On Saturday night, UFC Midleweight champ Anderson Silva delivered a front kick to the face of Vitor Belfort that led to unconsciousness.

Shortly there after, it was disclosed that none other than action star and 7^th degree Aikido black belt Steven Seagal was working on that kick with the champ. Very odd.

In an interview, Steven Seagal says he taught the kick to Silva. It’s difficult to believe an accomplished fighter like Silva had never come across a front kick. Hell, you think you’d be able to come up with it on your own at some point. Maybe Steven Seagal helped refine Anderson Silva’s technique a bit, but its still the same front kick I learned 22 years ago, when it was called “Front Kick to the Face”.

What’s more strange than Mr. Seagal’s inventing a basic technique, some fans are wondering what the kick should be named. What’s wrong with “Front Kick to the Face”? It wasn’t a new strike.

Maybe it’s the pro wrestling fans coming over and wanting everyone to have signature moves with it’ own name. Would Shawn Michaels executing a stepping side kick have been as cool if it weren’t called “Sweet Chin Music”? That’s fine for wrestling, but MMA is mixed martial arts. The techniques already have names.

The other explanation might be because this is the first time a fight has been finished with that kick, it can’t be that kick. It MUST be a new thing that deserves it’s own name. This is stupid too.

Still, I’m willing to give Seagal some credit. One of the most beloved legends of MMA, Bas Rutten isn’t as kind.

Bas Rutten: What planet does Seagal live on?

As the Krispy Kreme Challenge nears, I can’t help but think if there’s other great ways to combine donuts and physical challenges. Immediately, my mind went to Jiu-Jitsu. I call what I am about to lay out: The Donut Roll.

The Donut Roll is a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu/Donut eating submission challenge.

Rules:

1. Each round is 5 minutes with a one minute rest period.
2. During each rest period, each competitor will consume 1 donut.
3. The only way to be eliminated is by submission only.
4. Submission is either a legitimate submission hold (arm bar, choke, etc.) or inability to continue the 5 minute round (this gives knee-on-belly true submission potential).
5. Should a competitor submit their opponent, they are allowed to sit out the remainder of the round (there will still be a donut consumed during the 1 minute rest period).
6. Every round will be with a different opponent from the last.
7. Each donut must be consumed before stepping on the mat.
8. Failure to finish a donut before the start of the round will be considered a submission.

If you have more rule suggestions, I’d love to hear them.

This thing could be a lot of fun, but the potential mess would probably prevent

This very well could be the last UFC prediction I post I put up, but it’s for a decent card.

At first, this UFC seemed like a lack lust undercard with a good main event. The more I think about it, I think the whole card should be viewed as answering questions.

Does Thiago Alves belong in the top of the Welterweight division?

Does Mac Danzig deserve a place in the UFC?

Has GSP cleared out the division?

Thanks Steve for playing along. I hope to figure out a way to do this again in a different and better way.

UFC 124 FIGHT CARD

UFC Welterweight Championship

Georges St. Pierre vs. Josh Koscheck

Josh: GSP by 2^nd round submission. I really would like to see Kos win. The Welterweight division needs a fresh champion and as Brock Lesnar showed, a hated champ is money in the bank for UFC PPVs. I just don’t think anyone in the WW division has the tools to beat GSP.

Steve: My pick here is GSP, 4^th round submission.  I think GSP really wants to silence his critics who have complained about him not finishing fights.  Georges is better than Josh in every area, so unless Josh has a great game plan, he is in for a long and frustrating night.

Thiago Alves vs. John Howard

Steve: This seems like a given to me.  Alves is number 3 in the world and Howard isn’t even ranked.  He is good, but he is no Alves.  If Alves truly has his conditioning in order like he claims, he is a dominating force.  Alves, 3^rd round KO.

Josh: I saw Thiago Alves as the guy to hold the title when GSP was ready to give it up. I still have him in that mix. Sure he lost his last fight to Fitch, but I give Alves a pass on his last fight because he’d just gotten over some potentially serious medical issues and probably had some ring rust. If Thiago is back to the man he was, he should be very dangerous for Howard. Alves by KO in the 2^nd.

Jim Miller vs. Charles Oliveira

Josh: It must be strange to be fighting on the same card as your brother. I think it sets Miller up to put on a great performance because either his Dan wins first and Jim has to match it, or Dan loses first and Jim will want to be the redeemer. Either way, I think Jim Miller will have the fire to put on a great performance. Unfortunately, Oliveira is a beast and has the tools to win this handily. Oliveira by submission in the second.

Steve: I love when both Miller brothers are fighting on the same card!  Oliveira is good, but Jim has the Octagon experience on his side.  I go Miller, 3^rd KO.

Joe Stevenson vs. Mac Danzig

Steve: Why Mac Danzig is still in the UFC is a mystery to me.  Maybe the UFC didn’t want to lose it’s vegetarian market?  Well, you have Jake Shields now, so drop this ‘also ran’.  Unfortunately, Stevenson won’t want to make any mistakes, so I see it going the distance, but a dominating one at that.  Joe Daddy, decision.

Josh: Mac Danzig should drop to 145 now that the division is in the UFC. Hell, I’m probably saying that because I don’t like that little vegan woman. Stevenson by 2^nd round submission.

