On July 17th, 2010 in Florence, Indiana a semi large Mixed Martial Arts organization entitled "MMA Big Show" held a pro/amateur card that featured 10 amateur fights. What I learned this afternoon, is that all 20 amateur fighters will no longer be allowed to compete in sanctioned amateur fights, not only in Indiana, but everywhere else.

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Jason David Frank, who is formerly known as a Power Ranger, on the hit TV show "Mighty Morphin Power Rangers" just made an announcement on Pure Adrenaline Radio that his coach and himself has decided that he will be turning pro on August 4th, in Houston, Texas, and he will be serving in the main event against boxer Jose Roberto Vasquez for the organization Texas Cage Fighting's event "Puro Combate."

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Justin Wren, who is (obviously) a Ultimate Fighter Season 10 fighter, had an interview with Tapout Radio, in which he proclaims

"He got arm-barred and Kimbo really doesn't like to tap. He didn't tap and the guy hurt his arm so he came back in there with a gun," Wren told TapouT radio. "Cops were called and everyone went nuts."

You can listen to the Justin Wren interview here

Now if this is true, this is a huge blow to Kimbo Slice's personality. The Street Certified image was something that the UFC and Elite XC were trying to get rid of, and try to make him an MMA fighter. I mean, Kimbo says he is a professional and he is there to fight, but obviously he still has not adapted to the ground and once again blew things out of the water. You should NEVER bring a gun inside of a mixed martial arts center. That to me is a slap in the face to the people you train with, the trainers, and to himself. Kimbo needs to grow up fast in MMA since he has one of the hottest spotlights on him at all times, and if this is true, I hope the UFC does not allow him on the TUF finale and I hope he gets blacked balled from MMA gyms... but I'll wait and see if this report is fully true.

Dustin Hazelett and Karo Parysian have agreed to terms to fight per MMA Weekly.

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Wilson Gouveia who was scheduled to fight James Irvin at UFC 102 on the Prelims, had a sudden change of opponent when James Irvin suffered a knee injury, Ed Herman (former TUF 3 runner up) left his fight against Aaron Simpson to fight Gouveia. Wilson Gouveia has dropped out of this fight against Ed Herman as confirmed by MMAMadness. Ed Herman will now go back to his fight against Aaron Simpson but instead of UFN it will be on the undercard of UFC 102. You might ask where does this leave Dan Miller? Dan Miller as confirmed by MMAJunkie will be facing off against TUF 7 Runner Up CB Dollaway.

With Ed Herman being promoted to UFC 102 to fight Wilson Gouevia due to the injury of James Irvin, Aaron Simpson has found himself a new opponent. Confirmed on facebook, Simpson has once again been handed the Dan Miller to square off against at UFN 19. This fight should be the fight of the night when it comes to the undercard fights, Aaron Simpson has never let any of his fights go to a decision, and Dan Miller has the excellent submission games that could potentially catch Aaron Simpson if he allows his natural wrestling abilities to take down Dan Miller. Should make for an exciting fight, and it is a huge shame that we will not be seeing this on the televised portion of the card.

UFL DRAFT 2009

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Oh it's on again, I want to fight Mike Golic now, always got something negative to say, how about this, you've gained all that weight you lost back!!!!

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via www.matratz.com

 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WTwTNc30D60

 

In the link provided above, Bobby Lashley has confirmed his next opponent. The TNA Wrestling business. That is correct, Bobby Lashley has signed a contract (details unkown at this time) to be apart of Total Non-Stop Action's Wrestling business. I am not saying this will 100% effect his MMA training considering TNA only wrestles about 5 total days out of the month, but, this should once and for all take Bobby Lashley's name out of The Ultimate Fighter hat. Great advice management......

Cincinnati Bengals Pick Round 1:
Michael Oher T/Ole Miss

Other Possibilities:
Eugene Monroe T/Virginia
Andre Smith T/Alabama
Chris "Beanie" Wells RB/Ohio State
Jeremy Maclin WR/Missouri

Comments on Michael Oher:
- Michael Oher is no doubt a very gifted left tackle. There is no doubt in my mind that he can prevail and be a LT in the NFL. He has very good technique in the pass blocking area, but where he lacks is this ability to run block, and his ability to make plays in a continuous fashion. He tends to get high in his stance, and will get beat by speed rushers. But he has all the pure natural talent to be a bonafide pro bowl tackle. He just needs to be more consistant. He is being taken over Andre Smith, because of weight influxuations, possible drug suspicious, and his abilility to stay in the weight room. If this was pure on the field talent, Andre Smith would be the first tackle off the board. But Bengals take Oher.

Cincinnati Bengals Pick Round 2:
Eric Wood C/Louisville

Other Possibilities:
Connor Barwin LB/Cincinnati
Donald Brown RB/UConn
LeSean McCoy RB/Pittsburgh
Max Unger C/Oregon

Comments on Eric Wood:
I personally do not see Connor Barwin, Donald Brown or Max Unger being there with our second round pick. I see them being swiped off the board in the second round all right before we pick. Eric Wood is apart of a very depthed center class. But he is a guy we have worked out, who we are very high on, and we have got to know on a personal basis via the senior bowl. Eric Wood is a Richie Braham replica. He is smash mouth with an ability to be very consistant with his starts, and he can help Palmer with protection schemes and changes.

Cincinnati Bengals Round 3:
Shonn Greene RB/Iowa

Other Possibillities:
Paul Kruger DE/Utah
Mike Mickens CB/Cincinnati
Derrick Williams WR/Penn State
Gerald Cadogan T/Penn State
Rashad Jennings RB/Liberty


Comments on Shonn Greene:
He is bar non the best running back still on the board here in Round 3. There is a chance Bengals take Rashad Jennings here because he is different than Cedric Benson. Shonn Greene provides the fist to the punch, and could be a deadly combo with Cedric Benson. The Cincinnati Bengals supposedly are scrapping the playbooks to become a more physical team in the run area. I'll believe it when I see it.

Cincinnati Bengals Comp Pick Round 3:
Mitch King DE/DT/Iowa

Other Possibilities:
Gerald McRath ILB/Southern Miss
Dannell Ellerbe ILB/Georgia
Jason Williams LB/Western Michigan
Trevor Canfield OG/Cincinnati
Andy Levitre OG/Oregon

Comments on Mitch King:
He is bar none a player. He is an NFL Player, that has heart, speed, strength, everything a team wants. The only problem is, he is too small to play DT in the NFL, he might be undersized for a 4-3 DE position. He reminds me a lot of Justin Smith, who the Bengals drafted a long time ago. He has a motor, he never quits, and he has a bull rush. The Bengals need pass rushers. They need somebody to attack the QB. We have Rucker and Fanene entering a back up rotation, and both are below average players. Mitch King, provides a spark to a line that needs it terribly.

