The end of the year is approaching but that doesn't mean 2009's best MMA is behind us. On the contrary, some of the biggest fights are just on the horizon. Here's a look at the bouts I'm most excited to see for the remainder of the year.
10. Kimbo Slice vs. ??? (TUF Finale or 107)
Kimbo's official debut -- most likely at TUF 10 Finale or UFC 107 -- is the mixed-martial arts equivalent of a guilty pleasure movie: you know you're not watching the best quality but you love it anyway. In all seriousness, if Kimbo does win (he's rumored to be facing Houston Alexander), will the UFC throw some bigger names Kimbo's way and risk him looking bad, or will he be fed a steady diet of stand-up only fighters?
9. Randy Couture vs. Brandon Vera (UFC 105)
This is an odd match-up for sure. Couture is making his first appearance at light-heavyweight in a few years and Vera is coming off two somewhat lackluster wins against average opponents. And yet I can't wait to see what happens. If nothing else, it will help answer some questions regarding how much gas Couture has left in the tank and if it was wise for the UFC to give him a 6-fight deal.
8. Antonio Rogeria Nogueira vs. Luis Arthur Cane (UFC 106)
While everyone was complaining about Brock Lesnar dropping out of UFC 106, no one bothered to mention that this underrated gem hasn't gone anywhere. The fight will introduce Lil Nog to UFC fans, but we'll also move a step closer to determining the legitimacy of prospect Luis Cane and if he's a serious threat to the belt.
7. Jake Shields vs. Jason Mayhem Miller (Strikeforce 11/7)
With Fedor-Rogers hogging all the spotlight, the only title fight on the Nov. 7 card has gone overlooked. The bout not only determines the new Strikeforce middleweight champion, but for Shields it's another test at a weight class where his longevity is a question mark. I prefer to see him at 170, but if he keeps winning at 185 he may never want to go back. For Miller, it's a return from fighting in Japan and a chance to redeem himself for his horrible dance entrance at Dream 9.
6. Jon Jones vs. Matt Hamill (TUF 10 Finale)
Jones is one of the most hyped prospects in MMA and it's hard to argue with his undefeated record. But for sure this is his toughest test because Hamill is capable of shooting in and taking Jones to the mat. This could be a key moment in Hamill's career: is he a wrestler who goes for highlight-reel knockouts or is he smart enough to take it to the ground and win fights? For Jones, a win takes the hype machine to new heights and it could warrant a fight against the likes of Rich Franklin, Brandon Vera or Forrest Griffin.
Editor's Note: This is a 2-part series with the second part to be posted over the weekend.
Post a Comment