MMA News

By <a href="mailto:howie@mmanews.com">Chris Howie</a> <Br> MMANEWS.COM Staff Writer<Br><Br> After being fired from the UFC by Dana White for failing a pre fight medical prior to a main event slot at UFC on Versus 4 last year, Nate Marquardt finds himself back under the Zuffa banner, thought not back in the UFC just yet.<Br><Br> During Tuesday night's episode of UFC Tonight on Fuel TV, it was announced that Marquardt had been signed to a Strikeforce contract. After spending nearly a year on the sidelines, Marquardt will likely be action on an upcoming Strikeforce card.<Br><Br> His last appearance was at UFC 128 where he earned a unanimous decision win over Dan Miller. After being fired he had signed a contract with UK's BAMMA promotion but would later ask for a release.<BR><Br> Leave your feedback on this article by posting a comment directly below! You can also chat about the latest news in the MMANEWS.COM <a href=http://www.mmanews.com/forums >Forums</a> and/or the MMANEWS.COM <a href=http://www.facebook.com/mmanewsdotcom >Facebook</a>. If that wasn't enough, MMANEWS.COM is now on Twitter as well <a href=http://twitter.com/mmanewsdotcom >@mmanewsdotcom</a>.<Br><Br>

CHICAGO, Ill. (February 22, 2012) — After two hugely-successful shows in 2011, Bellator Fighting Championships announced today that the world’s leading tournament-based promotion will be heading back to the sold-out, raucous Casino Rama in Ontario, Canada on Friday, May 4 for Bellator 67. The night will be loaded with tournament action, as well as a bevy of preliminary fights filled with local stars sure to make the Canadian faithful proud. Tickets for this event are on sale now and are available at Ticketmaster.com and in-person at the Casino Rama Box Office. Tickets are priced from $25-$175 Canadian.<br><Br> “We’re thrilled to be able to partner once again with this world leader to bring Ontario MMA fans another edge-of-your-seat action packed fight night,” said Jeff Craik, Vice President of Marketing, Casino Rama. “This is exactly the type of Big Time Excitement customers have come to expect from us.”<br><Br> The event will also be broadcast LIVE starting at 8 p.m. EST on MTV2 and in commercial-free HD on EPIX. Doors open at 6 p.m. EST, with the first fight scheduled for 7 p.m. EST. The preliminary card, featuring the area’s top local talent will be streamed LIVE and FREE around the world on Spike.com starting at 7 p.m. EST.<br><Br> “Casino Rama has been a spectacular home for Bellator throughout 2011, so returning to this majestic jewel of a resort/casino was a very easy decision to make,” Bellator Chairman & CEO Bjorn Rebney said. “As always our fight card will be stacked from top to bottom with many of the world’s best fighters, so I expect nothing less than a packed house once again on May 4.”<br><Br> Bellator 67 will mark the third-time ever the organization has hosted an event at Casino Rama and the fourth time the promotion has visited Canada for an event.<br><Br> More info on the fight card coming shortly.<br><Br> For more information, visit Bellator.com, follow Bellator on Twitter @BellatorMMA, follow Bellator Chairman & CEO Bjorn Rebney @BjornRebney and check out Bellator on Facebook at www.facebook.com/Bellator<br><Br> Leave your feedback on this article by posting a comment directly below! You can also chat about the latest news in the MMANEWS.COM <a href=http://www.mmanews.com/forums >Forums</a> and/or the MMANEWS.COM <a href=http://www.facebook.com/mmanewsdotcom >Facebook</a>. If that wasn't enough, MMANEWS.COM is now on Twitter as well <a href=http://twitter.com/mmanewsdotcom >@mmanewsdotcom</a>.<Br><Br>

LOS ANGELES, CA – In this week’s “UFC Tonight,” Kenny Florian previews the upcoming UFC 144 in Japan, focusing on the Frankie Edgar-Benson Henderson title fight and the co-main event featuring Rampage Jackson and Ryan Bader. Also, UFC President Dana White’s “Presidential Address” calls out one of sports’ biggest superstars. Plus, Jay Glazer and Benson Henderson visit the troops in South Korea and see what it’s like to train there, and UFC Octagon Girl Brittney Palmer talks about her March Playboy cover shoot.<Br><Br> Dana White’s “Presidential Address” on one of sports’ biggest superstars: “First of all, what [he] said, I think, was racist. He’s made a couple of racist comments. And yes, you’re racist with the stuff you’ve said. … you dummy. Don’t worry about what all these other guys are doing, and shooting your big mouth off on Twitter. … And I know I speak for millions and millions of other people. Shut up ...”<Br><Br> “UFC Tonight” Analyst Kenny Florian on Edgar vs. Henderson: “I can’t wait for this fight. These are two aggressive, lightweights going at it. Edgar is very fast and aggressive. Henderson is from a great wrestling background. These are two very dangerous lightweights.”<Br><Br> Exclusive interview, Frankie Edgar on training for his upcoming fight: “It’s nice to be training for a different technique and different style. It’s refreshing training for someone different. I think I can’t beat myself. I’ve got a great training camp.”<Br><Br> Florian on the key to Edgar’s game: “He’s fast. He can get four punches off in less than two seconds. His footwork and his speed make him very dangerous.”<Br><Br> Florian on Jackson vs. Bader: “Rampage Jackson made his career fighting in Pride in Japan. He has very heavy hands. Bader comes from a wrestling background and will try to get Jackson on the ground. It’s going to be a great fight.”<Br><Br> “UFC Tonight” Insider Ariel Helwani asks Gray Maynard his pick for Edgar vs. Henderson: “I can see it going either way. Henderson is a lefty, so we’ll see how Edgar does against him.”<Br><Br> Helwani reveals news on Sean Loeffler: “He will need surgery on his ankle and could be out for about six months.”<Br><Br> Florian on if Joe Lauzon wins does he deserve a title shot: “Not yet. I’d like to see him get one or two more wins.”<Br><Br> Florian on an upcoming match flying under the radar: “Don’t miss Cheick Kongo versus Mark Hunt. These are two heavyweights who have serious knockout power. I don’t see this one going the distance.”<Br><Br> Florian on Dave Herman coming out to the Village People’s “Macho Man” in Omaha as being the worst entrance song ever: “I thought it was the best music ever! You could hear the crowd laughing and he had fun with it.”<Br><Br> “UFC Tonight” is the official weekly news and information show of the Ultimate Fighting Championship, airing every Tuesday night at 10:00 PM ET on FUEL TV. The show is co-hosted by veteran UFC fighter and multiple title contender Kenny Florian and former UFC host and WEC announcer Todd Harris. Two-time World MMA Awards Journalist of the Year Ariel Helwani adds insider news. <Br><Br> Leave your feedback on this article by posting a comment directly below! You can also chat about the latest news in the MMANEWS.COM <a href=http://www.mmanews.com/forums >Forums</a> and/or the MMANEWS.COM <a href=http://www.facebook.com/mmanewsdotcom >Facebook</a>. If that wasn't enough, MMANEWS.COM is now on Twitter as well <a href=http://twitter.com/mmanewsdotcom >@mmanewsdotcom</a>.<Br><Br>