Cincinnati Bengals Pick Round 4:
Fenuki Tupou OG/Oregon

Other Possibilities:
Keenan Lewis CB/Oregon State
Xavier Fulton OG/Illinois
Cody Brown OLB/UConn
Scott McKillop ILB/Pittsburgh
Kraig Ubrik OG/Wisconsin

Comments on Fenuki Tupou:
The Bengals really like him. With Bobbie Williams entering his final year of his contract, the Bengals could possibly be willing to let him go, which is extremely sad. We need offensive line depth, we need people that can play multiple positions when the situation occurs. Tupou has NFL blood inside of him, with two of his cousins playing and succeeding in the NFL. He posses strength and size, that could lead him to be a very solid guard in the NFL.

Cincinnati Bengals Pick Round 5:
Joe Burnett CB/UCF

Other Possibilities:
DeAngelo Smith CB/Cincinnati
Kaluka Miavai LB/USC
Kevin Huber P/Cincinnati

Comments on Joe Burnett:
The Bengals need a CB. We have Hall, Joesph (who is injury prone) Jones and Castille. Does not sound like the best CB line in the NFL. We need depth. We need somebody to be able to make plays for the Bengals when the time is needed. Burnett is that guy. He could be classified as a late round steal in some books with his ability to make plays with Speed and Punt Returns.

Cincinnati Bengals Pick Round 6:
Quan Cosby WR/Texaas

Other Possibilities:
Ian Campbell DE/LB/Kansas State
Andy Kemp G/Wisconsin
Phillip Hunt OLB/DE/Houston

Comments on Quan Cosby:
We released Glenn Holt, we have Chatman who has not played in all 16 games with the Bengals once. We have Caldwell who can return kicks and punts, but yet we are trying to add him more into our playbook, which should limit his returns. While, I took Burnett for his skills, he also fills a need. Cosby is a player that could break open a game due to his returning abilities. While we are stock piled at WR, there is a chance Marcus Purify could be cut, leaving Cosby an outside shot to make the team as a ST guy.

Cincinnati Bengals Comp Pick Round 6:
Lee Robinson OLB/Alcorn State

Other Possibilities:
Corey Smith LB/Cincinnati
Hunter Cantwell QB/Louisville
Antonio Appleby ILB/Virginia

Comments on Lee Robinson:
He is a beast of a man. He can play ILB and OLB. He can really help the Cincinnati Bengals with ST depth, and his frame fits our scheme perfectly. He comes from a small school, which pushes him back, but he can make plays. Pure and simple. Just must question his ability to play at a higher level of competition.


Cincinnati Bengals Pick Round 7:
P.J. Hill RB/FB Wisconsin

Comments on P.J. Hill:
He was pretty dominant at Wisconsin. But yet he did not compete in the Combine, nor his pro day. He has a lot of issues coming into this draft, and a lot of people... okay everybody says he should of stayed in the college ranks one more year. He is this years Mario Urrutia, and he could be a huge steal for the Bengals if used correctly.

Cincinnati bengals Comp Pick Round 7:
Fui Vakapuna FB/BYU

Comments on Fui Vakapuna:
Bengals need a fullback, you want a yard, he'll get you 3. The bengals are really sold on him, so it makes it the perfect pick.

Cincinnati bengals Comp Pick Round 7:
Chase Daniel QB/Missouri

Comments on Chase Daniel:
Ryan Fitzpatrick is gone. He is the best replica to him

I think it looks beter is quotes

With most of the attention this offseason focused on upgrades and changes to the Bengals' offense, things around the defense have been mostly quiet. But that doesn’t mean that coordinator Mike Zimmer hasn’t been trying to tinker with improvements.

While the team has not made any free-agent signings since quarterback J.T. O'Sullivan on March 6, it has had notable visits from two former Dallas defensive players -- Roy Williams two weeks ago and Tank Johnson on Thursday.

“The visit was fine. It was more of a get to know each other session,” Zimmer said.

After being released by Chicago in 2007 following a run of off-the-field incidents, Johnson has played in Dallas the last two seasons. Last year Johnson saw action in all 16 games and had 45 tackles with a sack, three tackles for loss and nine QB pressures.

Regarding the visit, Jerrold Colton, who is Johnson’s agent, said that the visit went well and that he was impressed with the team and the coaching staff.

Johnson played in a 3-4 with the Cowboys and struggled as a nose tackle. With the Bengals’ 4-3 scheme, Johnson could play either the right or left side and would be more of the pass-rushing tackle like he was with the Bears.

There’s also the question of where Johnson might fit if he was signed. Domata Peko who finished third on the team in tackles last year, has established himself at left end while Pat Sims, who was drafted in the third round last year, did a solid job during the second half of the season after John Thornton was injured. There is also the albeit slight chance that the Bengals may try to re-sign Thornton, who is an unrestricted free agent.

Whatever the case is, both sides are doing their due diligence before continuing.

“I called a lot of players in Dallas and talked to former players, front office people and former D-line coaches about what type of guy he is,” Zimmer said. “I also encouraged him to call former players about me. Sometimes I’m not the easiest guy to get along with and they need to understand what I am about.

“We’ve got a good nucleus of guys who know how to do things. That’s been one of the positive things so far and we don’t want a guy coming in here disrupting the chemistry.”

The Bengals are still trying to make a couple of signings, but it is likely that they will wait until after the draft, which is three weeks from today, before making a move.

Johnson and Williams are also garnering interest from other teams, so that timetable might move up if someone makes a move to sign.

Besides the tackle spots, there is also some concern about the ends. Robert Geathers is still rehabbing from a knee injury and won’t be back on the field until the June minicamp.

When it comes to pressuring the quarterback, the Bengals have fallen short in that area the last couple years, seeing their sack totals drop from 35 in 2006 to 22 in 2007 to 17 last year.

But pressure does not mean sacks alone. The Bengals have to become better at collapsing the pocket, creating negative-yardage plays and also forcing opposing offenses into mistakes.

“We emphasized a lot last year about guys being in the right place,” Zimmer said. “Maybe I stagnated some of the progress last year because I was harping on getting them to stop run, then working on the pass rush and then the blitz. Now that we have a little better understanding of lining up and where we need to be, I can turn them loose a little more.”

More pressure by the line could also free up linebackers Rashad Jeanty, Dhani Jones and Keith Rivers to rush a little more. Typically in Zimmer’s scheme, Jeanty at the strongside spot would get the majority of opportunities.

At the league meetings last week, Bengals coach Marvin Lewis liked the way Jones played last season as he led the team in tackles with 165. Lewis also thinks that a healthy Rivers, who played in only seven games last year, will also help improve the group.

As for the secondary, Zimmer has been pleased with how the unit played last year and expects more improvement this season.

“One thing about the guys on the back end, they showed they are good competitors and not back down from certain situations,” Zimmer said.

While the Bengals did finish 12th in the league in total defense, Zimmer knows that the expectation levels this year are higher. Those goals were spelled out on Monday when the team began offseason conditioning at Paul Brown Stadium.

