Matchmakers have a notoriously difficult job. Much like referees, they go largely unnoticed if they do their role properly, but it is extremely obvious when they get it wrong. However, there are those infrequent moments when they get it perfectly right, handing fight fans up and down the world with those perfect contests that last long in the memory.
2016 was a good year for fights across a number of promotions and divisions. Minus perhaps the heavyweights, the argument can certainly be made that in 2017, we now have the deepest array of fighters across all weight classes in the sport's history.
As a result, some of the match-ups seen last year have been truly spectacular, and the winner of the 'Fight of the Year' will have truly earned it.
Often, the best events come from the card with the least hype. Following the juggernaut that was UFC 205, with its stacked card and three title fights, UFC 206 looked very much like the red-headed step child of the family, especially when the initial headliner, Daniel Cormier vs Anthony Johnson, was cancelled due to injury, leaving an awkwardly-shoehorned interim featherweight title bout as the main event.
Step forward the co-main event and third fight of the card. These were two absolute barnburners, with Donald 'Cowboy' Cerrone's picture perfect headkick KO of Matt Brown surprisingly playing second fiddle to the quite ridiculous battle between Cub Swanson and Doo Ho Choi. Though it was touted as a 'fun fight' in the lead-up, few would have expected the 15 minute war that ensued.
Originating from what was considered an ambitious call-out by the Korean Superboy, the fight had been in the works for a while, and was seen as the first real test of Choi's UFC credentials. In the lead-up, most commentators felt that Cub would be one step too far for the youngster, and would ultimately outclass him.
As with most things in the highly unpredictable sport of MMA, they couldn't have been more wrong. While Choi admittedly took a while to warm up, the fight proved to be the very definition of back and forth. Quite honestly, how either of them made it to the final bell with their heads still attached is amazing, such was the power and ferocity of some of the punches thrown. In particular, the Korean Superboy may have one of the best chins in the sport at present, taking an incredible amount of punishment and continuing to survive and throw strikes. I seem to recall one of his countrymen being famous for something similar - Korean Zombie 2.0 anyone?
Perhaps the best thing about the contest, however, is that it demonstrated the best of each of the three main disciplines in MMA, namely kickboxing, wrestling and jiu-jitsu. The feeling throughout was that the fight could be stopped at any moment, with both fighters going through moments of jelly-legged trouble, in addition to submission attempts and battles for positional control. Unsurprisingly, once the crowd caught its breath, it showed its appreciation with a huge standing ovation at the end of the second round.
The real reason that this fight stands out from its competition for this award is that it's the only non-main event contest. Take a look at the list. From Bisping/Silva to Henderson/Chandler, every one of the other fights has benefitted from an enormous amount of promotion as part of the UFC or Bellator's PR machine, meaning that many will have bought their tickets with the express intention of watching the main event. I've seen it first hand at UFC 204 - while Bisping vs Henderson was not by any means an exceptional fight, the atmosphere generated by its significance made it feel all the more entertaining and impressive.
While the Cub/Choi fight received a bit of attention as a main card bout, it was by no means hyped by the UFC, and the fact that it stands out as one of the best fights of the year underlines the quality of the contest itself, rather than benefitting from a more electric atmosphere. There's no doubt that after this fight, both will be in main events in the near future, with Swanson already set to headline against Artem Lobov later this year.
Do you agree with this choice? Let me know your thoughts either in the comments section or on Twitter @TheWeighInMMAChandkler
Showing posts with label McGregor. Show all posts
Showing posts with label McGregor. Show all posts
Saturday, 25 February 2017
Sunday, 5 February 2017
MMA Awards 2017: The Case For... Gegard Mousasi
The rise of MMA outside of the US has led to a cultural explosion of the sport. From Brazilian jiu-jitzu to Japanese karate, there are now a wide range of different but equally valid fighting styles, created from many different jurisdictions.
With the rise of international fighting styles comes the strength in depth of fighting talent outside the US. In a previous post, I already covered one contender for the 'International Fighter of the Year' award at length, putting my case forward for Michael Bisping in the headline category. As such, it's only fair that this post covers someone else, as there have been many accomplishments across the European MMA scene this year.
Fitting firmly into this category is Dutch kick boxer Gegard Mousasi. Arguably one of the most under-rated fighters currently plying his trade in the UFC, Mousasi is also one of the most experienced and active. To put it into perspective, his upcoming fight with Chris Weidman, slated for UFC 210, will be the Dutchman's 50th professional bout, adding to a further 21 fights in kickboxing and boxing. Having been fighting since 2003, that is an average of nearly four fights every year, with an almost unheard of seven fights in 2005 alone.