By <a href="mailto:howie@mmanews.com">Chris Howie</a> <Br> MMANEWS.COM Staff Writer<Br><Br> Quinton Jackson returns to Japan at UFC 144 this month and will be looking to impress the fans win or lose when he steps in the cage.<Br><Br> The former UFC Light Heavyweight Champion talked about his fighting style and more in a recent interview and also talked about why he doesn't care of he beats Bader:<Br><Br> "I couldn't give a rat's ass if I beat Ryan Bader or not, I just want to put on the best show the world has ever seen. I never claimed to be a martial artist or a guy who's good at everything. I'm a street fighter. There's a lot of things I don't care about. I don't care to know what my opponent's doing, I don't care to know his skills or stuff like that, because I'm a brawler. Ya know, a street fight you just walk up to the guy and start a fight. You ain't got no tape on this guy."<Br><br> Leave your feedback on this article by posting a comment directly below! You can also chat about the latest news in the MMANEWS.COM <a href=http://www.mmanews.com/forums >Forums</a> and/or the MMANEWS.COM <a href=http://www.facebook.com/mmanewsdotcom >Facebook</a>. If that wasn't enough, MMANEWS.COM is now on Twitter as well <a href=http://twitter.com/mmanewsdotcom >@mmanewsdotcom</a>.<Br><Br>

By <a href="mailto:howie@mmanews.com">Chris Howie</a> <Br> MMANEWS.COM Staff Writer<Br><Br> A long awaited rematch between Eddie Alvarez and Shinya Aoki is finally set to happen.<Br><Br> MMAJunkie.com is reporting that the two will meet at Bellator 66, though nothing has been officially announced yet. The event is expected to take place on April 20th.<Br><br> In their first match in December 2008, Aoki defeated Alvarez via a heel hook submission in just 92 seconds to win the WAMMA Lightweight title.<Br><Br> Leave your feedback on this article by posting a comment directly below! You can also chat about the latest news in the MMANEWS.COM <a href=http://www.mmanews.com/forums >Forums</a> and/or the MMANEWS.COM <a href=http://www.facebook.com/mmanewsdotcom >Facebook</a>. If that wasn't enough, MMANEWS.COM is now on Twitter as well <a href=http://twitter.com/mmanewsdotcom >@mmanewsdotcom</a>.<Br><Br>

By <a href="mailto:howie@mmanews.com">Chris Howie</a> <Br> MMANEWS.COM Staff Writer<Br><Br> Jon Jones will have his coach in his corner when he faces former teammate Rashad Evans at UFC 145 this April.<Br><Br> It had first been assumed that Greg Jackson would not be cornering Jones following a split between Evans and Jackson's MMA when the two were scheduled to meet last year but since then things have changed.<Br><Br> Evans now has his own team and coaches at Imperial MMA while Jones has stuck with Jackson and the current UFC Light Heavyweight Champion made the announcement today via his Twitter:<Br><Br> "Greg Jackson confirmed today he will be in my corner for UFC 145"<Br><Br> Leave your feedback on this article by posting a comment directly below! You can also chat about the latest news in the MMANEWS.COM <a href=http://www.mmanews.com/forums >Forums</a> and/or the MMANEWS.COM <a href=http://www.facebook.com/mmanewsdotcom >Facebook</a>. If that wasn't enough, MMANEWS.COM is now on Twitter as well <a href=http://twitter.com/mmanewsdotcom >@mmanewsdotcom</a>.<Br><Br>

