Fighter vs Writer - TUF 18 Finale

Fighter vs Writer: Michael Wootten - The Ultimate Fighter Season 18 Finale 
by Ben Heather @benheather

Welcome to another Kingdom MMA fighter vs writer challenge.

For this challenge we challenge some of the biggest names from the world of MMA to give us their picks and fight outcomes for specific MMA events. Then they will be challenged by one of our writers, who will make their own predictions. Previously we have challenged the likes of Luke Barnatt, Jim Alers, Mike Wilkinson, Phil Harris, Cathal Pendred and Dustin Poirier.

This weeks opponent was a perfect man for the job and the only man for the job this weekend. He was part of Team Rousey on the current series of TUF, unfortunately losing in the semi final of the show to Chris Holdsworth. He is of course Michael Wootten.

The Scoring
If you predict the correct winner of the fight you will get one point and if you predict the correct method of victory you will get an extra point. However, if the fight ends in a stoppage and you predict the round as well the method you could earn a third bonus point. If the fight goes the distance you can only earn a maximum of two points.

The Predictions

Gray Maynard vs Nate Diaz

Wootten: Great main rematch and main event. It will be a very close fight and both posses different styles but I am a Diaz fan so I am going with Nate.

Prediction: Nate Diaz - Submission Round 2 

Heather: I love this fight, it could go either way and is a perfect replacement main event for the event, even though both guys come in to the fight after losing in their last outing. My main thought on this is whether Diaz can get the fight to the ground if he can it should be his fight to lose but on the feet I give Maynard the advantage. That being said over three rounds I see Diaz having enough to take the win.

Prediction: Nate Diaz - Unanimous Decision

Julianna Pena vs Jessica Rakoczy

Wootten: Having seen a lot from both girls throughout my time in the TUF house I am very excited to see both girls fight against each other. I think Jessica will win via TKO in the third round. I feel her footwork and boxing experience will be the key.

Prediction: Jessica Rakoczy - TKO Round 3

Heather: Like Mike I think that Jessica will be able to dominate this fight if it stays on the feet. How confident I am that it will stay there I am not sure.... Pena looked a beast in the house dominating her fights and getting the wins but was never really challenged. Rakoczy will certainly do that tonight but I think Pena will have enough and keep Rakoczy down to bring home the win and title of first women's TUF champion.

Prediction: Daniel Cormier - Unanimous Decision

Chris Holdsworth vs Davey Grant

Wootten: Chris and Davey are two great athletes that have different styles. Its a very interesting match up but I think Davey will win via TKO in the second round due to his physicality.

Prediction: Davey Grant - TKO Round 2

Heather: For me, this is the ultimate clash between head and heart. My heart certainly is telling me that Davey will win and bring home the title to the UK. As Mike knows unfortunately all too well, Holdsworth is a beast and certainly has proved why he is a BJJ black belt with the way he submitted Mike on the show.

That being said if Davey turns up bringing his A game like he did to make it on to the show and no thinks no matter what happens I will get the win then it will be a very entertaining fight and could go either way. However, I have to go with my head on this and predict a win for the American.

Prediction: Chris Holdsworth - Submission Round 2

Jessamyn Duke vs Peggy Morgan

Wootten: Tough fight for me to call having seen both these girls train and fight. Two similar styles match up wise as both are very competent strikers. Peggy has the size advantage and Jessamyn has the advantage on the ground. I think Jessamyn will win via sub in the third round.

Prediction: Jessamyn Duke - Submission Round 3 

Heather: I like Mike think that Duke should be able to make the most of her skills getting the fight down to the ground where she will finish the fight.

Prediction: Jessamyn Duke - Submission Round 2

Roxanne Modafferi vs Raquel Pennington

Wootten: Roxy vs Rocky is a clash of styles and experience. Roxanne has been in the game for many years now and rocky is inexperienced compared to Roxanne. But I see rocky being too big and strong at the weight and finishing the fight in the first round.

