TUF 18 Finale Main Card LIVE BLOG

Roxanne Modafferi Vs Raquel Pennington
Arguably the most loved contestant in Ultimate Fighter history, Roxanne Modafferi looks to be embracing the moment, enjoying her first steps on the big stage. Pennington takes early control of the fight with centre placement and accurate strikes.
Roxanne searching for her range and displaying a lot of variety through various combinations.
Pennington  staying patient waiting on the opening to land the counter strikes. Modafferi staying extremely busy and pushing the pace, and nice spinning back fist lands but Pennington successfully covers up.
Control against the fence late in the round from Roxanne is quickly switched by Pennington and the two close out the round separate in the centre of the GON.
Modafferi should take the round 10-9.Round 2 starts with a Roxanne staying active, with Pennington aware of any flurry coming her way.
Underhooks from an attempted takedown from Modafferi puts Pennington backed against the cage.
They push back to the stand up game and Pennington lands effectively before an attempted takedown from Modafferi is sprawled and Pennington is in control from half guard.
Modafferi a dangerous ground fighter looks to lock up and arm whilst Pennington controls good posture to land the left and rights.
Referee allows the stand up as Pennington backs of from half guard to her feet.
A clean left from stagers Modafferi as Pennington is finding the perfect range, another clean right will put the round in her favour.
Pennington round.The final round again opens with Modafferi pushing forward, heavier strikes from Pennington are doing significant damage and she sprawls another attempted takedown from Roxanne.
Crucial test of cardio for both fighters as getting into the deep end of the fight, Modaferri is continuously active but unable to land effectively.
Pennington sprawls yet another takedown attempt and ends up in side control before moving to half guard.
Searching for submissions but a wise Pennington keeps her posture and doesn't allow Modafferi to find a opening, Pennington landing big body shots from half guard.
Modafferi makes her way up but Pennington sinks in a deep guillotine against the fence and puts further pressure on it dropping to the floor. What looked to be a tap from Roxanne was indeed body shots as she survives the round without tapping.

Official Decision Raquel Pennington by Unanimous Decision
Jessamyn Duke Vs Peggy MorganThe tallest female contestants both standing at 6ft + face each other with 1 looking to remain undefeated.
They kick of with long limbs flying, Duke looking sharp early with stick & move shots.
Morgan pushes Duke against the cage before Duke reverses and controls whilst landing body shots. A deep guillotine from Duke last for a minute before Pennington breaks free and lands on top switching between half an side control.
Jessmyn actively looking to finish searching for the triangle with her legs locked around Morgans upper body.
Duke lands viscous sharp short elbows from the bottom for the final 30 seconds of the round.
Jessamyn will take the round 10-9

The 2nd starts with strong combinations from Duke as they keep the fight standing in the centre of the GON. Morgan trying to find her range and find consistency with the jab as she lands whilst a slight opening.
Duke continues with combinations but Morgan pushes forward with great confidence in her chin.
Morgan eats effective shots from Duke each time she moves in closer, noticeable damage to Morgan is swinging the round in Jessamyn favour. She continues with a muay thai clinch against the cage before breaking away and landing a clean left hook to the chin of Morgan.
A game but ineffective offence from Morgan will see Jessamyn take the 2nd also, closing the round with a takedown.
2 round to DukeThe 3rd picks up where the rest of the fight left of, strong combinations from Duke and effective strikes looks to be sapping the confidence out of Morgan.
A scramble along the fence with Duke in control sees a unusual headlock on her way to the mat from Duke, sees Morgan take control of Jessamyn back looking for a rear naked with  2 minutes remaining in the fight.
Morgan in full control and has Duke laid out flat before Jessamyn is able to switch and spin and move into half guard, escaping a dangerous position.
Morgan in control with under a minute remaining with the referee calling for a standup.
Jessamyn comes back to life on her feet landing strong hooks and the damage is clearly shown on the left eye of Morgan.

Official Decision Jessamyn Duke by Unanimous Decision


Chris Holdsworth Vs David Grant
Two gallant fighters looking to become the latest Ultimate Fighters, start things of with incredible pace, outside leg kicks from Holdsworth before the fight goes against the fence with Grant exploding and landing a huge right hand.
Holdsworth weathers an early story and looks for the takedown, Grant controls the attack and take control of the clinch followed by knees to the body.
Big exchanges from both as they get back to the centre of the GON, electing to continue to stand and trade, could be facing a possible adrenalin dump from both fighters.
The push out the remainder of the round against the cage with even control from both guys, a late takedown from Holdsworth finishes out round 1.
Could go either way

The 2nd opens with a barrage of strikes from Grant, his corner telling him Holdsworth can not handle your power, however Grant soon eats a incredible head kick from Holsdworth sending the fight to the mat.
Holdsworth opens up the nose of David, transitioning to a back mount along with crowd eruption spurs momentum for Holdsworth as he sinks in the rear naked choke forcing Grant to tap, and become the season 18 Male Ultimate Fighter winner.
Official Decsion Chris Holdsworth by Submissions RNC R2