<B>By MATT MOLGAARD<BR> MMANEWS.COM Staff Writer</B><BR><BR> Former WEC champion, Ben Henderson (15-2) will make an attempt at dethroning the reigning, defending UFC lightweight champion, Frankie Edgar (14-1-1) this weekend when the promotion heads back to Japan for UFC 144.<BR><BR> Edgar has proven to be one of the most resilient and talented champions the 155 pound division has scene. He’s held the belt since April of 2010, when he upset the heavily favored B.J. Penn over the course of five rounds. He appeared even more dominant when the two engaged in an immediate rematch just four months later. A pair of scintillating fights with Gray Maynard would fill Edgar’s 2011 schedule. Edgar was forced to settle for a draw upon their first meeting of the year, but returned 10 months later, after nursing an injury, and knocked the powerful Maynard out late in the fourth round.<BR><BR> Henderson has been on fire himself as of late, picking up a trio of dominating victories over Mark Bocek, Jim Miller and Clay Guida. All three bouts went the distance, with “Smooth” showcasing considerable dominance for the majority of each fight. Now, poised to make his bid for promotional gold in just days, Henderson is sharing some insight as to how he plans to demobilize the champion and impose his will.<BR><BR> "We have some new tricks that we might unveil for the fight, as far as holding him on the ground. But holding him there is not our biggest concern; it's getting him there. He's fast. He's light on his feet. He has a lot of movement. He moves around very well. So, first thing's first and that's getting our hands on him, cutting off the ring, cornering him to get our hands on him.” Henderson stated during a recent appearance on HDNet's Inside MMA. “And then after that, if he pops back up, let him pop back up. If we took him down once, we can take him down again. It's just a matter of cornering him, cutting off the ring and getting our hands on him."<BR><BR> While that’s a sound gameplan, executing it will certainly not come without challenge.<BR><BR> UFC 144 unfolds on February 26 at the Saitama Super Arena in Saitama, Japan. Quinton “Rampage” Jackson and Ryan Bader will toe the line in the evening’s co-main event.<BR><BR> Leave your feedback on this article by posting a comment directly below! You can also chat about the card in the <A HREF="http://www.mmanews.com/forums" target="_Blank"><B>MMANEWS.COM Forums</B></A> and/or the <A HREF="http://www.facebook.com/mmanewsdotcom" target="_Blank"><B>MMANEWS.COM Facebook</B></A>. If that wasn't enough, MMANEWS.COM is now on Twitter as well <A HREF="http://twitter.com/mmanewsdotcom" target="_Blank"><B>@mmanewsdotcom</B></A>.<BR><BR>

<B>By MATT MOLGAARD<BR> MMANEWS.COM Staff Writer</B><BR><BR> While the dotted line has yet to be signed, lightweights Jacob Volkmann (14-2) and Paul Sass (12-0) have reached a verbal agreement to meet inside the octagon at UFC 146 on May 26th.<BR><BR> Emanating from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada, the event will be headlined by a heavyweight title bout pitting the champion Junior dos Santos against surging number one contender and multi-combat sport champion, Alistair Overeem.<BR><BR> At this point, where the planned lightweight collision will fit in the card remains to be seen, as only a handful of fights have been made official for the event. However, a prelim show will air on FX, which obviously increases the likelihood that we’ll see the bout unfold.<BR><BR> Volkmann has posted five consecutive victories for the promotion since his drop from the welterweight to lightweight division. In his most recent outing he earned a hard fought but deserved unanimous decision victory over former TUF winner, Efrain Escudero.<BR><BR> When Volkmann and Paul Sass meet, it will mark the Englishman’s third trip into the octagon. Sass has finished both of his UFC bouts with first round submissions; most recently defeating Michael Johnson at UFC Live 6. 11 of this young prospect’s 12 victories have come via submission.<BR><BR> Leave your feedback on this article by posting a comment directly below! You can also chat about the card in the <A HREF="http://www.mmanews.com/forums" target="_Blank"><B>MMANEWS.COM Forums</B></A> and/or the <A HREF="http://www.facebook.com/mmanewsdotcom" target="_Blank"><B>MMANEWS.COM Facebook</B></A>. If that wasn't enough, MMANEWS.COM is now on Twitter as well <A HREF="http://twitter.com/mmanewsdotcom" target="_Blank"><B>@mmanewsdotcom</B></A>.<BR><BR>

<B>By MATT MOLGAARD<BR> MMANEWS.COM Staff Writer</B><BR><BR> Surging welterweight contender, Jake Ellenberger is riding high, fresh off a unanimous decision victory over the durable Diego Sanchez at UFC on Fuel TV. The win pushes “The Juggernaut’s” overall record to 27-5, with the Nebraskan now sporting a six fight streak inside the octagon; the only man to defeat him under the Zuffa owned UFC banner is interim welterweight champion, Carlos Condit, and Jake’s more than prepared to make an attempt at redeeming himself.<BR><BR> Speaking with Heavy.com, Ellenberger reiterated his desire to tangle with the last man to defeat him, punctuating his request by expressing his thoughts on the belt Condit now holds. “I think I can beat Carlos Condit, and that’s really the fight I want. That’s the fight I’m hoping and praying for – but it’s not my decision,” stated Ellenberger. “I know I can beat him and it’s definitely the fight I want. Carlos has said he wants to wait, and while I can understand his position, it doesn’t stop me from wanting that fight.”<BR><BR> “To be honest an interim belt doesn’t mean anything. It would be cool to wear around and say you were the interim champ, but at the end of the day, you are not the king. Georges St-Pierre is the king, and until somebody beats him he’s still the true champion of the division.”<BR><BR> While it seems as though Carlos Condit is indeed content to wait for Georges St. Pierre to return to action this November, Ellenberger could potentially lure the interim champ into a rematch if he keeps the chatter up. Condit’s the owner of a true fighting spirit, and I’m certain he doesn’t take kindly to anyone demeaning his accomplishments, directly or indirectly.<BR><BR> Leave your feedback on this article by posting a comment directly below! You can also chat about the card in the <A HREF="http://www.mmanews.com/forums" target="_Blank"><B>MMANEWS.COM Forums</B></A> and/or the <A HREF="http://www.facebook.com/mmanewsdotcom" target="_Blank"><B>MMANEWS.COM Facebook</B></A>. If that wasn't enough, MMANEWS.COM is now on Twitter as well <A HREF="http://twitter.com/mmanewsdotcom" target="_Blank"><B>@mmanewsdotcom</B></A>.<BR><BR>