While it is true that the majority of his fights have come outside of MMA's leading promotion, it remains that Mousasi has rarely been considered as a true title contender, a fact that is baffling when you look at his record. With 41 wins, six losses and two draws, the Dutchman has been on some incredible runs during his career and fought some of the biggest names. Indeed, between November 2006 and December 2009, Mousasi went on a 15-fight win streak, including victories over the likes of Hector Lombard, Evangelista Santos, Melvin Manhoef, Jacare Souza and even heavyweight Mark Hunt. He was also only the second man in history to stop Dan Henderson by strikes, and while three of his six defeats have come during his time in the UFC, there have been many more undeserving recipients of title shots in that time.
2016 was no different in terms of the work rate of Mousasi, recording an unbeaten 4-0 record over the 12 month period. In particular, the Dutchman enjoyed back to back TKO victories over top 10 opponents in the space of six weeks at the back end of the year, first despatching MMA legend Vitor Belfort at UFC 204 in Manchester, before running through Uriah Hall in Belfast to avenge his previous defeat.
When compared to the other fighters on the list, his is comfortably the most impressive record. Joanna Jedrzejczyk and Khabib Nurmagomedov both enjoyed 2-0 records, while Michael Bisping won a title and beat two MMA legends on his way to a 3-0 year. Finally, while Conor McGregor made history with his second round KO of lightweight champion Eddie Alvarez to become the UFC's first double-weight world champion, the fact remains that he was defeated by Nate Diaz at UFC 196, casting a small cloud over the rest of his accomplishments last year.
One criticism that could perhaps be levelled against Mousasi in the past is that his successes in the UFC have been punctuated by defeats, and that he excelled in the 'minor leagues' of Strikeforce and Dream, but has yet to establish himself at the elite level. This year comprehensively rebuffs that statement. While you can't even say it has been Mousasi's most successful year, it is certainly the one where he broke into the upper echelons of the UFC, and the Weidman fight could well be a potential title eliminator.
Mousasi's main problem is that he has been unfortunate enough to find himself in arguably the most stacked division in MMA right now, with any one of the top 10 fighters capable of beating any other. As a result, his quality has yet to fully shine through, and while his under-the-radar demeanour does not garner him the headlines of the likes of McGregor, it seems to be working in the Octagon. 2017 could be the year where he adds the UFC belt to his already bursting cabinet of trophies, and he will be watching the result of the Michael Bisping/Yoel Romero bout with interest.
With the rise of international fighting styles comes the strength in depth of fighting talent outside the US. In a previous post, I already covered one contender for the 'International Fighter of the Year' award at length, putting my case forward for Michael Bisping in the headline category. As such, it's only fair that this post covers someone else, as there have been many accomplishments across the European MMA scene this year.
Fitting firmly into this category is Dutch kick boxer Gegard Mousasi. Arguably one of the most under-rated fighters currently plying his trade in the UFC, Mousasi is also one of the most experienced and active. To put it into perspective, his upcoming fight with Chris Weidman, slated for UFC 210, will be the Dutchman's 50th professional bout, adding to a further 21 fights in kickboxing and boxing. Having been fighting since 2003, that is an average of nearly four fights every year, with an almost unheard of seven fights in 2005 alone.
While it is true that the majority of his fights have come outside of MMA's leading promotion, it remains that Mousasi has rarely been considered as a true title contender, a fact that is baffling when you look at his record. With 41 wins, six losses and two draws, the Dutchman has been on some incredible runs during his career and fought some of the biggest names. Indeed, between November 2006 and December 2009, Mousasi went on a 15-fight win streak, including victories over the likes of Hector Lombard, Evangelista Santos, Melvin Manhoef, Jacare Souza and even heavyweight Mark Hunt. He was also only the second man in history to stop Dan Henderson by strikes, and while three of his six defeats have come during his time in the UFC, there have been many more undeserving recipients of title shots in that time.
2016 was no different in terms of the work rate of Mousasi, recording an unbeaten 4-0 record over the 12 month period. In particular, the Dutchman enjoyed back to back TKO victories over top 10 opponents in the space of six weeks at the back end of the year, first despatching MMA legend Vitor Belfort at UFC 204 in Manchester, before running through Uriah Hall in Belfast to avenge his previous defeat.
When compared to the other fighters on the list, his is comfortably the most impressive record. Joanna Jedrzejczyk and Khabib Nurmagomedov both enjoyed 2-0 records, while Michael Bisping won a title and beat two MMA legends on his way to a 3-0 year. Finally, while Conor McGregor made history with his second round KO of lightweight champion Eddie Alvarez to become the UFC's first double-weight world champion, the fact remains that he was defeated by Nate Diaz at UFC 196, casting a small cloud over the rest of his accomplishments last year.