“It’s important that the players know that we as coaches consider this an important time of the year and do things correctly,” Zimmer said. “We have to be stronger and healthier. If our good guys aren’t playing all the time it puts us at a disadvantage.”

Zimmer to Improve D

 

Bengals Team Report
14 hours, 13 minutes ago


Inside Slant
Since he was the top overall pick by the Bengals in 2003, quarterback Carson Palmer has been the face of the franchise. And as the Bengals began offseason workouts last Monday it was clear that he was ready to become the voice.

“I have no problem being the leader of this team if that’s what I am called to do,” Palmer said. “I feel like I’ve got enough experience under my belt to be that guy and we’ve got a great locker room of guys with different types of leaders. I’ll grab the bull by the horns and run with it.”

Always willing to give interviews, Palmer has been making more frequent appearances the past couple weeks. He recorded a message to season ticket holders either thanking them for renewing or reminding those who had not about the upcoming deadline. He also made the rounds on radio during the first day of workouts.

He also had a message for his teammates, getting up in front of them and telling them to “seize the moment”. After playing in only four games last year and entering his seventh season, Palmer knows that his window of opportunities is not as open as it used to be.

“There’s no more ‘Well hopefully next year and next year we’re going to be better. We’re going to be this, we’re going to be that,’” Palmer said. “It’s going into year seven and I feel like I haven’t really played any football yet. I definitely haven’t played in any significant games.

“I realize the more years you put in, the more you can’t look to next year at any point in the season. The time is now. It’s something once you hit years four, five, six years and guys in the NFL realize you can’t look to the future anymore. You need to seize the moment and the year and hopefully this is our year.”

As for the elbow, Palmer says it is 100 percent and had the same offseason routine that he has had as past seasons - throwing three times a week. And like the knee injury three years ago, he said the elbow actually feels stronger than before. However, his throws will be limited during training camp.

“I can already tell my arm has gotten stronger from all the rotator cuff exercises and the small muscles in your shoulder that fire the ball and the forearm muscles,” Palmer said. “I think it’s already stronger now, I just have to keep it up during the season.”


Notes, Quotes
Preseason dates have been announced. It’s one Friday and three Thursday preseason games for the Bengals. They will open at New Orleans on Friday, Aug. 14 at 8 p.m. followed by three straight Thursday night games at 7:30 at New England (Aug. 20) and then home to St. Louis (Aug. 27) and Indianapolis (Sept. 3).

Cincinnati has not visited the Superdome for a preseason game since 1989 and hasn’t gone to Foxboro for an exhibition since 1990. It also marks the first time since the 1988 Hall of Fame game that the Bengals have faced the Rams in the preseason. They will close against the Colts.

• When asked about his thoughts of the NFL expanding the schedule, Palmer said he liked it at 16 games. With most teams under a gag order to not talk about anything to do with a new Collective Bargaining Agreement, Lewis quickly turned the discussion back to the offseason program.

• After the Vikings matched the offer sheet on Fahu Tahi, it looks as if the Bengals will now look to fill their need for a fullback in the draft, where they should be able to get one in the middle rounds. The Bengals had kept contact with the agent for Packers fullback John Kuhn, but it looks as if they have lost interest.

• The following is a rough list of prospects who are visiting the Bengals: Ole Miss offensive tackle Michael Oher, Baylor offensive tackle Jason Smith, Missouri wide receiver Jeremy Maclin, Connecticut running back Donald Brown, Auburn guard Tyronne Green, Liberty running back Rashad Jennings, Wake Forest linebacker Aaron Curry, Louisville center Eric Wood and BYU fullback Fui Vakapuna.

University of Cincinnati defensive end Connor Barwin, defensive backs DeAngelo Smith and Mike Mickens and punter Kevin Huber will visit on April 14 when the Bengals have workouts for local players.

Quote To Note: “Anytime you have the season that we did last year, everyone you should be embarrassed. It makes you want to come back this offseason and this year and shove it back in everyone’s face.”—Bengals running back Cedric Benson on the mood of the team.


Strategy And Personnel

TEAM NEEDS/OFFSEASON STRATEGY
After a spending spree of nearly $14.5 million against this year’s salary cap during the first seven days of free agency, the Bengals are done with any major signings. They will see about making minor additions at fullback and to add depth on the offensive line before next month’s draft.

Another thing to watch is if the team will entertain trade offers for wide receiver Chad Ocho Cinco.


TEAM NEEDS

1. Offensive tackle: Stacy Andrews departed for the Eagles and Levi Jones is injury prone. With the Bengals having the sixth pick in the draft, highly rated prospects Eugene Monroe of Virginia and Mississippi’s Michael Oher could be available.

2. Center: Three-year starter Eric Ghiaciuc is a likely departure in free agency, and the Bengals’ backups are unproven. An extremely intriguing pick in the second round would be Louisville’s Eric Wood, a Cincinnati native. Wood, along with Oregon’s Max Unger and Cal’s Alex Mack, are the top center prospects available in the draft.

3. Defensive line: The Bengals had only 17 sacks last season and were inconsistent in pressuring the quarterback. John Thornton, who was one of the leaders, is expected to depart in free agency.

Medical Watch: No updates.

FRANCHISE PLAYER: PK Shayne Graham: Tendered at $2.483M.

TRANSITION PLAYER: None.

UNRESTRICTED FREE AGENTS

• CB Jamar Fletcher signed with the Bengals after Week 3 and made two starts. He is best suited as a nickel corner and is not a high priority to re-sign.

• C Eric Ghiaciuc started all 16 games for the first time in his career. He is a good pass blocker but has been overmatched against nose tackles in the AFC North. He is not expected to return.

• DT John Thornton has been one of the emotional leaders of the defense during his six-year stay with the club. The team is looking at the possibility of bringing him back in a reserve role.

UNRESTRICTED FREE AGENTS (not tendered)

• S John Busing (not tendered as RFA) saw most of his action on special teams and limited action in the secondary.

RESTRICTED FREE AGENTS

• LB Rashad Jeanty (tendered at $1.545M with second-round pick as compensation) made 15 starts and was fourth on the team in tackles and second on special teams. He is a disruptive pass rusher and good tackler.

• LB Brandon Johnson (tendered at $1.545M with second-round pick as compensation) started the last nine games after rookie Keith Rivers was injured and was second on the team in tackles. He is very quick and an effective pass rusher.

EXCLUSIVE RIGHTS FREE AGENTS: None.

PLAYERS ACQUIRED

• WR Laveranues Coles: UFA Jets; $28M/4 yrs, $3M SB/$4.75M RB; 2009 cap: $7.45M.

• QB J.T. O’Sullivan: UFA 49ers; 2 yrs, terms unknown.

• P Ryan Plackemeier (waivers Redskins).

PLAYERS RE-SIGNED

• RB Cedric Benson: UFA; $7M/2 yrs, guarantees unknown.

• LB/DE Darryl Blackstock: Potential UFA; 1 yr, terms unknown.

• FB/TE Daniel Coats: Potential ERFA; terms unknown.