<B>By MATT MOLGAARD<BR> MMANEWS.COM Staff Writer</B><BR><BR> UFC 146 is shaping up to be one hell of an event. In addition to the highly anticipated heavyweight title bout pitting challenger Alistair Overeem against the reigning champion, Junior dos Santos, and the recently announced middleweight date between Jason “Mayhem” Miller and C.B. “The Doberman” Dollaway, a lightweight bout featuring Edson Barboza and Evan Dunham has officially filled a slot on the card.<BR><BR> Edson Barboza is one of the few active lightweights to still boast an undefeated record. With a professional mark standing at 10-0, the Brazilian has pieced together four consecutive victories inside the octagon. In his most recent outing, at UFC 142, he rendered the lanky Terry Etim unconscious in the third round after landing a beautiful spinning wheel kick to the chin.<BR><BR> Dunham in contrast has experienced the ebb and flow that comes for most competitors in the UFC’s 155 pound lineup. After debuting at UFC 95, Dunham posted four consecutive victories, including stoppages over Efrain Escudero and Per Eklund. The tough Oregonian then dropped a highly controversial split decision to former champion Sean Sherk at UFC 119, only to run into the power of Melvin Guillard four months later at UFC Fight for the Troops 2. Since suffering back-to-back losses Dunham has rebounded nicely earning a pair of victories. In his most recent octagon appearance, Dunham forced a second round stoppage of Nik Lentz at UFC on FOX 2.<BR><BR> UFC 146 goes down on May 26; the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada will host the action.<BR><BR> Leave your feedback on this article by posting a comment directly below! You can also chat about the card in the <A HREF="http://www.mmanews.com/forums" target="_Blank"><B>MMANEWS.COM Forums</B></A> and/or the <A HREF="http://www.facebook.com/mmanewsdotcom" target="_Blank"><B>MMANEWS.COM Facebook</B></A>. If that wasn't enough, MMANEWS.COM is now on Twitter as well <A HREF="http://twitter.com/mmanewsdotcom" target="_Blank"><B>@mmanewsdotcom</B></A>.<BR><BR>

By <a href="mailto:howie@mmanews.com">Chris Howie</a> <Br> MMANEWS.COM Staff Writer<Br><Br> Anderson Silva and Chael Sonnen are expected to fight this summer for the UFC Middleweight Title, for a second time, and there will be no love lost when the two step in the cage again.<Br><Br> Sonnen gave Silva all he could handle at UFC 117 in August 2010 but the Champion still submitted the challenger in the final stanza to secure the title.<Br><BR> Since then Sonnen has continued to bash Silva in the press while Silva has stayed relatively quiet but this week while speaking with <a href=http://www.espn.co.uk/ufc/sport/video_audio/136307.html>ESPN UK</a> he discussed his displeasure with Sonnen's ways:<Br><Br> "Chael has good wrestling. The first fight, I broke my ribs, I fought with broken ribs. But that's okay, I finished the fight and I win. But this time I am ready. I am training hard, this is a different fight.<Br><Br> "My opinion for Chael is that this guy does not respect nothing. This time in this sport is very important. The people watching the UFC, the people that watch Chael Sonnen talking, they are like 'What? What is this sport? I don't like this sport. This guy doesn't respect nothing.'<Br><Br> "I understand sometimes you need to promote the fight but, I don't know. Chael talks about my people in Brazil, about my wife, about the older fighters. It's his problem, it's no good, it's no good promotion, this is a sport.<Br><Br> "I love my sport. I love it and I respect the older people and the older fighters of the sport. This is a great time for the sport. But Chael maybe does not understand this, his problem is he talks too much. It is no good."<Br><Br> Leave your feedback on this article by posting a comment directly below! You can also chat about the latest news in the MMANEWS.COM <a href=http://www.mmanews.com/forums >Forums</a> and/or the MMANEWS.COM <a href=http://www.facebook.com/mmanewsdotcom >Facebook</a>. If that wasn't enough, MMANEWS.COM is now on Twitter as well <a href=http://twitter.com/mmanewsdotcom >@mmanewsdotcom</a>.<Br><Br>