One criticism that could perhaps be levelled against Mousasi in the past is that his successes in the UFC have been punctuated by defeats, and that he excelled in the 'minor leagues' of Strikeforce and Dream, but has yet to establish himself at the elite level. This year comprehensively rebuffs that statement. While you can't even say it has been Mousasi's most successful year, it is certainly the one where he broke into the upper echelons of the UFC, and the Weidman fight could well be a potential title eliminator.
Mousasi's main problem is that he has been unfortunate enough to find himself in arguably the most stacked division in MMA right now, with any one of the top 10 fighters capable of beating any other. As a result, his quality has yet to fully shine through, and while his under-the-radar demeanour does not garner him the headlines of the likes of McGregor, it seems to be working in the Octagon. 2017 could be the year where he adds the UFC belt to his already bursting cabinet of trophies, and he will be watching the result of the Michael Bisping/Yoel Romero bout with interest.
Sunday, 29 January 2017
An Experience With Conor McGregor - EventCity, Manchester
In just four short years, Conor McGregor has gone from nothing to something to everything. This was the mantra played out loud and clear on the intro package played before the Irishman's typically dramatic and celtic entrance into Manchester's EventCity arena, where he would find himself faced with esteemed MMA journalist Ariel Helwani.
As is to be expected in an event involving the notorious one, the reaction from the crowd was huge. This was my first time seeing him live, and while I have seen a number of pre and post-fight interviews in US have been almost hijacked by Irish fans, there can be no doubt that the reception is similarly euphoric here. His is a personality that seems to transcend sport, with stars in other industries, including Justin Bieber and Paul Pogba, copying that now patented strut on social media.
In an hour-long event that covered both his personal and professional lives, we got to see a lot of the brash McGregor we know and love, but also a more heartfelt and emotional side. Brought out in part by the lines of questioning taken by MMA Fighting's Helwani, this was an interview where it was very apparent we were witnessing the real Conor McGregor, from his relationships with the UFC brass to his passions, life lessons and targets outside of the fight game.
The personal side was very apparent right from the get-go, with the notorious one seemingly blown away by the level of support he received from the Manchester crowd as he entered. As he said, he was 'almost humbled' - almost being the operative word! Nevertheless, as we ventured further into the interview, McGregor did not shy away from answering the personal questions, culminating with the breaking news that he will be having a boy in April, a revelation he said that his girlfriend would kill him for.
Similarly, the Dublin-born fighter was not afraid to share some of his life lessons with the crowd, with a particularly poignant message coming from a fan question about his dream dinner party guests. Prior to his breakthrough into the UFC, it's well known that McGregor 'didn't have a pot to piss in', claiming benefits and living day to day. So now he finds himself at the top of the game, with all the wealth in the world, it was refreshing to hear his answer of 'I don't eat with people I wouldn't starve with', recognising the struggles he has been through to get this place.
Similarly, the Dublin-born fighter was not afraid to share some of his life lessons with the crowd, with a particularly poignant message coming from a fan question about his dream dinner party guests. Prior to his breakthrough into the UFC, it's well known that McGregor 'didn't have a pot to piss in', claiming benefits and living day to day. So now he finds himself at the top of the game, with all the wealth in the world, it was refreshing to hear his answer of 'I don't eat with people I wouldn't starve with', recognising the struggles he has been through to get this place.
Likewise, his passion for the sport of MMA has not changed over the years, but his options certainly have. Last year, he launched McGregor Promotions, and confirmed that he expects 2017 to be the year that sees its first fight card, with the O2 Arena in London already touted as a potential venue. However, he shares an interesting relationship with the promotion with which he became a star. As much as they seem willing to push him to the moon, McGregor also revealed his feelings that a number of barriers have been placed in his way, designed to create a glass ceiling and prevent his popularity usurping that of the company. In particular, the Irishman raised questions around the arbitrary stripping of his featherweight belt, a belt that he says he was never asked to defend, as well as the recent news that the promotion will be creating an interim lightweight title at UFC 209, an announcement that came just two months after McGregor claimed the belt at Madison Square Garden.
The 5,000 fans in Manchester highlight this popularity, and as McGregor perhaps playfully made reference to, he expected there to be more people turning out to watch him speak than there are in Denver watching the UFC's latest Fight Night!