Stefan Struve vs. Sean McCorkle

Josh: Struve is a very interesting fighter. His height makes him very difficult to prepare for and also makes his ground game dangerous. I guess the question is, how good  is McCorkle really? How much did his trash talk get into Struve’s head? I think Struve’s youth will be his biggest detriment. I’ll take McCorkle by 2^nd round KO.

Steve: I know I am in the minority, but I think Struve is awesome.  This is one of the rare times when he doesn’t tower over his opponent, but he will still have a few inches.  McCorkle is very talented and much thicker, but Struve has youth, reach and Octagon experience on his side.  Skyscraper, 2^nd submission.

Dan Miller vs. Joe Doerksen

Steve: The other Miller takes this one too.  Miller, decision.

Josh: I rarely pick against the Miller brothers. Tonight is no different. Miller by decision.

Ricardo Almeida vs. T.J. Grant

Josh: Ricardo Almeida is one of the best BJJ fighters in the UFC. He didn’t look great against Hughes, but I’ll give him the benifit of the doubt. Almeida by 2^nd round submission.

Steve: Almeida has not looked great at welterweight, but I see him righting his applecart and getting back on track.  Almeida, decision.

Dustin Hazelett vs. Mark Bocek

Steve: Hazelett is one of the most exciting submission guys working today.  His first fight in the 155 division will be interesting.  His height advantage should be a huge asset, as long as the weight cut doesn’t hurt him too bad.  Hazelett, decision.

Josh: I disagree with Steve. Hazelett hasn’t done well his last two times out. I think Bocek will bully Hazelett and win by decision.

Matt Riddle vs. Sean Pierson

Josh: I don’t know why, maybe it’s because I don’t really care for Matt Riddle, but I feel like taking Pierson. 2^nd round KO?

Steve: I loved Riddle on the show, and he has really grown into a solid mixed martial artist.  Pierson is sort of a wild card, but I still see Riddle taking this with a 1^st round KO.

Jesse Bongfeldt vs. Rafael Natal

Steve: No real reason for this pick, but I am going to go with Bongfeldt, 2^nd round submission.

Josh: Rafael Natal by 1^st round KO.

John Makdessi vs. Pat Audinwood

Josh: I’ll take Pat Audinwood via decision.

Steve: Hmm.  Makdessi, 1^st round KO?

I haven’t been keeping track of the tallies for these. I’m going to have to sit down at the end of the year and find out just how badly Steve’s been kicking my ass.

In retrospect, what might’ve been fun is to do the totals based upon if we’d put $100 on each fight. Who ever made the most money (or lost the least) would be the winner. Of course, that’s just me being a sore loser.

Anyway, on to the show…

Quinton “Rampage” Jackson vs. Lyoto Machida

Steve: Lyota Machida, decision. Machida is faster, and for want of a better phrase, more athletic.  He is great with distances, and Rampage is a bull in a china shop kind of fighter.  Lyota should be able to avoid takedowns, and avoid punishment, while peppering Rampage when he goes on attack.

Josh: Smart money is on Machida. I think Shogun has shown how to beat Machida, but the question is, does Rampage have those skills? While I say no, I will also acknowledge that Rampage, when he’s motivated, has the ability to shut anyone down. I’ll give the decision to Machida.

B.J. Penn vs. Matt Hughes

Josh: I have to go with BJ by 2^nd round submission. While I was disappointed with BJ’s last fight, he didn’t lose me as a fan. BJ has Hughes’s number. This fight wouldn’t even be happening if in their 2^nd fight BJ hadn’t separated a rib. Matt’s tear thru BJJ black belts ends tonight.

Steve: Penn, decision. This is really hard to call, especially when you consider the recently resurged Hughes.  Penn lost the last fight with Hughes, and he lost his last two fights in general. He is hungry.  If this was a 5 rounder, I would give it to Hughes.  But the first time they fought, and the second time as well, BJ made mincemeat of Matt for the first couple rounds.  Though Matt may take the 3rd, it won’t be enough for the decision nod.

Gerald Harris vs. Maiquel Jose Falcao Goncalves

Steve: Harris, 3^rd KO. Harris has looked good in the UFC and Goncalves is making his debut.  Fighters lose their debut more often than they win.  Plus, his name is long and clunky and I don’t want to hear that announced at the end.

Josh: I’ll go with MJFG by KO in the 2^nd. No real reason for it other than he’s from Chute Boxe and those guys are very tough.

George Sotiropoulos vs. Joe Lauzon

Josh: Two of my favorite up and comers, how do I pick? Sotiropoulos by decision. He’s had the higher caliber opponents and has walked away with the wins.

Steve: Sotiropoulos, 2^nd sub. Nobody has looked more impressive in the UFC throughout his octagon career than George.  He has run clinics on guys, including a former title contender.  Lauzon is good, but I think he is outmatched here.

Phil Davis vs. Tim Boetsch

Steve: Davis, decision. Davis is another guy who has looked good lately, when Boetsch is primarily known for his brute strength.  I see Davis wanting no part of Tim on the feet, taking him down, smothering him, and ground and pounding out a decision.

Josh: Phil Davis is one of the super athletes that are beginning to show up in the UFC. Where he lacks skill, his physical gifts take over. He’s consistently getting better technically. Davis by 2^nd round TKO.

Aaron Simpson vs. Mark Munoz

Josh: Munoz by decision. This should be a fun fight.