By <a href="mailto:howie@mmanews.com">Chris Howie</a> <Br> MMANEWS.COM Staff Writer<Br><Br> According to NSAC Executive Director Keith Kizer, Nick Diaz could have avoided a suspension had he been upfront with the commission right from the start.<Br><Br> Kizer spoke to CagePotato.com and discussed how Diaz could have been cleared had he spoken to the commission in the weeks leading up to his fight with Carlos Condit and applied for a therapeutic exemption.<Br><Br> Diaz has an exemption in the state of California but the fight took place in Nevada, which doesn't recognize the California exemption.<Br><br> “I have no idea what [Diaz’s] marijuana situation is,” Kizer told CagePotato. “No one from his camp has ever come to me or the commission and tried to explain it.”<Br><Br> Leave your feedback on this article by posting a comment directly below! You can also chat about the latest news in the MMANEWS.COM <a href=http://www.mmanews.com/forums >Forums</a> and/or the MMANEWS.COM <a href=http://www.facebook.com/mmanewsdotcom >Facebook</a>. If that wasn't enough, MMANEWS.COM is now on Twitter as well <a href=http://twitter.com/mmanewsdotcom >@mmanewsdotcom</a>.<Br><Br>

By <a href="mailto:howie@mmanews.com">Chris Howie</a> <Br> MMANEWS.COM Staff Writer<Br><Br> Jason "Mayhem" Miller will have another chance to showcase himself inside the UFC's Octagon according to a new report from MMAWeekly.com.<Br><Br> Miller took to his Twitter account to ask fans to hit up UFC President Dana White and request another fight for Miller in the UFC.<Br><Br> And it worked.<Br><Br> Miller is reportedly scheduled to face C.B. Dolloway in May at UFC 146.<Br><Br> In his return to the UFC, Miller faced Michael Bisping in December and turned in a less than stellar performance that almost cost him his job with the promotion.<Br><Br> Miller also talked about the fight on Twitter ""I won't gas. CARDIO. CARDIO. TIME TO TRAIN HARD. MEDITATE. ZEN. ... I won't let you down. #whateverittakes"<Br><Br> Leave your feedback on this article by posting a comment directly below! You can also chat about the latest news in the MMANEWS.COM <a href=http://www.mmanews.com/forums >Forums</a> and/or the MMANEWS.COM <a href=http://www.facebook.com/mmanewsdotcom >Facebook</a>. If that wasn't enough, MMANEWS.COM is now on Twitter as well <a href=http://twitter.com/mmanewsdotcom >@mmanewsdotcom</a>.<Br><Br>

<B>By MATT MOLGAARD<BR> MMANEWS.COM Staff Writer</B><BR><BR> Whether you appreciate the aesthetic value of it or not, flamboyancy is no foreigner to mixed martial arts. Certain fighters love to make everything they do as flashy and, if you will, loud as possible; it’s been that way since the early 1990’s. Some may recall Kimo Leopoldo walking to the UFC cage with an eight foot cross hoisted upon his back, well that type of insanity isn’t typically rivaled, but the idea of showcasing an outspoken personality certainly hasn’t gone anywhere.<BR><BR> Fighter’s with outrageous tattoo’s and wild hair dye are now a dime a dozen. It’s not atypical to spot fighters attempting to appear as crazy as possible during their trek from the dressing room to the cage. It’s all a part of the theatrics that come with this growing sport (and perhaps a bit of an attempt at intimidating one’s opponent). While I could talk about a whole slew of different fighters to push the envelope, I’ve narrowed things down to five unique individuals who always project a noticeable flamboyancy.<BR><BR> <B>Jason Miller:</B> Miller’s got the hair, and he’s got the entrances covered (I suggest referencing youtube for hilarious footage); that’s not what truly makes the man special. “Mayhem” stands out because he’s a bona fide nutcase. The man carries himself with no fear, speaks his mind no matter how outlandish his opinion may be; assembles video’s that will leave you hunched over in uncontrollable laughter and brings some raunchy chatter to radio waves. Everything Mayhem does, he does in flamboyant fashion.<BR><BR> <B>Akihiro Gono:</B> In all fairness, Gono keeps things pretty tame and respectable inside the cage (or ring), but he definitely brings the insanity outside of competition. This guy’s got a hilarious personality that he loves to force down the throat of any media willing to dedicate attention, and his ring entrances often redefine flashy and boisterous. And really, who doesn’t love the now famous “Gofro”?<BR><BR> <B>Muhammed Lawal:</B> “King Mo” likes to make his way to the cage sporting a crown two sizes too small for his noggin. He’s also quite fond of openly bashing fighters (despite a surprisingly high fight IQ) and parading about as though he is a genuine king; given his talent’s some of that is certainly justified. Catch this guy on a low key level and you’d better utilize the camera capability of your phone, as it doesn’t happen often!<BR><BR> <B>Phil Baroni:</B> Phil’s matured quite a bit over the years, but that doesn’t change the fact this man was once one of the flashiest, over-the-top dudes alive. His mastering of WWE mimicry was absolutely priceless, and he exercised that in pre-fight interviews, on his way to the cage, post-fight celebrations (I do believe he’s the “best eva!”) and entertaining press conference appearances. I respect the matured Phil quite a bit, but his “fight persona” was a thing of beauty, no doubt about it.<BR><BR><!--more-break--> <B>Shinya Aoki:</B> From the over-the-top attitude, to the obnoxious in-ring taunting to those insanely colorful pants, Shinya Aoki is one flamboyant fellow. Hell, this guy takes flamboyant to a whole new level, as even his submission finishes are so otherworldly there’s no word that describes them better than flamboyant. Just don’t tell Shinya that: he make break your arm, flip you the bird and then choke you unconscious, all the while wearing those damn pants!<BR><BR> Honorable mentions:<BR><BR> <B>Kazushi Sakuraba:</B> “Sak” has always chosen to keep his talk limited and his in-ring performances aggressive. It’s not the man’s mouth that’s earned him a place on this list, it’s his knack for silly ring entrances and facial accessories. “Mayhem”, in fact, owes Sakuraba a nod, as he clearly influenced the wild American.<BR><BR> <B>Heath Herring:</B> Heath was one of the earliest competitors to make hair dye and wild styles cool and trendy. The man typically struts to the cage in a long black overcoat and cowboy hat. It’s what’s beneath that hat that helped launch a visual craze. Hopefully, fans will get at least one more chance to see an outrageous hairdo before Heath finally goes on record and commits to being retired.<BR><BR> <B>Shonie Carter:</B> Shonie’s now famous quote “In my kingdom, there shall be blingdom,” sums up the man’s attitude and persona as a whole. Do I really even need to further elaborate?<BR><BR> Leave your feedback on this article by posting a comment directly below! You can also chat about the card in the <A HREF="http://www.mmanews.com/forums" target="_Blank"><B>MMANEWS.COM Forums</B></A> and/or the <A HREF="http://www.facebook.com/mmanewsdotcom" target="_Blank"><B>MMANEWS.COM Facebook</B></A>. If that wasn't enough, MMANEWS.COM is now on Twitter as well <A HREF="http://twitter.com/mmanewsdotcom" target="_Blank"><B>@mmanewsdotcom</B></A>.<BR><BR>