There was nothing playful about his message to the remainder of the UFC roster. After his now iconic apology at UFC 205, it's quite clear the disdain that McGregor has, and he remains insistent that none of the fighters in the featherweight, lightweight or even welterweight divisions could stand with him. Indeed, he regularly referred to the likes of Tony Ferguson, Khabib Nurmagomedov, Jose Aldo and Max Holloway as 'bums', as well as claiming he would slap welterweight champ Tyron Woodley around the Octagon.
As has been reported, McGregor's sights are set a little higher, with a boxing super fight with Floyd Mayweather seemingly inevitable. The Irishman expects the deal to be done before the end of the year, saying he's 'hunting' the top pound for pound boxer. Following a serious offer from Dana White, McGregor says that the fight is heading in the right direction, but there is still some way to go before any decision is made. With the notorious one having the reach and youth advantage, he also has no doubt about the result when it gets there, and also stoked a bit of bad blood between the two, calling Mayweather a 'Malteser with eyeballs', and suggesting that 'Money' remains scared of him.
As for the future, McGregor confessed that he is just chilling, awaiting his next challenge. Certainly the incoming child represents a challenge, and fatherhood is still a strange concept to the 28-year old. However, he already has put in place a long-term goal, and remains convinced that the only person who will be able to break his UFC and MMA records will be his own spawn! As for the sport where he made his name, McGregor insists that 2017 will be a year to remember, both for his new promotions company, and the potential for shares in the UFC. His is a name that will not fade away by a small absence, whether that is to compete in boxing, appear at Wrestlemania, or even take the leading role in a film!
Quite simply, McGregor is, in his own words, the face of the UFC, WWE, boxing, and last night, he was the face of Manchester.
Tuesday, 17 January 2017
UFC: Top 10 Title Fights
As the world's premier MMA organisation, the UFC has delivered some of the best title fights in the sport. With recent years seeing the sport expand to include 10 weight divisions, there have been a number of outstanding and memorable clashes.
Below are my top 10 title fights in the UFC:
10. Anderson Silva vs Chael Sonnen - UFC 117
The first fight on the list involves the greatest of all time, but it's not the Brazilian at his imperious best. Instead, I've gone with his first fight with legendary trash talker Chael Sonnen, who had talked openly about how he would destroy The Spider in the lead up to the fight.
And for four rounds, it seemed that the American had got his tactics spot on, putting the Brazilian on his back and controlling the pace and striking battle. As we entered the final two minutes, it looked more than likely that Sonnen would complete the unthinkable, ending the three year title reign of Silva. However, a momentary lack of concentration allowed Silva to lock in a triangle choke from which the American had to tap.
9. Conor McGregor vs Jose Aldo - UFC 194
While not the longest title fight in the UFC, it is certainly one of the more memorable. The build-up was so heated and protracted, with the Brazilian pulling out on the fight on at least one occasion, and McGregor utilising his own brand of mental warfare. With Aldo unbeaten in more than 10 years, and the Irishman the fighter on the rise, it was seen to be the biggest fight in the history of the organisation.
And in a flash, it was over. A side step and a counter left, followed by two hammer fists, and Aldo was out. In thirteen seconds, McGregor had taken his place at the top of the featherweight division, and cemented his legacy as 'Mystic Mac'.
8. Michael Bisping vs Dan Henderson - UFC 204
This blog is unapologetically subjective, and quite frankly, this one's on the list because I was there! The atmosphere in the sold-out Manchester Arena was absolutely spine-tingling as the home-town champion made his way to the Octagon, with a similarly expressive response in the negative for Hendo.
The fight itself certainly lived up to the hype, with the H-bomb playing a central role in putting Bisping on the floor twice in the first two rounds. However, with the overwhelming support of the crowd, the champion rallied to pick the veteran apart for the remainder of the fight. The noise as the unanimous decision win was announced was something extraordinary, and a moment I will never forget.
7. Georges St Pierre vs Johny Hendricks - UFC 167
The first welterweight fight on this list is undoubtedly one of the most controversial in UFC history. Having racked up an astonishing 2,204 day title reign in the hotly contested welterweight division, including an 11-fight win streak, Georges St Pierre had cemented himself as arguably the best pound-for-pound MMA fighter of all time.
That meant little to Big Rigg. Having claimed the first round, the challenger staggered St Pierre early in the second, leaving him firmly on the defensive and his face a mess. Only effective jabs by the champion prevented a 10-8 round, with St Pierre recovering to take the third. Despite this, Hendricks clearly maintained grappling control in the fourth, meaning that even with a GSP final round, the decision should have been his. However, the judges clearly saw enough from the champion to allow him the split decision win, much to the approval of the partisan home crowd.
