Keith. Bonnar did not look very impressive at all but then his ground game is probably his biggest asset right now and he didn't use it. Who next for Bonnar? Griffin I suppose since neither really has any other logical choice at this point.
Alessio Sakara - I'm not sure where to put this guy but I am intrigued and want to see more. Looks like he'll be fighting Dean Lister soon which means we'll see more of his groundgame and sprawl. If they're there this guy could go far.
Rashad Evans - He beat Hoger but it wasn't a great win by any means so who next for Evans? Maybe a rematch with Jardine?
Keith Jardine - I hope Jardine found a ground game or else Bonnar will submit him if things get rough in the striking game.
Sam Hoger - He looked pretty good in his loss to Evans.
Middleweight
Rich Franklin - Marquardt will be next barring something bizarre or someone being brought it in and that should be a good fight. I wonder if it will happen this year though with all of Franklin's injuries.
Nate Marquardt - I suspect that this will be the next contender for Franklin's title. His hands might not be a quick as Loiseau's but maybe a little heavier. He's got a few KOs on his record but 2 are with knees. Being a black belt in jiu-jitsu and training Muay Thai for years (according to an interview) I think Marquardt's all around game is better than the Crow so this could be a dangerous fight for Franklin.
David Loiseau - Loiseau gets bumped down a little after losing to the champ but he showed a lot fo toughness and heart and drew out Franklin's first decision win so he doesn't fall far. I see Loiseau/Marquardt looming large in the future and I can't wait. Chris Leben would be another good choice for a fight.
Evan Tanner - Tanner looked impressive in his win but
Jeremy Horn - I am still bummed that Horn/Tanner didn't happen. Grrrrrr.
Chris Leben - Leben didn't look all that impressive in his win over Luigi. Is it possible that Leben just wanted to prove that he can go in and dominate a fight for three rounds and win a decision? That's what it looked like to me.
Mike Swick - I think Swick will beat Riggs.
Joe Riggs - Riggs and Swick are going to throw down and that will be a good one to watch.
Nate Quarry - I'd like to see Quarry back in the octagon. He fell quite a bit in my rankings but he never was a true top contender so I guess that is what happens. Doerksen would be good or one of the two veterans, Tanner and Horn. Okay maybe someone else for starters. Swick? Prangley?
Dave Terrell - Pretty much owned Scott Smith so expect to see more of him. He's be a nice matchup with Quarry.
Chael Sonnen - Got revenge on Prangley, good job. Chael keeps getting shots in the UFC so he'll probably stick around.
Trevor Prangley - Lost to Chael Sonnen, ouch. Too bad because I think he was on the fastrack to contendership by UFC.
Scott Smith - I wonder if he signed a three fight deal?
Welterweight
Matt Hughes - I think Hughes will pound out Gracie in short order but Gracie is no stranger to being the underdog.
George St. Pierre - GSP will get his title shot soon and oh what a fight that will be. His confidence has to be soaring after beating BJ.
Carlos Newton - Rumor has it...okay I guess Newton said it...that he's coming back against a TBD opponent. Penn or Diaz maybe? I'd love to see Newton and Penn go at it.
Karo Parisyan - God it's me again...please tell me Karo has been working some standup... God
...um.....thank you! Karo owned the Goat and his hands looked much, much improved. He whiffed the first one but from then on they were on target and you could hear the slap. With this newfound striking that makes him somewhat dangerous standing but even more dangerous on the ground which he showed against Thompson. Karo looked really improved and would be a big threat to guys like GSP and Penn.
BJ Penn - What now for the former champ? A drop down to lightweight or a shot at Parisyan? Maybe a shot at Gracie if & when he loses to Hughes?
Diego Sanchez - Diego should be about ready for another fight....Penn or Newton?
Josh Koscheck - Beat Chalangov quickly so what's next for Koscheck? Maybe Diaz or Burkman or a rematch with Sanchez? Hopefully not Sanchez because I don't see Koscheck beating him yet.
Josh Burkman - Tough loss to Fitch.
Nick Diaz - That fight with Sherk was great, maybe a fight of the year contender. It may not have been as explosive as many but the technique in it was fabulous. Diaz always impresses me with his technique, whether boxing or grappling. The kid's game is just beautiful to watch. If only he'd keep his mouth shut and do the thing. He seemed to show class with Sherk at the end of the fight but no telling what happened after the decision was announced. Diaz has lost several tough, close decisions. Maybe you can fault him for not finishing them but that just seems picky when you see a young guy with the all around skills that Diaz has. He'll be champ one day mark my words.
Josh Neer - Looked good beating Stevenson and his starting to make a name for himself.
Joe Stevenson - Joe showed a lot of submissions but got beaten by Neer.
Drew Fickett - I flat out don't like this guy.
Kit Cope - Work on that ground game man. If he gets another shot I think Diaz (if he isn't kicked from the UFC) would be interesting. Wait wait wait....Joe Riggs in a standup war! Yeah baby!
Melvin Guillard - I hope he sticks around the UFC until he can improve, he's got amazing potential. I saw his fight against Josh Neer and he was lighting up Neer. He looked powerful and quick...which is a nice combination to have.
Thiago Alves - A good striker who got caught by Spencer Fisher but was holding his own until then. I'd like to see him against Guillard or Cummo.
Lightweight
Mark Hominick - A win over one-time champ Edwards puts him right here. But will Pulver come back?
Yves Edwards - Edwards was shocked by Hominick so maybe his next fight is Stout? Take it out on another Canadian eh?
Sean Sherk - Sherk looked pretty damn good against Diaz. His handspeed was excellent on the standup and he looked pretty comfortable. At 155 he will be devastating.
Sam Stout - Right about here I would think. I think he would lose to Stevenson so Edwards would be a better matchup.
Spencer Fisher - He lost but he took the fight on ultra short notice and had to cut a lot of weight so he doesn't drop much. That and there aren't really any proven guys behind him.
Kenny Florian - I guess he kind of stays still after not fighting.
Duane Ludwig - Ludwig against Edwards would be a nice fight.
Luke Cummo - I want to see Cummo fighting and soon! Him and Ludwig would be a nice fight or maybe Fisher. He's set to fight Jason Von Flue which should be good. Jason is the underestimated guy who just keep winning. I think Cummo gets him though, he's just too focussed and too dedicated.
Melvin Guilliard - Not sure if this is do-able or not but it could allow him some breathing room for away from the welterweights but then again with so many people coming down here maybe he'd be better at 170.
Heavyweight
Tim Sylvia - Tim gets another chance to take back a belt that he once had. I don't see it happening to be honest but I suppose there is a chance. What a Surprise that fight was, wow. Well we have a new champ and a 3rd match between these guys is assured. Next up for Sylvia will probably be Monson who seems like the only viable contender at this point. At least until Mir can get a little win streak under his belt and we see Sylvia/Mir 2.
Arlovski - Arlovski smelled blood and went in for the kill and Sylvia caught him. It's called killer instinct not being reckless Joe Rogan you hatorade sipping pansy. So who will Arlovski fight on his way back to Sylvia? Assuerio Silva would be my guess. Though the results of UFC 59 were a suprise things really couldn't have worked out better for the UFC. With Monson winning you get the next title contender. Andrei having to fight back to his belt will create more fights with the same pool of talent.
Jeff Monson - Hell he might get a title shot if the UFC doesn't come up with some better talent. Monson/Sylvia could be a good fight.
Paul Buentello - I think we'll see the Headhunter against Sylvia or Mir pretty soon. Personally I think Sylvia would be the better fight. Lots of hands but that reach would be hard to deal with. Ass. Silva would be another nice fight. Or maybe Vera.
Marcio Cruz - Cruz looked alright despite losing to Monson. Who next for Cruz?
Frank Mir - A crushing loss to an fellow grappler will knock Mir down a peg or two. Both in ego and in these rankings.
Assuerio Silva - A poor debut puts this guy below any other legit contenders but he is still better than 90% of the other heavyweights that the UFC can muster. Rumored to be fighting Vera next that could be a good one.
Brandon Vera - He's more suited for LHW but with the dearth of talent in this division he's a player. It will be interseting to see if he can beat Silva
Tom Murphy - With the dearth of contenders here Murphy might just have an opportunity at some big time names.
Brad Imes - Lost to Cristison
Dan Cristison - Beat Imes but doesn't have the name that Brad does.
Light heavyweight
Chuck Liddell - Liddell vs Sobral at UFC 61 i'm guessing.
Renato Sobral - Babalu deserves the next title shot and i'd like to see that rematch. Sobral isn't the same kid he was when he lost the first time. If Griffin wins it will be interesting to see who fights Liddel. I would hope Renato would get the shot. Rumor has it he's fighting Marvin Eastman next. Wha?! Shonie Carter wasn't available? Jeez. Deserves a title shot gets a can. S'okay Renato we know you're the man.
Tito Ortiz - The first round was vintage Tito. His boxing looked okay he had some nice counterpunches. Either his knee really, really went out or he threw that fight. How do you throw a fight you won? You make the UFC poster boy look really good, like he gained something in defeat. Which he did. I don't know that fight was just odd to look at, very odd.
Ken Shamrock - I don't think he's going to beat Tito so look for him to face someone like Babalu or one of the TUF guys, if he doesn't retire like Randy.
Forrest Griffin - Okay so we hear that Forrest is working the standup in preparation for this fight but did anyone think it looked any better? I sure as hell didn't it. Maybe that was just a way of saying he's been working on his sprawl. Griffin, like he said, can go toe to toe with just about anyone and make it a fight. Well maybe I added the just about because lets be real Chuck would put him down in short order.
Stephan Bonnar - Bonnar won a very, very close decision to Jardine but to be honest I would have called it for Keith. Bonnar did not look very impressive at all but then his ground game is probably his biggest asset right now and he didn't use it. Who next for Bonnar? Griffin I suppose since neither really has any other logical choice at this point.
Alessio Sakara - I'm not sure where to put this guy but I am intrigued and want to see more. Looks like he'll be fighting Dean Lister soon which means we'll see more of his groundgame and sprawl. If they're there this guy could go far.
Rashad Evans - He beat Hoger but it wasn't a great win by any means so who next for Evans? Maybe a rematch with Jardine?
Keith Jardine - I hope Jardine found a ground game or else Bonnar will submit him if things get rough in the striking game.
Sam Hoger - He looked pretty good in his loss to Evans.
Middleweight
Rich Franklin - Marquardt will be next barring something bizarre or someone being brought it in and that should be a good fight. I wonder if it will happen this year though with all of Franklin's injuries.
Nate Marquardt - I suspect that this will be the next contender for Franklin's title. His hands might not be a quick as Loiseau's but maybe a little heavier. He's got a few KOs on his record but 2 are with knees. Being a black belt in jiu-jitsu and training Muay Thai for years (according to an interview) I think Marquardt's all around game is better than the Crow so this could be a dangerous fight for Franklin.
David Loiseau - Loiseau gets bumped down a little after losing to the champ but he showed a lot fo toughness and heart and drew out Franklin's first decision win so he doesn't fall far. I see Loiseau/Marquardt looming large in the future and I can't wait. Chris Leben would be another good choice for a fight.
Evan Tanner - Tanner looked impressive in his win but
Jeremy Horn - I am still bummed that Horn/Tanner didn't happen. Grrrrrr.
Chris Leben - Leben didn't look all that impressive in his win over Luigi. Is it possible that Leben just wanted to prove that he can go in and dominate a fight for three rounds and win a decision? That's what it looked like to me.
Mike Swick - I think Swick will beat Riggs.
Joe Riggs - Riggs and Swick are going to throw down and that will be a good one to watch.
Nate Quarry - I'd like to see Quarry back in the octagon. He fell quite a bit in my rankings but he never was a true top contender so I guess that is what happens. Doerksen would be good or one of the two veterans, Tanner and Horn. Okay maybe someone else for starters. Swick? Prangley?
Dave Terrell - Pretty much owned Scott Smith so expect to see more of him. He's be a nice matchup with Quarry.
Chael Sonnen - Got revenge on Prangley, good job. Chael keeps getting shots in the UFC so he'll probably stick around.
Trevor Prangley - Lost to Chael Sonnen, ouch. Too bad because I think he was on the fastrack to contendership by UFC.
Scott Smith - I wonder if he signed a three fight deal?
Welterweight
Matt Hughes - I think Hughes will pound out Gracie in short order but Gracie is no stranger to being the underdog.
George St. Pierre - GSP will get his title shot soon and oh what a fight that will be. His confidence has to be soaring after beating BJ.
Carlos Newton - Rumor has it...okay I guess Newton said it...that he's coming back against a TBD opponent. Penn or Diaz maybe? I'd love to see Newton and Penn go at it.
Karo Parisyan - God it's me again...please tell me Karo has been working some standup... God
...um.....thank you! Karo owned the Goat and his hands looked much, much improved. He whiffed the first one but from then on they were on target and you could hear the slap. With this newfound striking that makes him somewhat dangerous standing but even more dangerous on the ground which he showed against Thompson. Karo looked really improved and would be a big threat to guys like GSP and Penn.
BJ Penn - What now for the former champ? A drop down to lightweight or a shot at Parisyan? Maybe a shot at Gracie if & when he loses to Hughes?
Diego Sanchez - Diego should be about ready for another fight....Penn or Newton?
Josh Koscheck - Beat Chalangov quickly so what's next for Koscheck? Maybe Diaz or Burkman or a rematch with Sanchez? Hopefully not Sanchez because I don't see Koscheck beating him yet.
Josh Burkman - Tough loss to Fitch.
Nick Diaz - That fight with Sherk was great, maybe a fight of the year contender. It may not have been as explosive as many but the technique in it was fabulous. Diaz always impresses me with his technique, whether boxing or grappling. The kid's game is just beautiful to watch. If only he'd keep his mouth shut and do the thing. He seemed to show class with Sherk at the end of the fight but no telling what happened after the decision was announced. Diaz has lost several tough, close decisions. Maybe you can fault him for not finishing them but that just seems picky when you see a young guy with the all around skills that Diaz has. He'll be champ one day mark my words.
Josh Neer - Looked good beating Stevenson and his starting to make a name for himself.
Joe Stevenson - Joe showed a lot of submissions but got beaten by Neer.
Drew Fickett - I flat out don't like this guy.
Kit Cope - Work on that ground game man. If he gets another shot I think Diaz (if he isn't kicked from the UFC) would be interesting. Wait wait wait....Joe Riggs in a standup war! Yeah baby!
Melvin Guillard - I hope he sticks around the UFC until he can improve, he's got amazing potential. I saw his fight against Josh Neer and he was lighting up Neer. He looked powerful and quick...which is a nice combination to have.
Thiago Alves - A good striker who got caught by Spencer Fisher but was holding his own until then. I'd like to see him against Guillard or Cummo.
Lightweight
Mark Hominick - A win over one-time champ Edwards puts him right here. But will Pulver come back?
Yves Edwards - Edwards was shocked by Hominick so maybe his next fight is Stout? Take it out on another Canadian eh?
Sean Sherk - Sherk looked pretty damn good against Diaz. His handspeed was excellent on the standup and he looked pretty comfortable. At 155 he will be devastating.
Sam Stout - Right about here I would think. I think he would lose to Stevenson so Edwards would be a better matchup.
Spencer Fisher - He lost but he took the fight on ultra short notice and had to cut a lot of weight so he doesn't drop much. That and there aren't really any proven guys behind him.
Kenny Florian - I guess he kind of stays still after not fighting.
Duane Ludwig - Ludwig against Edwards would be a nice fight.
Luke Cummo - I want to see Cummo fighting and soon! Him and Ludwig would be a nice fight or maybe Fisher. He's set to fight Jason Von Flue which should be good. Jason is the underestimated guy who just keep winning. I think Cummo gets him though, he's just too focussed and too dedicated.
Melvin Guilliard - Not sure if this is do-able or not but it could allow him some breathing room for away from the welterweights but then again with so many people coming down here maybe he'd be better at 170.
Thursday, March 30, 2006
New Talent for the UFC
the following are some fighters that i could see the UFC bringing in to their ranks, guys who would make a splash as it were. not being a part of the UFC i do not know anything about the money and obligation aspect of things and so i cannot say that these guys are are likely to come just that it would make good sense. i think with the bringing back of bj penn and royce gracie te UFC has shown a willingness, maybe a even a newfoundone, to bring in guys to compete in addition to cultivating the younger talent that they have been working on from the TUF shows.