<B>By MATT MOLGAARD<BR> MMANEWS.COM Staff Writer</B><BR><BR> The UFC continues to ensure that fight fans are able to take in all the action available, as is evidenced by the decision to showcase all 12 bouts tapped for UFC 144.<BR><BR> As is common knowledge, the main event pitting lightweight champion Frankie Edgar and former WEC champion, Ben Henderson will topline the pay-per-view card, with a light heavyweight bout featuring Quinton “Rampage” Jackson and Ryan Bader serving as the co-main event. An additional five bouts will be broadcast, including a heavyweight affair that will see Cheick Kongo test the improved skills of former Pride FC star, Mark Hunt.<BR><BR> FX will host the preliminary card, which features four intriguing bouts, with Japanese superstar Takanori Gomi (who battles Eiji Mitsuoka) topping the free bill. “Kid” Yamamoto, Steve Cantwell and Takeya Mizugaki are amongst those also competing on the FX televised portion of the event.<BR><BR> And finally, for those who still enjoy a little Facebook action, Issei Tamura will make his UFC debut when he tests himself against Chinese standout, Tiequan Zhang in a 145 pound contest.<BR><BR> UFC 144 goes down February 26, from the Saitama Super Arena, in Saitama, Japan. The promotion’s return to the Land of the Rising Sun comes after nearly 12 years absence.<BR><BR> Check out the full card below!<BR><BR> <B>MAIN CARD (Pay-per-view):</B><BR><BR> -Champ Frankie Edgar vs. Ben Henderson (for lightweight title)<BR> -Ryan Bader vs. Quinton "Rampage" Jackson<BR> -Cheick Kongo vs. Mark Hunt<BR> -Yoshihiro Akiyama vs. Jake Shields<BR> -Tim Boetsch vs. Yushin Okami<BR> -Hatsu Hioki and Bart Palaszewski<BR> -Joe Lauzon vs. Anthony Pettis<BR><BR> <B>PRELIMINARY CARD (FX):</B><BR><BR> -Takanori Gomi vs. Eiji Mitsuoka<BR> -Vaughan Lee vs. Norifumi "Kid" Yamamoto<BR> -Steve Cantwell vs. Riki Fukuda<BR> -Chris Cariaso vs. Takeya Mizugaki<BR><BR> <B>PRELIMINARY CARD (Facebook):</B><BR><BR> -Issei Tamura vs. Tiequan Zhang<BR><BR> Leave your feedback on this article by posting a comment directly below! You can also chat about the card in the <A HREF="http://www.mmanews.com/forums" target="_Blank"><B>MMANEWS.COM Forums</B></A> and/or the <A HREF="http://www.facebook.com/mmanewsdotcom" target="_Blank"><B>MMANEWS.COM Facebook</B></A>. If that wasn't enough, MMANEWS.COM is now on Twitter as well <A HREF="http://twitter.com/mmanewsdotcom" target="_Blank"><B>@mmanewsdotcom</B></A>.<BR><BR>

<B>By MATT MOLGAARD<BR> MMANEWS.COM Staff Writer</B><BR><BR> The main card for the UFC’s second trek into FX territory is now officially booked with the inclusion of Court McGee vs. Constantinos Philippou.<BR><BR> McGee, who won the 11th season of The Ultimate Fighter by defeating Kris McCray via rear naked choke, has amassed three consecutive victories for the promotion, and hasn’t dropped a bout since 2007 when Jeremy Horn took a decision win over the durable middleweight.<BR><BR> Philippou hasn’t enjoyed quite the same success within the octagon’s confines, although he’s clearly surging product who is developing into a dangerous challenge. Constantinos holds a promotional record of 2-1, having defeated Jared Hamman and Jorge Rivera after dropping his debut to Nick Catone at UFC 128.<BR><BR> Also tapped for the main card are the UFC’s first two flyweight matches. Joseph Benavidez will lock horns with Yasuhiro Urushitani and Demetrious Johnson will tangle with the man many believe to be the best flyweight currently competing, Ian McCall.<BR><BR> Headlining the event is a major matchup between two of the welterweight division’s finest. Xtreme Couture product, Martin Kampmann will collide with American Top Team star, Thiago Alves. The pair are considered two of the most lethal strikers competing at 170 pounds, and a win for either man should serve as a Launchpad to the division’s upper echelon; territory both men have traveled in the past.<BR><BR> UFC on FX 2 takes place on March 3rd from Sydney, Australia, where the Allphones Arena will host the action.<BR><BR> Leave your feedback on this article by posting a comment directly below! You can also chat about the card in the <A HREF="http://www.mmanews.com/forums" target="_Blank"><B>MMANEWS.COM Forums</B></A> and/or the <A HREF="http://www.facebook.com/mmanewsdotcom" target="_Blank"><B>MMANEWS.COM Facebook</B></A>. If that wasn't enough, MMANEWS.COM is now on Twitter as well <A HREF="http://twitter.com/mmanewsdotcom" target="_Blank"><B>@mmanewsdotcom</B></A>.<BR><BR>