• S Chris Crocker: UFA; $10M/4 yrs, $3.5M SB.

• RB DeDe Dorsey (not tendered as RFA); terms unknown.

• DT Orien Harris: ERFA; terms.

PLAYERS LOST

• OT Stacy Andrews: UFA Eagles, $40.98M/6 yrs, guarantees unknown.

• QB Ryan Fitzpatrick: UFA Bills; $6.9M/3 yrs, guarantees unknown.

• WR Glenn Holt: Not tendered as RFA/Vikings; 1 yr, terms unknown.

• WR T.J. Houshmandzadeh: UFA Seahawks; $40M/5 yrs, $15M guaranteed.

• S Dexter Jackson (released().

• LB Corey Mays: Not tendered as RFA/Chiefs; terms unknown.

Per: Bengalsroar

Top-ranked punter Kevin Huber is in demand from several NFL teams, according to a league source.

The standout University of Cincinnati punter has conducted private workouts with the New England Patriots, Cincinnati Bengals, Miami Dolphins, Philadelphia Eagles and the New York Jets. The Denver Broncos plan to work him out, too.

Following his Pro Day campus workout, Huber spent additional time doing specific drills at the request of the Jacksonville Jaguars, Eagles, Baltimore Ravens and New York Giants.

Huber will participate in the Bengals’ local prospect day on April 10.

Huber, who averaged 45 yards last season and placed 24 punts inside opponents’ 20-yard line, is expected to be picked during the second day of the NFL draft

Honestly, with the 5th round pick that we have, I say we jump and get this kid. Yes, he is a punter, but knowing how bad Larson was last year, and how Plackemeier is not much better, getting a kid who can down people inside the 20, who can make teams work deep from thier territory, giving our defense a chacne to make stops and allow us to get a positive field change after a punt, would really make this team a more dominant threat to the league. Punter, might just be a guy kicking the ball in the air, but it is the most underrated position in the NFL, it changes the whole impact of the game.

We’ve been suggesting that the Cincinnati Bengals might be inclined to take a chance on Alabama tackle Andre Smith with the sixth overall pick in the draft.

Though it remains to be seen whether they do, the Bengals are sufficiently interested in Smith to bring him to town for a pre-draft visit.

Per a league source, Smith finished his visit earlier today.

We’re told that Smith will meet next week with the 49ers, Eagles, Redskins, and Lions.  He also has met with the Ravens.

After the 2008 regular season, Smith was viewed as potentially the first overall pick.  His suspension from the Sugar Bowl was the first red flag.  His nightmare at the Combine was the second.  And his shirtless Jello run during the Alabama Pro Day workout was the third.

It now remains to be seen whether teams rely on game tape, or whether they get scared off by stuff unrelated to what he does between the white lines.

Given that the Bengals have ignored off-field issues as to plenty of other players in the past, we think they won’t hesitate to take Smith if he’s still on the board at No. 6.

Per PFT

Defensive tackle B.J. Raji, whose draft stock has soared over the past six months, had a positive drug test at February's combine, NFL team sources have told SI.com. It's unknown to SI.com which drug triggered the positive result, but NFL scouts were made aware before the 2008 season that Raji had tested positive for marijuana during his time at Boston College.

NFL teams will receive the official list of those who tested positive in Indianapolis later this month, and Raji's name will be on it, according to a source who attended last week's owners meetings in California.

Brian Murphy, Chief Operating Officer of Athletes First, which represents Raji, told SI.com: "We will not comment on rumors from unnamed sources. I do know that B.J. has been one of the hardest workers and nicest individuals that we at Athletes First represent. There is no doubt that he will be an invaluable addition to an NFL team both on the field as a player and in the community as a role model."

Raji declined comment when reached by SI.com.

According to the NFL's drug policy, a positive test for street drugs, which includes marijuana, puts a player into the initial stage of the NFL's drug program. He's then subject to random testing and subject to a fine or suspension if he tests positive again.

How this affects Raji's draft grade remains to be seen. He missed the 2007 college season with academic issues, returned to Boston College and had a terrific senior campaign, recording eight sacks and 42 tackles, with 16 tackles for loss. He was a dominant force during the week of practice at the Senior Bowl and continued his momentum up draft boards after turning in good combine and pro-day workouts. His performances the past three months have some scouts believing he'll be taken within the first six picks of the April 25 draft.

One source familiar with the positive drug test assessed Raji's draft prospects by saying, "It's a roll of the dice. If Raji stays clean and plays to his potential, you could have a dominant defensive lineman on your team. Then again, it does nobody any good if the kid is on the sidelines serving a suspension for a failed test."

Prior to the 1995 draft, top-rated defensive tackle Warren Sapp saw his stock slip after reports surfaced of positive drug tests during his time at the University of Miami, which he denied. The Tampa Bay Buccaneers eventually selected Sapp with the No. 12 overall pick. Sapp went on to play 13 seasons in the NFL, earning seven trips to the Pro Bowl.

http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/200...aji/index.html

Now, even though B.J. is not supposedly on our radar, this should take him off of it if he was. I don't think this will hurt B.J. Raji's stock much, but with teams like Cincinnati, Oakland, Jacksonville, Green Bay and San Fran all having interest in him from reports (Picks 6-10) I believe he will fall out of the top 10 and land at pick number 12 to the Denver Broncos... Warren Sapp all over again.

University of Connecticut running back Donald Brown is scheduled to visit the Cincinnati Bengals, according to a league source.

He’s projected to be drafted within the first two rounds.

Brown led the nation in rushing last season, gaining 2,083 yards and scoring 18 touchdowns for the Huskies.

He rushed for a career-high 261 yards in an International Bowl victory over the University of Buffalo. 

At the NFL Scouting Combine, Brown posted a 4.48 in the 40-yard dash and a 41 1/2 inch vertical leap.

I wonder if we are thinking about pulling the trigger and moving up to get him if he performs well.

Because Arizona, St. Louis, Seattle, New England, Cleveland could all be looking towards RB.

All-Southeastern Conference offensive tackle Michael Oher headlined the Mississippi Pro Day as the first-round draft prospect improved his previous 40-yard dash and bench press test numbers from the NFL Scouting Combine.

According to Gil Brandt of NFL.com, Oher ran the 40-yard dash in 5.16 and 5.24 seconds after clocking a relatively pedestrian 5.32 time in February at the Combine.

Plus, Oher bench-pressed 225 pounds 23 times, after managing just 21 at the combine.  That number is still lower than most top offensive tackles.

With every NFL team represented at the workout, including New Orleans Saints director of college scouting Rick Reiprish and Green Bay Packers director of player personnel John Dorsey, the 6′5″, 306-pounder drew compliments for his “great footwork,” per Brandt.

“I helped myself big-time today,” Oher told reporters following the workout. “It was more comfortable doing the tests here.  This is home.”

Oher’s tough childhood and his vast athletic potential were profiled in The Blind Side, a book by Michael Lewis.