KAZUSHI SAKURABA
This guy is a true showman. I've only seen some of his fights but I can't think of too many people who are as fun to watch for fans as this man. His fight against Rampage Jackson is one of my all time favorites. He's a jiu-jitsu guy who shows a mastery of grappling as well as a good standup game, if not a punishing one. Sakuraba is just exceedingly clever and is a tough warrior. Sakuraba isn't young at 37 or so but i'd bet he's got enough in the tank to shake things up in the UFC ranks easily. He's not a champion in Pride as far as I know so why not pack it up and come to the states. I know he would be a fan favorite in no time. I believe he goes about 190 so he'd probably have to drop to 185 but I can see him giving Rich Franklin all he can hanlde and then probably a little more!
RAMPAGE JACKSON
At middlewieght or light heavyweight Rampage would be a contender. Rampage is known for his slams and his power, for those of you not in the know, on these over seas fighters but he has a pretty good all around game. He can use his knees knows some submission defense has a good sprawl and he's beaten the Iceman. Nice resume topper there. Jackson is a nother guy that would just blow up over here in the US. I've heard rumors to this effect already.
MIRKO 'CRO COP' FILIPOVIC
Cro Cop has been kicking ass in Pride for a long time but can he bet Fedor? He's lost his only chance thus far and if he were to lose again he might be better off coming to America and showing his skills. At either light heavyweight or heavyweight he would come in and be number one contender and quite possibly take the belt from whoever he faces. He's that good.
ALEKSANDER EMELIANENKO
At 6'6 250 pounds this guy is huge. His brother is the reigning heavyweight champ in Pride so there's little room to move up for Aleksander. He's another guy that would be a title contender immediately in UFC and a showdown with Andrei Arlovski would be HUGE.
HEATH HERRING
I have seen very little of Herring other than when he KO'd that Japanese guy who kissed him right before their fight but rumor has it he could come to the UFC and he would be a top contender immediately and it could be quite a homecoming for the 6'4 250 pounder.
KAZUSHI SAKURABA
This guy is a true showman. I've only seen some of his fights but I can't think of too many people who are as fun to watch for fans as this man. His fight against Rampage Jackson is one of my all time favorites. He's a jiu-jitsu guy who shows a mastery of grappling as well as a good standup game, if not a punishing one. Sakuraba is just exceedingly clever and is a tough warrior. Sakuraba isn't young at 37 or so but i'd bet he's got enough in the tank to shake things up in the UFC ranks easily. He's not a champion in Pride as far as I know so why not pack it up and come to the states. I know he would be a fan favorite in no time. I believe he goes about 190 so he'd probably have to drop to 185 but I can see him giving Rich Franklin all he can hanlde and then probably a little more!
RAMPAGE JACKSON
At middlewieght or light heavyweight Rampage would be a contender. Rampage is known for his slams and his power, for those of you not in the know, on these over seas fighters but he has a pretty good all around game. He can use his knees knows some submission defense has a good sprawl and he's beaten the Iceman. Nice resume topper there. Jackson is a nother guy that would just blow up over here in the US. I've heard rumors to this effect already.
MIRKO 'CRO COP' FILIPOVIC
Cro Cop has been kicking ass in Pride for a long time but can he bet Fedor? He's lost his only chance thus far and if he were to lose again he might be better off coming to America and showing his skills. At either light heavyweight or heavyweight he would come in and be number one contender and quite possibly take the belt from whoever he faces. He's that good.
ALEKSANDER EMELIANENKO
At 6'6 250 pounds this guy is huge. His brother is the reigning heavyweight champ in Pride so there's little room to move up for Aleksander. He's another guy that would be a title contender immediately in UFC and a showdown with Andrei Arlovski would be HUGE.
HEATH HERRING
I have seen very little of Herring other than when he KO'd that Japanese guy who kissed him right before their fight but rumor has it he could come to the UFC and he would be a top contender immediately and it could be quite a homecoming for the 6'4 250 pounder.
Sunday, March 05, 2006
Power Rankings 3/5/06
Okay here are the Following the Flow Power Rankings. The fighters in each class are listed in a rough ranking with comments on the side. This isn't a pure talent level ranking system as that is not the only factor in determining who gets a title shot. Drawing ability is an important part of the decision making process on who fights who.
Heavyweight
Arlovski - Arlovski may be the best all around fighter in the UFC and physically is a monster. The second fight between he and Sylvia I suspect will end much like the first though I will go out on a limb and say knockout for AA.
Tim Sylvia - Tim gets another chance to take back a belt that he once had. I don't see it happening to be honest but I suppose there is a chance. This should be a nice little boxing clinic though.
Paul Buentello - I think we'll see the Headhunter against Sylvia or Mir pretty soon. Personally I think Sylvia would be the better fight. Lots of hands but that reach would be hard to deal with. Ass. Silva would be another nice fight.
Jeff Monson - Hell he might get a title shot if the UFC doesn't come up with some better talent. Looks like he will be facing Cruz, who beat Mir, soon in a grapple to the death showdown. Cool.
Marcio Cruz - a consummate grappler who will be tested against Monson and we can see not only what he has but guage if Mir came back too early or ir Cruz is the real deal.
Frank Mir - A crushing loss to an fellow grappler will knock Mir down a peg or two. Both in ego and in these rankings.
Assuerio Silva - A poor debut puts this guy below any other legit contenders but he is still better than 90% of the other heavyweights that the UFC can muster.
Brandon Vera - He's more suited for LHW but with the dearth of talent in this division he's a player. Mir or Sylvia would be a big jump up in competition so maybe he gets a shot at Ass. Silva or Monson. Silva would be best for Vera, if he gets in trouble he can try and take it to the ground. Monson would probably maul him because of the strength disparity.
Tom Murphy - With the dearth of contenders here Murphy might just have an opportunity at some big time names.
Brad Imes - Faces Gabrial Gonzaga, he of the most boring fight ever. My money is on Imes and I hope Gonzaga is willing to do some work this time.
Wesley Correira - I want to see more Cabbage. He's not on par with the division heavies but the next tier would be fine. Buentello, Vera...
Light heavyweight
Chuck Liddell - Liddell vs Sobral at UFC 61 i'm guessing.
Renato Sobral - Babalu deserves the next title shot and i'd like to see that rematch. Sobral isn't the same kid he was when he lost the first time. If Griffin wins it will be interesting to see who fights Liddel. I would hope Renato would get the shot. Rumor has it he's fighting Marvin Eastman next. Wha?! Shonie Carter wasn't available? Jeez. Deserves a title shot gets a can. S'okay Renato we know you're the man.
Tito Ortiz - I hope Ortiz doesn't turn UFC into WWE. He should have a good win against Griffin but Forrest is tricky so we'll see. Liddell/Ortiz 2 does look like a heck of a fight.
Ken Shamrock - I don't think he's going to beat Tito so look for him to face someone like Babalu or one of the TUF guys, if he doesn't retire like Randy.
Forrest Griffin - I think Griffin has a shot at beating Tito. Forrest has the better standup and if he can keep Tito up with good sprawl or good knees he can pick him apart. If not then he has an outside shot at a submission. I don't see a knockout happening at all. Another thing to consider is that Griffin has been training with some of the heavies in the UFC so there is no telling where he is ability-wise right now.
Stephan Bonnar - I suspect if Griffin loses to Ortiz we'll see Griffin/Bonnar 2. In the meantime it's Bonnar against fellow TUF alumn Jardine in what should be a standup battle until and unless Bonnar gets worried then to the ground and submission win.
Alessio Sakara - I'm not sure where to put this guy but I am intrigued and want to see more. Looks like he'll be fighting Dean Lister soon which means we'll see more of his groundgame and sprawl. If they're there this guy could go far.
Rashad Evans - Still waiting to see who is first test will be. Hoger would be a good choice. Booya! I nailed that one. Evans hasn't beaten anybody who looked decent so this could be a stiff test for him. Evans has great grappling, he's quick and strong and shows potential with his boxing. If he loses does he bulk up to HW?
Sam Hoger - I think this guy could very well be a title contender one day, there's potential is all i'm saying. Set to fight Rashad Evans and that could be an interesting fight. If Hoger wins it will push him into the lower upper half of the division. If he loses he could be gone for a looong time. He could surprise Evans.
Keith Jardine - I hope Jardine found a ground game or else Bonnar will submit him if things get rough in the striking game.
Middleweight
Rich Franklin - There's a chance we'll have a new champ, honest. Not a big chance mind you but a chance. Personally I think Franklin will pick the Canadian apart with his footwork. I pretty much hit that one 'on the button'. Marquardt will be next barring something bizarre or someone being brought it in.
Nate Marquardt - I suspect that this will be the next contender for Franklin's title. His hands might not be a quick as Loiseau's but maybe a little heavier. He's got a few KOs on his record but 2 are with knees. Being a black belt in jiu-jitsu and training Muay Thai for years (according to an interview) I think Marquardt's all around game is better than the Crow so this could be a dangerous fight for Franklin.
David Loiseau - Loiseau gets bumped down a little after losing to the champ but he showed a lot fo toughness and heart and drew out Franklin's first decision win so he doesn't fall far. I see Loiseau/Marquardt looming large in the future and I can't wait. Chris Leben would be another good choice for a fight.
Jeremy Horn - I don't know if Horn and Franklin would fight each other. I could see Marquardt against Horn for a title shot but it probably won't happen that way. Horn against Evans would be a great fight. Come one UFC make it happen! Dude, I SO called this one. Joe Silva, call me brother!!! I can do this stuff all night long like Lionel Ritchie. And I can type!! Hell i'll be your secretary if need be, no skirts. Yes that's a firm rule.
Evan Tanner - Tanner against Horn. Two cagey veterans with UFC history.....eh? Good stuff right? Sorry Evan I have to take Horn on this one, you know how it is.
Chris Leben - Leben is ready for a stiffer test. Rumor has it that he'll be fighting Riggs, presumably at 185 pounds. I'll take Leben.
Joe Doerksen- Doerksen doesn't seem to be a contender but would be a stiff test for just about anyone in the division.
Mike Swick - So he does have a ground game!
Joe Riggs - Fresh off beating Nick Diaz, Riggs deserves another fight soon. I personally don't think he's ready to be an upper echelong guy yet. Chris Leben huh? This will be a brawl and could get ugly. Thank you UFC!
Nate Quarry - I'd like to see Quarry back in the octagon. He fell quite a bit in my rankings but he never was a true top contender so I guess that is what happens. Doerksen would be good or one of the two veterans, Tanner and Horn. Okay maybe someone else for starters. Swick? Prangley?
Robbie Lawler - I'd like to see Ruthless back fighting. He's so damn quick. Lawler vs Swick....eh?..eh?
Trevor Prangley - Another guy who has been around but not beaten anyone of note.
Dave Terrell - The kid could have a future. He beat Matt Lindland but lost to Evan Tanner. Still a loss to Tanner isn't so bad.
Chael Sonnen - Hasn't been anyone of note and I expect him to get beat by Trevor Prangly, again.
Scott Smith - Dude gets a crack at the big show against Terrell. Should be a decent matchup, they seem about even
Welterweight
Matt Hughes - I think Hughes will pound out Gracie in short order but Gracie is no stranger to being the underdog.
George St. Pierre - I'm taking GSP over Penn but it's hard. I nailed this one too. It's kind of a shame that Karo loses the number one contender slot without losing fight but Rush did take out Penn so this is the reality of the situation.
Carlos Newton - Rumor has it...okay I guess Newton said it...that he's coming back against a TBD opponent. Penn or Diaz maybe? Kind of soon for Penn though since he just fought.
Karo Parisyan - Who does Karo fight if not the champ? BJ Penn maybe? That would be interesting. MMAWeekly has it rumored that he'll be fighting Nick Thompson. Hell i'll just be happy to see Karo fighting. God it's me again...please tell me Karo has been working some standup...
BJ Penn - What now for the former champ? A drop down to lightweight or a shot at Parisyan? Maybe a shot at Gracie if when he loses to Hughes?
Diego Sanchez - Diego whould get a shot at someone higher up than him. Parisyan, Penn or Sherk. Okay I don't have Sherk ranked higher but he is a more proven warrior.
Sean Sherk - Hmmm he deserves a fight somewhere. A rematch against Karo who he's beaten twice would be nice. Fighting Nick Diaz soon that will be interesting.
Josh Koscheck - Fights Ansar Chalangove soon, that will be a stiff test for the TUF guy.
Josh Burkman - He's looked real impressive in his wins but then again so did Quarry. Next fight is John Fitch who I know nothing about but I will take Burkman for the hell of it. He has looked good.
Nick Diaz - He's lost two in a row but to decent fighters, even though Riggs was on a big skid. Not to mention he apparently knocked out Riggs in the E/R after their fight so who knows what happens. I love Diaz's ability but I hate his attitude and that is a common feeling as far as I can tell. Looks he might be fighting Sean Sherk who's been the forgotten man lately. This will end up on the ground but I have to take Diaz either way. Diaz might try to keep this standing and pound out a decisive victory to ensure he stays in the UFC. He's got to be on thin ice even if he doesn't really understand.
Joe Stevenson - A great groundgame and excellent takedowns. Will be taking on Josh Neer and I expect a win from "Daddy".
Drew Fickett - I flat out don't like this guy. Good job Burkman! He faces Thiago Alves next. C'mon Thiago deliver unto 'the master' a Brazillian buttwhooping of the highest order.
Kit Cope - Work on that ground game man. If he gets another shot I think Diaz (if he isn't kicked from the UFC) would be interesting. Wait wait wait....Joe Riggs in a standup war! Yeah baby!
Melvin Guillard - I hope he sticks around the UFC until he can improve, he's got amazing potential. I saw his fight against Josh Neer and he was lighting up Neer. He looked powerful and quick...which is a nice combination to have.
Thiago Alves - A good striker who got caught by Spencer Fisher but was holding his own until then. I'd like to see him against Guillard or Cummo.
Lightweight
Jens Pulver - Lil Evil was the reigning champ so it will be interesting to see if he comes back to reclaim the title.
Mark Hominick - A win over one-time champ Edwards puts him right here. But will Pulver come back?
Yves Edwards - Edwards was shocked by Hominick so maybe his next fight is Stout? Take it out on another Canadian eh?
Sam Stout - Right about here I would think. I think he would lose to Stevenson so Edwards would be a better matchup.
Spencer Fisher - He lost but he took the fight on ultra short notice and had to cut a lot of weight so he doesn't drop much. That and there aren't really any proven guys behind him.
Kenny Florian - I guess he kind of stays still after not fighting.
Duane Ludwig - Ludwig against Edwards would be a nice fight.
Luke Cummo - I want to see Cummo fighting and soon! Him and Ludwig would be a nice fight or maybe Fisher. He's set to fight Jason Von Flue which should be good. Jason is the underestimated guy who just keep winning. I think Cummo gets him though, he's just too focussed and too dedicated.
Hermes Franca - A Jiu-Jitsu wiz who hopefully we'll see in UFC again.
Marcus Davis - Another TUF guy who could get a call. He would be good against Cummo. That would be a nice standup battle.
Melvin Guilliard - Not sure if this is do-able or not but it could allow him some breathing room for away from the welterweights but then again with so many people coming down here maybe he'd be better at 170.
Heavyweight
Arlovski - Arlovski may be the best all around fighter in the UFC and physically is a monster. The second fight between he and Sylvia I suspect will end much like the first though I will go out on a limb and say knockout for AA.
Tim Sylvia - Tim gets another chance to take back a belt that he once had. I don't see it happening to be honest but I suppose there is a chance. This should be a nice little boxing clinic though.
Paul Buentello - I think we'll see the Headhunter against Sylvia or Mir pretty soon. Personally I think Sylvia would be the better fight. Lots of hands but that reach would be hard to deal with. Ass. Silva would be another nice fight.
Jeff Monson - Hell he might get a title shot if the UFC doesn't come up with some better talent. Looks like he will be facing Cruz, who beat Mir, soon in a grapple to the death showdown. Cool.
Marcio Cruz - a consummate grappler who will be tested against Monson and we can see not only what he has but guage if Mir came back too early or ir Cruz is the real deal.
Frank Mir - A crushing loss to an fellow grappler will knock Mir down a peg or two. Both in ego and in these rankings.
Assuerio Silva - A poor debut puts this guy below any other legit contenders but he is still better than 90% of the other heavyweights that the UFC can muster.