Steve: Simpson, 2^nd KO. This could just as easily go the other way, and I would pick the same method.  This could easily be fight of the night!

Brian Foster vs. Matt Brown

Steve: Brown, 3^rd KO. This is my other contender for fight of the night.  This card gives us a great undercard!  This one could also be switched just as easily.

Josh: I’ll agree with Steve and go with Brown but with a KO in the 2^nd.

Tyson Griffin vs. Nik Lentz

Josh: Nik Lents goes to decisions. If this fight also ends in decision, Griffen gets his hand raised. I think he keeps a better pace and looks especially sharp in the later half.

Steve: Griffin, dec. At one point, this fireplug looked unstoppable.  He has stumbled a bit as of late, and rarely finishes off fighters.  But I still think he has what it takes to win this fight.

Edson Mendes Barboza Jr. vs. Mike Lullo

Steve: Barboza, 1^st KO. Classic striker vs grappler, each having similar records, each on a six fight win streak.  In this case, I go with the guy who has never tasted defeat.

Josh: If it’s striker vs grappler, as long as the grappler sticks to his strength, he wins. Lullo by 1^st round submission.

Karo Parisyan vs. Dennis Hallman

Josh: At one point, Karo Parisyan was one of the baddest men on the planet. I really feel bad for him. He’s dealt with all sorts of problems, and I’m glad the UFC is giving him a 2^nd chance. Still, I thought he looked terrible at the weigh-ins. I hate to do it, but I’m taking Hallman by decision.

Steve: Hallman, 2^nd sub. Parisyan was once almost a title contender, with an impressive streak of decision wins.  But he was had mental issues as of late, controversy, and barely kept it together fighting in a much smaller organization in Australia (he had to be switched to an earlier slot due to a panic attack).  Hallman has defeated Matt Hughes twice and looked really good lately.  I seem him taking this, if Karo even shows up.

Paul Kelly vs. T.J. O’Brien

Steve: Paul Kelly, 2^nd KO. I have always liked Paul.  But this one is being decided because O’Brien annoys me.  First, his nickname is SPIDER, like we need ANOTHER Spider in the UFC?!?  Also, his pic on Sherdog has him wearing UFC gloves, and he has not yet fought in the UFC.  Not so fast sparky.

Josh: I’ll take the new guy. O’Brien by 1^st round submission.

Seriously coming down to the wire here people. Not many of these prediction posts left. I get hyped up when Brock Lesnar fights, so I couldn’t let this one pass by. Thanks again for participating to Steve Sabo. I hope to be doing many shows with him in 2011.

Brock Lesnar vs Cain Velasquez

Steve: Ok, I got burned on this last time, but I think Brock got exposed.  I think Cain has the wrestling to keep from being taken down or dominated when he gets there, has the speed to avoid Brock’s shots and the boxing and stamina to win.  Cain, 3^rd KO.

Josh: I find this whole notion that Brock got exposed in his last fight somewhat laughable. True, he did spend the first round of his last fight being dominated, but people seem to forget that he also managed to accomplish something no other man has done against Shane Carwin. He got to his feet and got out of the first round. Oh, yeah. He also put an end to Carwin’s undefeated streak, another first. The fact that Brock had trouble with Carwin says nothing of him being exposed. Carwin’s fists are probably the most dangerous in the sport and Brock got past them, so to say Brock got exposed is like saying you found Superman’s weakness in an exorbitantly expensive and almost impossible to find element that you don’t have and can’t get.

As for Cain Velasquez, he’s beaten an impressive list of people. Were circumstances a little different, he would probably already be wearing UFC gold right now. Still, I do not believe he is the KO artist that the UFC is purporting him to be. TKO artist is more appropriate. I do not think his fists are as big of a threat as Shane Carwin’s were.

I think in this fight, just as in his earlier UFC fights, Brock’s size and strength will be the biggest factor. Cain won’t be able to stop the takedown. Once on the ground, no matter how much he’s trained, nothing can prepare you for having a monster on top, pounding you in the face. Maybe if he’s training with a polar bear, but I doubt that would be legal. Oh, right, yes, I know Cain has great wresting, but in wrestling you can lay flat on your stomach to stay safe. In MMA that’s the end of the fight.

I say Brock wins this fight. I’ll say he finishes it in the 2^nd round with a TKO.

Jake Shields vs Martin Kampmann

Josh: Jake Shields was brought in to the UFC for one of two reasons. He’s there either to be a challenger to the title or to show that a champion outside of the UFC can’t hang with “real competition”. The big reason he’s not getting a title shot right off the bat is because not enough people watch Strikeforce, so he has to be introduced to the UFC audience. Why not set him up with a guy like Martin Kampmann who very well could get the upset? Either way it’s a win/win for the UFC. I don’t think Jake will lose, but it won’t be an easy one. Shields by decision.

Steve: Martin is good, but Jake has a great chin and is much, much better on the ground.  He was brought in the challenge for George St Pierre’s belt… they aren’t going to set him up to fail.  Jake Shields, 2^nd submission.

Diego Sanchez vs Paulo Thiago

Steve: Diego is back in Jackson’s camp.  This is a tough one to call, because a motivated Diego is tough on anyone, and he hasn’t been more motivated after two hard losses in a row.  Thiago has beaten both Swick and Kosheck…I still don’t want to go against the Nightmare.  Diego, by decision.