Meanwhile, defensive lineman Peria Jerry, another projected first-round pick, ran the 40-yard dash in 4.98 seconds. He also posted a 31-inch vertical leap and bench pressed 225 pounds 28 times.

Glad to see his numbers rise. This should be a question on wether or not who goes at pick 6.

With multiple new safeties in the fold, including Darren Sharper and Pierson Prioleau, the Saints have parted ways with veteran safety Kevin Kaesviharn, according to Mike Triplett of the New Orleans Times-Picayune.

Kaesviharn was due to receive $1.6 million in salary and bonuses this year.

The eight-year veteran spent six seasons with the Bengals before signing with New Orleans in 2007.  He started eleven games in 2008 before suffering a season-ending neck injury.

 

Personally, the guy who is responsible for Carson Palmer's bloodied nose.. I would love to have him back in Stripes.

Things I'm told
An NFL source, traveling to Pro Days this week, tells me they heard a key member of the
Bengals brass indicate the team has Alabama's OT Andre Smith high on the
draft board. At least one member of the Bengals decision-making staff wants to
take Smith, according the the discussion. In the same conversation, the
Bengals official said he liked the way the draft board will fall and sensed
running back will be the value position when the team's on the clock in
the second round. UConn's Donald Brown was mentioned by name.

per Lance McCallister

I have a couple of problems with this.

Don't mention names Lance. If we are interested in drafting Donald Brown in round 2, don't let that be known. A lot of people think we are going to go center, now Cleveland might take a RB at 5 to stop us from getting one at 6 in the second round. This could also allow teams to move up to take a runningback similiar to 2007 when we made it known we want a LB, and 2 teams moved up and 4 teams infront of us took LB.

Second. Lance McCallister also said that "I'm hearing from somebody that... Patrick Ramsey will be our back-up QB." Too bad we did not even bring him in for a scheduled visit eh lance.

Listen, all of these beat writers and talk show hosts, you want to see the Bengals succeed so you say, so why are you giving out personal information about our draft board, knowing other teams can read and see this as well.

I understand we should take this with a grain of salt... but what do you think about the possibility of Andre Smith and a RB in round 2?

DANA POINT, Calif. - With left tackles Jason Smith and Eugene Monroe expected to be off the board and Andre Smith looking more and more like a guard, the Bengals have to decide if No. 6 is too high for Mississippi left tackle Michael Oher.

They'll get a close look at him soon in Cincinnati when they begin bringing in college prospects for on-campus visits. Jimmy Sexton, Oher's agent, said Sunday here at the site of the NFL meetings that his client is coming to Paul Brown Stadium in the next week or two.

Sexton is based in Oher's hometown of Memphis and while no one around the league seems to be questioning his client's athletic talents, the hiring of Sexton indicates that Oher has the maturity some scouts think he lacks. Sexton is one of the top agents in the game, represents several NFL head coaches (as well as Bengals tight end Reggie Kelly) and just got former Bengals backup quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick a surprisingly big deal at $2.75 million per year with Buffalo.

Sexton says Oher's engrossing back story that formed the best-selling book The Blind Side shouldn't obscure the fact that he's been a highly productive player and always been highly-ranked since he arrived at Ole Miss.

Sean Tuohy, Oher's father in the adopted family that took him in at age 15 after a life of poverty, is no stranger to Cincinnati.

"He owns almost every Taco Bell in Cincinnati and Covington," Sexton said. "He's there all the time."

 

Bengals.com

If Eugene Monroe and Jason Smith go off the board before the Bengals pick, do you want the Prototypical LT in Michael Oher? Do you want the possible RT/G in Andre Smith? Or do we trade back or select Beanie Wells.

In my own opinion, both Smith and Oher are Great tackles but not elite. I have sat and watched 4 tapes of Michael Oher, in which is flashes brilliant strength, footwork and blocking abilities, other times he gets blown off the ball, gets beat by speed guys, runs up the gut without blocking a single soul, will conduct holding penalities in the NFL. He has shown some problems in the tapes I have seen of calls that did not happen in college, that I believe in the NFL would of been called.

via fightticker.com

Well, it looks like I will be having ACL surgery next week. I have had a history of bad luck with my knees. I have already had two knee surgeries… meniscectomies on both knees. Those surgeries were relatively simple because they just go in arthoscopically and shave down the meniscus. There is no stitching and no repairing done.

The surgery scheduled for next week will not be so simple. Unlike the last two times, I will need my meniscus repaired. Instead of just shaving that little piece out, they will be stitching it up and getting it to sit back in place.

To make things much worse, I need to have my ACL repaired as well. They think my torn ACL is causing my knee to shift ever so slightly and its destroying my meniscus. They could stop after the meniscus repair but its just going to happen again. ACL surgery should fix that, but its a very long rehab and my knee may never be the same again. There are three options for the surgery (patella, hamstring and cadaver). Each has different advantages and disadvantages. I was going to do the Patella but have been convinced to go the Cadaver route.

Long story short… I will be off my feet for a month to a month and a half… training SUPER light in about 4 or 5 months… training decently hard in about 9 months and fighting in around 12-14 months. Its going to be a long rehab… but thats how it goes.

Looks like I will have lots of time to play Xbox… (and no, not giving out my gamertag… sorry).

Per: http://joelauzon.com/blog/2009/02/acl-surgery/

Real Bummer. After his impressive victory over an always gamed Jeremy Stephens, I was really hoping for a showdown with Josh Neer in the near future.

Wish you all the best in recovery Joe.

 

World Extreme Cagefighting on Tuesday announced that it would add a flyweight division to the WEC championship divisions, confirming original reports by MMAWeeklky.com. The organization will no longer actively promote the welterweight division, instead continuing its focus on the lighter weight classes including lightweight (155 pounds), featherweight (145 pounds), bantamweight (135 pounds), and flyweight (125 pounds).

Carlos Condit, reigning champion of the WEC welterweight division, and Brock Larson, as well as other top 170-pound WEC fighters, will transition to the Ultimate Fighting Championship organization to continue their athletic careers as UFC welterweight fighters.

Condit's UFC debut was officially announced on Tuesday. He will face UFC veteran Martin Kampmann at UFC Fight Night 18 on April 1 in Nashville, Tenn. Larson's return to the UFC has yet to be announced, but it is believed he will face Jesse Sanders at the Nashville event.

“With the addition of the flyweight division, the WEC has cemented its status as the home of the greatest lighter weight fighters in the world,” said Peter Dropick, WEC Vice President of Operations and Production. “We are excited to launch the 125-pound championship division, and look forward to giving our fans the best and most action-packed flyweight fights in the sport.”

More information about the WEC flyweight division will be announced at a later date.

HT: MMAWEEKLY

-To me, this is the best thing for the WEC. There really became no interesting match-ups for Carlos Condit at 170, unless it was a rematch. The depth of 170 was very thin, now the fighters will try to survive in the big waters of the UFC.

Good Job Zuffa.