Brandon Vera - He's more suited for LHW but with the dearth of talent in this division he's a player. Mir or Sylvia would be a big jump up in competition so maybe he gets a shot at Ass. Silva or Monson. Silva would be best for Vera, if he gets in trouble he can try and take it to the ground. Monson would probably maul him because of the strength disparity.
Tom Murphy - With the dearth of contenders here Murphy might just have an opportunity at some big time names.
Brad Imes - Faces Gabrial Gonzaga, he of the most boring fight ever. My money is on Imes and I hope Gonzaga is willing to do some work this time.
Wesley Correira - I want to see more Cabbage. He's not on par with the division heavies but the next tier would be fine. Buentello, Vera...
Light heavyweight
Chuck Liddell - Liddell vs Sobral at UFC 61 i'm guessing.
Renato Sobral - Babalu deserves the next title shot and i'd like to see that rematch. Sobral isn't the same kid he was when he lost the first time. If Griffin wins it will be interesting to see who fights Liddel. I would hope Renato would get the shot. Rumor has it he's fighting Marvin Eastman next. Wha?! Shonie Carter wasn't available? Jeez. Deserves a title shot gets a can. S'okay Renato we know you're the man.
Tito Ortiz - I hope Ortiz doesn't turn UFC into WWE. He should have a good win against Griffin but Forrest is tricky so we'll see. Liddell/Ortiz 2 does look like a heck of a fight.
Ken Shamrock - I don't think he's going to beat Tito so look for him to face someone like Babalu or one of the TUF guys, if he doesn't retire like Randy.
Forrest Griffin - I think Griffin has a shot at beating Tito. Forrest has the better standup and if he can keep Tito up with good sprawl or good knees he can pick him apart. If not then he has an outside shot at a submission. I don't see a knockout happening at all. Another thing to consider is that Griffin has been training with some of the heavies in the UFC so there is no telling where he is ability-wise right now.
Stephan Bonnar - I suspect if Griffin loses to Ortiz we'll see Griffin/Bonnar 2. In the meantime it's Bonnar against fellow TUF alumn Jardine in what should be a standup battle until and unless Bonnar gets worried then to the ground and submission win.
Alessio Sakara - I'm not sure where to put this guy but I am intrigued and want to see more. Looks like he'll be fighting Dean Lister soon which means we'll see more of his groundgame and sprawl. If they're there this guy could go far.
Rashad Evans - Still waiting to see who is first test will be. Hoger would be a good choice. Booya! I nailed that one. Evans hasn't beaten anybody who looked decent so this could be a stiff test for him. Evans has great grappling, he's quick and strong and shows potential with his boxing. If he loses does he bulk up to HW?
Sam Hoger - I think this guy could very well be a title contender one day, there's potential is all i'm saying. Set to fight Rashad Evans and that could be an interesting fight. If Hoger wins it will push him into the lower upper half of the division. If he loses he could be gone for a looong time. He could surprise Evans.
Keith Jardine - I hope Jardine found a ground game or else Bonnar will submit him if things get rough in the striking game.
Middleweight
Rich Franklin - There's a chance we'll have a new champ, honest. Not a big chance mind you but a chance. Personally I think Franklin will pick the Canadian apart with his footwork. I pretty much hit that one 'on the button'. Marquardt will be next barring something bizarre or someone being brought it in.
Nate Marquardt - I suspect that this will be the next contender for Franklin's title. His hands might not be a quick as Loiseau's but maybe a little heavier. He's got a few KOs on his record but 2 are with knees. Being a black belt in jiu-jitsu and training Muay Thai for years (according to an interview) I think Marquardt's all around game is better than the Crow so this could be a dangerous fight for Franklin.
David Loiseau - Loiseau gets bumped down a little after losing to the champ but he showed a lot fo toughness and heart and drew out Franklin's first decision win so he doesn't fall far. I see Loiseau/Marquardt looming large in the future and I can't wait. Chris Leben would be another good choice for a fight.
Jeremy Horn - I don't know if Horn and Franklin would fight each other. I could see Marquardt against Horn for a title shot but it probably won't happen that way. Horn against Evans would be a great fight. Come one UFC make it happen! Dude, I SO called this one. Joe Silva, call me brother!!! I can do this stuff all night long like Lionel Ritchie. And I can type!! Hell i'll be your secretary if need be, no skirts. Yes that's a firm rule.
Evan Tanner - Tanner against Horn. Two cagey veterans with UFC history.....eh? Good stuff right? Sorry Evan I have to take Horn on this one, you know how it is.
Chris Leben - Leben is ready for a stiffer test. Rumor has it that he'll be fighting Riggs, presumably at 185 pounds. I'll take Leben.
Joe Doerksen- Doerksen doesn't seem to be a contender but would be a stiff test for just about anyone in the division.
Mike Swick - So he does have a ground game!
Joe Riggs - Fresh off beating Nick Diaz, Riggs deserves another fight soon. I personally don't think he's ready to be an upper echelong guy yet. Chris Leben huh? This will be a brawl and could get ugly. Thank you UFC!
Nate Quarry - I'd like to see Quarry back in the octagon. He fell quite a bit in my rankings but he never was a true top contender so I guess that is what happens. Doerksen would be good or one of the two veterans, Tanner and Horn. Okay maybe someone else for starters. Swick? Prangley?
Robbie Lawler - I'd like to see Ruthless back fighting. He's so damn quick. Lawler vs Swick....eh?..eh?
Trevor Prangley - Another guy who has been around but not beaten anyone of note.
Dave Terrell - The kid could have a future. He beat Matt Lindland but lost to Evan Tanner. Still a loss to Tanner isn't so bad.
Chael Sonnen - Hasn't been anyone of note and I expect him to get beat by Trevor Prangly, again.
Scott Smith - Dude gets a crack at the big show against Terrell. Should be a decent matchup, they seem about even
Welterweight
Matt Hughes - I think Hughes will pound out Gracie in short order but Gracie is no stranger to being the underdog.
George St. Pierre - I'm taking GSP over Penn but it's hard. I nailed this one too. It's kind of a shame that Karo loses the number one contender slot without losing fight but Rush did take out Penn so this is the reality of the situation.
Carlos Newton - Rumor has it...okay I guess Newton said it...that he's coming back against a TBD opponent. Penn or Diaz maybe? Kind of soon for Penn though since he just fought.
Karo Parisyan - Who does Karo fight if not the champ? BJ Penn maybe? That would be interesting. MMAWeekly has it rumored that he'll be fighting Nick Thompson. Hell i'll just be happy to see Karo fighting. God it's me again...please tell me Karo has been working some standup...
BJ Penn - What now for the former champ? A drop down to lightweight or a shot at Parisyan? Maybe a shot at Gracie if when he loses to Hughes?
Diego Sanchez - Diego whould get a shot at someone higher up than him. Parisyan, Penn or Sherk. Okay I don't have Sherk ranked higher but he is a more proven warrior.
Sean Sherk - Hmmm he deserves a fight somewhere. A rematch against Karo who he's beaten twice would be nice. Fighting Nick Diaz soon that will be interesting.
Josh Koscheck - Fights Ansar Chalangove soon, that will be a stiff test for the TUF guy.
Josh Burkman - He's looked real impressive in his wins but then again so did Quarry. Next fight is John Fitch who I know nothing about but I will take Burkman for the hell of it. He has looked good.
Nick Diaz - He's lost two in a row but to decent fighters, even though Riggs was on a big skid. Not to mention he apparently knocked out Riggs in the E/R after their fight so who knows what happens. I love Diaz's ability but I hate his attitude and that is a common feeling as far as I can tell. Looks he might be fighting Sean Sherk who's been the forgotten man lately. This will end up on the ground but I have to take Diaz either way. Diaz might try to keep this standing and pound out a decisive victory to ensure he stays in the UFC. He's got to be on thin ice even if he doesn't really understand.
Joe Stevenson - A great groundgame and excellent takedowns. Will be taking on Josh Neer and I expect a win from "Daddy".
Drew Fickett - I flat out don't like this guy. Good job Burkman! He faces Thiago Alves next. C'mon Thiago deliver unto 'the master' a Brazillian buttwhooping of the highest order.
Kit Cope - Work on that ground game man. If he gets another shot I think Diaz (if he isn't kicked from the UFC) would be interesting. Wait wait wait....Joe Riggs in a standup war! Yeah baby!
Melvin Guillard - I hope he sticks around the UFC until he can improve, he's got amazing potential. I saw his fight against Josh Neer and he was lighting up Neer. He looked powerful and quick...which is a nice combination to have.
Thiago Alves - A good striker who got caught by Spencer Fisher but was holding his own until then. I'd like to see him against Guillard or Cummo.
Lightweight
Jens Pulver - Lil Evil was the reigning champ so it will be interesting to see if he comes back to reclaim the title.
Mark Hominick - A win over one-time champ Edwards puts him right here. But will Pulver come back?
Yves Edwards - Edwards was shocked by Hominick so maybe his next fight is Stout? Take it out on another Canadian eh?
Sam Stout - Right about here I would think. I think he would lose to Stevenson so Edwards would be a better matchup.
Spencer Fisher - He lost but he took the fight on ultra short notice and had to cut a lot of weight so he doesn't drop much. That and there aren't really any proven guys behind him.
Kenny Florian - I guess he kind of stays still after not fighting.
Duane Ludwig - Ludwig against Edwards would be a nice fight.
Luke Cummo - I want to see Cummo fighting and soon! Him and Ludwig would be a nice fight or maybe Fisher. He's set to fight Jason Von Flue which should be good. Jason is the underestimated guy who just keep winning. I think Cummo gets him though, he's just too focussed and too dedicated.
Hermes Franca - A Jiu-Jitsu wiz who hopefully we'll see in UFC again.
Marcus Davis - Another TUF guy who could get a call. He would be good against Cummo. That would be a nice standup battle.
Melvin Guilliard - Not sure if this is do-able or not but it could allow him some breathing room for away from the welterweights but then again with so many people coming down here maybe he'd be better at 170.
Wednesday, March 01, 2006
Next Generation Fighters
...or as I think of them First Generation MMA fighters. What I am talking about is guys who excel standing and on the ground. When you have that ability the fights become more of a chess match and you see guys weighing their relative strenghts against opponents relative weaknesses. Not to take anything away from Matt Hughes or Diego Sanchez but there really isn't much chess there. You know what they are going to do....can you stop them? Hughes might be getting the short end of the stick here since his striking is hardly ever called upon but then that's the point isn't it? I don't blame the guy for sticking to his bread and butter but neither can I applaude his diversity. Similary is Chuck Liddell. Don't get me wrong I am not trying to say Chuck is a striker and that's all he is but the fact is his greatest non-striking skills are his ability to stay off the mat (i.e sprawl) and to get back off the mat. Not exactly excelling I would say. So here is my list of the guys who can do the job wherever it needs to be done.
Rich Franklin
Probably the benchmark for these guys. Yes he'll stand and trade with you. Trade his darting away from your shots for your eating his hammer hands! If it goes to the ground though Ace goes right to work on submissions and he can ground and pound as well. He even does that stand over a guy and pound on a guy ala Ken Shamrock....hell he did it to Ken Shamrock! And this guy is a workout warrior so ever round he's going to be bringing it. Oh and every round you have to stand up against him for at least a little bit. Hahahahahahaha
Nick Diaz
The guy has a serious attitude problem and to be honest I am not sure I want him polluting the pure thing we have right now in MMA. I do hope he gets his head on straight though because he is a very good all around fighter at a young age. He rolls well, boxes well, has at least some knockout power and is aggressive. Teach the kid some honest respect and the world could be his in a few years.
Andrei Arlovski
Okay so he's the heavyweight champ at 6'3 245, has the punching power you would expect from a guy that size, has like no body fat and has some of the best footwork in MMA?! Damn right it's not fair. He's a lot like Franklin and just like him the chink in his armor, so some proclaim, is a weak chin which may or may not be true but what's not open for debate is the all around skill he brings to the table. The Sylvia fight was probably the best display of that with a nice punch that knocked the big fella down and then finish with the ankle lock. Really it's too bad that Mir lost his fight because I was looking forward to seeing the two roll.
Forrest Griffin
Does the 'hillbilly' get too much publicity for too little accomplishment? Maybe.....maybe even probably but does he have an all around game? Definitely. Maybe more than anyone else. Griffin can box (some), can take a punch (many), works in the clinch (well), has some nice takedowns and is really more of a grappler! He took it to Elvis who is pretty much a veteran grappler, if not a great one. The Bonnar fight really showed some great flashes though. How about when he threw Bonnar off of him, against the fence and then through what could have been a vicious right hand. It looked tentative to be honest but if he had but some mustard on that and meant it.....wow...cue the Sportscenter theme. The guy has a mountain of potential.
David Loiseau
I agonized over this one, really. From what I have seen his ground game consists of really good defense and some ground & pound which makes it debatable on whether he belongs in this group but as he did beat Evan Tanner on the ground I feel obligated to throw him in there.
Brandon Vera
From what little I have seen the guy has a good standup game and is supposed to be better on the ground so I am taking a little bit of a chance on him. He looks well rounded though.
Stephan Bonnar
He's got Golden Gloves boxing trophies, can eat a punch or three and is a jiu-jitsu guy so yeah he fits. He's not as fluid as Griffin nor as good at takedowns but he can win standing or with a sub so he belongs. I do have some questions though, like can he ground and pound and can he knock someone out? If he doesn't have those things maybe he doesn't belong, we'll see.
GSP
The kid shifts fluidly from striking to takedown to grappling and it looks seemless. He seems to have an nice array of punches and kicks but does he have KO power? That's about the only possible hole in his game I can see. As far as transitioning smoothly fron one thing to the other i'd say he's right up there with Rich Franklin and Andrei Arlovksi with Griffin a half-step behind.
Honorable Mention (more to follow)
Nathan Marquardt
Spencer Fisher
Christ Leben
Rich Franklin
Probably the benchmark for these guys. Yes he'll stand and trade with you. Trade his darting away from your shots for your eating his hammer hands! If it goes to the ground though Ace goes right to work on submissions and he can ground and pound as well. He even does that stand over a guy and pound on a guy ala Ken Shamrock....hell he did it to Ken Shamrock! And this guy is a workout warrior so ever round he's going to be bringing it. Oh and every round you have to stand up against him for at least a little bit. Hahahahahahaha
Nick Diaz
The guy has a serious attitude problem and to be honest I am not sure I want him polluting the pure thing we have right now in MMA. I do hope he gets his head on straight though because he is a very good all around fighter at a young age. He rolls well, boxes well, has at least some knockout power and is aggressive. Teach the kid some honest respect and the world could be his in a few years.
Andrei Arlovski
Okay so he's the heavyweight champ at 6'3 245, has the punching power you would expect from a guy that size, has like no body fat and has some of the best footwork in MMA?! Damn right it's not fair. He's a lot like Franklin and just like him the chink in his armor, so some proclaim, is a weak chin which may or may not be true but what's not open for debate is the all around skill he brings to the table. The Sylvia fight was probably the best display of that with a nice punch that knocked the big fella down and then finish with the ankle lock. Really it's too bad that Mir lost his fight because I was looking forward to seeing the two roll.
Forrest Griffin
Does the 'hillbilly' get too much publicity for too little accomplishment? Maybe.....maybe even probably but does he have an all around game? Definitely. Maybe more than anyone else. Griffin can box (some), can take a punch (many), works in the clinch (well), has some nice takedowns and is really more of a grappler! He took it to Elvis who is pretty much a veteran grappler, if not a great one. The Bonnar fight really showed some great flashes though. How about when he threw Bonnar off of him, against the fence and then through what could have been a vicious right hand. It looked tentative to be honest but if he had but some mustard on that and meant it.....wow...cue the Sportscenter theme. The guy has a mountain of potential.
David Loiseau
I agonized over this one, really. From what I have seen his ground game consists of really good defense and some ground & pound which makes it debatable on whether he belongs in this group but as he did beat Evan Tanner on the ground I feel obligated to throw him in there.
Brandon Vera
From what little I have seen the guy has a good standup game and is supposed to be better on the ground so I am taking a little bit of a chance on him. He looks well rounded though.
Stephan Bonnar
He's got Golden Gloves boxing trophies, can eat a punch or three and is a jiu-jitsu guy so yeah he fits. He's not as fluid as Griffin nor as good at takedowns but he can win standing or with a sub so he belongs. I do have some questions though, like can he ground and pound and can he knock someone out? If he doesn't have those things maybe he doesn't belong, we'll see.