Josh: I do not like Diego Sanchez. I hate his fight face. I don’t find his “positive” attitude inspiring. I also think he is broken inside. He’s not the fighter that he once was. He might still put on a good performance, but the “Nightmare” is gone. The only thing that intrigues me is that he’s back at his original fight camp.

On the other hand, I do like Thiago. He seems like a fine gentleman to root for, which I will. Paulo Thiago by KO in the 2^nd.

Tito Ortiz vs Matt Hamill

Josh: I had the chance to take a seminar from Tito a couple months ago and he was in great spirits and said he felt better than ever. Yup…my buddy Tito. Anyway, Tito is what he is. I think the big factor in this fight is Hamill’s inability to pull the trigger against guys he respects. I felt he could have beaten Rich Franklin but instead he let Rich win because he looked up to him. Tito is even worse because Tito really showed Matt a lot of special attention on TUF and in many ways, if it weren’t for Tito, Matt Hamill would not be where he is right now. Tito by decision.

Steve: Tito is the teacher, Hamill is the student… will the young lion overtake the veteran?  I feel that a healthy Ortiz beats just about everyone he is up against, and Hamill still has much to learn.  I go Ortiz, by decision.

Brendan Schaub vs Gabe Gonzaga

Steve: This is tough to call.  Gonzaga is still a top 20 heavy weight and has only lost to the best of the best (Randy, Carwin, Junior Dos Santos).  I don’t think Schaub is ready for this step up in competition.  I will go Gonzaga 2^nd sub.

Josh: Gonzaga got exposed when he fought Shane Carwin, so Schaub knows how to win. Schaub with a vicious KO in the 1^st.

Court McGee vs Ryan Jensen

Josh: I’ll take McGee in round 3 by TKO stoppage from the referee.

Steve: Court was my pick to win TUF.  Jensen is a tough dude… Jensen is 2-2 in the Octagon, Court McGee is 0-1.  Lets try Jensen, decision.

Patrick Cote vs Tom Lawlor

Steve: I have always felt that Cote was over-rated, and it shows that the UFC agrees with me, if he is on the undercard after fighting for the title.  Lawlor, however, has not been super impressive either.  Still, I will go Lawlor, 2^nd KO.

Josh: As overrated as Cote may be, he’s still a dangerous fighter. His last fight was disappointing, but in fairness to him, he was coming off of a serious injury that undoubtably contributed to a less than stellar performance. Hopefully he’s over that now. Cote by decision.

MIke Guymon vs Daniel Roberts

Josh: Not much to go on here. Roberts looks more athletic…Roberts by decision.

Steve: Both guys are one and one in the UFC.  This could go either way, but I will take the Joker over the Ninja by cooler nickname.  Guymon, 1^st submission.

Sam Stout vs Paul Taylor

Steve: This is sad, because I like both these guys.  Paul is one of the british guys I like to watch because he is always ready for a good scrap.  But Sam is a crisp, dangerous striker, and I will give it to him.  Stout, 3^rd KO.

Josh: This could be a hell of a fight. Both guys are known for giving it their all, but I’ve got to go with Stout on this one by decision.

Chris Camozzi vs Dongi Yang

Josh: Zuffa seems to be trying to find a star to crack into the Asian market (Korean Zombie anyone?). I think Yang is a guy they can build into a star. Yang by 1^st round KO.

Steve: Impressively, Yang has won his last eight fights via ko.  Camozzi is an ok fighter, but I am going for the undefeated Korean on this one.  Yang, 1^st KO.

Jon Madsen vs Gilbert Yvel

Steve: Madsen has not yet learned how to lose, and Yvel is past his prime.  Madsen, 3^rd KO.

Josh: Madsen hasn’t lost, but he hasn’t really stood out either. I’ll take Yvel by KO in the 2^nd.

My wife and I are considering putting our oldest son in a martial arts class. I would love to stick him in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, but I don’t think he’s ready. I plan to work with him on some things at home when we’re playing around, but he needs a more structured environment.

What I’d like to find is a class that mostly focuses on discipline, following instruction, and works on movements that will help him develop his coordination. The problem is, there’s a ton of schools in the area and we have to pick one that will be fun but also provide a good foundation for when he is ready for more.

So, what’s the best way to find that when you have so many to choose from and no personal experience to go by? The best I can do at the moment is figure out what I don’t want. I’m coming up with a list of reasons to cross a school off of the long list of possibilities.

Here’s what I have so far:

If “Black Belt” is in the name of the school, it’s crossed off the list. This screams McDojo or Black Belt Factory to me. These schools also have a huge range of colored belts on the way to black belt and I have no interest in paying belt test fees every couple of months just so he can feel like he’s accomplished something by being promoted to fuchsia belt even though he hasn’t improved. I don’t care what color fabric my son has tied around his waist. I’m not one of those parents who’ll take pride in having an 8 year old black belt. Every time I see a child with a black belt, I want to punch him in the face and hand him a white belt as he’s crying for his mommy.