Julianna Pena Vs Jessica RakoczyThe first ever Womens Ultimate Fighter will be crowned as 2 dangerous Women enter the GON.
Pena opens up with strong strikes an uses her incredible core strength to push Rakoczy against the cage.
Jessica breaks off the cage with Pena holding on to the under hooks and landing a takedown in the centre of the cage.
Control from half guard and a easy transition to side control whilst landing efficient strikes.
An exhilarating attack from Pena finds her way to a high full mount, workring vigorously on the bottom Rakoczy is unable to break free from the mount as she receives huge elbow from a punishing Pena. A uncontrollable pace from Pena continues a barrage of ground and pound, seconds before the round ends referee Mario Yamasaki steps in and stops the fight

Official Decision Julianna Pena by TKO R1
Gray Maynard Vs Nate Diaz
The main event kicks of with some quick movement around the cage before Maynard lands a solid double leg takedown, extremely good on the ground Diaz is able to make his way to his feet and excellent judo flip puts Maynard on his back before they both elect to keep things standing.
Diaz with phenomenal dirty boxing hurts Gray and has him staggering around the cage barely keeping his feet, continuous high volume strikes is too much for Maynard as Referee Yves Lavigne steps in to end the fight as Maynard stagers and falls to the ground.
Nate ends the trilogy between the 2 in devastating fashion.

Official Decision Nate Diaz by TKO R1

UFC Brisbane Preview

Mark 'Super Samoan' Hunt vs Antonio 'Bigfoot' Silva
2 of the baddest men on the planet go head to head, in what is arguably the biggest fight to date on Aussie soil. Australia's adopted son, Mark Hunt, has a chance to again put his name in title contention. His last fight loss, was to the recently defeated Junior Dos Santos, in which he was simply not quick enough with his hands. This time in the octagon he will be staring across at friend 'Bigfoot' Silva. Antonio Silva is a giant, he stands 6'4" and will weigh in the maximum weight of 265lbs. He's a former world champion in 3 other promotions, but failed in his only title fight in the UFC. Both of these guys have ridiculously big power in their hands, don't expect this to go 3 rounds. With the backing of the home crowd let's hope Mark can land the killer blow.

James TeHuna vs Mauricio 'Shogun' Rua
The living legend that is 'Shogun' Rua, will fight right here in Australia! Wow, what an occasion. 'Shogun' is the former Pride Middleweight champion and former UFC Light Heavyweight champion. He's fought and beaten the best, but is coming to the end of his career. He last fought Chael Sonnen and was submitted within the first minute. James TeHuna, fighting out of Sydney, has the chance to take easily the biggest scalp of his career. TeHuna's last fight was much the same as his opponent, being submitted very early on, however James' loss was to the no.1 contender in Glover Texeira. TeHuna has the power in his hands to rock Rua, he must jump all over him if gets the chance because Mauricio does not go down easily. C'mon James we're right behind you!

Anthony 'Hippo' Person vs Ryan 'Darth ' Bader
Crowd favorite Anthony 'Hippo' Perosh was recently on the edge of being cut by the UFC, before a huge knockout victory over Vinny Maghalaes kept his spot secure. Perosh is a black belt in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and teaches out of his own gym in Sydney. He's 11 years the elder of his opponent here and in Bader, Perosh faces the highest ranked and biggest test he's seen. Bader was considered the future of the UFC, before being beaten by now champion Jon Jones. He has top notch wrestling and will be trying to take Perosh to the mat to control him from there. With Anthony's BJJ skills let's hope if it gets to the mat, he can slap on a quick arm bar or triangle from the bottom.
'Let's Go Hippo!' will be coming from our side of the crowd, join in and get behind Perosh's rise up the ranks!

Soa 'The Hulk' Palelei vs Pat Barry
Soa Palelei fighting out of Perth, made his long awaited return to the octagon recently with TKO victory over debutant Nikita Krylov. Soa is truly a 'Hulk', he's 6'4" and unlike others that weigh 265lbs, he is 120kgs (265lbs) of muscle. He was injured going into his last bout and not wanting to lose his opportunity, went and fought with damaged ribs. He was criticised for his lack of action, but the 'Hulk' did what he had to given the situation. Pat Barry has been in the UFC  for 5 years now, without reaching any great heights. He has big power, but hopefully struggles with the height of Soa here. If Palelei can get a decisive victory over Barry, he could be in line for a top 10 opponent and as Mark Hunt has proved, it only takes a run of a few wins in this division to catch the eye of the matchmakers. Tear him apart Soa! Prove it to them you belong!

Dylan 'The Villain' Andrews vs Clint Hester
'The Villain' gets the chance to fight in his home state, I can't wait to hear the roar when he enters the arena. A contestant on The Ultimate Fighter 17, as was his opponent, Dylan was the last man picked by either team, but he made waves in the house by making the semi finals of the show and calling out the guy no person wanted to face. He was beaten in that semi final fight, but gained admirers for his heart and determination, in refusing to give in. His last fight was much the same with a different result, having badly injured his shoulder early in the fight, Andrews was being well beaten by Papy Abedi, before a barrage of punches he unleashed knocked out Abedi for a 3rd knockout. His team mate from season 17 on TUF, Clint Hester, was one of the favorites on the show, but didn't live up to his ability. He is all about power in his hands, and this could be his downfall. Dylan is much more well rounded, he just needs to steer clear of the right hand of Hester.