GSP
The kid shifts fluidly from striking to takedown to grappling and it looks seemless. He seems to have an nice array of punches and kicks but does he have KO power? That's about the only possible hole in his game I can see. As far as transitioning smoothly fron one thing to the other i'd say he's right up there with Rich Franklin and Andrei Arlovksi with Griffin a half-step behind.
Honorable Mention (more to follow)
Nathan Marquardt
Spencer Fisher
Christ Leben
Sunday, February 26, 2006
UFC 58 USA vs Canada
Far from being a 'who's better' type of scenario the adversarial nature of this pay-per-view just adds a little flavor to what looks like a pretty nice lineup. My predictions follow.
Franklin/Loiseau
Ace is just too well rounded, too smart and in too good of shape to lose unless Loiseau pulls one of his kicks and knocks the champ out. Personally though I don't see it happening. Kicking a guy with some of, if not the, best footwork in MMA is going to difficult.
GSP/Penn
This is a tough one. GSP is tough everywhere but Penn is one of the best on the ground in MMA. GSP should have plenty of motivation because if he loses this one he'll have a loss to Hughes and Penn which would put him behind the eightball in terms of being a contender. He'll need to punish Penn with his striking and keep it there as long as possible. Both have won over some tough competition but Penn has more big names. Still I am going GSP but damn it's hard.
Marquardt/Doerksen
A fight between two veteran guys so this ought to be a good one and can go either way. If I were a betting man my money would be on Marquardt. I think he'll be the next big contender for the middleweight belt.
Swick/Vigneault
I am looking foward to seeing the quick one in action again. I'd like to see his ground game but these are two strikers so I won't hold my breath. Swick has a deadly combination of fast hands (think Belfort) and KO power. I'm picking Swick but to be honest I know nothing about his competitor.
Edwards/Hominick
Return of the lightweights. I have never seen either so I cannot pick one, sorry guys.
Florian/Stout
Florian has a better all around game so I have to chose him but Stout can end it quick so the American will have to watch out.
MacDonald/Lambert
As much as I hated listening to MacDonald cry when he was on TUF he did look pretty decent. Good quickness. I'm taking him but somewhat reluctantly.
Murphy/Midoux
Midoux!
Sanchez/Alessio
Diego by GnP.
Franklin/Loiseau
Ace is just too well rounded, too smart and in too good of shape to lose unless Loiseau pulls one of his kicks and knocks the champ out. Personally though I don't see it happening. Kicking a guy with some of, if not the, best footwork in MMA is going to difficult.
GSP/Penn
This is a tough one. GSP is tough everywhere but Penn is one of the best on the ground in MMA. GSP should have plenty of motivation because if he loses this one he'll have a loss to Hughes and Penn which would put him behind the eightball in terms of being a contender. He'll need to punish Penn with his striking and keep it there as long as possible. Both have won over some tough competition but Penn has more big names. Still I am going GSP but damn it's hard.
Marquardt/Doerksen
A fight between two veteran guys so this ought to be a good one and can go either way. If I were a betting man my money would be on Marquardt. I think he'll be the next big contender for the middleweight belt.
Swick/Vigneault
I am looking foward to seeing the quick one in action again. I'd like to see his ground game but these are two strikers so I won't hold my breath. Swick has a deadly combination of fast hands (think Belfort) and KO power. I'm picking Swick but to be honest I know nothing about his competitor.
Edwards/Hominick
Return of the lightweights. I have never seen either so I cannot pick one, sorry guys.
Florian/Stout
Florian has a better all around game so I have to chose him but Stout can end it quick so the American will have to watch out.
MacDonald/Lambert
As much as I hated listening to MacDonald cry when he was on TUF he did look pretty decent. Good quickness. I'm taking him but somewhat reluctantly.
Murphy/Midoux
Midoux!
Sanchez/Alessio
Diego by GnP.
Lightweights
With UFC bringing back the lighweight division I thought I would give a quick breakdown of who the players are, or could be, at this weight. The welterweight is one of the deepest but will lose some of that depth to the lighweight division but in the long run I think it will be good as both will have experienced contenders and this will let some of the second or third tier guys get some action.
Jens Pulver - Lil Evil was the reigning champ so it will be interesting to see if he comes back to reclaim the title.
Yves Edwards - Edwards looks like the top dog here unless Pulver decides to come back and what a fight that would be!
Mark Hominick - I don't know much about this guy but the fact he's fighting Edwards would indicate some ability.
Spencer Fisher - Another Militech guy but he looks great. A striker with a varied array of submissions and great strike defense from the bottom. He has a bright future ahead of him.
Kenny Florian - KenFlo actually getting to fight at his natural weight? Sweet. The kid is tough and determined unfortunately so far those are the only strengths he has shown on his feet but I think he'll improve.
Joe Stevenson - I think Joe will drop down to here and could be a monster at this weight. A great groundgame and excellent takedowns. His TUF fame puts him higher than some people who might be better or at the least more experienced.
Duane Ludwig - He needs more of a groundgame but he's working with Bas Rutten so he should get there and just ask Goulet if he can really "Bang".
Sam Stout - I don't know much about the Canadian but after he fights KenFlo we'll have a good idea where he stands.
Luke Cummo - I want to see Cummo fighting and soon! Him and Ludwig would be a nice fight or maybe Fisher.
Hermes Franca - A Jiu-Jitsu wiz who hopefully we'll see in UFC again.
Josh Thomson - Another guy we could see back in the UFC.
Marcus Davis - Another TUF guy who could get a call. He would be good against Cummo. That would be a nice standup battle.
Melvin Guilliard - Not sure if this is do-able or not but it could allow him some breathing room for away from the welterweights but then again with so many people coming down here maybe he'd be better at 170.
BJ Penn - If he loses to GSP could Penn come down to lightweight? Hmmm. If so he would be much higher than this believe me.
Jens Pulver - Lil Evil was the reigning champ so it will be interesting to see if he comes back to reclaim the title.
Yves Edwards - Edwards looks like the top dog here unless Pulver decides to come back and what a fight that would be!
Mark Hominick - I don't know much about this guy but the fact he's fighting Edwards would indicate some ability.
Spencer Fisher - Another Militech guy but he looks great. A striker with a varied array of submissions and great strike defense from the bottom. He has a bright future ahead of him.
Kenny Florian - KenFlo actually getting to fight at his natural weight? Sweet. The kid is tough and determined unfortunately so far those are the only strengths he has shown on his feet but I think he'll improve.
Joe Stevenson - I think Joe will drop down to here and could be a monster at this weight. A great groundgame and excellent takedowns. His TUF fame puts him higher than some people who might be better or at the least more experienced.
Duane Ludwig - He needs more of a groundgame but he's working with Bas Rutten so he should get there and just ask Goulet if he can really "Bang".
Sam Stout - I don't know much about the Canadian but after he fights KenFlo we'll have a good idea where he stands.
Luke Cummo - I want to see Cummo fighting and soon! Him and Ludwig would be a nice fight or maybe Fisher.
Hermes Franca - A Jiu-Jitsu wiz who hopefully we'll see in UFC again.
Josh Thomson - Another guy we could see back in the UFC.
Marcus Davis - Another TUF guy who could get a call. He would be good against Cummo. That would be a nice standup battle.
Melvin Guilliard - Not sure if this is do-able or not but it could allow him some breathing room for away from the welterweights but then again with so many people coming down here maybe he'd be better at 170.
BJ Penn - If he loses to GSP could Penn come down to lightweight? Hmmm. If so he would be much higher than this believe me.
Monday, February 06, 2006
Power Rankings 2/6/06
Okay here are the Following the Flow Power Rankings. The fighters in each class are listed in a rough ranking with comments on the side. This isn't a pure talent level ranking system as that is not the only factor in determining who gets a title shot. Drawing ability is an important part of the decision making process on who fights who.
Heavyweight
Arlovski - I read where someone in Sherdog's forums where someone said 'Arlovski is a lion amongst retards.' Endquote. I'm not saying that is dead-on...but it's close enough.
Tim Sylvia - For lack of any other legit contenders in this division a rematch between Sylvia and Arlovski looks inescapable unless some new talent is brought in.
Paul Buentello - I think we'll see the Headhunter against Sylvia or Mir pretty soon. Personally I think Sylvia would be the better fight. Lots of hands.
Frank Mir - A crushing loss to an fellow grappler will knock Mir down a peg or two. Both in ego and in these rankings.
Jeff Monson - Hell he might get a title shot if the UFC doesn't come up with some better talent.
Assuerio Silva - A poor debut puts this guy below any other legit contenders but he is still better than 90% of the other heavyweights that the UFC can muster.
Brandon Vera - He's more suited for LHW but with the dearth of talent in this division he's a player. Mir or Sylvia would be a big jump up in competition so maybe he gets a shot at Ass. Silva or Monson. Silva would be best for Vera, if he gets in trouble he can try and take it to the ground. Monson would probably maul him because of the strength disparity.
Assuerio Silva- He would be fun to watch against Buentello or maybe Monson. He might benefit from fighting someone he can roll through though to get his feet under him.
Brad Imes - He'll see action in the Octagon at some point. Cabbage would be a good first test or maybe Vera.
Wesley Correira - I want to see more Cabbage. He's not on par with the division heavies but the next tier would be fine. Buentello, Vera...
Light heavyweight
Chuck Liddell - ....and still Champion! Congrats to the Iceman. Okay who's next? I'm sure Chuck would say, "whoever." His last fight saw him possibly in his best form so it doesn't look like it matters all that much. Ortiz probably down the road. Sobral before that.
Randy Couture - Randy has officially retired but out of massive amounts of respect I am leaving him on here for the time being and besides I think he'd beat the next guy, Babalu, anyway. A true warrior and champion I sincerely hope the UFC finds something for the Natural to do. He has been the face of the league for a while lets keep him in the spotlight Dana, please!
Renato Sobral - Babalu deserves the next title shot and i'd like to see that rematch. Sobral isn't the same kid he was when he lost the first time.
Tito Ortiz - I hope Ortiz doesn't turn UFC into WWE. His next fight is Griffin one that he should win.
Ken Shamrock - I don't think he's going to beat Tito so look for him to face someone like Babalu or one of the TUF guys, if he doesn't retire like Randy.
Forrest Griffin - I think Griffin has a shot at beating Tito. Forrest has the better standup and if he can keep Tito up with good sprawl or good knees he can pick him apart. If not then he has an outside shot at a submission. I don't see a knockout happening at all. Another thing to consider is that Griffin has been training with some of the heavies in the UFC so there is no telling where he is ability-wise right now. Maybe geographically too but that's another discussion.
Stephan Bonnar - He's too good all around and too smart not to take Irvin to the mat and submit him. ( damn can I pick them or what) Next fight? Babalu or maybe Shamrock, assuming they lose their next fights. And there's always Forrest that would bring in some people but I think it's too soon.
Rashad Evans - Still waiting to see who is first test will be. Hoger would be a good choice. Booya! I nailed that one. Evans hasn't beaten anybody who looked decent so this could be a stiff test for him. Evans has great grappling, he's quick and strong and shows potential with his boxing. If he loses does he bulk up to HW?
Sam Hoger - I think this guy could very well be a title contender one day. Set to fight Rashad Evans and that could be an interesting fight. If Hoger wins it will push him into the lower upper half of the division. If he loses he could be gone for a looong time.
James Irvin - Sam Hoger would be a decent fight but then again Hoger would just do the same thing Bonnar did. How about TUF fighter Keith Jardine in a standup battle or maybe throw Irvin to Evans and see if Irvin has gotten the point that you can't live in the UFC without a groundgame.
Travis Wiuff - Might want to think about going up to heavyweight where there is more room to breathe. Evans would be a good matchup.
Keith Jardine - Nice win over Whitehead who continues to disappoint. I like Jardine I hope he's got a groundgame now.
Middleweight
Rich Franklin - I CAN'T WAIT FOR FRANKLIN/LOISEAU. There's a chance we'll have a new champ, honest. Not a big chance mind you but a chance. Personally I think Franklin will pick the Canadian apart with his footwork and we all know if you leave one opening against Ace you wake up a few minutes later and have to watch the replay.
David Loiseau - The standup portion of Loiseau/Franklin will be beautiful. Does the Crow have a ground game to match the champ though? Can he kick someone as light on their feet as Franklin?
Jeremy Horn - Horn has been on the skids lately but he's got ability so I say either the loser of Franklin/Loiseau or Marquardt if Nate wins he gets next title shot.
Nate Marquardt - I think this guy will be champ one day. I think he deserves a shot at anyone above him on this list as long as its confirmed that he fights clean, no doping.
Evan Tanner - Have Evan and Jeremy ever fought? Two cagey veterans with UFC history.....eh? Good stuff right?
Joe Doerksen- A seasoned vet who has to beat a tough Marquardt if he wants to be a player in the middleweights.
Chris Leben - Leben is ready for a stiffer test. Horn? Tanner you say? Hmm interesting.
Nate Quarry - This guy has skill despite the fact that he was so thoroughly owned by Rich Franklin. I doubt he'd fight Leben, though I could be wrong, so maybe Tanner or Horn.
Robbie Lawler - I'd like to see Ruthless back fighting. He's so damn quick. Lawler vs Swick....eh?..eh?
Mike Swick - Has a torn MCL so will be out a while but man I can't wait to see him fight again. Talk about fast hands.
Welterweight
Matt Hughes - Are you kidding me? Royce Gracie?? Wow. I'll take Hughes but damn I hate going against an underdog like Royce.
Karo Parisyan - Will Karo get the title shot again, he got injured before the fight last time and GSP is so popular. Regardless Karo needs better striking. He swings wild and lets his aggression carry him on the feet and that kind of glaring weakness will get you beat down one day. Realistically GSP is better than Parisyan at this point in their careers but Karo was due for a shot and Hughes already beat St. Pierre once so he goes higher in my ranking.
George St. Pierre - GSP is so good everywhere. If Karo does fight Hughes then GSP should fight Penn. (damn did i call that or what! i'm taking GSP over Penn but it's hard.)
BJ Penn - Okay so if Penn loses to GSP and Gracie loses then maybe, just maybe we get Penn vs Gracie? Yeah baby!! Should Penn be higher than GSP and Karo? Maybe but until he fights in the Octagon again he goes right about here.
Diego Sanchez - Diego needs a fight against a bigger name guy too. Josh Burkman called him out but that would be in effect a step backward for Diego. Maybe he gets Parisyan who seems to be out in the cold right now. Sherk is another possibility.
Sean Sherk - I took some flak from some Sherdoggers on having Sherk too low but they were right for the most part. He's got a ton of experience but no name victories other than two wins over Karo back in 2000 & 2001. Karo must have been like 19 or something. Still Sherk is a legit fighter. Koscheck would be a good matchup, maybe Diaz or Stevenson too.
Joe Riggs - Just keeps losing. Someone throw this guy a can! Damn they threw him a Diaz and he won, nice job.
Joe Stevenson - I still want Stevenson/Sanchez but i'll take Stevenson/Burkman
Josh Koscheck - Koscheck/Stevenson would be fun to watch.
Spencer Fisher - I'm somewhat impressed with this guy. He wants to stand and strike with you but if it goes to the ground he has very good defense to wait it out until he can get a submission.
Kenny Florian - I'd like to see KenFlo against Diaz.
Josh Burkman - He's looked real impressive in his wins but then again so did Quarry.
Nick Diaz - He's lost two in a row but to decent fighters, even though Riggs was on a big skid. Not to mention he apparently knocked out Riggs in the E/R after their fight so who knows what happens. I love Diaz's ability but I hate his attitude and that is a common feeling as far as I can tell.
Drew Fickett - I flat out don't like this guy. Good job Burkman!
Luke Cummo - I want Cummo versus Florian. Wouldn't mind seeing him whip up on Fickett either.
Duane Ludwig - Dude knocked Goulet the f*** out! Him against Cummo would be a great fight.
Kit Cope - Work on that ground game man. Cope vs Cummo could be something to see.
Melvin Guillard - I hope he sticks around the UFC until he can improve, he's got amazing potential.
Heavyweight
Arlovski - I read where someone in Sherdog's forums where someone said 'Arlovski is a lion amongst retards.' Endquote. I'm not saying that is dead-on...but it's close enough.
Tim Sylvia - For lack of any other legit contenders in this division a rematch between Sylvia and Arlovski looks inescapable unless some new talent is brought in.