If the school has silly uniforms, it’s crossed off the list. A uniform in Karate is somewhat silly these days, because it’s not like it really does anything. In Judo or Jiu Jitsu, the uniform can be used as a weapon to grab and choke your opponent. In Karate it’s just there to look like you’re doing something Asainy. For that reason, the uniform should look somewhat traditional. I’ll accept a couple variations from the standard, but when we get into shiny materials or what looks like Back to the Future vests, those turn me off. Typically, those are the guys on late night ESPN 2 flailing around like a spaz while screaming “IKEA!” every six seconds trying to look like their actually doing something.

If the instructor goes by some silly sounding title, it’s crossed off the list. I’ll accept standard titles like “sensei” because, just like the uniform thing, we want it to sound officially Asianish. Still, there comes a point where I don’t care what they call your rank in the jungles of Vietnam, you’re in America. That special designation is just silly sounds over here.

If the style sounds made up, it’s crossed off the list. Some crazy martial arts guys take a few years of classes and then decide that black belt isn’t enough. They want to be a Grand Master of something. What they’ll do is throw in a few techniques from other styles, maybe make up a couple and give the whole thing its own wacky name or use their own name to create a wacky name like Dick Dunn Do.  Adding the word “Do” makes it sound official. Also, it’s not a lie because “Do” means “the way”. Clearly, making things up is “The Way of Dick Dunn”.

I’m sure the list will continue to grow, but while I think of more, here’s a little UFC Stuff! Look at that tie in.

UFC 119 on PPV with Prelims on Spike

Visit Steve Sabo’s website.

Frank Mir vs Mirko Cro-Cop

Josh: This one is already loaded with excuses as to why Cro-Cop will lose this one. He took the fight on short notice so his training isn’t complete. He had an eye injury that almost caused him to pull out. Not saying these reasons aren’t valid, but it doesn’t sound as if he’s confident in himself to win. You have to have confidence when you fight Frank Mir. Mir by 1^st round submission.

Steve: At one time, this would have been a much more competitive match.  However, Mir is absolutely one of the top heavyweights in the world, and Cro-Cop has lost his desire for violence and his will to win.  He has had mediocre results against subpar competition… this should end quickly in the first, with Mir scoring an overhand right knockdown followed by a quick armbar or choke.  Mir, 1^st round submission.

Antonio Rogerio Nogueira vs Ryan Bader

Steve: An extremely interesting match up.  Bader has never tasted defeat.  Nog, in my opinion, is over-rated, based on his recent outings.  I think Bader hits harder and has superior wrestling.  If he can stifle Nog’s submission game… and I think that he can… he will squeak out this decision win.

Josh: I suppose the big question for this fight would be “Is Ryan Bader ready to be a top 10 fighter?” This fight will answer that question. He has the skills and the power. I say Bader can shut down Noguiera, but he has to avoid the submissions. Bader by decision.

Matt Serra vs Chris Lytle

Josh: Matt Serra is one of the guys I enjoy rooting for. Given his last few performances, he can definitely win this fight. Matt Serra by submission in the 2^nd.

Steve: These two already had an epic battle that many (including me) think Lytle won.  And in Indianapolis, which is Lytle’s hometown… I think this will be a fight of the night nominee that ends with Lytle’s hand raised.  Lytle, decision.

Sean Sherk vs Evan Dunham

Steve: Evan is an up and comer who has shown great potential… but Sherk, at least a healthy, injury free, well trained Sherk has only been beat by world champions.  That is a hell of a statement.  I predict a resurgence of the old school– Sherk, 2^nd ground and pound KO.

Josh: A couple years ago, I would have easily said Sherk. I don’t want to blame age, but I think he’s lost a step. He’s still a tough guy and a great fighter, but he’s not as fierce as he used to be. Evan Dunham by decision.

Melvin Guillard vs Jeremy Stephens

Josh: I’ve not hidden the fact that I don’t like Guillard. Yes, he seems to have improved his personality since first stepping into the cage, but first impressions are hard to shake. Im not basing this on skills or previous fights, just what I’m hoping for. Stephens to win by 2^nd round KO.

Steve: A very interesting fight.  Guillard is a spectacular fighter, who loses his gusto and gets frustrated when things don’t go his way early.  Stephens has stamina for days and can take a punch.  I see it being a late 3^rd KO for Stephens.

CB Dolloway vs Joe Doerksen

Steve: I like CB… I really want him to win this fight.  It is a tough one for him to pull off, but lets hope he does.  Dolloway, in the 2^nd by submission.

Josh: CB Dolloway will want to have a good showing to set the tone for his teammate to win later on in the evening. CB by submission in the 3^rd.

Matt Mitrione vs Joey Beltran

Josh: I really took notice of Matt Mitrione when he fought Kimbo. Matt walked into Octagon with the most relaxed look I’ve ever seen on any fighter. It was almost scary how calm he looked. Beltran hasn’t impressed me much. Sure he’s won, but I didn’t find them to be all that spectacular. He is resilient though. Mitrione by KO in the 3^rd.

Steve: Mitrione has shown great improvements, but I just don’t like the guy.  However, I think he could pull off this victory.  Lets try Mitrione, 2^nd round KO.

Steve Lopez vs Waylon Lowe

Steve: I know nothing about Lowe and very little about Lopez.  Can I just say Lopez, decision?

Josh: Well, I’ll just pick the opposite to make it interesting. Lowe by 1^st round KO.

TJ Grant vs Julio Paulino

Josh: Grant by decision.

Steve: This should be a day in the park for TJ Grant.  I will say Grant, 2^nd, submission.