6. Brock Lesnar vs Shane Carwin - UFC 116
Nothing said 'baddest man on the planet' more than this fight in 2009. After a disappointing and controversial loss to Frank Mir in his opening bout, Lesnar had revolutionised the heavyweight division since joining the UFC, claiming the title in just his third fight. In the meantime, Carwin had built up an impressive 12-0 record, becoming known as one of the hardest hitters in all of combat sports.
None of Carwin's fights had ever got out of the first round, and this one barely managed that. Carwin rocked Lesnar early in the fight, and only some strong refereeing from Josh Rozenthal kept it going, with the undefeated fighter pounding on the champion for three full minutes. However, it became apparent in the second round that the challenger was exhausted, allowing Lesnar to take him down and secure an arm triangle to retain.
5. Ronda Rousey vs Holly Holm - UFC 193
Quite simply the biggest shock in UFC history. Having dominated the entire women's bantamweight division for nearly three years, with her previous four fights lasting a combined total of just two minutes and 10 seconds, Rousey was the overwhelming favourite going into the largest spectator event in UFC history.
However, in front of 55,000 fans at Melbourne's Etihad Stadium, it was the former kickboxing champion that had the better gameplan, producing a perfect counter-punching display in the first round to frustrate the judoka. The second round continued in the same vein until Holm picked up the pace, stunning Rousey with a series of jabs, before ending the fight with a devastating head kick.
4. Renan Barao vs TJ Dillashaw - UFC 173
While the shock value of this fight wasn't as much as the one above, this was the moment that a young fighter came of age. It does have to be said that going in, Renan Barao was considered one of the best pound-for-pound fighter in the world, having gone undefeated for more than a decade, twice beating Urijah Faber, as well as victories over Eddie Wineland and Michael McDonald.
However, the former Ultimate Fighter finalist stunned the Brazilian with his unorthodox movement and consistent striking power, scoring a knockdown in the first round with a huge right hand. Despite dominating the champion for four rounds, Dillashaw refused to leave it in the hands of the judges, eventually finishing Barao with a beautiful head kick and punches combination in the fifth.
3. Dominick Cruz vs Cody Garbrandt - UFC 207
The most recent entrant to this list comes, once again, from the bantamweight division. Having returned from a career threatening injury and series of ACL surgeries, Dominick Cruz had reclaimed the title from TJ Dillashaw in February 2016, before retaining against old nemesis Urijah Faber in the summer.
While many saw Cody Garbrandt as the most dangerous opponent the champion had ever faced in terms of power, the consensus was that the challenger would let the emotions get the better of him and Cruz would take full advantage. However, the latest Alpha Male upstart put on a masterclass in movement and precision, making the usually unorthodox combinations and transitions of Cruz look almost pedestrian. Having knocked down the champion several times during the five rounds, the 25 year-old found himself with a comfortable decision win to fulfil his dream.
2. Jon Jones vs Alexander Gustafsson - UFC 165
About as close a fight as you're ever likely to see. I know the judges get a hard time, and in the most part justifiably so, but try scoring any of the opening three rounds of this one. As we entered the championship rounds, it could just as easily have been 2-1 Jones as 2-1 Gustafsson.
With the challenger demonstrating outstanding takedown defence and catching Jones regularly with jabs, it took a typically extravagant spinning elbow from the champion in the fourth round to wobble the Swede. Gustafsson recovered remarkably to make the final round just as close as the opening three, but ultimately the judges saw it unanimously for Jones.
1. Robbie Lawler vs Rory Macdonald - UFC 189
If ever you wanted to see two humans push themselves to the limit (and beyond), this was the fight. Robbie Lawler is known for his durability, and demonstrated that once again in a battle that defines 'back and forth'. While the opening round did little to highlight the classic that this fight would become, the champion clearly claimed round two.
Despite this continuing into the third round, a single head kick changed the direction of the fight. With Lawler wobbled and hanging on, the challenger unleashed a barrage of punches and knees that was only ended by the bell. Another head kick in the fourth again had the champion in trouble, though he recovered suitably to engage in one of the most intense staredowns in combat sports at the end of the round.
With the fight likely tied at two, the final round was set to be the decider. With Lawler's jab leaving MacDonald a bloody mess by this point, a series of right hands connected in just the right spot at the beginning of the fifth, shattering the nose and the spirit of the challenger, and ensuring that the belt remained around the waist of Lawler.
What are your favourites? Let me know either in the comments section or on Twitter @TheWeighInMMA
Below are my top 10 title fights in the UFC:
10. Anderson Silva vs Chael Sonnen - UFC 117
The first fight on the list involves the greatest of all time, but it's not the Brazilian at his imperious best. Instead, I've gone with his first fight with legendary trash talker Chael Sonnen, who had talked openly about how he would destroy The Spider in the lead up to the fight.