Paul Buentello - I think we'll see the Headhunter against Sylvia or Mir pretty soon. Personally I think Sylvia would be the better fight. Lots of hands.
Frank Mir - A crushing loss to an fellow grappler will knock Mir down a peg or two. Both in ego and in these rankings.
Jeff Monson - Hell he might get a title shot if the UFC doesn't come up with some better talent.
Assuerio Silva - A poor debut puts this guy below any other legit contenders but he is still better than 90% of the other heavyweights that the UFC can muster.
Brandon Vera - He's more suited for LHW but with the dearth of talent in this division he's a player. Mir or Sylvia would be a big jump up in competition so maybe he gets a shot at Ass. Silva or Monson. Silva would be best for Vera, if he gets in trouble he can try and take it to the ground. Monson would probably maul him because of the strength disparity.
Assuerio Silva- He would be fun to watch against Buentello or maybe Monson. He might benefit from fighting someone he can roll through though to get his feet under him.
Brad Imes - He'll see action in the Octagon at some point. Cabbage would be a good first test or maybe Vera.
Wesley Correira - I want to see more Cabbage. He's not on par with the division heavies but the next tier would be fine. Buentello, Vera...
Light heavyweight
Chuck Liddell - ....and still Champion! Congrats to the Iceman. Okay who's next? I'm sure Chuck would say, "whoever." His last fight saw him possibly in his best form so it doesn't look like it matters all that much. Ortiz probably down the road. Sobral before that.
Randy Couture - Randy has officially retired but out of massive amounts of respect I am leaving him on here for the time being and besides I think he'd beat the next guy, Babalu, anyway. A true warrior and champion I sincerely hope the UFC finds something for the Natural to do. He has been the face of the league for a while lets keep him in the spotlight Dana, please!
Renato Sobral - Babalu deserves the next title shot and i'd like to see that rematch. Sobral isn't the same kid he was when he lost the first time.
Tito Ortiz - I hope Ortiz doesn't turn UFC into WWE. His next fight is Griffin one that he should win.
Ken Shamrock - I don't think he's going to beat Tito so look for him to face someone like Babalu or one of the TUF guys, if he doesn't retire like Randy.
Forrest Griffin - I think Griffin has a shot at beating Tito. Forrest has the better standup and if he can keep Tito up with good sprawl or good knees he can pick him apart. If not then he has an outside shot at a submission. I don't see a knockout happening at all. Another thing to consider is that Griffin has been training with some of the heavies in the UFC so there is no telling where he is ability-wise right now. Maybe geographically too but that's another discussion.
Stephan Bonnar - He's too good all around and too smart not to take Irvin to the mat and submit him. ( damn can I pick them or what) Next fight? Babalu or maybe Shamrock, assuming they lose their next fights. And there's always Forrest that would bring in some people but I think it's too soon.
Rashad Evans - Still waiting to see who is first test will be. Hoger would be a good choice. Booya! I nailed that one. Evans hasn't beaten anybody who looked decent so this could be a stiff test for him. Evans has great grappling, he's quick and strong and shows potential with his boxing. If he loses does he bulk up to HW?
Sam Hoger - I think this guy could very well be a title contender one day. Set to fight Rashad Evans and that could be an interesting fight. If Hoger wins it will push him into the lower upper half of the division. If he loses he could be gone for a looong time.
James Irvin - Sam Hoger would be a decent fight but then again Hoger would just do the same thing Bonnar did. How about TUF fighter Keith Jardine in a standup battle or maybe throw Irvin to Evans and see if Irvin has gotten the point that you can't live in the UFC without a groundgame.
Travis Wiuff - Might want to think about going up to heavyweight where there is more room to breathe. Evans would be a good matchup.
Keith Jardine - Nice win over Whitehead who continues to disappoint. I like Jardine I hope he's got a groundgame now.
Middleweight
Rich Franklin - I CAN'T WAIT FOR FRANKLIN/LOISEAU. There's a chance we'll have a new champ, honest. Not a big chance mind you but a chance. Personally I think Franklin will pick the Canadian apart with his footwork and we all know if you leave one opening against Ace you wake up a few minutes later and have to watch the replay.
David Loiseau - The standup portion of Loiseau/Franklin will be beautiful. Does the Crow have a ground game to match the champ though? Can he kick someone as light on their feet as Franklin?
Jeremy Horn - Horn has been on the skids lately but he's got ability so I say either the loser of Franklin/Loiseau or Marquardt if Nate wins he gets next title shot.
Nate Marquardt - I think this guy will be champ one day. I think he deserves a shot at anyone above him on this list as long as its confirmed that he fights clean, no doping.
Evan Tanner - Have Evan and Jeremy ever fought? Two cagey veterans with UFC history.....eh? Good stuff right?
Joe Doerksen- A seasoned vet who has to beat a tough Marquardt if he wants to be a player in the middleweights.
Chris Leben - Leben is ready for a stiffer test. Horn? Tanner you say? Hmm interesting.
Nate Quarry - This guy has skill despite the fact that he was so thoroughly owned by Rich Franklin. I doubt he'd fight Leben, though I could be wrong, so maybe Tanner or Horn.
Robbie Lawler - I'd like to see Ruthless back fighting. He's so damn quick. Lawler vs Swick....eh?..eh?
Mike Swick - Has a torn MCL so will be out a while but man I can't wait to see him fight again. Talk about fast hands.
Welterweight
Matt Hughes - Are you kidding me? Royce Gracie?? Wow. I'll take Hughes but damn I hate going against an underdog like Royce.
Karo Parisyan - Will Karo get the title shot again, he got injured before the fight last time and GSP is so popular. Regardless Karo needs better striking. He swings wild and lets his aggression carry him on the feet and that kind of glaring weakness will get you beat down one day. Realistically GSP is better than Parisyan at this point in their careers but Karo was due for a shot and Hughes already beat St. Pierre once so he goes higher in my ranking.
George St. Pierre - GSP is so good everywhere. If Karo does fight Hughes then GSP should fight Penn. (damn did i call that or what! i'm taking GSP over Penn but it's hard.)
BJ Penn - Okay so if Penn loses to GSP and Gracie loses then maybe, just maybe we get Penn vs Gracie? Yeah baby!! Should Penn be higher than GSP and Karo? Maybe but until he fights in the Octagon again he goes right about here.
Diego Sanchez - Diego needs a fight against a bigger name guy too. Josh Burkman called him out but that would be in effect a step backward for Diego. Maybe he gets Parisyan who seems to be out in the cold right now. Sherk is another possibility.
Sean Sherk - I took some flak from some Sherdoggers on having Sherk too low but they were right for the most part. He's got a ton of experience but no name victories other than two wins over Karo back in 2000 & 2001. Karo must have been like 19 or something. Still Sherk is a legit fighter. Koscheck would be a good matchup, maybe Diaz or Stevenson too.
Joe Riggs - Just keeps losing. Someone throw this guy a can! Damn they threw him a Diaz and he won, nice job.
Joe Stevenson - I still want Stevenson/Sanchez but i'll take Stevenson/Burkman
Josh Koscheck - Koscheck/Stevenson would be fun to watch.
Spencer Fisher - I'm somewhat impressed with this guy. He wants to stand and strike with you but if it goes to the ground he has very good defense to wait it out until he can get a submission.
Kenny Florian - I'd like to see KenFlo against Diaz.
Josh Burkman - He's looked real impressive in his wins but then again so did Quarry.
Nick Diaz - He's lost two in a row but to decent fighters, even though Riggs was on a big skid. Not to mention he apparently knocked out Riggs in the E/R after their fight so who knows what happens. I love Diaz's ability but I hate his attitude and that is a common feeling as far as I can tell.
Drew Fickett - I flat out don't like this guy. Good job Burkman!
Luke Cummo - I want Cummo versus Florian. Wouldn't mind seeing him whip up on Fickett either.
Duane Ludwig - Dude knocked Goulet the f*** out! Him against Cummo would be a great fight.
Kit Cope - Work on that ground game man. Cope vs Cummo could be something to see.
Melvin Guillard - I hope he sticks around the UFC until he can improve, he's got amazing potential.
Friday, January 20, 2006
Power Rankings 1/20/06
Okay here are the Following the Flow Power Rankings. The fighters in each class are listed in a rough ranking with comments on the side. This isn't a pure talent level ranking system as that is not the only factor in determining who gets a title shot. Drawing ability is an important part of the decision making process on who fights who.
Heavyweight
Arlovski - I read where someone in Sherdog's forums where someone said 'Arlovski is a lion amongst retards.' Endquote. I'm not saying that is dead on...but it's close enough.
Frank Mir - As former champion Mir is the clear number one contender and he is an amazing jiu-jitsu guy. I think he ranks up there with the best in the business at this point, assuming he regains form after his accident. The win over Pete Wiliams and the one over Tank Abbott show how he can control his opponents body with his own masterfully. Think Jeremy Horn but big and strong and ultra-aggressive. (i'm boycotting the term 'uber'......yuck)
Rizzo - UFC is interested in bringing back the big names that were around at the beginning and it is a good strategy and makes this something to keep an eye out for. If it does shake out that Rizzo comes back he most likely gets a title shot to start with. Rizzo/Arlovski 2 would be something to behold. I doubt Arlovski would have any trouble getting up for that fight.
Tim Sylvia - Having lost to AA once Sylvia is just a tier below the number one contender but unless something big happens he will probably get the next title shot.
Gan McGee - I'm not sure of this guys status but I am putting him down more as a suggestion. UFC needs heavyweights, he is one.
Brandon Vera - This guy looks good. He has mentioned fighting lighter but this is the best spot I think. He's upper half in this division. Vera vs. Buentello. But if he loses to Buentello then it tarnishes the record of a young up and comer and they are like gold to the UFC right now.
Paul Buentello - I would like to see Buentello vs Sylvia in a battle of hands. He might not be number one contender quality but he's got skills
Jeff Monson - Could see action against Buentello or maybe Mir after he loses to AA.
Wesley Correira - I want to see more Cabbage. He's not on par with the division heavies but the next tier would be fine. Buentello, Vera...
Assuerio Silva- He would be fun to watch against Buentello or maybe Monson.
Tra Telligman - Telligman really won't do more than provide a test for some up and comer.
Rashad Evans - A guy that talked about going lighter. Heavier would be better.
Keith Jardine - Another guy that talked about going lighter. Heavier would be better.
Kerry Schall - Trains with Franklin so could get a call for a fight anytime. I have no idea if he's any good. Hey, i'm honest.
Brad Imes - He'll see action in the Octagon at some point. Schall would be a good matchup or Eilers...though I think they train together.
Light heavyweight
Liddell - I think Liddell keeps his belt and probably fights Babalu next with the winner of Ortiz/Shamrock on the horizon.
Couture - If Randy wins then Liddell/Couture 4 could be around the corner. Though I admit I would have to think about hanging myself. If he loses....can you say Couture vs Shamrock?! Or Ortiz.
Tito Ortiz - I hope Ortiz doesn't turn UFC into WWE. His next fight is Griffin one that he should win.
Ken Shamrock - I don't think he's going to beat Tito so look for him to face Couture with the purse being a lifetime supply of Ensure.
Renato Sobral - Babalu should get some action soon and deservedly so. He's on a streak. If he doesn't get the next title shot then maybe he squares off against...dunno...Bonnar or some other TUF guy.
Forrest Griffin - I think Griffin has a shot at beating Tito. Forrest has the better standup and if he can keep Tito up with good sprawl or good knees he can pick him apart. If not then he has an outside shot at a submission. I don't see a knockout happening at all.
Stephan Bonnar - He's too good all around and too smart not to take Irvin to the mat and submit him. Next fight? Babalu or maybe Rashad Evans. Maybe even one of the legends if they lose. And there's always Forrest.
James Irvin - Sam Hoger would be a decent fight but then again Hoger would just do the same thing Bonnar did. How about TUF fighter Keith Jardine in a standup battle?
Rashad Evans - Still waiting to see who is first test will be. Hoger would be a good choice.
Sam Hoger - I think this guy will be a title contender one day.
Travis Wiuff - Might want to think about going up to heavyweight where there is more room to breathe
Keith Jardine - Needs a ground game.
Middleweight
Rich Franklin - I CAN'T WAIT FOR FRANKLIN/LOISEAU. There's a chance we'll have a new champ, honest.
David Loiseau - The standup portion of Loiseau/Franklin will be beautiful.
Jeremy Horn - He's a springy python, this guy, with something of a standup game but it still it needs work. Marquardt or the loser of the title bout would be a good choice.
Nate Marquardt - I think this guy will be champ one day. I think he deserves a shot at anyone above him on this list.
Evan Tanner - Have Evan and Jeremy ever fought? Two cagey veterans with UFC history.....eh? Good stuff right?
Phil Baroni - If he's still fighting in UFC then he'll get some hi level fights.
Ivan Salaverry - A personal favorite. An assassin like Hoger in that he can fight anyone and have a chance. Salaverry vs Horn would be nice, or Tanner
Chris Leben - Leben is ready for a stiffer test. Salaverry?
Nate Quarry - This guy has skill despite the fact that he was so thoroughly owned by Rich Franklin.
Robbie Lawler - I'd like to see Ruthless back fighting. He's so damn quick. Lawler vs Swick....eh?..eh?
Patrick Cote - Needs to prove himself again. Quarry maybe?
Mike Swick - Has a torn MCL so will be out a while but man I can't wait to see him fight again. Talk about fast hands.
Welterweight
Matt Hughes - Are you kidding me? Royce Gracie?? Wow. I'll take Hughes but damn I hate going against an underdog like Royce.
Karo Parisyan - Will Karo get the title shot again, he got injured before the fight last time and GSP is so popular. Regardless Karo needs better striking. He swings wild and lets his aggression carry him on the feet and that kind of glaring weakness will get you beat down one day.
George St. Pierre - GSP is so good everywhere. If Karo does fight Hughes then GSP should fight Penn. (damn did i call that or what! i'm taking GSP over Penn but it's hard.)
BJ Penn - Okay so if Penn loses to GSP and Gracie loses then maybe, just maybe we get Penn vs Gracie? Yeah baby!!
Diego Sanchez - Diego needs a fight against a bigger name guy too. Josh Burkman called him out but that would be in effect a step backward for Diego. Maybe he gets Parisyan who seems to be out in the cold right now.
Nick Diaz - He lost to Diego but it was close and this guy has major talent. Koscheck would be a decent fight.
Sean Sherk - I took some flak from some Sherdoggers on having Sherk too low but they were right for the most part. He's got a ton of experience but no name victories other than two wins over Karo back in 2000 & 2001. Karo must have been like 19 or something. Still Sherk is a legit fighter. Koscheck would be a good matchup, maybe Diaz or Stevenson too.
Joe Stevenson - I still want Stevenson/Sanchez but i'll take Stevenson/Burkman
Josh Koscheck - Koscheck/Stevenson would be fun to watch.
Spencer Fisher - I'm somewhat impressed with this guy. He wants to stand and strike with you but if it goes to the ground he has very good defense to wait it out until he can get a submission.
Kenny Florian - I'd like to see KenFlo against Diaz.
Josh Burkman - He's looked real impressive in his wins but then again so did Quarry.
Drew Fickett - I flat out don't like this guy. Good job Burkman!
Luke Cummo - I want Cummo versus Florian. Wouldn't mind seeing him whip up on Fickett either.
Duane Ludwig - Dude knocked Goulet the f*** out! Him against Cummo would be a great fight.
Kit Cope - Work on that ground game man. Cope vs Cummo could be something to see.
Joe Riggs - Just keeps losing. Someone throw this guy a can!
Melvin Guillard - I hope he sticks around the UFC until he can improve, he's got amazing potential.
Heavyweight
Arlovski - I read where someone in Sherdog's forums where someone said 'Arlovski is a lion amongst retards.' Endquote. I'm not saying that is dead on...but it's close enough.
Frank Mir - As former champion Mir is the clear number one contender and he is an amazing jiu-jitsu guy. I think he ranks up there with the best in the business at this point, assuming he regains form after his accident. The win over Pete Wiliams and the one over Tank Abbott show how he can control his opponents body with his own masterfully. Think Jeremy Horn but big and strong and ultra-aggressive. (i'm boycotting the term 'uber'......yuck)
Rizzo - UFC is interested in bringing back the big names that were around at the beginning and it is a good strategy and makes this something to keep an eye out for. If it does shake out that Rizzo comes back he most likely gets a title shot to start with. Rizzo/Arlovski 2 would be something to behold. I doubt Arlovski would have any trouble getting up for that fight.