<B>By MATT BOONE<BR> MMANEWS.COM Staff Writer</B><BR><BR> <B>FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE<BR><BR> FUEL TV FIGHT NIGHT OBLITERATES RATINGS RECORDS<BR><BR> UFC On FUEL TV: Sanchez vs. Ellenberger Delivers Network’s Most-Watched Program, Most-Watched Day Ever</B><BR><BR> LOS ANGELES, CA – UFC on FUEL TV: Sanchez vs. Ellenberger, the inaugural UFC® Fight Night on FUEL TV (www.fuel.tv) on Wednesday, Feb. 15 in primetime, delivered a resounding ratings knockout, as the network smashed multiple viewership records according to figures released by Nielsen Media Research. The action-packed three-hour program, which featured six live bouts, was the first of FUEL TV’s six exclusive UFC events in 2012.<BR><BR> FUEL TV audience highlights, Wednesday, Feb. 15:<BR><BR> · Most-watched day in network history, with Total Day average audience +520% and M18-49 +580% vs. Feb. 2011 averages;<BR><BR> · UFC Fight Night is the most-watched program and evening of prime-time programming (8:00-11:00 PM ET) in network history with 216,000 total viewers and 129,000 M18-49, +1340% and +2050%, respectively, vs. Feb. 2011;<BR><BR> · Live fighting (8:00-11:03 PM ET) averaged 217,000 Total Viewers and 130,000 M18-49, increases of 1347% and 2067%, respectively, vs. Feb. 2011 average;<BR><BR> · Viewership peaked from 10:45-11:00 PM with 315,000 Total Viewers;<BR><BR> · During Primetime (8:00 PM ET – 11:00 PM ET) FUEL TV ranked in the Top-10 (No. 9) among all ad-supported cable networks on M18-49 rating.<BR><BR> "We fully expected the UFC was going to deliver FUEL TV extraordinary ratings, and now we’re seeing it,” said George Greenberg, Executive Vice President and General Manager, FUEL TV. "We are beyond ecstatic about the audience and the impact the UFC is having on our network’s growth thus far. The sky’s the limit on where this network can go from here.”<BR><BR> In 2012, FUEL TV telecasts more than 2,000 hours of UFC programming, with more than 100 hours of live fights, weigh-ins, preliminary bouts, and pre- and post-fight shows. In the New Year, FUEL TV offers more UFC programming than any network has ever offered.<BR><BR> For a complete listing of FUEL TV shows, go to: http://www.fuel.tv/schedule/. For more information, go to www.fuel.tv, www.fuel.tv/ufc, on Facebook at: www.facebook.com/fueltv, and on Twitter at: @fueltv, #UFConFUELTV<BR><BR> To find out FUEL TV on your television, go to www.fuel.tv/getfueltv, or call 877-4 FUEL-TV.<BR><BR> <B>FUEL TV</B><BR><BR> FUEL TV is the only cable and satellite television network that features the exciting world of adrenaline and thrill-seeking sports including MMA, surfing, motocross, snowboarding, skateboarding BMX, wakeboarding and more. This new generation of sports provides a rich landscape of some of the most vibrant and action-packed television entertainment in the world. With more hours of UFC coverage than any other network, FUEL TV is the place to be for live fights, weigh-ins, prelims, pre- and postfight coverage, specials and events you won’t see anywhere else. See why adrenaline sports fans call FUEL TV the channel they never turn off. FUEL TV, part of FOX Sports Media Group, was launched July 1, 2003 and is seen in more than 36 million U.S. homes and can be accessed by broadband, mobile devices and other digital platforms such as iTunes®. FUEL TV programming is available in more than 50 countries around the world with 24/7 channels operating in Australia and Europe. To subscribe to FUEL TV, call 877-4 FUEL-TV. For program times and other information, visit www.fuel.tv.<BR><BR> <B>FOX Sports Media Group</B><BR><BR> FOX Sports Media Group (FSMG) is the umbrella entity representing News Corporation’s wide array of multi-platform US-based sports assets under Chairman & CEO David Hill. Built with brands that are capable of reaching more than 100 million viewers in a single weekend, FSMG includes ownership and interests in linear television networks, digital and mobile programming, broadband platforms, multiple web sites, joint-venture businesses and several licensing partnerships. FSMG now includes FOX Sports, the sports television arm of the FOX Broadcasting Company; Fox’s 19 regional sports networks, their affiliated regional web sites and FSN national programming; SPEED and SPEED2; Fox Soccer Channel and Fox Soccer Plus; FUEL TV; and Fox College Sports. In addition, FSMG also includes FOX Sports Interactive Media, which comprises FOXSports.com on MSN, whatifsports.com and scout.com, reaching approximately 30 million unique visitors monthly. Also included are Fox’s interests in joint-venture businesses FOX Deportes, Big Ten Network and STATS, LLC, as well as licensing agreements that establish the FOX Sports Radio Network and FOX Sports Grills.<BR><BR> Leave your feedback on this article by posting a comment directly below! You can also chat about the card in the <A HREF="http://www.mmanews.com/forums" target="_Blank"><B>MMANEWS.COM Forums</B></A> and/or the <A HREF="http://www.facebook.com/mmanewsdotcom" target="_Blank"><B>MMANEWS.COM Facebook</B></A>. 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By <a href="mailto:howie@mmanews.com">Chris Howie</a> <Br> MMANEWS.COM Staff Writer<Br><Br> Diego Sanchez has had an injury plagued year after having to be removed from a late 2011 match up with Matt Hughes and nearly having to pull out of this week's main event at UFC on Fuel against Jake Ellenberger.<br><br> The UFC vet fought and loss a decision to Ellenberger Wednesday night and following the fight, gave details on an injured ankle that hampered his performance:<Br><Br> "I had a lot of obstacles to overcome coming into this fight. I really severely sprained my ankle three weeks before the fight. I had pulled out of the Matt Hughes fight with a broken hand and I got a family to take care of. I refused to pull out of the fight and I just did what I could do. I iced it, I elevated it, I taped it, trained as much as I could and came into the fight and I went to battle. It wasn't that [the ankle] bothered me, it was okay, I had an ankle brace on it and a little tape, but I didn't have the proper training I could have had if I would have been at 100-percent. I didn't get a run, I didn't get a sprint. I couldn't even jump rope. I basically just had to work around the injury and do what I could do and prepare and I came in as the best possible Sanchez I could be. I gave it my all and I came close to getting it there at the end."<br><Br> Leave your feedback on this article by posting a comment directly below! You can also chat about the latest news in the MMANEWS.COM <a href=http://www.mmanews.com/forums >Forums</a> and/or the MMANEWS.COM <a href=http://www.facebook.com/mmanewsdotcom >Facebook</a>. If that wasn't enough, MMANEWS.COM is now on Twitter as well <a href=http://twitter.com/mmanewsdotcom >@mmanewsdotcom</a>.<Br><Br>