With a main card involving 5 Aussie fighters, and the telecast live on Fuel TV, you have no reason to not get your mates around, fire up the barbie and put some Vic or Draught on ice. After all we love to watch some good fisticuffs, so get behind the boys!

Wonder Women?

Not too long ago UFC president Dana White responded to a question with a brief, but extremely powerful word, "Never". The question, "when are we gonna see women in the UFC?". Fast forward 2 years, we have an undefeated Women's Bantamweight champion, a roster of more than 10, an Ultimate Fighter series featuring women and the plans for the introduction of a Strawweight (115 lbs or 52kg) division. Suddenly "Never" seems so long ago.

Bantamweight Champ Ronda Rousey 

"They don't know how to throw a punch", "their fights arent as exciting" are some of the uneducated, unfounded comments I've heard in reference to the fairer sex competing in the octagon. Watch the way they train, watch the way they hit the bags, even better, step in for a round with a trained Woman, let's see if you're still standing at the end. The truth is, Women belong on the big stage. The Ladies that have had the courage to stand up and say 'look at us, we deserve the recognition as well', ought to be applauded. It's bringing a whole new audience to, not only the UFC, but to MMA. We, the loyal, passionate fan now need to embrace the fact that Women can compete at such a level, we must spruik the excitement and encourage the growth. As the old saying goes 'give them a foot and they'll take a mile'. It's taken 20 years to get that foot hold in the worlds premier organisation, I for one, can't wait to see what the next 20 will bring for Womens MMA.

By Tiger

UFC 167 Live Blog

TIM ELLIOT vs ALI BAGAUTINOV
UFC 167 underway! Tim moves forward first, leading with his head, he keeps his hand down bravely and Ali is the first to throw. A left jab and front kick keeps Tim at bay, he continues to stalk however, eventually shooting for the takedown, Bagautinov stuffs it and we continue. A very slow start here with both guys trying too get a feel for one another. Ali has suddenly come to life, he moves in with some good striking and throws a nice knee in the clinch that catches Elliot. Tim for some strange reason continues to lead with his head and hands by his side. Baugautinov lands a great right, left combo followed by a head kick to end the round, Ali probably pinched the round at the end.
Second round starts a bit different with Tim now looking more aggressive, Ali shoots for the takedown and Tim grabs him in a 'arm in guillotine', it looks tight. Somehow Baugautinov survives and it's back to the feet. Ali is the one throwing the harder and wilder strikes, he's definitely enjoying the better striking. Tim looks composed though and he continues with his hands down, Anderson Silva style. Elliot shoots for the takedown, but its brilliantly stuffed by Baugautinov, back to their feet and Ali again is cleaner on the feet. Should be 2 rounds to nil to Ali.
Time is now looking more desperate as we begin the third, pressing Ali and stalking him around the octagon. He's attempting to leap in with the jab and catch Bagautinov off guard. Ali continues to be the cleaner on the feet though, his superior striking is getting the better of Tim. Elliot refuses to back down though, he lands some nice jabs and a lovely front leg kick. Tim gets Ali to the ground with a beautiful Judo throw and a nice knee as Bagautinov gets to his feet. Tim may have got the third round, but we should see Ali get the decision 2 rounds to 1.

Ali Bagautinov wins by Unanimous Decision (29-28, 29-28, 30-27)

JOSH KOSCHECK vs TYRONE WOODLEY
Koscheck charges to the center of the octagon, but Tyrone lands the first strike and its a big on Josh is rocked, he slumps to his knees as Woodley moves for the kill, Josh recovers. These guys are really trading now, both are throwing wild over hand rights, ooohhhh Woodley lands and Koscheck is down, he looked out there but he's back and alert, he pulls Tyrone into his guard and Woodley begins to ground and pound from there. The ref doesn't take long to step in and we're back on the feet. Josh again controls the center of the octagon, BOOOOMMMM!!!!!.Tyrone Woodley goes whack! A right hand cross and Josh Koscheck is out! Huge win for Tyrone Woodley.

Tyrone Woodley wins by KNOCKOUT

RORY MacDONALD vs ROBBIE LAWLER
'Ruthless' Robbie Lawler has the chance her to really make a statement in the Welterweight division. He begins brightly, with some nice leg kicks and jabs to keep Rory at a distance. Rory throws his first strike, with a lovely jab the definitely catches Robbie's attention. Still a very tentative start, especially from Rory, Robbie is continuously landing good leg and body kicks, but Rory is controlling the center of the octagon. Rory is throwing a nice front kick that seems to be keeping 'Ruthless' out of range. A slow but entertaining first round, will be very close in scoring. I'll give it to Robbie, for more strikes landed.
Lawler begins nicely again with front leg kicks, but Rory is the one that shoots, Robbie semi stuffs it however and lands a nice right on exiting. Robbie is beginning to look the more relaxed here, pressing MacDonald to the outside. Both guys are really landing some nice blows now, Robbie with the right cross and Rory with the front kick. Lawler is doing a good job of staying out of range here. Just as I say that Rory shoot and gets the takedown. He lays in Robbie's guard, not moving at all, Lawler tries to hip escape eventually and Rory moves to side control. Not a lot happening from there, and Robbie gets it back to guard. 1 round a piece heading into the third.
Robbie begins the third landing kicks and then a beautiful right cross that looks to have rocked Rory. MacDonald shoots but its not there for long, as the ref stands it up. Back to the feet and huge shots from Robbie, Rory is rocked again, Lawler ends up in guard but let's Roryback to his feet. Huge shit from 'Ruthless', Rory goes down. He's not out, but Robbie is on top and landing good elbows. Big strikes on the ground from Lawler. Robbie eventually backs away and its back on the feet. Rory gets the takedown as the right closes, but Robbie should have the win 2 rounds to 1.