Now, I must say.. Today I bashed Lyoto Machida out of my dislike for his style, I considered it boring, and I even compared him to Kalib stanres from UFC 83.

Now, I did pick against him, so I am here not only to eat the crow that I rightfully deserve to eat, but I have been converted to the side of Lyoto Machida band wagon.

Other than Georges St. Pierre who completely dominated in every aspect, Lyoto Machida completely surprised me with his aggresiveness inside the octagon. This was a different Lyoto Machida than I have ever seen. He looked fast and powerful, and when Thiago Silva was thought to be the agrressive striker, Lyoto Machida completely turned the tables, and defeated Thiago in every aspect of the game.

After this dominating victory over a very tough fighter in Thiago Silva, I think that Lyoto Machida deserves this title shot. He has earned his stripes with huge victories. I understand that Rampage Jackson is the next one to get a title shot if he defeats Jardine, but the UFC is now doing Lyoto Machida completely wrong if he has to wait till December to fight Rashad Evans if Rampage emerges victorious.

But right now, I have been convinced that Lyoto Machida is possibly the best 205 fighter in the world.

Thanks Lyoto and sorry for doubting you.

A change has been made to the upcoming UFC 96 card slated for Columbus, OH as MMAWeekly.com has confirmed that Dustin Hazelett has been forced out of his bout against Ben Saunders due to an injury sustained in training. Ryan "The Lion" Madigan has been tapped as a replacement for Hazelett, and according to sources close to the fighter he has signed the bout agreement to face Saunders in his UFC debut.

Fighting out of Cuyahoga Falls, OH, Madigan steps into the UFC with an impressive 5-0 record in MMA competition, as well as an extensive background as a professional kickboxer.

Madigan works out of the Jungle MMA training center based out of Ohio, and during his kickboxing career held a record of 8-2 as a professional, and 18-2 as an amateur.

Although the Ohio native has a solid kickboxing background, Madigan has also worked on his ground game, and has submitted his last two opponents, including a win over Brandon Pierce, who trains with Team Jorge Gurgel.

Saunders made quite an impression in his last fight after battering UFC newcomer, Brandon Wolff, with a series of Muay Thai knee strikes that left his opponent beaten up and finished in the first round.

At this time it is unknown if the bout will be featured on the main card or undercard for the show which will feature a main event of Quinton "Rampage" Jackson against Keith Jardine.

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HT: MMAWEEKLY

Hm, Brandon Wolff vs. Ben Saunders II? This to me is a huge blow to the card, because this match for me was the most entertaining and interesting fight.

The Ultimate Fighter (TUF) 8 light heavyweight winner Ryan Bader (8-0) will attempt to keep his perfect professional mixed martial arts record intact when he returns to action against Carmelo Marrero (10-2) at UFC Fight Night 18 in Nashville, Tenn., on April 1, according to FiveOuncesOfPain.com.

“Darth” Bader — who is an accomplished collegiate wrestler from Arizona State University (ASU) — showed his punching power in the TUF 8 Finale, finishing Vinicius Magalhães with his fists to capture the 205-pound season crown.

The Arizona Combat Sports product took out Kyle Kingsbury, Tom Lawlor and Eliot Marshall en route to the finals.

Bader has only gone the distance once in his career, demonstrating a nice mix of submission and (technical) knockout wins since his start back in 2007. Marrero, however, may prove to be a little more difficult to stop.

“The Fury” is a three-fight UFC veteran who used his wrestling skills and takedowns to upset Cheick Kongo via unanimous decision UFC 64: “Unstoppable” in his Octagon debut back in 2006. The victory, however, was short lived. He went on to lose his next two bouts against Gabriel Gonzaga and Wilson Gouveia, which of course featured a drop from heavyweight to light heavyweight.

Marrero would have much better luck outside the Octagon when he was released after the submission loss to Gouveia, compiling a solid record with zero defeats (4-0) and one “No Contest.” He most recently eked out a split decision win over Steve Steinbeiss at WEC 36: “Faber vs. Brown” in November 2008.

UFC Fight Night 18 will serve as the lead-in to The Ultimate Fighter (TUF) 9 on Spike TV. The event has yet to be announced or made official; however, several bouts are also rumored for the show, including a match up between TUF 8 lightweight winner Efrain Escuedero taking on Jeremy Stephens and Ricardo Almeida challenging Matt Horwich.

Stay tuned to MMAmania.com for more announcements and news surrounding UFC Fight Night 18.

HT: MMAMANIA

I think this is a real good fight for Bader to either a.) show his stand up or b. show his agrressive lay n pray wrestling.

Former UFC middleweight contender David Loiseau will return to the Octagon on April 18 when he faces The Ultimate Fighter (TUF) 3 finalist Ed Herman at UFC 97 from The Bell Centre in Montreal, Quebec, Canada according to Cageplay.com.

“Short Fuse” is hoping to not only spoil Loiseau’s homecoming, but to also snap a two-fight losing streak inside the cage. Herman came up on the losing end of a split-decision loss to Alan Belcher back in September and was choked out by Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu phenom Demian Maia at last year’s UFC 83.

Loiseau recently defeated Solomon Hutcherson via fifth round technical knockout to earn the Xtreme MMA (XMMA) middleweight title at the Claude Robillard Sports Complex in Montreal, Canada.

It was a big (and gutsy) win for “The Crow” — his third straight since a controversial split-decision loss Jason Day earlier this year — because it got him once step closer to a UFC return.

The Canadian was at one time a top 185-pound title contender. In fact, he challenged then-champion Rich Franklin for his belt at UFC 58: “USA vs. Canada” in 2006, losing to “Ace” in a lopsided unanimous decision.

Loiseau had won four of five bouts inside the Octagon, including stoppages of Evan Tanner, Charles McCarthy and Mark Weir, to earn the opportunity.

After the loss to Franklin, however, Loiseau dropped three of his next four and fell of the radar. He was cut from the promotion rather abruptly after a unanimous decision loss to Mike Swick at UFC 63: “Hughes vs. Penn” in September 2006.

Loiseau — who trains with welterweight champion Georges St. Pierre and Patrick Cote, among others — has been working hard ever since in smaller shows to be invited back.

It looks like his efforts have finally paid off, which is good news for him, the fans and the middleweight division.

Per: MMAMANIA

Just wanted to say, I am EXTREMELY excited to see David back in the UFC.

via assets.espn.go.com

Obviously it is December 31st, so with Dynamite in the books, there will not be another MMA fight before the new year. The UFC bar none was the winner of this year's MMA battle. Even though they did not get a national television deal similiar to CBS acquiring Elite XC, and NBC acquiring Strikeforce, the UFC has seen numbers spike through the roof. So let's take a recap down memory lane and go over the Top 5 defining fights of 2008 for the UFC.