And for four rounds, it seemed that the American had got his tactics spot on, putting the Brazilian on his back and controlling the pace and striking battle. As we entered the final two minutes, it looked more than likely that Sonnen would complete the unthinkable, ending the three year title reign of Silva. However, a momentary lack of concentration allowed Silva to lock in a triangle choke from which the American had to tap.
9. Conor McGregor vs Jose Aldo - UFC 194
While not the longest title fight in the UFC, it is certainly one of the more memorable. The build-up was so heated and protracted, with the Brazilian pulling out on the fight on at least one occasion, and McGregor utilising his own brand of mental warfare. With Aldo unbeaten in more than 10 years, and the Irishman the fighter on the rise, it was seen to be the biggest fight in the history of the organisation.
And in a flash, it was over. A side step and a counter left, followed by two hammer fists, and Aldo was out. In thirteen seconds, McGregor had taken his place at the top of the featherweight division, and cemented his legacy as 'Mystic Mac'.
8. Michael Bisping vs Dan Henderson - UFC 204
This blog is unapologetically subjective, and quite frankly, this one's on the list because I was there! The atmosphere in the sold-out Manchester Arena was absolutely spine-tingling as the home-town champion made his way to the Octagon, with a similarly expressive response in the negative for Hendo.
The fight itself certainly lived up to the hype, with the H-bomb playing a central role in putting Bisping on the floor twice in the first two rounds. However, with the overwhelming support of the crowd, the champion rallied to pick the veteran apart for the remainder of the fight. The noise as the unanimous decision win was announced was something extraordinary, and a moment I will never forget.
7. Georges St Pierre vs Johny Hendricks - UFC 167
The first welterweight fight on this list is undoubtedly one of the most controversial in UFC history. Having racked up an astonishing 2,204 day title reign in the hotly contested welterweight division, including an 11-fight win streak, Georges St Pierre had cemented himself as arguably the best pound-for-pound MMA fighter of all time.
That meant little to Big Rigg. Having claimed the first round, the challenger staggered St Pierre early in the second, leaving him firmly on the defensive and his face a mess. Only effective jabs by the champion prevented a 10-8 round, with St Pierre recovering to take the third. Despite this, Hendricks clearly maintained grappling control in the fourth, meaning that even with a GSP final round, the decision should have been his. However, the judges clearly saw enough from the champion to allow him the split decision win, much to the approval of the partisan home crowd.
6. Brock Lesnar vs Shane Carwin - UFC 116
Nothing said 'baddest man on the planet' more than this fight in 2009. After a disappointing and controversial loss to Frank Mir in his opening bout, Lesnar had revolutionised the heavyweight division since joining the UFC, claiming the title in just his third fight. In the meantime, Carwin had built up an impressive 12-0 record, becoming known as one of the hardest hitters in all of combat sports.
None of Carwin's fights had ever got out of the first round, and this one barely managed that. Carwin rocked Lesnar early in the fight, and only some strong refereeing from Josh Rozenthal kept it going, with the undefeated fighter pounding on the champion for three full minutes. However, it became apparent in the second round that the challenger was exhausted, allowing Lesnar to take him down and secure an arm triangle to retain.
5. Ronda Rousey vs Holly Holm - UFC 193
Quite simply the biggest shock in UFC history. Having dominated the entire women's bantamweight division for nearly three years, with her previous four fights lasting a combined total of just two minutes and 10 seconds, Rousey was the overwhelming favourite going into the largest spectator event in UFC history.
However, in front of 55,000 fans at Melbourne's Etihad Stadium, it was the former kickboxing champion that had the better gameplan, producing a perfect counter-punching display in the first round to frustrate the judoka. The second round continued in the same vein until Holm picked up the pace, stunning Rousey with a series of jabs, before ending the fight with a devastating head kick.
4. Renan Barao vs TJ Dillashaw - UFC 173
While the shock value of this fight wasn't as much as the one above, this was the moment that a young fighter came of age. It does have to be said that going in, Renan Barao was considered one of the best pound-for-pound fighter in the world, having gone undefeated for more than a decade, twice beating Urijah Faber, as well as victories over Eddie Wineland and Michael McDonald.
However, the former Ultimate Fighter finalist stunned the Brazilian with his unorthodox movement and consistent striking power, scoring a knockdown in the first round with a huge right hand. Despite dominating the champion for four rounds, Dillashaw refused to leave it in the hands of the judges, eventually finishing Barao with a beautiful head kick and punches combination in the fifth.