Robbie Lawler wins by Split Decision (29-28, 28-29, 29-28)

RASHAD EVANS vs CHAEL SONNEN
Both guys charge to the venture, but it's Chael who gets there first. He shoots for the takedown which is stuffed by Rash ad, then presses him up against the cage. It's back and forth with both guys sweeping each other off the cage and exchanging good body shots. Evans is the one who eventually gets the takedown and quickly moves to half guard, he lands some good ground and pound from there as Chael attempts to sweep. Rashad is all over Sonnen here transitioning from back mount to side control, he gets back into back mount and unleashes, huge bombs from the back. Chael can't move and Herb Dean (the ref) steps in and stops the fight, in the replay it's shown that it was a big elbow from Rashad that really shook Sonnen up.

Rashad Evans wins by TKO

GEORGES ST-PIERRE vs JOHNY HENDRICKS
The time for talk is over, the beard and GSP square of in the 'GON', an electric crowd is creating the feeling of Silva V Weidman.
GSP looking focused as always, Johny embracing the moment as Buffer plays his infamous role.
They take of towards each other , GSP lands early takedown.
Johnny back up and has GSP against the cage. A missed uppercut from John opens a attempt for takedown from George.
Johny defends and lands a double leg of his own.
A feeling out as they both make it to their feet, Johny getting comfortable early.
Johny likely to take the round 10-9.

Round 2 continues the same, GSP looking to establish the jab with Johny pushing forward with a barrage of bombs slightly rocking George.
GSP very placid allowing Johny to hold him against the cage, Until pushing off and landing the damaging jab.
A comfortable distance for both with Johny continuously looking for the home run swing.
Johny completely unfazed by GSP attack although looking like fatigue will become an issue soon.
Could go either way but GSP needs to get a move on.

R3 GSP wants to punish Hendricks with that jab, can not seem to find consistency in what he usually displays.
Johny landing the combos has the corner of GSP Calling for attack, he pushes forward but Johny backing up with confidence.
A well placed body shot lands on GSP but seemingly ineffective, Johny takes down George late which should secure the round.
Johny well placed heading in to the championship rounds.

Round 4 this is where the Champion will rally, keeping it standing early and even strikes landed.
A swing from johny slightly lands but a miss footing is the cause of George heading to the mat.
Working strong from half guard Hendricks is control until allowing the stand up, George face tells the story with battle scars all round.
GSP lands quick combos and has Johnny against the fence, a quick reversal from Hendricks and another from George has an even scrap to close out the 4th.
In good position for Johny to grind out the last and easily take the GOLD

5th and final Round looks too be heading to crown a new welterweight champion. George attempting takedown but Hendricks continues to out wrestle and stop the attempts.
A snap attempt at a standing kimura has the crowd electric before the champ rallys and takes Hendricks down looking for a submission.
Johnny makes it back to his feet with 2 Minutes left a new Welterweight champion looks to be crowned.
A bloody GSP is in desperate mode but again in able to Hendricks. Cage control from John ends out the fight with GSP Attempting a kimura but the buzzer ends any chance.
An untouched face if Hendricks is sure to secure the GOLD around his waist.

Official Decision GSP By Split Decision, Terrible terrible decision!

UFC 167 Preview

20 years in the making and I have to say what a card the UFC have delivered! Here at MMA AUS we have been talking about this card for a long time now and the day is almost upon us. This Sunday (Australian time) the talking will be done and it will be time to deliver. Dana White came out last week and said that UFC still wasn’t main stream, well i feel after this it will take a giant leap towards that.

Now the prelims, with names like Story, Cerrone, Durham, Ebersole and Pettis (not the champion one), are likely to be just as exciting as the main card, you don’t want to miss this one. Let’s get this going!

Tim Elliott #7  vs. Ali Bagautinov
We last saw Elliot at UFC 164 when he defeated Louis Gaudinot via unanimous decision. A win here, could really put him in the mix or at least one giant leap towards a title shot in the flyweight division, in which he is already ranked #7.
His opponent here Bagautinov only had his UFC debut in September at UFC fight night 28 where he finished Marcus Vinicius. What I do know is he is a Russian national champion in BJJ so one things for sure he knows how to finish his opponents in the ring.
I think this comes down who handles the lights and pressure of being the opening fight to the biggest card of the year if not ever. It’s definitely the biggest stage either fights have fought on. One fighter has everything to lose and the other has everything to gain. Watch for Elliott to use wrestling game and grind out and ring and just watch Bagautinov in a big step up in class in only his second outing for UFC and he wouldn’t be there if there wasn’t a reason.