Mark Hunt vs Sean McCorkle

Steve: Mark Hunt hasn’t won a fight in four years.  I don’t think the UFC wants him around, which is why he is buried on the undercard.  I see McCorkle finishing him by a KO in the 3^rd.

Josh: McCorkie looks to be a big striker and Mark Hunt can absorb a ton of punishment. Hunt is also looking for a job and a win will give him at least one more fight in the UFC. I think Hunt takes this one by a 2^nd round KO.

Announcement time:

While I have enjoyed doing the UFC predictions, I’ve decided that I will be phasing it out. Over the last few months I’ve had a lot going on, I’ve felt rushed to get these out and they’re just not as fun as they used to be.

Not only that, but I’ve been giving myself a pass with these little things by considering them to be a legitimate blog post. They do not. They were supposed to just be an occasional break from my usual writings, but instead they have become the usual. I don’t want that to be the case. I’d rather have a month of no posts during a long dry spell show instead of kidding myself into thinking I’ve written something of value to me as a whole.

On top of that, these damned things are a spam magnet. 90% of the spam comments I have to filter out are linked to any time I pair the letters U-F-C together. I’m tired of dealing with that.

I’m glad that my friend Steve Sabo has been kind enough to take time out of his schedule every few weeks to write up his picks. Solid friends in comedy are a rare thing, and this has been a great chance for us to do something together. I’d still like to find a way to continue collaborating with him in some capacity, but not at the expense of what I should be doing. Perhaps we can find a way to make it work in a different way that can be more entertaining.

Until then, Free fights! YAY! Tune into Spike tonight and watch.

Nate Marquardt vs Rousimares Palhares

Steve: Nate is the best contender in the middleweight division, and the only big name Palhares has fought was Dan Henderson– who beat him handlily, albeit via decision.  I see a similar situation… Nate the Great by decision.

Josh: Palhares has a nasty Jiu-Jitsu game, but I think Nate is very well equipped to shut down the submission attempts. Nate is also more well rounded and has beaten more top caliber opponents. Still, Palhares is a tough guy so I see Nate winning by decision.

Efrain Escudera vs Charles Oliviera

Josh: Efrain should win this fight. He has all of the tools to do so, but I’m still going with Oliviera by submission in the 1^st.

Steve: I like Escudera, but he has been disappointing in the Octagon.  Oliviera is highly touted from Brazil.  Just for fun, let’s try Oliviera via 2^nd round submission.

Jim Miller vs Gleison Tibeau

Steve: I have always liked the Miller brothers.  Dan has come into some hard times as of late, but Jim looks to sky rocket toward the top of the pecking order with this win.  However, Tibeau rarely loses, though he also almost never finishes.  Lets try Miller, via decision.

Josh: I’m giving it to Miller for the same reason I always do. Miller with the decision.

Ross Pearson vs Cole Miller

Josh: Miller has the height advantage. Pearson has the power advantage. I’ll go crazy and pick Pearson by TKO in the 2^nd.

Steve: Interesting match up of two former ultimate fighters with similar records.  Miller has two advantages that I see, though– reach/height, and UFC experience.  So, I will go Miller submission in the 2^nd.

Yves Edwards vs John Gunderson

Steve: Edwards used to be awesome… 4 years ago.  Gunderson is a powerful wrestler who should be able to control this fight, even if he doesn’t finish it.  But why not hope he does?  Gunderson, 3^rd KO.

Josh: Edwards isn’t the fighter he used to be. It’s sad because he was fantastic. It seems to be the way the of the old guard. Gunderson by decision.

Jared Hamman vs Kyle Kingsbury

Josh: Kingsbury has had a long layoff. I’m picking Hamman by deicsion.

Steve: Two guys who have had octagon success, but are still relatively unproven.  Lets just say Hamman, decision.

Tomasz Drwal vs Dave Branch

Steve: it is kinda a cruel joke to put Drwal on the same card as the guy who tried to remove his foot.  But I think he still has some fight in him, so lets go Drwal 1^st KO.

Josh: I don’t know why, but I like Dave Branch. I’d like to see him pull this one out with a 2^nd round submission.

Rich Attonito vs Rafael Natal

Josh: Tough call…Natal by 2^nd round submission?

Steve: I don’t really know either of them well enough to make a fair assessment, so I am going to straight up guess Natal, 1^st submission.

T.J. Waldburger vs David Mitchell

Steve: Um, Mitchell?  2^nd submission?

Josh: Mitchell by decision. Don’t know why.

Brian Foster vs Forrest Petz

Josh: Petz is past his prime. Foster is the new Petz. Foster by KO in the 2^nd.

Steve: I like this fight actually.  I have seen Petz fight live.  I like him.  But I think Foster is a younger, stronger, better version of him.  So, lets say Foster, 3^rd KO.

Rarely does the UFC put on a freak show fight, but this Saturday they’re going against the norm. For the first time in UFC history a world champion boxer, James Toney, will be taking on an MMA legend in Randy Couture.

In a strange way, this is the UFC getting back to it’s roots. Two styles going against one another to see which is the best. Only, instead of it being a boxer vs a wrestler, it’s closer to a boxer vs an MMA stylist.