3. Dominick Cruz vs Cody Garbrandt - UFC 207
The most recent entrant to this list comes, once again, from the bantamweight division. Having returned from a career threatening injury and series of ACL surgeries, Dominick Cruz had reclaimed the title from TJ Dillashaw in February 2016, before retaining against old nemesis Urijah Faber in the summer.
While many saw Cody Garbrandt as the most dangerous opponent the champion had ever faced in terms of power, the consensus was that the challenger would let the emotions get the better of him and Cruz would take full advantage. However, the latest Alpha Male upstart put on a masterclass in movement and precision, making the usually unorthodox combinations and transitions of Cruz look almost pedestrian. Having knocked down the champion several times during the five rounds, the 25 year-old found himself with a comfortable decision win to fulfil his dream.
2. Jon Jones vs Alexander Gustafsson - UFC 165
About as close a fight as you're ever likely to see. I know the judges get a hard time, and in the most part justifiably so, but try scoring any of the opening three rounds of this one. As we entered the championship rounds, it could just as easily have been 2-1 Jones as 2-1 Gustafsson.
With the challenger demonstrating outstanding takedown defence and catching Jones regularly with jabs, it took a typically extravagant spinning elbow from the champion in the fourth round to wobble the Swede. Gustafsson recovered remarkably to make the final round just as close as the opening three, but ultimately the judges saw it unanimously for Jones.
1. Robbie Lawler vs Rory Macdonald - UFC 189
If ever you wanted to see two humans push themselves to the limit (and beyond), this was the fight. Robbie Lawler is known for his durability, and demonstrated that once again in a battle that defines 'back and forth'. While the opening round did little to highlight the classic that this fight would become, the champion clearly claimed round two.
Despite this continuing into the third round, a single head kick changed the direction of the fight. With Lawler wobbled and hanging on, the challenger unleashed a barrage of punches and knees that was only ended by the bell. Another head kick in the fourth again had the champion in trouble, though he recovered suitably to engage in one of the most intense staredowns in combat sports at the end of the round.
With the fight likely tied at two, the final round was set to be the decider. With Lawler's jab leaving MacDonald a bloody mess by this point, a series of right hands connected in just the right spot at the beginning of the fifth, shattering the nose and the spirit of the challenger, and ensuring that the belt remained around the waist of Lawler.
What are your favourites? Let me know either in the comments section or on Twitter @TheWeighInMMA
Friday, 13 January 2017
MMA Awards 2017: The Case For... Michael Bisping
It's been a busy year for The Count, during
which he has achieved feats the majority of the MMA world thought impossible. I'm sure there are occasions where even he may have felt his dreams were going to elude him, but in typical stoic British fashion, he overcame his hurdles and ends the year atop arguably the most stacked division in the UFC. With the top 10 containing the likes of Romero, Weidman, Rockhold, Jacare, Mousasi, Silva and Whittaker, it's a real murderer's row for any potential champion.
If the state of the division plays in Bisping's favour, it makes it all the more impressive that the Brit won all three of his fights over the course of 2016. And it's not like he was fighting mid-carders. Both Anderson Silva and Dan Henderson are MMA legends, and while the argument could be made that they are perhaps not at the same level that they were in years past, these were the battles that gave him the most trouble. And no matter who you're fighting, a title fight is never easy.
In comparison to the other fighters on the shortlist, both Donald Cerrone and Cody Garbrandt have better records at 4-0, but barring the recent title fight for Cody at UFC 207, the level of competition has been the lower end of the top-10 rather than title contenders. Conor McGregor lost spectacularly to Nate Diaz, and while the fight did take place outside the Irishman's natural weight-class, Diaz is hardly a natural welterweight, and had taken the fight on 10 days' notice. Only Stipe Miocic can match the Brit in terms of both record and level of opponents faced, with Arlovski, Werdum and Overeem all of the highest calibre.
However, it was the way in which Bisping won each of his fights that really sets him apart from his competition. If there is one thing we've learnt about The Count this year, it's that he never does it the easy way. He took his title fight against Rockhold on 11 days' notice, walking straight off a movie set to knock the champion out in the first round. Meanwhile, in both the Silva and Henderson fights, the Brit found himself in deep trouble, only to find the inner strength and resilience to not only fight on, but win on both occasions.
In comparison, Miocic has spent a sum total of eight minutes and nineteen seconds inside the Octagon this year, with none of his fights making it out of the first round. While that is impressive in itself, the heavyweight champ has spent the majority of the time in a dominant position, and despite being clipped by Overeem, has not had to battle through the same adversity as Bisping throughout the year.