Josh Koscheck vs. Tyron Woodley
Tyson Woodley has his hands full in this Sunday in this one, ok just hear me out. Woodley has had only two fights in the UFC and they were a knockout of Jay Hieron (36 seconds) and a loss to Jake shields who grinded out the win. On the other hand Koscheck an eight year veteran has face some of the best welterweights who have ever stepped foot into the octagon and that experience is going to the key here to a win by Koscheck.
Firstly I would like to point out that I can’t see Josh Koscheck ever being in the title picture again there’s just too many talented fighters in the division for that to happen and let’s face it he has lost three of his last five fights. What I do see him being is that fighter or stepping stone that Dana White uses for any up and coming fighters have to get through before they get their chance for bigger fighters and Josh is still a hard fight.
This is what this fight is going to be for Woodley a chance for him to test himself against a quality opponent not saying shields wasn’t but koscheck is a different fighter. Now I see this fight going two ways. Now Koscheck could try and work the fence and really grind out the victory or take him to the ground in saying that Woodley has the skills to defend that. So how I see it going down is this will be a stand up fight and it will comes down to who lands first and Josh does love that overhead right but he hasn’t finished a fight in a longtime but on the other hand we don’t know how great Woodley’s chin is either.

Rory Macdonald  #3 vs. Robbie Lawler #10
This is one interesting fight on one side you have Rory Macdonald who has a lot of tools when it comes to fighting but most of his wins have always been what I want to called ugly not flashy or anything special but you know what it works he gets the wins but one has to feel to take the next step and that would be a title shot he has to do something special in this fight. Yes sure he could wait till it was just his turn and I’m sure it will come around but he should go out there and show or even demand a title shot and that is with a decisive victory. One problem is that he has “Ruthless” Robbie Lawler standing on the other side of the GON.
What Lawler brings is knockout power and boy does he love to knock dudes out. In his last 21 fights he has KO his opponent 18 times and more than half in the first round. It’s amazing that Robbie has been around for a longtime and seems like he is getting a second wind and a win here and who knows where it might take him.
Plain and simple I see this fight going two ways Lawler knocks him out or Rory does best with strikers and that is keeping his distance not letting them find their range and toys with Robbie just like he did with Ellenberger. Lawler won’t just sit back though one would think he would be far more aggressive here. I just feel that if he doesn’t knock Macdonald out he won’t get the victory here. Rory Macdonald deserves a title shot if not just so we can see how good he is when the pressure is on.  So does Lawler and maybe just maybe he will take his spot.

Rashad Evans #4 vs. Chael Sonnen #6 CO-Main Event
Friend vs. Friend but make no doubts about it folks there won’t be any friendly feelings after that cage door closes on Sunday. Evans has been saying that someone has to pay for all the hard work he has been putting in and someone has to pay for him having to be away from his family and that person is Chael Sonnen.
The big question is which Rashad Evans is going to show up for the fight because we know which Sonnen is going to show up and that’s the one who is always ready for a fight (even though he’s been pretty quiet ). Will the real Rashad please stand up please stand up. Evans hasn’t looked overly great in his last couple of fights and has really been outclassed. Now one thing in Evans favor is he has a great chin and he is really hard to knockout but Chael Sonnen knows that and will take him to the ground and will work him over and either submit him or the more likely go the distance and win by decision. Don’t get me wrong Evans does have a chance of winning if he can catch Sonnen but I can’t see that happening and Chael is too strong on the ground. I think Chael will come into this with the perfect game plan to take out the victory and I just don’t know about Evans is he really Suga or just plain sweet. In the end i dont see the winner of this advancing much. In Chael Sonnen’s case a win won’t advance him in the ranking in LH and won’t do much for MW.

GSP #Champ VS  Johny Hendricks#1 Main Event
I don’t think we have had a more talked about fight in a long time and this is going to be one hell of a fight and we at MMA AUS for one cannot wait to see what happens in this one.
Hendricks has every skill to win this fight. He has the knockout power that we have seen in fight after fight to add to that he has a great wrestling background so nothing wrong with his ground game and finally he has heart and motivation which is going to take him a long way in this fight.
However there is a reason why GSP has been the champion for so long and that’s because it doesn’t matter how fighters have something that he hasn’t seen before or dealt with because he always seems to find a way to overcome it and win. It’s like he uses the opponents strength against them or he keeps his distance in the first couple of rounds and then grinds away at them in the last two rounds to a decision. He is just that good. A win here will have the GOAT debate start again not that it ever went away.
What I feel that Hendricks need to do here is not come out swinging and trying to knockout GSP out straight away and yes I know it could work but I feel that what he will be expecting. He should come straight out and shoot get GSP on his back let him know he is in for a long night and that you have come for his title. Hendricks can’t let GSP control the fight otherwise he will find his range and Johny will be at the end of the jab and that doesn’t end well.
On top of all the skills and talent that GSP brings to this fight that we already know there is one more weapon he has up his sleeve and that comes in the form of Rick “horror” Story the last and only man to ever defeat Hendricks. Who has been brought in to train with GSP. One bit of advice that he has given is to take the fight to Hendricks as he doesn’t work well on his back foot. Add to that GSP, Story and Macdonald all training together at Tristar for fights at UFC 167 with Story taking on Ebersole in the prelim, Sets a pretty solid training camp.
I wouldn’t be surprised if GSP did win he is just that good and knows how to win but on the other hand I can’t see Hendricks losing. It’s a tough one. If Hendricks can KO or submit GSP he just has to get close enough to do it.
Can Hendricks become the first fighter since Matt Serra to knock out GSP? Well he has a beard so that’s a great start.(Get your Johny Hendricks T-shirt here)
Don’t forget to check out the live blogs on the website www.mmaaus.com on fight day and follow MmaAus on twitter and when your there Follow @Tdawg1111.