This is a fight that, at first seemed like a terrible fight for Toney, but the more I think about it, the more I wonder just how much damage just one of his punches can do. Odds are, we won’t find out, but it is still a very real possibility. I may be trying to make this fight more exciting than it probably will be, but as they say, the fights all start standing and anyone has a punchers chance.

To cap the whole thing off, the UFC light weight title will be defended in a rematch from a few months ago. BJ Penn lost a close fight which cost him his belt, but he’s motivated to get it back. A motivated BJ Penn is one of the most exciting fighters you will ever see.

I can not wait for this one.

Frankie Edgar vs BJ Penn

Steve: The rematch.  Edgar is a great fighter, it is obvious.  He has a style that gives BJ troubles.  But I guarantee BJ will not take him lightly this time.  And, I trust that he will come back stronger than ever.  BJ Penn, 4^th submission.

Josh: I don’t know if I will ever root against BJ Penn. When this man is on, he’s the best fighter in the world. He’s had a few lack luster showings, but he usually comes back stronger, faster and meaner. BJ Penn by 2^nd round KO.

Randy Couture vs James Toney

Josh: This is a bizarre match. If I were in Vegas, I’d put a couple hundred down on Toney on the off chance he wins. There’s a reason he’s a 5-1 underdog. If he plays it smart, which I don’t doubt he will, Randy Couture by submission in the 2^nd.

Steve: This is a joke.  It really comes down to how long Coutrue wants to play with him, or if Toney can get lucky and get a quick shot in.  I have to go with Couture, 1^st submission.

Demian Maia vs Mario Miranda

Steve: I have always felt that Maia was over-rated.  Miranda is a better striker than him, and he won’t be foolish enough to get on the mat with him.  Miranda, 2^nd KO.

Josh: Interesting. It looks like Miranda has a big chance here, but I’m going to give the edge to Maia because of his slick submission game. If he actually uses it, Maia by submission in the 1^st.

Kenny Florian vs Gray Maynard

Josh: Florian is one of the most improved fighters in the UFC. He’s a beast and is constantly getting more aggressive  in finishing his fights. Florian by cut stoppage in the 3^rd.

Steve: This one intrigues me.  Maynard is bigger and stronger and undefeated.  Kenny has lost to superior wrestler Sean Sherk, but it was a while ago.  I think Kenny’s active guard will be Maynard’s kryptonite and it will be his first finish.  Florian, 3^rd submission.

Nate Diaz vs Marcus Davis

Steve: Another tough fight and I love it.  Davis is a great fighter, prone to cuts and bleeding.  Diaz is lanky and a great submission guy, but he loves to stand and bang.  If Davis can find an opening, he can make this happen.  Davis, decision.

Josh: Davis is an exciting fighter and he’s in Boston, which should provide extra motivation, but I don’t see him clawing his way to the top. Diaz by submission in the 3^rd.

Joe Lauzon vs Gabe Ruediger

Josh: Lauzon has a great ground game and a ton of heart. He’s someone I pick often and will again. Lauzon with a 1^st round submission.

Steve: Lauzon is a solid gatekeeper and Ruediger is the chump who couldn’t make weight on TUF.  I know he is going to try to make his best showing seeing that he made it back to the big show, but I don’t believe it will be enough.  Lauzon 1^st round submission.

Andre Winner vs Nik Lentz

Steve: I liked Winner on TUF and I have never been too impressed with Lentz.  So… Winner by decision.

Josh: I’ll go with Steve on this one. Winner by decision.

Dan Miller vs John Salter

Josh: The Millers are tough guys and always work hard. Dan Miller by 1^st round submission.

Steve: Salter’s win against MacDonald was a freak occurrence and Dan really needs the win.  Miller is a superior wrestler and should be able to ground and pound out a victory.  Miller, 2^nd KO.

Nick Osipczak vs Greg Soto

Steve: I really don’t know either of these guys well enough to make an educated guess, so I am left with simply MMA math.  Osipczak beat Matt Riddle, and Riddle beat Soto… so one has to assume, Osipczak, decision.

Josh: No real solid reason for this pick, but I’ll go with Osipczak by 1^st round submission.

Mike Pierce vs Amilcar Alves

Josh: I’ll give the first round finisher the nod, but it’ll take him a bit longer due to this being his debut in the Octagon. Alves with a submission in the 2^nd.

Steve: Alves is a highly touted first round finisher making his octagon debut.  Pierce has had middling success leaving it in the judges hands.  I have to take a chance on the untested Alves with a first round submission.

I was choked out for the first time in Jiu-Jitsu this week. I’ve been asked a few times what it was like and what happened, so I suppose it makes an interesting story.

“Rolling” is what they call sparring in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Monday night, I was rolling with my instructor, George Yulee. He had been working on using his uniform as a weapon all night and at this particular time, he had the lapel of his jacket wrapped around my neck. It was tight, but I wasn’t ready to tap.

“Are you stupid? Just tap.”

A couple years ago I was training at The Edge in Pennsylvania and that’s where I ran into the toughest person I’d rolled with. He wasn’t just tough in his skill set, but he was mentally tough. What really stuck out to me was when I’d have him in a choke. He’s gurgle, snort and gag, but he wouldn’t give up. He was going to find a way out.

From my perspective, it was demoralizing. He sounded as if he were going to die, I knew I’d have him in check mate, but he wouldn’t give up. After a little time, my grip or my arms would burn out and he’d escape. I started doing the same thing. Just hang in, stay patient and you’ll probably find a way out.