Tim Sylvia - Having lost to AA once Sylvia is just a tier below the number one contender but unless something big happens he will probably get the next title shot.
Gan McGee - I'm not sure of this guys status but I am putting him down more as a suggestion. UFC needs heavyweights, he is one.
Brandon Vera - This guy looks good. He has mentioned fighting lighter but this is the best spot I think. He's upper half in this division. Vera vs. Buentello. But if he loses to Buentello then it tarnishes the record of a young up and comer and they are like gold to the UFC right now.
Paul Buentello - I would like to see Buentello vs Sylvia in a battle of hands. He might not be number one contender quality but he's got skills
Jeff Monson - Could see action against Buentello or maybe Mir after he loses to AA.
Wesley Correira - I want to see more Cabbage. He's not on par with the division heavies but the next tier would be fine. Buentello, Vera...
Assuerio Silva- He would be fun to watch against Buentello or maybe Monson.
Tra Telligman - Telligman really won't do more than provide a test for some up and comer.
Rashad Evans - A guy that talked about going lighter. Heavier would be better.
Keith Jardine - Another guy that talked about going lighter. Heavier would be better.
Kerry Schall - Trains with Franklin so could get a call for a fight anytime. I have no idea if he's any good. Hey, i'm honest.
Brad Imes - He'll see action in the Octagon at some point. Schall would be a good matchup or Eilers...though I think they train together.
Light heavyweight
Liddell - I think Liddell keeps his belt and probably fights Babalu next with the winner of Ortiz/Shamrock on the horizon.
Couture - If Randy wins then Liddell/Couture 4 could be around the corner. Though I admit I would have to think about hanging myself. If he loses....can you say Couture vs Shamrock?! Or Ortiz.
Tito Ortiz - I hope Ortiz doesn't turn UFC into WWE. His next fight is Griffin one that he should win.
Ken Shamrock - I don't think he's going to beat Tito so look for him to face Couture with the purse being a lifetime supply of Ensure.
Renato Sobral - Babalu should get some action soon and deservedly so. He's on a streak. If he doesn't get the next title shot then maybe he squares off against...dunno...Bonnar or some other TUF guy.
Forrest Griffin - I think Griffin has a shot at beating Tito. Forrest has the better standup and if he can keep Tito up with good sprawl or good knees he can pick him apart. If not then he has an outside shot at a submission. I don't see a knockout happening at all.
Stephan Bonnar - He's too good all around and too smart not to take Irvin to the mat and submit him. Next fight? Babalu or maybe Rashad Evans. Maybe even one of the legends if they lose. And there's always Forrest.
James Irvin - Sam Hoger would be a decent fight but then again Hoger would just do the same thing Bonnar did. How about TUF fighter Keith Jardine in a standup battle?
Rashad Evans - Still waiting to see who is first test will be. Hoger would be a good choice.
Sam Hoger - I think this guy will be a title contender one day.
Travis Wiuff - Might want to think about going up to heavyweight where there is more room to breathe
Keith Jardine - Needs a ground game.
Middleweight
Rich Franklin - I CAN'T WAIT FOR FRANKLIN/LOISEAU. There's a chance we'll have a new champ, honest.
David Loiseau - The standup portion of Loiseau/Franklin will be beautiful.
Jeremy Horn - He's a springy python, this guy, with something of a standup game but it still it needs work. Marquardt or the loser of the title bout would be a good choice.
Nate Marquardt - I think this guy will be champ one day. I think he deserves a shot at anyone above him on this list.
Evan Tanner - Have Evan and Jeremy ever fought? Two cagey veterans with UFC history.....eh? Good stuff right?
Phil Baroni - If he's still fighting in UFC then he'll get some hi level fights.
Ivan Salaverry - A personal favorite. An assassin like Hoger in that he can fight anyone and have a chance. Salaverry vs Horn would be nice, or Tanner
Chris Leben - Leben is ready for a stiffer test. Salaverry?
Nate Quarry - This guy has skill despite the fact that he was so thoroughly owned by Rich Franklin.
Robbie Lawler - I'd like to see Ruthless back fighting. He's so damn quick. Lawler vs Swick....eh?..eh?
Patrick Cote - Needs to prove himself again. Quarry maybe?
Mike Swick - Has a torn MCL so will be out a while but man I can't wait to see him fight again. Talk about fast hands.
Welterweight
Matt Hughes - Are you kidding me? Royce Gracie?? Wow. I'll take Hughes but damn I hate going against an underdog like Royce.
Karo Parisyan - Will Karo get the title shot again, he got injured before the fight last time and GSP is so popular. Regardless Karo needs better striking. He swings wild and lets his aggression carry him on the feet and that kind of glaring weakness will get you beat down one day.
George St. Pierre - GSP is so good everywhere. If Karo does fight Hughes then GSP should fight Penn. (damn did i call that or what! i'm taking GSP over Penn but it's hard.)
BJ Penn - Okay so if Penn loses to GSP and Gracie loses then maybe, just maybe we get Penn vs Gracie? Yeah baby!!
Diego Sanchez - Diego needs a fight against a bigger name guy too. Josh Burkman called him out but that would be in effect a step backward for Diego. Maybe he gets Parisyan who seems to be out in the cold right now.
Nick Diaz - He lost to Diego but it was close and this guy has major talent. Koscheck would be a decent fight.
Sean Sherk - I took some flak from some Sherdoggers on having Sherk too low but they were right for the most part. He's got a ton of experience but no name victories other than two wins over Karo back in 2000 & 2001. Karo must have been like 19 or something. Still Sherk is a legit fighter. Koscheck would be a good matchup, maybe Diaz or Stevenson too.
Joe Stevenson - I still want Stevenson/Sanchez but i'll take Stevenson/Burkman
Josh Koscheck - Koscheck/Stevenson would be fun to watch.
Spencer Fisher - I'm somewhat impressed with this guy. He wants to stand and strike with you but if it goes to the ground he has very good defense to wait it out until he can get a submission.
Kenny Florian - I'd like to see KenFlo against Diaz.
Josh Burkman - He's looked real impressive in his wins but then again so did Quarry.
Drew Fickett - I flat out don't like this guy. Good job Burkman!
Luke Cummo - I want Cummo versus Florian. Wouldn't mind seeing him whip up on Fickett either.
Duane Ludwig - Dude knocked Goulet the f*** out! Him against Cummo would be a great fight.
Kit Cope - Work on that ground game man. Cope vs Cummo could be something to see.
Joe Riggs - Just keeps losing. Someone throw this guy a can!
Melvin Guillard - I hope he sticks around the UFC until he can improve, he's got amazing potential.
Wednesday, January 18, 2006
Post Fight UFN 1/16/06 part 1
Well there were some pretty swell fights. I say that but i'm a whore for UFC, any fight is a good one. Well except half of the ones from last season of TUF. Anyway...
Sylvia vs Silva was disappointing. Man I don't know what Silva's (from here on out to be known as Ass.) strategy was but it sucked. He should have been working the leg kicks. Big men are susceptible to leg kicks and once that leg is purple you shoot and they just don't have the mobility to sprawl as well. A damn shame too because Ass. looked like he knew how to kick. Oh well maybe he'll do better against lesser competition and give some good fights but he'll need some real wins to even look like a contender. I know Arlovski was sitting there thinking how much he owned either of these guys.
A serious "WOW" to 'Bang' Ludwig......that knockout was amazing and did you see that faceplant by Goulet? I feel for the French guy though I hope he gets some more action in UFC.
Sylvia vs Silva was disappointing. Man I don't know what Silva's (from here on out to be known as Ass.) strategy was but it sucked. He should have been working the leg kicks. Big men are susceptible to leg kicks and once that leg is purple you shoot and they just don't have the mobility to sprawl as well. A damn shame too because Ass. looked like he knew how to kick. Oh well maybe he'll do better against lesser competition and give some good fights but he'll need some real wins to even look like a contender. I know Arlovski was sitting there thinking how much he owned either of these guys.
A serious "WOW" to 'Bang' Ludwig......that knockout was amazing and did you see that faceplant by Goulet? I feel for the French guy though I hope he gets some more action in UFC.
Monday, January 09, 2006
UFC 58 3/4/06
To my knowledge only the first two have been announced by the UFC.
David Loiseau vs. Rich Franklin
A much deserved title shot for The Crow. I want to see this one so bad, I mean right now. Loiseau is an exciting and unorthodox striker with good defense on the ground and some ground and pound. Mainly his elbow which is absolutely deadly. I remember watching replays of one fight ( I can't remember who the opponent was) and I knew the elbow was coming and still it had connected by the time I could say 'there it is'. If he gets the mount....well, don't blink that's all i'm saying. I'm hard pressed to chose the winner in this one as they are both so good but I think Franklin is just a little better overall so my money would be on him.
GSP vs. BJ Penn
The winner of this gets Matt Hughes....oh joy! Penn is an amazing ground guy and he'll look to take it there as soon as Big John says to 'get it on!'. GSP is probably the best all around fighter in the class and hell maybe in the UFC, period. He has lost to Hughes once already though and Penn beat the champ......and on the ground no less. GSP will try to keep this on the feet as long as possible but he won't let himself become vulnerable to do it. He's training in BJJ with the Gracie's to bone up as we speak. Well maybe he's eating dinner right now but you get my meaning. I'm taking GSP on the strength of his all around game, especially the striking which Penn will have to get past if he wants to do his thing.
Jonathan Goulet vs Diego Sanchez
I know absolutely nothing about Goulet but I am taking Sanchez. Surprised aren't you? Diego is a grappling wizard with great takedowns and submissions and is aggressive as hell. We'll see if Goulet can handle that.
Sam Stout vs Kenny Florian
Another Canadian I know nothing about and so is getting the short end of the stick. Florian by submission but he might take a beating before he gets it.
Kristof Midoux vs Tom Murphy
Don't get me started on Murphy. I think that fighters that don't even try to fight should be dealth with similar to a horse that can't race. I only know Midoux by name but i'm taking him.....and I hope it's by ground and pound knockout and since Midoux is BJJ and Murphy a wrestler it could very well be.
In all it looks to be a dynamite show if this is how it turns out. Regardless of the rest the top two bouts make it a must see. I wonder if Matt Hughes will get the winner of the GSP/Penn bout or if he'll fight Parisyan first. I think that Parisyan shouldn't lose his supposed #1 contender status just because he couldn't go at the time of the scheduled fight with Hughes at the last UFC. That being said GSP and Penn are both better fighters at this point. Karo needs to work on his striking in my opinion but I do really want to see how he can counter a Hughes takedown with his own throws. And we might even see Matt standup for a bit with someone who's striking is somewhat vulnerable.
David Loiseau vs. Rich Franklin
A much deserved title shot for The Crow. I want to see this one so bad, I mean right now. Loiseau is an exciting and unorthodox striker with good defense on the ground and some ground and pound. Mainly his elbow which is absolutely deadly. I remember watching replays of one fight ( I can't remember who the opponent was) and I knew the elbow was coming and still it had connected by the time I could say 'there it is'. If he gets the mount....well, don't blink that's all i'm saying. I'm hard pressed to chose the winner in this one as they are both so good but I think Franklin is just a little better overall so my money would be on him.
GSP vs. BJ Penn
The winner of this gets Matt Hughes....oh joy! Penn is an amazing ground guy and he'll look to take it there as soon as Big John says to 'get it on!'. GSP is probably the best all around fighter in the class and hell maybe in the UFC, period. He has lost to Hughes once already though and Penn beat the champ......and on the ground no less. GSP will try to keep this on the feet as long as possible but he won't let himself become vulnerable to do it. He's training in BJJ with the Gracie's to bone up as we speak. Well maybe he's eating dinner right now but you get my meaning. I'm taking GSP on the strength of his all around game, especially the striking which Penn will have to get past if he wants to do his thing.
Jonathan Goulet vs Diego Sanchez
I know absolutely nothing about Goulet but I am taking Sanchez. Surprised aren't you? Diego is a grappling wizard with great takedowns and submissions and is aggressive as hell. We'll see if Goulet can handle that.
Sam Stout vs Kenny Florian
Another Canadian I know nothing about and so is getting the short end of the stick. Florian by submission but he might take a beating before he gets it.
Kristof Midoux vs Tom Murphy
Don't get me started on Murphy. I think that fighters that don't even try to fight should be dealth with similar to a horse that can't race. I only know Midoux by name but i'm taking him.....and I hope it's by ground and pound knockout and since Midoux is BJJ and Murphy a wrestler it could very well be.
In all it looks to be a dynamite show if this is how it turns out. Regardless of the rest the top two bouts make it a must see. I wonder if Matt Hughes will get the winner of the GSP/Penn bout or if he'll fight Parisyan first. I think that Parisyan shouldn't lose his supposed #1 contender status just because he couldn't go at the time of the scheduled fight with Hughes at the last UFC. That being said GSP and Penn are both better fighters at this point. Karo needs to work on his striking in my opinion but I do really want to see how he can counter a Hughes takedown with his own throws. And we might even see Matt standup for a bit with someone who's striking is somewhat vulnerable.
Monday, January 02, 2006
Ultimate Fight Night- Live (1/16/2006)
The lineup for this event has been announced so I thought I would chime in with my own thoughts and predictions. I'm just happy to have more UFC to talk about and I can't wait to see the fights. That big 3 hour New Year's show on Spike only got me hungry for more.
Tim Sylvia vs. Assuerio Silva
I haven't seen any Silva fights but from what I have gathered he's a BJJ guy but with good striking. He's listed at 5'9 or 5'11 depending on the source so either way he's going to have to contend with Tim's reach advantage. Sylvia might actually be punching at a downward angle for Silva. The flip side is the size advantage should help Silva should he attempt the takedown. Even without the curse that seems to follow Pride guys coming into UFC I have to take Sylvia. He'll have knuckles and knees waiting for takedown attempts and will pick the shorter guy apart on the stand up.
Bonnar vs. Irvin
This could be interesting as Irvin's strengths...his power and athleticism...are two weakness of Bonnar's. I would say just about everything else goes Bonnar. Except possibly aggression and conditioning and they could be the key. Better technique, both standing and on the mat, and toughness would seem to be in Bonnar's favor. I take Bonnar.
Guillard vs. Torres
Guillard wins despite the size disadvantage. I think he is strong enough to give Torres a hard time on the ground and can end the fight quick with a punch.
Fisher vs. Riley
Fisher's coming out party.
Burkman vs. Fickett
Fickett has more experience but Burkman I think has showed more ability. The bald guy is strong, tough and aggressive. Fickett has skills but might be in for a shock in this. Granted Burkman is largely unknown but Fickett is known and has only that half-lucky win over Koscheck.
Leben vs. Rivera
I don't know Rivera from nobody but I am taking Leben. He's ferocious, trains with tough guys and seems to be expanding his skillset.
Karalexis vs. Von Flue
Tough one. I'm taking Karalexis but Von Flue seems to have an ability to find ways to get by. That awkward punching of his could do some damage given the reach advantage but I think Karalexis wins with a ground and pound.
Goulet vs. Ludwig
What is that crap on Goulet's head in his UFC pic? No, seriously. WTF is that? There's a link over here somewhere just search for his name under fighters. --------------->
Tim Sylvia vs. Assuerio Silva
I haven't seen any Silva fights but from what I have gathered he's a BJJ guy but with good striking. He's listed at 5'9 or 5'11 depending on the source so either way he's going to have to contend with Tim's reach advantage. Sylvia might actually be punching at a downward angle for Silva. The flip side is the size advantage should help Silva should he attempt the takedown. Even without the curse that seems to follow Pride guys coming into UFC I have to take Sylvia. He'll have knuckles and knees waiting for takedown attempts and will pick the shorter guy apart on the stand up.
Bonnar vs. Irvin
This could be interesting as Irvin's strengths...his power and athleticism...are two weakness of Bonnar's. I would say just about everything else goes Bonnar. Except possibly aggression and conditioning and they could be the key. Better technique, both standing and on the mat, and toughness would seem to be in Bonnar's favor. I take Bonnar.
Guillard vs. Torres
Guillard wins despite the size disadvantage. I think he is strong enough to give Torres a hard time on the ground and can end the fight quick with a punch.
Fisher vs. Riley
Fisher's coming out party.