5.) Georges St. Pierre vs. Matt Serra (UFC 83: Serra vs.  GSP II)

 Georges St. Pierre lost his championship gold to a huge underdog in Matt Serra in April of 2007 at UFC 69: Shootout. Since then, Georges went to win a clear cut decision against Josh Koscheck, and a pure destruction victory over former welterweight champion and future UFC Hall of Famer Matt Hughes. Matt Serra who was supposed to fight Matt Hughes at UFC 79, was injured and in that time, it allowed Georges to be crowed the Interim Welterweight Champion with his victory overt Matt Hughes. It all lead into this, Matt Serra talked a lot of game, and heading into hostile territory, Matt Serra had to prove that his victory over GSP, was not a fluke. Georges had to prove not only to himself, but to the fan base, that he is mentally ready to become the true definition of a champion. While talk was high, Georges St. Pierre in front of his own home country, defeated Matt Serra for 2 rounds causing the ref to stop the fight late in the 2nd. Matt Serra got no offense in what so ever, and Georges St. Pierre showed that this time he was the better fighter, and possibly the best pound for pound fighter that the UFC has to offer.

4.)  Anderson Silva vs. Dan Henderson (UFC 82: Pride of a Champion)

Here it was. Pride Middleweight Champion Dan Henderson, the guy who had the style to expose holes in Anderson Silva, and the guy who was favored at one point to defeat Anderson. The UFC Middleweight Champion looked unstoppable before this fight, but yet we really did not see him go against a top notch wrestler with dangerous striking power like Dan Henderson. This match could solidify Anderson as the best pound for pound fighter. Anderson Silva lost the first round, and it seemed like Dan Henderson had a fantastic chance of riding this out into a victory. That all quickly changed in round two, when Anderson Silva showed dominant striking, and a vicious knee that landed flush on Dan Henderson's chin. Anderson Silva, did he not only show that his striking is incredible, he ended up finishing the fight late in the second round by sinking the hooks in on Dan Henderson's back and submitting him with a rear naked choke. Proving to everybody that the ERA of Anderson Silva is 100% true, and that Anderson Silva will walk through anybody that is placed infront of him.

3.) Jon Fitch vs. Georges St. Pierre (UFC 87: Breakthrough)

Georges St. Pierre was the champion again. But yet, last time he accomplished that feat, he lost his first match attempting to defend the belt. Jon Fitch who most fans felt like was being burried, finally earned his title shot by winning 7 straight fights. At the time, Jon Fitch was hailed as Georges St. Pierre's toughest opponent, because Jon Fitch has a fantastic wrestling base, with good brazilian jiu-jitsu and good striking. Also, Georges St. Pierre fought Jon Fitch's friend and training camp partner Josh Koscheck at UFC 76: Respect. This fight on paper seemed like it was going to be evenly matched, and it was going to engage into a 5 round war. Well the 5 round war part was correct, but Georges St. Pierre delievered one of the most vicious poundings of one fighter that a memory can recall. While Jon Fitch can be labeled as a top tier fighter, Georges St. Pierre showed on that night, dominating all rounds that no matter how top tier you are, GSP is on a completely different level. Also, this solidified toughness and heart for Jon Fitch, who walked out as a loser, but yet he gained respect from all fans for continuing to fight and showing that he is a true mixed martial artist. Georges St. Pierre proved that he has mentallity and heart to be the best welterweight in the world.

2.) Rampage Jackson vs. Forrest Griffin UFC 86: Griffin vs. Jackson

 The Coaches of TUF 7 finally get to square off. It's Former TUF Winner Forrest Griffin, who pulled off one of the biggest upsets of 2007 by not only defeating, but submitting the number 1 205 pound fighter in the world in Shogun Rua, was taking on his toughest test to take in Rampage Jackson, who defeated Chuck Liddell in a brutal KO fashion in 2007 to become the Light Heavyweight Champion, and also defeding his title against Pride Fighting Championships' Light Heavyweight Champion in Dangerous Dan Henderson. All the talk from the show had finally ending and this fight had a lot of fans new and old paying attention. When the fight wa announced, a lot of people once again did not give Forrest Griffin the light of day to defeat Rampage Jackson. While Forrest Griffin does not have the knockout power in his hands like Rampage, Griffin showed that he possed leg kicks, which seemingly are a flaw in Rampage's game. Griffin went into this fight with an extremely smart gameplan, he moved in and out using vicious leg kicks to limit Rampage's power, takedowns and movements. While people questioned Forrest's chin, labling it as a glass jaw, Quentin landed a huge uppercut that set Forrest tumbling down, but to Forrest's credit he survived the round and ended up winning the next 10-8. As said in The Ultimate Fighter 7, Rampage made the statement "No way our fight going to the judges Forrest. I bet my purse on it." Well it's probably a good thing that Rampage did not bet his purse, because at the end of it, the fight went into the judges hands. Forrest Griffin won in a very narrow decision, and possibly winning the title of Fight of the Year.

1.) Brock Lesnar vs. Randy Couture

 Is there any question about this? This was the most talked and hyped fight in the history of Mixed Martial Arts. Brock Lesnar the phenom from the World Wrestling Entertainment turned Mixed Martial Artist, finally got a win underneath his belt inside the octagon against Heath Herring, setting up this match. Randy Couture, coming out of a year plus long retirement to defend his heavyweight championship against the bigger, stronger, younger fighter in Brock Lesnar. This fight no matter where you were, was being talked about. People who have despised the sport wre talking about it and wondering who was going to win. This fight pit "The Old Man" vs. "Young Lion" it had a lot of questions about both Brock Lesnar and Randy Couture. Could Randy Couture exceed after being off for over a year? Could Randy Couture handle the size, speed, and strength of Brock Lesnar? Could Brock Lesnar prove that belongs in the top class of fighters?  This fight belongs as number 1 on this list, because not only did it pull in the highest pay per view buy rates in UFC history, not only did it show the rise of Brock Lesnar, but it showed that he is the most marketable fighter that the UFC has ever had. Because not only does Brock Lesnar appeal as a bad guy to the fans of MMA, but it appeals to the professional wrestling addicts that watched Brock Lesnar entertain them for countless years. Brock Lesnar defeating Randy Couture for the Heavyweight Champion, is the most defining fight for the UFC in the year 2008, because not only did it gain the most notoriety, it simply was the biggest blockbuster fight in UFC history.. even though it lasted two rounds. Brock Lesnar, say what you will, he brings fans to the TV, he brings fans to the arena.. Brock Lesnar simply great for the sport. Win or lose, people want to see him.

So, what do you think is a defining fight for the UFC that I missed on this list. Agree or Disagree with the list. It's open for converstion. So please let's get chatting.

via www.cagetoday.com

It has been one of the most successful years in the making for the sport of Mixed Martial Arts, with the rise of Affliction, Dream, World Victory Road, Sengoku, Elite XC and Strikeforce, the UFC still stands in its own company of elite. With Elite XC closing it's doors, Dream owing fighters money, and affliction wobbling on its last leg, the year of 2009 for MMA is starting to look slim, and the UFC standing strong and tall.