The Brit's fighting style has also seen drastic improvement this year, with his now legendary cardio backed up by first class head movement and a left hook that put both Silva and Rockhold on the canvas. In addition, it certainly seems like Bisping has added patience to his game this year. Despite the flailing limbs and antics of Silva designed to distract, Bisping remained calm and composed in the opening rounds, with his only mistake leading to the flying knee that nearly shut his lights off. This same patience has allowed him to mix up his striking and try new techniques, with the switch kick utilised frequently against Henderson a newer move to the arsenal.
There is also the sense that Bisping has had the fight won in the pre-show exchanges, making a name for himself as one of the most notorious trash-talkers in the sport today. While he may not be as charismatic as the original 'Notorious One' McGregor, and perhaps is not as creative with his barbs, there can be little doubt that the Mancunian has a way of getting under his opponent's skin. In the lead up to the Rockhold fight, you could feel the tension and anger radiating off the champion during press engagements, eventually losing his cool with the challenger at the pre-fight conference. With Rockhold emotional and over-confident, Bisping took full advantage to shock the MMA world.
In comparison to the other fighters on the shortlist, both Donald Cerrone and Cody Garbrandt have better records at 4-0, but barring the recent title fight for Cody at UFC 207, the level of competition has been the lower end of the top-10 rather than title contenders. Conor McGregor lost spectacularly to Nate Diaz, and while the fight did take place outside the Irishman's natural weight-class, Diaz is hardly a natural welterweight, and had taken the fight on 10 days' notice. Only Stipe Miocic can match the Brit in terms of both record and level of opponents faced, with Arlovski, Werdum and Overeem all of the highest calibre.
However, it was the way in which Bisping won each of his fights that really sets him apart from his competition. If there is one thing we've learnt about The Count this year, it's that he never does it the easy way. He took his title fight against Rockhold on 11 days' notice, walking straight off a movie set to knock the champion out in the first round. Meanwhile, in both the Silva and Henderson fights, the Brit found himself in deep trouble, only to find the inner strength and resilience to not only fight on, but win on both occasions.
In comparison, Miocic has spent a sum total of eight minutes and nineteen seconds inside the Octagon this year, with none of his fights making it out of the first round. While that is impressive in itself, the heavyweight champ has spent the majority of the time in a dominant position, and despite being clipped by Overeem, has not had to battle through the same adversity as Bisping throughout the year.
The Brit's fighting style has also seen drastic improvement this year, with his now legendary cardio backed up by first class head movement and a left hook that put both Silva and Rockhold on the canvas. In addition, it certainly seems like Bisping has added patience to his game this year. Despite the flailing limbs and antics of Silva designed to distract, Bisping remained calm and composed in the opening rounds, with his only mistake leading to the flying knee that nearly shut his lights off. This same patience has allowed him to mix up his striking and try new techniques, with the switch kick utilised frequently against Henderson a newer move to the arsenal.
There is also the sense that Bisping has had the fight won in the pre-show exchanges, making a name for himself as one of the most notorious trash-talkers in the sport today. While he may not be as charismatic as the original 'Notorious One' McGregor, and perhaps is not as creative with his barbs, there can be little doubt that the Mancunian has a way of getting under his opponent's skin. In the lead up to the Rockhold fight, you could feel the tension and anger radiating off the champion during press engagements, eventually losing his cool with the challenger at the pre-fight conference. With Rockhold emotional and over-confident, Bisping took full advantage to shock the MMA world.
Nevertheless, Matt Hughes famously said "you're not a true champion until you defend your belt". Having campaigned for a revenge rematch against Dan Henderson, who brutally KO'd the Brit at UFC 100, the fact that the bout took place at Bisping's home arena in Manchester added further pressure to that first title fight as champ. While some may argue that home advantage is exactly that, the expectation of the crowd can also be a hindrance. Add in the fact that Bisping had to walk through two H-bombs, and his unanimous decision win was more than a little impressive.
And so, ten years after he entered the Octagon in The Ultimate Fighter, the Brit has beaten the greatest of all time, put an full stop on a bitter and storied rivalry, as well as ending the career of a legend, and claimed UFC gold in his first title fight - and on short notice at that. If that's not deserving of recognition, I'm not sure what is.
As always, share your thoughts with me in the comments section below, or on Twitter @TheWeighInMMA
And so, ten years after he entered the Octagon in The Ultimate Fighter, the Brit has beaten the greatest of all time, put an full stop on a bitter and storied rivalry, as well as ending the career of a legend, and claimed UFC gold in his first title fight - and on short notice at that. If that's not deserving of recognition, I'm not sure what is.
As always, share your thoughts with me in the comments section below, or on Twitter @TheWeighInMMA
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