Burkman vs. Fickett
Fickett has more experience but Burkman I think has showed more ability. The bald guy is strong, tough and aggressive. Fickett has skills but might be in for a shock in this. Granted Burkman is largely unknown but Fickett is known and has only that half-lucky win over Koscheck.
Leben vs. Rivera
I don't know Rivera from nobody but I am taking Leben. He's ferocious, trains with tough guys and seems to be expanding his skillset.
Karalexis vs. Von Flue
Tough one. I'm taking Karalexis but Von Flue seems to have an ability to find ways to get by. That awkward punching of his could do some damage given the reach advantage but I think Karalexis wins with a ground and pound.
Goulet vs. Ludwig
What is that crap on Goulet's head in his UFC pic? No, seriously. WTF is that? There's a link over here somewhere just search for his name under fighters. --------------->
Monday, December 26, 2005
UFC 57: Liddell vs Couture 3
Liddell vs Couture
This ought to be a war folks. Randy is up here (42 I believe) but still in great shape and is the epitome of a warrior. I find it damn near impossible to take someone over Couture but I just can't bring myself to say Liddell will win. My pick...Couture and believe me I planned on putting Liddell here when I started to type this!
Frank Mir vs Marcio Cruz
I know nothing about Cruz but my money is on Mir.
Babalu vs Van Arsdale
We'll get to see if Babalu has learned enough Ju-Jitsu to hang with the ground and pounders. I'm taking the Brazilian based just by the look i've seen in his eyes. He's got the eye of the tiger and he's hungry to prove himself. I remember seeing Van Arsdale years ago and being very impressed but I don't see him winning this.
Sakara vs Sinosic
Elvis is the better all around guy and he's better on the ground so I am going with him. I'd like to see Sakara win though. Elvis takes it with a submission.
Vera vs Eilers
Vera. He's hungry, calm and cool and well rounded. If he doesn't screw up and get caught by something then he should have this.
Buentello vs Aldana
I'm taking Buentello because I like his two fisted aggression. I hope he can prove that the KO from Arlovski was mostly a fluke.
Monson vs Hinkle
I'm going Monson on this. He's fought some big names, he lost but he was there and that means something.
Diaz vs Riggs
Diaz all the way. This ought to be a slugfest but if it goes to the ground Diaz will finish off Diesel quickly.
This ought to be a war folks. Randy is up here (42 I believe) but still in great shape and is the epitome of a warrior. I find it damn near impossible to take someone over Couture but I just can't bring myself to say Liddell will win. My pick...Couture and believe me I planned on putting Liddell here when I started to type this!
Frank Mir vs Marcio Cruz
I know nothing about Cruz but my money is on Mir.
Babalu vs Van Arsdale
We'll get to see if Babalu has learned enough Ju-Jitsu to hang with the ground and pounders. I'm taking the Brazilian based just by the look i've seen in his eyes. He's got the eye of the tiger and he's hungry to prove himself. I remember seeing Van Arsdale years ago and being very impressed but I don't see him winning this.
Sakara vs Sinosic
Elvis is the better all around guy and he's better on the ground so I am going with him. I'd like to see Sakara win though. Elvis takes it with a submission.
Vera vs Eilers
Vera. He's hungry, calm and cool and well rounded. If he doesn't screw up and get caught by something then he should have this.
Buentello vs Aldana
I'm taking Buentello because I like his two fisted aggression. I hope he can prove that the KO from Arlovski was mostly a fluke.
Monson vs Hinkle
I'm going Monson on this. He's fought some big names, he lost but he was there and that means something.
Diaz vs Riggs
Diaz all the way. This ought to be a slugfest but if it goes to the ground Diaz will finish off Diesel quickly.
My UFC Power Rankings
Okay here are the Following the Flow Power Rankings. The fighters in each class are listed in a rough ranking with comments on the side. I have listed fights I would like to see for some as well. Fights that would showcase the guy's skill or elevate his status in the division generally.
Heavyweight
Arlovski - This guy is an animal and looks to be, pound for pound, the best fighter in the UFC. He has sick knockout power, great footwork and pinpoint precision. Oh and according to the UFC website his strength is his grappling.
Frank Mir - Mir needs about one legit victory before he gets a title fight. Then again UFC seems to like bring in guys in and giving them quick title shots. I suppose in this thin division it's probably best though.
Rizzo - He's listed on the UFC website so I guess it's fair to assume he may fight. If so he most likely gets a title shot to start with. Rightfully so. Rizzo/Arlovski 2 would be something to behold
Tim Sylvia - Tim just needs to get back on track. A couple victories and he'll stay a contender, just a bit below the guys in front of him, having lost to Mir and Andrei
Gan McGee - I'm not sure of this guys status as he hasn't fought since '03. The big boys could certainly use another gamer though. A fight against Mir would be interesting. Heck, Sylvia too for that matter.
Brandon Vera - This guy looks good. He has mentioned fighting lighter but this is the best spot I think. He's upper half in this division. Vera vs. Buentello
Mike Kyle - Never seen him fight and I hope he does soon. Seems to be a gamer.
Paul Buentello - Despite the somewhat embarassing effort against Arlovski I like Buentello. I'd like to see him go against Sylvia or Vera.
Jeff Monson - I got nothin'.
Justin Eilers - Eilers has work to do. He's about on par with Telligman though I suspect Tra would beat him.
Tra Telligman - Telligman really won't do more than provide a test for some up and comer.
Brandon Lee Hinkle - I got nothin'.
Rashad Evans - Another guy that talked about going lighter. Heavier would be better.
Keith Jardine - Another guy that talked about going lighter. Heavier would be better.
Kerry Schall - Eh
Brad Imes - He's working with Miletich last I heard so he could very well have a future and the lack of real talent in this division will only help. The Hillbilly Hearthrob might possibly benefit from some preferential treatment because of his popularity, similar to Nate Quarry.
Light heavyweight
Liddell - If Liddell wins there's little chance of another Liddell/Couture so we would se some young bloods seeing action.
Couture - If Randy wins then Liddell/Couture 4 could be around the corner. Though I admit I would have to think about hanging myself.
Tito Ortiz - Wow this really makes things interesting.
Ken Shamrock - Very likely the winner of the Ortiz/Shamrock (my money's Ortiz) fight will get a title shot.
Babalu - Babalu has been making his way up through the ranks and a fight with either Ortiz or Shamrock would be in order. Or maybe loser of Liddel/Couture.
Vitor Belfort I'm not sure what the Brazilian's status is but I would love to see him return to the form he had when he owned Tank Abbott. That was amazing.
Forrest Griffin - Still working his way up. Looks good but anyone above him on this list would be a really big step. Babalu would make the most sense. Shamrock? (ed. note: Damn I was close. It was announced he'll be fighting Ortiz in April '06. That will be the stiff test to see if Griffin has arrived.)
Bonnar - Bonnar against Irvin will be a good fight.
James Irvin - The Sandman loses but doesn't get put to sleep.
Edwin Dewees - Edwin has experience but just hasn't put it all together yet.
Rashad Evans - It will be interesting to see who he fights. Griffin or Bonnar maybe? Maybe too soon.
Sam Hoger - The Alaskan Assassin could fight anyone above him on the list and at least put up a showing. And true to the moniker he can beat anyone if they get a little too careless.
Travis Wiuff - Might want to think about going up to heavyweight where there is more room to breathe
Keith Jardine - Needs a ground game.
Chael Sonnen - No idea
Middleweight
Rich Franklin - I left a few guys off and still this is the deepest division in terms of legit title contenders. Great technique, KO power, intelligence and controlled aggression make this man just dangerous and fun to watch.
David Loiseau - Deserves a title shot or at least a fight to decide number one contender. I'd love to see Loiseau vs Franklin.
Jeremy Horn - I think this guy has the best jiu-jitsu game in the UFC since Royce Gracie. He has a varied striking arsenal but nothing really scary. Since he lacks good handspeed, KO power or footwork he basically has to bide his time and pick at you until he can get you in his world.
Nate Marquardt - I think he will prove to be one of the best in the class. His next fight looks to be against Horn and that sounds great to me. I think Horn is a tough fight for anyone so if Nate wins this one the sky may be the limit.
Phil Baroni - If he's still fighting in UFC then he'll get some hi level fights.
Ivan Salaverry A personal favorite. An assassin like Hoger in that he can fight anyone and have a chance. Salaverry vs Horn would be nice, or Tanner
Evan Tanner - I say Tanner vs. Quarry and lets see if Tanner has enough left in the tank to be a contender again.
Nate Quarry - Or if Quarry is the real deal.
Robbie Lawler - I'd like to see Ruthless back fighting. He's so damn quick. Lawler vs Swick....eh?..eh?
Chris Leben - Leben is ready for a stiffer test. Salaverry?
Carter - A good test for someone on the upswing but not a contender himself.
Cote - Needs to prove himself again.
Mike Swick - Has a torn MCL so will be out a while but man I can't wait to see him fight again. This guy is quick!
Doerksen
Charles McCarthy
Dave Terrell
Welterweight
Matt Hughes - Like he said I don't see him giving up his belt to nobody and no time soon.
Karo Parisyan - Will Karo get the title shot again, he got injured before the fight last time and GSP is so popular. Regardless Karo needs better striking. He swings wild and lets his aggression carry him on the feet and that kind of glaring weakness will get you beat down one day.
George St. Pierre - GSP is so good everywhere. If Karo does fight Hughes then GSP should fight Penn.
BJ Penn - If Penn can win a fight against one of the top tier fighters he'll get a title shot rather quickly and a Penn/Hughes rematch would be a big draw. If only to see what the reaction would be if he tried to kiss Hughes on the mouth again.
Diego Sanchez - Diego needs a fight against a bigger name guy too. Parisyan or Trigg?
Josh Koscheck - I want Koscheck vs Stevenson!!
Joe Stevenson - ...and the winner gets Diego.
Frank Trigg -Trigg desperately needs a win and some respect. I'd like to see him against Cope or Diaz or some other up and comer.
Nick Diaz - I love this guy's game! He's good on his feet and on the ground and instead of going at his opponents weakness he wants to beat them at their own game. And he is good enough to do it.
Kit Cope - Work on that ground game man. Cope vs Cummo could be something to see.
Luke Cummo Cummo needs a few fights under his belt. I'd like to see him fight a standup guy but Florian would also be a good matchup, two small guys.
Matt Serra - Not sure if "the Terror" still is fighting or what. Hopefully he's working on his standup so he can compete in this already deep division. He's beaten Penn so that good for some cred.
Spencer Fisher - A Militech guy so expect to see the name around. Kingfisher seems to have great technique period. He can strike and he knows submissions. Fisher vs Fickett would be a nice fight.
Drew Fickett - Fickett has a nice record but no 'name' victories other than Koscheck if that can be called such and he was being dominated until that knee landed. Stevenson vs Fickett
Kenny Florian - I'd like to see KenFlo against Diaz.
Joe Riggs -
Sean Sherk -
Nick Thompson -
Melvin Guillard - This guy is EXPLOSIVE. He needs to get some polish on his game but he has amazing upside. I think any guy on this list ahead of him can beat him but with this athleticism he has an outside shot against most of them.
Heavyweight
Arlovski - This guy is an animal and looks to be, pound for pound, the best fighter in the UFC. He has sick knockout power, great footwork and pinpoint precision. Oh and according to the UFC website his strength is his grappling.
Frank Mir - Mir needs about one legit victory before he gets a title fight. Then again UFC seems to like bring in guys in and giving them quick title shots. I suppose in this thin division it's probably best though.
Rizzo - He's listed on the UFC website so I guess it's fair to assume he may fight. If so he most likely gets a title shot to start with. Rightfully so. Rizzo/Arlovski 2 would be something to behold
Tim Sylvia - Tim just needs to get back on track. A couple victories and he'll stay a contender, just a bit below the guys in front of him, having lost to Mir and Andrei
Gan McGee - I'm not sure of this guys status as he hasn't fought since '03. The big boys could certainly use another gamer though. A fight against Mir would be interesting. Heck, Sylvia too for that matter.
Brandon Vera - This guy looks good. He has mentioned fighting lighter but this is the best spot I think. He's upper half in this division. Vera vs. Buentello
Mike Kyle - Never seen him fight and I hope he does soon. Seems to be a gamer.
Paul Buentello - Despite the somewhat embarassing effort against Arlovski I like Buentello. I'd like to see him go against Sylvia or Vera.
Jeff Monson - I got nothin'.
Justin Eilers - Eilers has work to do. He's about on par with Telligman though I suspect Tra would beat him.
Tra Telligman - Telligman really won't do more than provide a test for some up and comer.
Brandon Lee Hinkle - I got nothin'.
Rashad Evans - Another guy that talked about going lighter. Heavier would be better.
Keith Jardine - Another guy that talked about going lighter. Heavier would be better.
Kerry Schall - Eh
Brad Imes - He's working with Miletich last I heard so he could very well have a future and the lack of real talent in this division will only help. The Hillbilly Hearthrob might possibly benefit from some preferential treatment because of his popularity, similar to Nate Quarry.
Light heavyweight
Liddell - If Liddell wins there's little chance of another Liddell/Couture so we would se some young bloods seeing action.
Couture - If Randy wins then Liddell/Couture 4 could be around the corner. Though I admit I would have to think about hanging myself.
Tito Ortiz - Wow this really makes things interesting.
Ken Shamrock - Very likely the winner of the Ortiz/Shamrock (my money's Ortiz) fight will get a title shot.
Babalu - Babalu has been making his way up through the ranks and a fight with either Ortiz or Shamrock would be in order. Or maybe loser of Liddel/Couture.
Vitor Belfort I'm not sure what the Brazilian's status is but I would love to see him return to the form he had when he owned Tank Abbott. That was amazing.
Forrest Griffin - Still working his way up. Looks good but anyone above him on this list would be a really big step. Babalu would make the most sense. Shamrock? (ed. note: Damn I was close. It was announced he'll be fighting Ortiz in April '06. That will be the stiff test to see if Griffin has arrived.)
Bonnar - Bonnar against Irvin will be a good fight.
James Irvin - The Sandman loses but doesn't get put to sleep.
Edwin Dewees - Edwin has experience but just hasn't put it all together yet.
Rashad Evans - It will be interesting to see who he fights. Griffin or Bonnar maybe? Maybe too soon.
Sam Hoger - The Alaskan Assassin could fight anyone above him on the list and at least put up a showing. And true to the moniker he can beat anyone if they get a little too careless.
Travis Wiuff - Might want to think about going up to heavyweight where there is more room to breathe
Keith Jardine - Needs a ground game.
Chael Sonnen - No idea
Middleweight
Rich Franklin - I left a few guys off and still this is the deepest division in terms of legit title contenders. Great technique, KO power, intelligence and controlled aggression make this man just dangerous and fun to watch.
David Loiseau - Deserves a title shot or at least a fight to decide number one contender. I'd love to see Loiseau vs Franklin.
Jeremy Horn - I think this guy has the best jiu-jitsu game in the UFC since Royce Gracie. He has a varied striking arsenal but nothing really scary. Since he lacks good handspeed, KO power or footwork he basically has to bide his time and pick at you until he can get you in his world.
Nate Marquardt - I think he will prove to be one of the best in the class. His next fight looks to be against Horn and that sounds great to me. I think Horn is a tough fight for anyone so if Nate wins this one the sky may be the limit.
Phil Baroni - If he's still fighting in UFC then he'll get some hi level fights.
Ivan Salaverry A personal favorite. An assassin like Hoger in that he can fight anyone and have a chance. Salaverry vs Horn would be nice, or Tanner
Evan Tanner - I say Tanner vs. Quarry and lets see if Tanner has enough left in the tank to be a contender again.
Nate Quarry - Or if Quarry is the real deal.
Robbie Lawler - I'd like to see Ruthless back fighting. He's so damn quick. Lawler vs Swick....eh?..eh?
Chris Leben - Leben is ready for a stiffer test. Salaverry?
Carter - A good test for someone on the upswing but not a contender himself.
Cote - Needs to prove himself again.
Mike Swick - Has a torn MCL so will be out a while but man I can't wait to see him fight again. This guy is quick!
Doerksen
Charles McCarthy
Dave Terrell
Welterweight
Matt Hughes - Like he said I don't see him giving up his belt to nobody and no time soon.
Karo Parisyan - Will Karo get the title shot again, he got injured before the fight last time and GSP is so popular. Regardless Karo needs better striking. He swings wild and lets his aggression carry him on the feet and that kind of glaring weakness will get you beat down one day.