UFC Belforts Kicks, TRT, or God?

Some see it as cheating, others see it as a higher favour, but the UFC see it as great TV.
Vitor Belfort's controversial TRT (Testosterone Replacement Theorapy) usage has somewhat re-birthed the 'Phenom' of the early UFC days.
Since his submission loss to Jon Jones late last year, Vitorsaurus has head kicked his way through 3 opponents.
Bisping went to sleep, then  Rockhold saw stars, and Dan Henderson received a bomb for the first time in his 16 Year career.

UFC President Dana White's words "Barring injury or something crazy, Vitor will fight the winner of Weidman/Silva 2".
With the opportunity of GOLD awaiting the 'Phenom' Is it the TRT he has to thank?
Is it his strong belief in God that has seen him overcome and receive incredible power?

Or did a Front Kick To The Face leave scars that would ignite Vitor in years to come.


February 5th 2011, Anderson Silva delivered a highlight real knock out to Vitor with a front kick to the face, marking the first time he had been stopped from a kick. A kiack no one saw coming, yet again showcased why he is referred to as 'GOAT'.
Rebounding with 2 wins over 2 fighters no longer in the UFC, then being submitted by Jones, looks to have had Vitor at crossroads.                                                                                                       A wave of short success and failure at the very top seemed to be a trend, the flashback of Silva's foot must surely appear in each sparring session Vitor has.

"Your past is your Weaponry for your Future!" Whatever your religious beliefs, this phrase speaks for itself, with the recent devastating knock out's that Vitor has produced he continually acknowledges that his beliefs have him where he is today.

The added bonus of enduring his training camp at Jurassic Park (TRT) has Vitor thriving through any foe that comes against him.
1 kick has come a long way and the final prize is around the corner, the GOLD will be around the waist or Vitor.

UFC Fight Night 32 Live Blog

RONY JASON vs JEREMY STEPHENS
Rony Jason, entering the octagon looking to take his UFC record to 4-0, is the first to throw. He begins with a flying knee followed by a right hook. He again is first to throw in the next exchange, oooohhhhhhh my!!!!! Wooooowwwwwww! Rony Jason attempts a right hook, in doing so he leaves himself open and Jeremy Stephens lands a huge left head kick that leaves Jason motionless on the canvas. What a way to get the Main Card underway, with a spectacular knockout!

Jeremy Stephens wins by KNOCKOUT at 0:40 Round 1

RYAN LaFLARE vs SANTIAGO POZINIBBIO
Pozinibbio takes control of the center of octagon as we begin. But its LaFlare, that begins the better, getting the takedown and moving straight to mount. Santiago gets out of the position, but Ryan is able to keep the fight on the mat. Ryan again moves to the mount and looks for an arm triangle, he can't quite secure it and then looks for an arm bar he gives up his position in doing so. Santiago scrambles to get back to his feet, but even on the feet it's Ryan who's having the better of the fight. End of the round and it's LaFlare's.
LaFlare begins the brighter in the 2nd, he shoots for Santiago's hips and gets the takedown, good scrambling allows Pozinibbio to get back to his feet and Ryan lands some good knees on the way up. Back on the feet Santiago looks tired, his punches don't have the same venom as Ryan and LaFlare looks to pick him off. Hold on, here comes Pozinibbio, he lands good strikes that backs Ryan up, LaFlare throws a couple of his own and sensing a momentum shift, hits the double leg. The round finishes there with Ryan in side control, attacking the body of Pozinibbio. LaFlare probably did enough to get that round as well.
Ryan against begins the better, throwing a good body kick. Pozinibbio is again looking fatigued with his striking and LaFlare is throwing the better combos. Huge slam from Ryan, he moves straight to side control and begins to land good elbows, he's attacking the body as well. Once again Santiago scrambles and gets back to his feet. Oooohhhhh huge kick from LaFlare, it sends Pozinibbio crashing, he looks for the finish but somehow Santiago survives. To the feet we go again, ooohhhh a huge uppercut from Santiago sends LaFlare to the mat, he is able to recover quick enough though and as Pozinibbio looks land a big shot on the mat LaFlare pulls off a great sweep to get into side control. That's where the fight ends. We should see all 3 rounds go to Ryan LaFlare as we go to a decision.