But let's not talk about let. Let's take a trip back to the year that was 2008 for The Ultimate Fighting Championship.Championship History of 08'

It all started off with

UFC 80: Stevenson vs. BJ Penn for the lightweight championship. The first event of the New Year, and the last time we actually got to see a UFC PPV at $40.00, BJ Penn makes his historic comeback run to capture the vacant lightweight title via submission (rear naked choke) in round 2 over an always gamed but yet outclassed opponent in Joe Stevenson.

BJ Penn would go on to defeat former UFC Lightweight Champion Sean Sherk at UFC 84 via 3rd round TKO strikes. The only time BJ would defend the Lightweight Championship in 2008.

UFC 81: It was the championship showdown in the making. Former Pride Heavyweight Champion Antonio Rodrigo "Minotauro" Nogueira vs. Former UFC Heavyweight Champion Tim Sylvia. While this was for an interim title, it still had the potential to go five rounds. While Tim seemed to be in control of this fight, the third round proved to be the fault as Nogueira pulls off a beautiful guillotine choke to glorify Minotauro the UFC's Interim Heavyweight Champion.

UFC 83:  It was the rematch, the showdown, CHAMPION vs. CHAMPION. Matt Serra vs. Georges St. Pierre part two. We all know the story. Matt Serra defeated GSP in the first round, as being dubbed as the biggest upset in UFC championship history. Georges St. Pierre defeated Matt Hughes in an dominating fashion, setting up this rematch. While things did not go the same as they did in April of 2007, Matt Serra was dominated from start to the finishing point when the referee stopped the bout in the second round. Crowning Georges St. Pierre the OFFICIAL welterweight champion.

GSP would go on to defend his title one more time of the 2008 year at UFC 87. Defeating Jon Fitch in what could be called the best fight of 2009.

UFC 86: Here it was, the finale of The Ultimate Fighter, Coach vs. Coach. Rampage Jackson vs. Forrest Griffin. Rampage said on the show that he would bet his purse that this fight would not go to a decision. He was wrong. Also to be called the best fight of 2008, Rampage Jackson lost a narrow decision to Forrest Griffin, that had many people screaming that Rampage won or cause a draw in that fight. Forrest Griffin once again comes into a fight as a highly touted underdog, similar to his fight against Shogun Rua at UFC 76. In the close fight, Forrest Griffin defeated the 1 time defending Light Heavyweight Champion. From former TUF winner, to Champion.

UFC 91: The Legend vs. The Franchise. The Old Man vs. The Young Lion, this was as close as a Rocky type of story that you could get, and possibly the biggest blockbuster fight in the history of The Ultimate Fighting Championship. Former World Wrestling Entertainment Superstar Brock Lesnar was taking on Randy Couture, who was coming out of retirement to defend his Heavyweight Championship. While people were torn about who to pick, Brock Lesnar came in and showed that sometimes size and strength can win a fight. While Randy Couture did an excellent job trying to tire out Brock Lesnar, the number just caught up to Couture. A punch to the head of Randy Couture, left him stumbling to the mat, and Brock Lesnar got on top and pounded him out. Brock Lesnar is now known as THE UFC HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPION, leaving people questioning Randy Couture and whether he should be fighting or not.

UFC 92: They called it Ultimate 2008 for a reason. This event went out with a bang, crowning two new champions.

Here it was once again, The Ultimate Finale. Coach vs. Coach. Frank Mir, who defeated Heavyweight Champion Brock Lesnar at UFC 81, earned a shot at Minotauro Nogueira, and both had to deal with The Ultimate Fighter Season 8 before they could step into the octagon and finish the show. Frank Mir came in as a pretty solid underdog, because we all thought Nogueira was just a little bit better than Frank at everything. Frank Mir came out and showed highly improved and technical striking that seemingly threw Nogueira for a loop and confused him. Frank Mir became the 2008 version of Matt Serra. He did something that nobody has ever done in MMA, and that was to finish Nogueira via TKO.

The main event pitted for the 2nd time, two previous Ultimate Fighter Winners. Light Heavyweight Champion defending his belt for the first time in Forrest Griffin, taking on the man who defeated Chuck Liddell with the knock out of the year in Rashad Evans. While this was seemingly yoru striker vs. wrestler type of match up, the first two rounds turned into a kick boxing match. Then Rashad Evans finally implimented his game plan and ground and pounded out Forrest Griffin, leaving his tapping on the mat due to strikes. Rashad Evans becomes the last Light Heavyweight Champion of 2008.

Don't Let me forget about Anderson Silva by the way. This is the only championship not to change hands in 2008. With a total of 7 Champions crowned in 2008, Anderson Silva kept his belt while defending it twice against the likes of Dangerous Dan Henderson and Patrick Cote.

Now while we have seen our deal of championship fights, we have also seen the rise and fall of fighters inside the UFC. We have seen fighters turn into contenders, we have seen fighters turn into possible contenders. But yet we have also seen the fall of some fighters. Let's take a look.

Rise of Fighters:

• Jon Fitch
• Amir Sadollah
• CB Dollaway
• Thiago Alves
• Thiago Silva
• Lyoto Machida
• Dustin Hazelett
• Brock Lesnar
• Frank Mir
• Efrian Escudero
• Kenny Florian
• Demian Maia
• Josh Koscheck
• Shane Carwin
• Cain Velasquez
• Cheik Kongo
• Patrick Cote
• Rich Clementi
• Tim Boetsch
• Jim Miller
• Dan Miller
• Thales Leites
• Ryan Bader

The Fall of Fighters:

• Matt Serra
• Matt Hughes
• Heath Herring
• Tommy Speer
• Joe Sevenson
• Chuck Liddell
• Tito Ortiz
• Randy Couture
• Luke Cummo
• Brandon Vera
• Tim Sylvia
• Kendall Grove
• Ed Herman
• Travis lutter
• Chris Leben
• Josh Burkman
• Karo Parisyan
• Thiago Tavares
• Houston Alexander

But after it is all said and done, we have seen fights that could go down in the history such as Rampage vs. Forrest, Brock vs. Couture, Fitch vs. GSP, we have seen the young lions rise to fame, we have seen our legends fall off the horse. Overall, the year for 2008 has shown us that Mixed Martial Arts is here to stay, and it can only get bigger, and it can only get better. While 2008 was fantastic and it was the best year for MMA, that only leaves room to get better, stronger and more popular in the year 2009.

I don't know if you are with me or not, but the of year 2009 for MMA has me extremely excited.

(Quick Note) In 2008, the UFC lost a true warrior. Evan Tanner was found dead in the desert. Evan was known to have his problems, but still he was a very fun fighter to watch, and it was a shame to know that in 2008 he passed away.

Also, it's a shame to know that former UFC fighters Justin Levens and Justin Eilers were both found dead. one murdered his wife and then committed suicide, and one was shot by his mother's boyfriend. It is a shame that both of these guys who go into a cage to fight for our entertainment, passed away within this past month. May these two and Mr. Tanner rest in piece.