George St. Pierre - GSP is so good everywhere. If Karo does fight Hughes then GSP should fight Penn.
BJ Penn - If Penn can win a fight against one of the top tier fighters he'll get a title shot rather quickly and a Penn/Hughes rematch would be a big draw. If only to see what the reaction would be if he tried to kiss Hughes on the mouth again.
Diego Sanchez - Diego needs a fight against a bigger name guy too. Parisyan or Trigg?
Josh Koscheck - I want Koscheck vs Stevenson!!
Joe Stevenson - ...and the winner gets Diego.
Frank Trigg -Trigg desperately needs a win and some respect. I'd like to see him against Cope or Diaz or some other up and comer.
Nick Diaz - I love this guy's game! He's good on his feet and on the ground and instead of going at his opponents weakness he wants to beat them at their own game. And he is good enough to do it.
Kit Cope - Work on that ground game man. Cope vs Cummo could be something to see.
Luke Cummo Cummo needs a few fights under his belt. I'd like to see him fight a standup guy but Florian would also be a good matchup, two small guys.
Matt Serra - Not sure if "the Terror" still is fighting or what. Hopefully he's working on his standup so he can compete in this already deep division. He's beaten Penn so that good for some cred.
Spencer Fisher - A Militech guy so expect to see the name around. Kingfisher seems to have great technique period. He can strike and he knows submissions. Fisher vs Fickett would be a nice fight.
Drew Fickett - Fickett has a nice record but no 'name' victories other than Koscheck if that can be called such and he was being dominated until that knee landed. Stevenson vs Fickett
Kenny Florian - I'd like to see KenFlo against Diaz.
Joe Riggs -
Sean Sherk -
Nick Thompson -
Melvin Guillard - This guy is EXPLOSIVE. He needs to get some polish on his game but he has amazing upside. I think any guy on this list ahead of him can beat him but with this athleticism he has an outside shot against most of them.
Tuesday, November 22, 2005
UFC Divisions
Heavyweight
Arlovski
Frank Mir
Tim Sylvia
Rizzo?
Gan McGee
Brandon Vera
Mike Kyle?
Brad Imes
Rashad Evans
Keith Jardine
Justin Eiler
Buentello
Kerry Schall
Tra Telligman
Light heavyweight
Liddell
Couture
Babalu
Forrest Griffin
Bonnar
Dewees
Rashad Evans
Sam Hoger
Travis Wiuff
Rashad Evans
Keith Jardine
Middleweight
Franklin
David Loiseau
Nate Marquardt
Baroni?
Ivan Salaverry
Jeremy Horn
Evan Tanner
Carter
Cote
Doerksen
Nate Quarry
Robbie Lawler
Chris Leben
Charles McCarthy
Trevor Prangley
Pete Sell
Mike Swick
Welterweight
Hughes
Karo Parisyan
George St. Pierre
Sanchez
Joe Stevenson
Koscheck
Joe Riggs
Frank Trigg
Cope
Cummo
Diaz
Matt Serra
Sean Sherk
Florian
Fickett
Fisher
Guilliard
Karalexis
Sammy Morgan
Nick Thompson
Here is a rough list of the fighters in the various weightclasses for UFC. Some guys are listed in multiple groups as they will probably change classes or can do 2 different ones. They are in order of the champ on top and top contenders below him. I did the best I could on this from the information at hand. Questions marks next to guys means I am not sure if they are fighting anymore or anymore in UFC.
Arlovski
Frank Mir
Tim Sylvia
Rizzo?
Gan McGee
Brandon Vera
Mike Kyle?
Brad Imes
Rashad Evans
Keith Jardine
Justin Eiler
Buentello
Kerry Schall
Tra Telligman
Light heavyweight
Liddell
Couture
Babalu
Forrest Griffin
Bonnar
Dewees
Rashad Evans
Sam Hoger
Travis Wiuff
Rashad Evans
Keith Jardine
Middleweight
Franklin
David Loiseau
Nate Marquardt
Baroni?
Ivan Salaverry
Jeremy Horn
Evan Tanner
Carter
Cote
Doerksen
Nate Quarry
Robbie Lawler
Chris Leben
Charles McCarthy
Trevor Prangley
Pete Sell
Mike Swick
Welterweight
Hughes
Karo Parisyan
George St. Pierre
Sanchez
Joe Stevenson
Koscheck
Joe Riggs
Frank Trigg
Cope
Cummo
Diaz
Matt Serra
Sean Sherk
Florian
Fickett
Fisher
Guilliard
Karalexis
Sammy Morgan
Nick Thompson
Here is a rough list of the fighters in the various weightclasses for UFC. Some guys are listed in multiple groups as they will probably change classes or can do 2 different ones. They are in order of the champ on top and top contenders below him. I did the best I could on this from the information at hand. Questions marks next to guys means I am not sure if they are fighting anymore or anymore in UFC.
Monday, November 07, 2005
Florian vs Cope
This was a good fight. They say how great the fights are when both guys are well rounded and can compete everywhere and I agree, those are fun too but these striker versus grappler/submission fights are just so tense!
Kit Cope is a topnotch Muay Thai guy who looks big for 170 lbs. and Kenny Florian is a jii-jitsu guy who looks small for 170. Florian looked okay on this feet. I might have given the edge to Cope in striking but it was pretty close. As long as they stood though Kenny was in danger of getting knocked out. Naturally he went for takedowns as soon as he could after establishing himself on his feet just long enough to get Cope into boxing mode then....SHOOT!
It finally got the ground and Florian locked up his foe in an arm bar and got him to tap but after the round ended. On the replay you could see perfectly that it was immediately following the buzzer or bell or whatever it was. No I can't remember what sound they use. That does not mean I am getting old. No! Nooooooo!
Anyway I am not sure if Kenny broke the arm or what but Kit Cope just didn't use it for much afterward and the fight ended directly afterward, rear naked choke with full body control. Good fight for Kenny. Cope looked good too and I would like to see him fight some more. Needs to work on the ground game some and his sprawl. I'd say sprawl primarily because he looked like he could do that a bit better at this point. He's got a future in the sport though.
Kit Cope is a topnotch Muay Thai guy who looks big for 170 lbs. and Kenny Florian is a jii-jitsu guy who looks small for 170. Florian looked okay on this feet. I might have given the edge to Cope in striking but it was pretty close. As long as they stood though Kenny was in danger of getting knocked out. Naturally he went for takedowns as soon as he could after establishing himself on his feet just long enough to get Cope into boxing mode then....SHOOT!
It finally got the ground and Florian locked up his foe in an arm bar and got him to tap but after the round ended. On the replay you could see perfectly that it was immediately following the buzzer or bell or whatever it was. No I can't remember what sound they use. That does not mean I am getting old. No! Nooooooo!
Anyway I am not sure if Kenny broke the arm or what but Kit Cope just didn't use it for much afterward and the fight ended directly afterward, rear naked choke with full body control. Good fight for Kenny. Cope looked good too and I would like to see him fight some more. Needs to work on the ground game some and his sprawl. I'd say sprawl primarily because he looked like he could do that a bit better at this point. He's got a future in the sport though.
Friday, November 04, 2005
Diaz vs Sanchez
Unleashed had fights by the two of these guys last night. Diaz continues to evoke mixed feelings in me. He's a shit-talker and I don't think that is good for the sport. Hopefully he will grow out of that. Don't get me wrong, I am a shit-talker too but it has a time and a place and I don't think inside the octagon is either of those things. Probably moreso now that the UFC is trying to go mainstream. His game is a thing of beauty though. I haven't seen much of the grappling yet but it's Gracie Jiu-Jitsu after all. He's a natural boxer by the looks of it and he has some crazy kicks as well. They probably don't do much other than give his opponent something to think about but in the octagon every little bit helps.
Diego looked good and reminded me why he won his weightclass in season one of TUF. He's a master on the ground. He gains position really well, he delivers good strikes on the ground (though he could still use some work in that area) and he has the submissions.
Diaz has the advantage in striking and he seems like he can just about match Diego's groundgame so the natural thing to do would be to keep it standing and I am not sure Diego has good enough takedowns to force the action where he wants it. Nevertheless I expect Diaz to let it go to the ground. He wanted to box with Lawler so I think he'll want to grapple with Sanches, just a hunch. I can't wait to see this fight!
POSTFIGHT
Sanchez won by a desicion, can't remember if it was split or unanimous. This was a heck of a fight in a night filled with very nice ones. Oops hang on. Got to get my son some cereal.
Okay where was I? Oh yeah! Well he likes the Captain Crunch and I go for the Special K vanilla almost, damn that's some good shit. Oh the fight! Oh. Anyway they looked like to pythons fighting out there. I figured it to be a ground fight and it was. Neither could impose themselves on the other one but it was fun to watch. Diego got shot strikes off on the ground but Nick defended well and not a whole lot go through. Both guys were bleeding but Diaz was bleeding much worse. I think Diego later said something about bathing in Nick's blood gave him extra power and that he would't bathe for a week. Or something.
The fight could have gone either way but I think Sanchez got it primarily because he kept taking down his opponent, maybe bloodying him up some too helped. I would expect a rematch in the future and I would expect Diaz to work on his sprawl because on the feet is his very best chance at winning the fight, not that he can't on the ground just that would be nearly equal and come down to execution and not making mistakes. Is that redundant?
I think the fight I want to see now is Joe Stevenson against Diego.
Diego looked good and reminded me why he won his weightclass in season one of TUF. He's a master on the ground. He gains position really well, he delivers good strikes on the ground (though he could still use some work in that area) and he has the submissions.
Diaz has the advantage in striking and he seems like he can just about match Diego's groundgame so the natural thing to do would be to keep it standing and I am not sure Diego has good enough takedowns to force the action where he wants it. Nevertheless I expect Diaz to let it go to the ground. He wanted to box with Lawler so I think he'll want to grapple with Sanches, just a hunch. I can't wait to see this fight!
POSTFIGHT
Sanchez won by a desicion, can't remember if it was split or unanimous. This was a heck of a fight in a night filled with very nice ones. Oops hang on. Got to get my son some cereal.
Okay where was I? Oh yeah! Well he likes the Captain Crunch and I go for the Special K vanilla almost, damn that's some good shit. Oh the fight! Oh. Anyway they looked like to pythons fighting out there. I figured it to be a ground fight and it was. Neither could impose themselves on the other one but it was fun to watch. Diego got shot strikes off on the ground but Nick defended well and not a whole lot go through. Both guys were bleeding but Diaz was bleeding much worse. I think Diego later said something about bathing in Nick's blood gave him extra power and that he would't bathe for a week. Or something.
The fight could have gone either way but I think Sanchez got it primarily because he kept taking down his opponent, maybe bloodying him up some too helped. I would expect a rematch in the future and I would expect Diaz to work on his sprawl because on the feet is his very best chance at winning the fight, not that he can't on the ground just that would be nearly equal and come down to execution and not making mistakes. Is that redundant?
I think the fight I want to see now is Joe Stevenson against Diego.
Thursday, November 03, 2005
Riggs vs Hughes
Apparently "Diesel" has been thrown in to replace "the Heat". It could still be a decent fight, maybe moreso now. Riggs is bigger and I would say stronger than Hughes which will probably be a first for the champ. I'm thinking this isn't a title shot since Riggs is 185, unless he's gonna drop some. That would be a helluva drop though.
Anyway, Hughes has better technique and is just plain better than Riggs, whether on the ground or on the feet. Riggs has knockout power though so anything could happen. My money would still be on Hughes though, no doubt.
Anyway, Hughes has better technique and is just plain better than Riggs, whether on the ground or on the feet. Riggs has knockout power though so anything could happen. My money would still be on Hughes though, no doubt.
T.U.F. Episode 11
Damn! Rashad done did it again. He sucked the soul right out of poor Keith Jardine. Hahahah. Not really it was a good fight for the most part. Rashad is finally coming out of his shell and asserting himself in fights, though he could still do more. Jardine trains with Diego Sanchez but apparently needs to work on the jiu-jutsu a bit more because he looked helpless on his back. He didn't even look like he had a wrestling background. Hell to be honest I wasn't all that impressed with his standup. He did get some nice shots in so me must have some heavy hands but I think he just wasn't letting his hands and feet fly like he should have. Yes probably worried about a takedown. Hey Keith, work on your sprawl and brawl man. Those takedowns guys are vulnerable when they shoot so you need to let your hands go and when they shoot catch them with a knee. You didn't see the Koscheck/Fuckit....er...Ficket fight?
Anyway, Rashad looked okay standing up and has really quick hands. With some more training in that regard he could be really fun to watch and awful to fight. If these guys end up going down to light heavyweight that will become ( if it isn't already) the best division in UFC.
Anyway, Rashad looked okay standing up and has really quick hands. With some more training in that regard he could be really fun to watch and awful to fight. If these guys end up going down to light heavyweight that will become ( if it isn't already) the best division in UFC.
Monday, October 24, 2005
UFC Unleashed
Babalu looks like a man compared to the boy he was when he got beat by theIceman. I haven't seen any other fights of his but the Liddell fight but Isee he has fought some real warriors. He's supposed to be a great strikerbut he looked as though he wanted to be on the ground as much as Wiuff. Iguess he wanted to show the new Brazilian JJ stuff. His sprawl looked goodenough to stay on his feet were that his desire. His ground game lookedsolid. Ground and pound with some submissions. He could end up being areal gamer since he spent time with Marco Ruas and Rizzo and now is roundingout his game with the Gracie's.
Diaz vs FicketWell, Nick Diaz looks like a trash talker and I personally don't think thereis room in the sport of that and would hate to see that become commonplace.His skills and aggression were good though and he has potential. Ficketlooked overmatched by the scrawny Diaz. I'm not sure who I wanted to seeget his butt kicked more, to be honest so it was a wash in my book. Goodfight by Diaz though.
Quarry vs Carter (?)Another dominant performance by Quarry. I am really looking forward to him fighting Franklin. I don't know about the heavy hands he has bragged aboutbut we'll see. I think it was Shonie Carter he fought in the fight lastnight but I didn't catch the first part so I can't guarantee it. I'm also at work so I can't research it appropriately. Carter is a veteran but never has set the world on fire. Quarry owned him from the get go and looked good. So you got Quarry and Leben coming out of Couture's camp? Wow, nice.
Caro Paresyan vs (hell i can't remember)I was interested to see the Paresyan fight since he's going to be fighting Hughes soon. Caro's of Armenian decent and lives in North Hollywood, CA which I believe is where System of a Down is from, also Armenian. So Caro can keep beating people down while Serj can sing about stopping the violence all while the band continues to make music that is the audio equivalent ofcrack-cocaine, which fuels Paresyan to fight harder and more aggressive which causes Serj to get more passionate about stopping the violence which in turn causes the band to be even more aggressive and brutal which...okay okay i'm done. Anyway it will be interesting to see if Caro can use this Judo throws to neutralize Hughes' strength and takedowns.
Diaz vs FicketWell, Nick Diaz looks like a trash talker and I personally don't think thereis room in the sport of that and would hate to see that become commonplace.His skills and aggression were good though and he has potential. Ficketlooked overmatched by the scrawny Diaz. I'm not sure who I wanted to seeget his butt kicked more, to be honest so it was a wash in my book. Goodfight by Diaz though.
Quarry vs Carter (?)Another dominant performance by Quarry. I am really looking forward to him fighting Franklin. I don't know about the heavy hands he has bragged aboutbut we'll see. I think it was Shonie Carter he fought in the fight lastnight but I didn't catch the first part so I can't guarantee it. I'm also at work so I can't research it appropriately. Carter is a veteran but never has set the world on fire. Quarry owned him from the get go and looked good. So you got Quarry and Leben coming out of Couture's camp? Wow, nice.
Caro Paresyan vs (hell i can't remember)I was interested to see the Paresyan fight since he's going to be fighting Hughes soon. Caro's of Armenian decent and lives in North Hollywood, CA which I believe is where System of a Down is from, also Armenian. So Caro can keep beating people down while Serj can sing about stopping the violence all while the band continues to make music that is the audio equivalent ofcrack-cocaine, which fuels Paresyan to fight harder and more aggressive which causes Serj to get more passionate about stopping the violence which in turn causes the band to be even more aggressive and brutal which...okay okay i'm done. Anyway it will be interesting to see if Caro can use this Judo throws to neutralize Hughes' strength and takedowns.
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