Ryan LaFlare wins by Unanimous Decision (30-27 all round)

BRANDON THATCH vs PAULO THIAGO
Thatch trying to live up to the hype, is aggressive from the outset, throwing plenty of combos. It's Thiago who gets the takedown though, Brandon gets up and lands the better blows. Oooohhhhhh a huge left knee to the liver from Thatch sends Paulo down and into the fetal position. He taps as soon as he hits the mat, he looked to be in a huge amount of pain.

Brandon Thatch wins by Submission (strikes) at 2:10 Round 1

RAFAEL 'FEIJAO' CAVALCANTE vs IGOR POKRAJAC
What a start! These guys literally charge at each other and swing! After these early exchanges both guys settle and Pokrajac gets Feijao to the clinch. Rafael moves off the cage with his Muay Thai grip behind Igor's head and begins to land knees to the face. One, two, three, four, Igor slumps to the ground, Feijao moves to land the killer blow, but it's all over, Igor is tapping. Another finish on a great night of fights.

Rafael 'Feijao' Cavalcante wins by Submission (strikes) at 1:18 Round 1

CEZAR FERREIRA vs DANIEL SARAFIAN
Fast start here, both guys darting around the octagon looking for an opening. Sarafian gets Ferreira to the clinch, but doesn't do a lot from there. Cesar, clearly the bigger fighter, gets an under hook as he looks to move off the cage. It's not much longer though before Mario Yamasaki (the ref) moves in to break it up and it's back to the center of the octagon. Both guys are trading from here without landing anything really significant, Ferreira even tries a flashy Capoiera kick, but it misses and on we go. Sarafian throws with bad intentions every time, but with Cezar being so big he is finding it difficult to land. The round closes with Ferreira landing good blows, probably Sarafians, just.
The second begins with a beautiful double leg to Cezar, in Daniels guard Ferreira looks to land ground and pound, he's now opened a cut on Sarafian above his right eye. Daniel does well to get to his feet and lands a beautiful combo that staggers Cezar. Ferreira recovers easily and shoots for the takedown before Sarafian can move in. Cezar moves into a beautiful position from guard and is looking for the arm triangle but in a strange move the ref moves in and breaks them up. The round ends in the clinch. Cezar's round without a doubt.
Daniel charges straight to the center of the octagon and lands a nice straight right. Sarafian moves to the clinch and as Ferreira exits Daniel lands a great combo. Cezar doesn't look fazed in the slightest, he takes Sarafian down again and goes straight to side control. He's looking to exhaust Sarafian from here peppering away at Daniel with body and head strikes. Sarafian is really trying hard to scramble and escape, but Cezar's control is too good, once again the ref strangely stands them up. Up they go and down they go, Cezar again gets the power double leg, this time though he's able to transition to back mount with Sarafian standing. He working away on the rear naked, squeezing, squeezing, the bell rings. End of the fight with Cezar in a dominant position. He should get the decision 29-28.

Cezar Ferreira wins by Unanimous Decision (28-29, 30-27, 30-28)

VITOR BELFORT vs DAN HENDERSON
Touch of the gloves and here we go. A very slow start, with both guys trying to feel each other out. Hendo throws the first strikes, he misses and Vitor lands a huge left uppercut, down goes Hendo!!! Belfort pounces he's all over Dan, Hendo gets to his feet and Victor lands left head kick!!! Ooooohhhhhhhhh!!!! Hendo is out!!!! He has tremendous recovery skills and looks to be alert as the ref stops the fight, but he was out. It's over!

Vitor Belfort wins by KNOCKOUT at 1:17 Round 1

UFC FN 31 The Troops Where Treated

UFC Fight For The Troops, stamped 'Authority' That the UFC is an Empire!
Putting on a LIVE Event for the US Military Forces. Giving back to those who serve on the front line

A Small but loud crowd packed into the Base in Fort Campbell, Kentucky with the feel of an old school ECW show.
Aggression, Passion the thirst for finishes was the theme, with a WWE Royal Rumble like countdown at the end of each round.

Derek Brunson kicked of the show with an impressive Rear-Naked Choke finish on the online Prelims, and the "Un official" FOTN came from two exiting featherweights Dennis Bermudez and Steven Siler who seem to always endure in back-fourth brawls, on the Fuel TV Prelims.

The Main Card Kicked of with two TUF Winners,
Michel Chiesa Vs. Colton Smith.
Smith a servant of the US Military was honoured to compete in front of those whom he battled along with in his years of service, unfortunately he couldn't play out the fairy tale story.
Although improved in his striking & grappling Smith was unable to counter the long limbs and grizzly beard of Michel Chiesa.
Landing flat on his face from a ChiesaPlex (Suplex) Smith was dazed with his head up high allowing Chiesa to slip the elbow under-neath and lock in the Rear-naked choke in under 2 minutes of the 2nd Round.

Two rising Lightweights stepped up next, Suplex King Rustam Khabilov & Jorge Masvidal.
Taking home the honours of "FOTN" Khabilov & Masvidal displayed elite skills along with relentless heart in a 3 Round war.
The fight opened with  a swing and connection from Khabilov catching Masvidal completely of guard, effects where minimal as a focused Masvidal shook it off.
Landing two Flying knees in the space of a minute from Masvidal opened the doors for the grappler Khabilov to secure takedowns.