By <a href="mailto:howie@mmanews.com">Chris Howie</a> <Br> MMANEWS.COM Staff Writer<Br><Br> Dan Henderson last stepped into the Octagon in November of 2011 and has been patiently waiting for his next fight ever since. He had been jockeying for a title shot against either Jon Jones or Anderson Silva but both Champions have different challengers in front of them.<Br><br> Henderson had been offered a fight against Alexander Gustafsson but turned in fight down in a quest for a title shot.<Br><Br> Now, UFC President Dana White says that Henderson turned down a fight against Lyoto Machida:<br><Br> "He doesn't want to fight Machida. He doesn't want to wait. He's going to have to wait. Who does he want to fight? I don't know what to do with Dan. Dan's either going to have to wait for (Jon) Jones or wait for (Anderson) Silva. Or fight somebody else."<Br><Br> Props: MMAFighting.com<br><Br> Leave your feedback on this article by posting a comment directly below! You can also chat about the latest news in the MMANEWS.COM <a href=http://www.mmanews.com/forums >Forums</a> and/or the MMANEWS.COM <a href=http://www.facebook.com/mmanewsdotcom >Facebook</a>. If that wasn't enough, MMANEWS.COM is now on Twitter as well <a href=http://twitter.com/mmanewsdotcom >@mmanewsdotcom</a>.<Br><Br>

By <a href="mailto:howie@mmanews.com">Chris Howie</a> <Br> MMANEWS.COM Staff Writer<Br><Br> The UFC's first full card on Fuel TV took place tonight and we have complete results below:<br><Br><br> -Jake Ellenberger defeated Diego Sanchez via Unanimous Decision (29-28, 29-28, 29-28)<Br> -Stefan Struve defeated Dave Herman via TKO (punches) - Round 2, 3:52<Br> -Ronny Markes defeated Aaron Simpson via Split Decision (29-28, 28-29, 29-28)<Br> -Stipe Miocic defeated Philip De Fries via Knockout (punches) - Round 1, 0:43<Br> -T.J. Dillashaw defeated Walel Watson via Unanimous Decision (30-25, 30-25, 30-26)<Br> -Ivan Menjivar defeated John Albert via Submission (rear-naked choke) - Round 1, 3:45<Br><Br> Preliminary Bouts (on Facebook, 6:20 PM)<Br><Br> -Jonathan Brookins defeated Vagner Rocha via Knockout (punches) - Round 1, 1:32<Br> -Buddy Roberts vs. Sean Loeffler (Loeffler pulled out due to ankle injury in warmups)<Br> -Justn Salas defeated Anton Kuivanen via Unanimous Decision (30-27, 30-27, 29-27)<Br> -Tim Means defeated Bernado Magalhaes vis Unanimous Decision (30-27, 30-26, 30-26)<Br><Br> Leave your feedback on this article by posting a comment directly below! You can also chat about the latest news in the MMANEWS.COM <a href=http://www.mmanews.com/forums >Forums</a> and/or the MMANEWS.COM <a href=http://www.facebook.com/mmanewsdotcom >Facebook</a>. If that wasn't enough, MMANEWS.COM is now on Twitter as well <a href=http://twitter.com/mmanewsdotcom >@mmanewsdotcom</a>.<Br><Br>