George’s choke was in good, but I thought I had room. I was trying to find a way out. When I posted my hand on his hip to scoot out, it must have felt week because he asked if I’d tapped.

“No, keep going.”

The choke got tighter.

“Okay, now I’m done.”

The next thing I know, I thought I was waking up in bed, thinking about what things I wanted to get done that day. Then I realized I didn’t remember going home. How did I get home?

My vision and hearing were like I was riding on the end of a giant springy door stopper that a little boy had just flicked.

“Am I drunk or something?”

As the blurring came slowly came to a stop and the buzzing in my ears faded I saw George kneeling over me.

“Josh. Josh, are you okay? Josh.”

It all came together what had happened. With my attitude about finding a way out, being choked unconscious had to happen eventually, and really, it was kind of cool.

Due to the Texas Hell Trip, this is in a bit late, but I don’t want to miss putting the picks in. This is a huge card and I’ve got to find a sports bar that will be showing it.

I won’t say much more, but judging by the trash talked in the press conference yesterday, this thing is exciting simply because of the tension between the two main even fighters.

I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, Chael Sonnen is probably the best trash talker in MMA:

Anderson Silva vs Chael Sonnen

Steve: It isn’t hard to pick a winner… Anderson, by whatever he wants.  But that is the problem.  He often screws around with people who disrespect him.  If Chael brings it like he claims he will, it should be a quick finish for him.  I figure Anderson 2^nd RD KO.

Josh: The smart money is on Anderson Silva. I’ll have to put mine there as well. Chael is in great shape and probably has the type of style that could beat Silva. Unfortunately, I think he may have over-motivated Anderson with by running his mouth. Silva by KO in the 1^st.

Jon Fitch vs Thiago Alves

Josh: Thiago Alves is one of my favorite fighters. I hope the weight cutting issues haven’t hurt him because if not, I’m expecting a 2^nd round KO for the Thiago.

Steve: These two should be tied for 2^nd place in the welter-weight division.  However, Alves has something that Fitch does not… finishing power.  He also probably has ring rust, since he hasn’t fought since GSP punished him for 5 rounds last year.  But an in shape Alves destroys an in shape Fitch.  Lets go Alves, decision.

Clay Guida vs Rafael Dos Anjos

Steve: Guida is ultra popular in the UFC, but he has lost his last couple fights.  He needs to justify his name on the roster, and I think he knows that.  Dos Anjos is no gimmee though… it will be a battle.  Just the way he likes it.  Guida 3^rd KO.

Josh: I say Guida sets the pace on high and keeps it there till he comes out with the decision.

Matt Hughes vs Ricardo Almeida

Josh: Something about Almeida has earned him my support. I don’t know what, but he’s definitely been a guy that hasn’t let me down. Almeida by 3^rd round Submission.

Steve: 5 years ago, Hughes takes this easy.  Hughes has gotten real old in the last two years, though, and Almeida is seeking vengeance.  I go Almeida 2^nd sub.

Roy Nelson vs Junior Dos Santos

Steve: Roy asked for a top ten opponent… he is gonna regret it.  Dos Santos, 2^nd KO.

Josh: I’m going to go against conventional MMA bandwagoning and pick Roy Nelson to take this by TKO stoppage in the 2^nd.

Dustin Hazelett vs Rick Story

Josh: Hazelett by 1^st round submission.

Steve: I like both these guys.  Hazelett has him with experience and a killer ground game.  Rick is a tough opponent and won’t go lightly, so it could be a fight of the night.  Hazelett 2nd submission.

Phil Davis vs Rodney Wallace

Steve: Black on black crime!  When in doubt, I try to go with the undefeated one.  I will go with Davis, 2^nd KO.

Josh: I’ll take Davis by 2^nd round KO as well.

Tim Boetsch vs Todd Brown

Josh: All right, fine, I’ll pick Tim Boetsch. I’ll even give him the KO in the 2^nd.

Steve: Boetsch has had some success in the UFC, and Brown is a newbie who hasn’t fought anyone of any significance.  I am not sure which way to go, but I will go with the guy who has fought in the big leagues.  Boetsch, decision.

Johny Hendricks vs Charlie Brenneman

Steve: This one is tough to call, but I am going with my undefeated rule again.  Hendricks, 3^rd KO.

Josh: Okay, I know we’ve agreed on almost every pick and I know it’s annoying, but I’ll do it again anyway. I like Hendricks by decision.

Struve vs Morecraft

Josh: Struve is difficult to deal with. Any Jiu Jitsu fighter with long limbs is dangerous, and being a sky scraper, it’s not hard to say Struve by 1^st round submission.

Steve: Struve is the future of the heavyweight division, maybe always a gate keeper, but he gets better and better.  He is nearly 7 feet tall and hard to deal with.  Struve, 2nd submission.

Ben Saunders vs Dennis Hallman

Steve: Hallman was once a pretty spectacular guy who finished Matt Hughes twice, once in 20 seconds.  However, 80 fights has their toll.  Saunders and his killer knees smash out a 1^st KO.

Josh: Ben Saunders really impressed me when he went the distance with John Fitch on short notice. He’s a tough guy who’s on his way up meeting a guy who’s on the back end of his career. Saunders by KO in the 1^st.