Jorge controlled majority of the 2nd with quicker strikes and stopping all takedown attempts from Khabilov.Landing a takedown of his own late in the round, Masvidal secured the judges score.

A Uriah Hall like spinning heel kick from Khabilov landed flush on the chin on Masvidal, protecting his body but was stamped on the jaw.
The troops went into a frenzy, and a famous Joe Rogan scream right on cue.
Masvidal's legs turned to jelly, but covering up before Khabilov could capitalise he found his way to his feet.
The decibels where hitting new heights in Kentucky, clean strikes and world class grappling from both fighters continued to close out the war

Khabilov remains undefeated in the UFC  3-0, 17-1 overall, with a Unanimous Decision victory.

Muscle machine Yoel Romero who made his successful UFC debut with a flying knee KO in April, faced Brazilian Ronny Markes.
Markes, who comes in on a 7 fight win streak had his hands full from the first seconds,  a seemingly obvious plan to avoid a fist fight and utilise his wrestling skills didn't play to script as each takedown landed, Romero was able to find his feet.

The southpaw Romero found a destination for his left hand in the 2nd, along with muscling Markes to the floor but electing to keep the fight standing.
A wild Flurry of strikes between both fighters in the closing minute of the round resulted in a confidence victory for Markes heading into the final round.
An early eye poke from Romero halted any momentum Markes had and shortly after returning to action was crushed with a brutal left from the Muscle Machine Romero.  2 more heavy blows to Markes on the floor, before referee Mario Yamasaki got in to position to stop the fight.


The Co-Main Event of the card came from the always exiting Women's Bantamweight division.
Another former servant of the US Military in the Marine Force Liz Carmouche, squaring of against Alexis Davis.

Across all three rounds Davis Controlled and 'kicked' her way to her 15th Pro win. Pure aggression paid dividends for her, as Carmouche had her usual approach reversed on to her and was unable to block the strong kicks from her opponent.

Without the strength in the stance Carmouche's Counter punches where ineffective as she hobbled her way around the 'GON'.
Davis is quietly stepping past her fellow female UFC fighters with a 4 fight win streak now under her locks.
The unanimous decision win for Davis has almost definitely put her into a no.1 contender fight with Cat Zigano.

The 'GON' was set for crowd favourite, brother in arms, military servant Tim Kennedy to enter for the nights Main Event vs. Rafael Natal.
Echoing through the shed in Fort Campbell, Kentucky the crowd was alive, a passionate cheer signalled from Bruce Buffer's famous words "It's Time".

The hype continued with a chant of "Ranger Up" during the opening seconds.
A feeling out from both fighters, Natal gained an early upper hand landing solid leg kicks.
The chant of USA tore through the walls, an a missed left from Natal opened the door for Kennedy to land a solid counter!
The cage rumbled as Natal crashed to the mat, with Herb Dean playing his illustrious role once again, intervening to stop the fight.

The emotion and the adrenalin was on display as Kennedy celebrated with a crawl up the cage walls to salute his front line brothers.

The troops where treated and honoured from there representing fighter.

UFC 167 Johny Hendricks "Go Beard or Go Home".

 

 

Counting down the days to UFC 167, which celebrates 20 years of the number 1 MMA promotion in the world, arguably the most dominating Champion of all time George 'Rush' St Pierre faces a 'Bigg Rigg" a "Beard" like no other opposing him in the GON.

Johny Hendricks is on a 6 fight win streak, which includes 3 1st round finishes by TKO/KO.
10-1 in the UFC 15-1 overall there's a Extraordinary strength in the inches that surround the face of "Bigg Rigg"

To support the "Bigg Rigg" rolling into Vegas, MMA Aus. has the exclusive
"Go Beard or Go Home" T-shirt available online now Click Here
Show your colours & Support Johnny from Down-under by wearing your T-shirt and uploading it to +MMA AUS @MmaAus and @JohnyHendricks with the #Beard4Johny.

Let's get behind "Bigg Rigg" as he attempts to claim UFC Gold, Show him the fan base from down under, and hope the Welterweight Title will be around his waist on November 17. 



AFL Players in MMA

Ever been in front of the tv and thought "I wonder if he could fight?" Here we're gonna have a little fun, we'll take some of the AFL's players past and present and rate their chances in an MMA fight:-

Chris Judd
This elder statesman of the game once ran rampant on every afl ground, but in his later years has become somewhat of a bully. He has the right attitude for an MMA fighter going in head first to a contest and his evasive skills in his prime were unrivalled. Given those elements he would do well to avoid a punch. His attacking skills have also been on display, an elbow to the face of Matthew Pavlich caught the Fremantle captain off guard, his eye gouging/pressure point attack on Campbell Brown had Brown screaming in pain and his chicken wing/arm bar on Leigh Adams would have had Frank Mir applauding. All round Chris Judd is almost ready made to step into the cage, one thing left that he needs though is the courage to back himself up, being that he denied guilt in all of the afore mentioned.

I give Chris Judd 6/10, in his chances in an MMA fight

Judd opens up a gash on Matthew Pavlich with an elbow whilst being back mounted

If you have any suggestions as to which AFL player you'd like to see, tweet us (@mmaaus) and let us know, we'll put something together for you 

Tiger