Prediction: Raquel Pennington  - TKO Round 1

Heather: As Mike has said, you can not even try and say that Roxanne does not have the experience on her side in this fight. I think that experience should see her through and help her defend against the size and strength advantage that Pennington will certainly have.

If she does not use her past experience this fight will be very tough for Modafferi but I think she will be able to pull of a decision victory.
Prediction: Roxanne Modafferi - Unanimous Decision


So that's our predictions for the fights, we will be live tweeting on Saturday night as always and we will keep you all informed as to how the challenge is going with latest scores throughout the main card.

Thanks again to Mike for providing us with his picks for this weekends fights and it just leaves me to say.... May the best man win!!

Poll: Who Wins - Gray Maynard vs Nate Diaz 3

Poll: Who Wins - Gray Maynard vs Nate Diaz 3
by Chris Houten - @mrhouts 

Gray Maynard meets Nate Diaz for the 3rd time at The TUF 18 finale next Saturday with both fighters having already earned a victory other one another.

An intriguing match up between 2 long time top 10 lightweights, fans will surely be divided on who wins the rubber match.

So who wins - VOTE NOW!

free polls

Cage Warriors 62 Adds Fishgold vs Pastor, and Moore vs Knox

Cage Warriors 62 Adds Fishgold vs Pastor & Moore vs Knox

Photo: Dolly Clew | Cage Warriors

Officials have today confirmed several updates to the bill for Cage Warriors 62, including the addition of two further bouts.

Cage Warriors 62 will take place at the Metro Radio Arena in Newcastle, England, on Saturday. December 7th, and tickets are currently on sale HERE.

Unbeaten English 21-year-old Chris Fishgold (9-0, pictured) will face arguably the toughest test of his career to date when he takes on French veteran Olivier Pastor (18-14-0-1nc) in a featherweight bout.

Meanwhile, England’s Richie Knox (3-0) and Northern Ireland’s Karl Moore (3-0) will both be looking to keep their respective unblemished records intact when they collide in a light-heavyweight contest.

An injury to Chris Scott has forced him out of his middleweight tussle with Steve Dinsdale, but CWFC officials are currently seeking a replacement opponent for Dinsdale.

The meeting of Tommy Quinn and Alan Johnston, which was originally booked as a welterweight bout, will now take place at a catchweight of 176lbs following a request from Johnston, who recently accepted the fight on short notice.

MAIN CARD
Neil Seery (c) vs. Ulysses Gomez - CWFC flyweight title bout
Wesley Murch vs. Curt Warburton
Chris Fishgold vs. Olivier Pastor
Jordan Desborough vs. Cory Tait
Richie Knox vs. Karl Moore
Ian Entwistle vs. Liam James

PRELIMINARY CARD
Leeroy Barnes vs. Ronan McKay
Alan Johnston vs. Tommy Quinn
Emma Delaney vs. Laura Howarth
Alex Enlund vs. Danny Lawson
Kerry Hughes vs. Agnieszka Niedzwiedz
Mark Connor vs. Shaj Haque
Paul Gregson vs. Frankie Slater

James Brum Returns to Action at Cage Warriors Baghdad Card

James Brum Added to Cage Warriors Baghdad Card
by Chris Houten - @mrhouts

Photo: Dolly Clew | Cage Warriors

Bantamweight contender James Brum will return to action at Cage Warriors Baghdad card.

Part of ambitious expansion plan which has seen Cage Warrior visit 11 different countries in the last 18 month, the Iraqi capital will play host to Cage Warriors 61 on the 14th of December; the landmark show will be the first time an international promotion has stage a show in the country.

Currently on a 7 fight win streak including notable victories over Martin McDonough, Olivier Pastor, and Rusian Abiltarov, Brum (13-2) was expected to challenge newly crowned Bantamweight Champion Brett Johns, at Cage Warriors Newcastle card, December 7th however Johns withdraw due to injury.

Fighting out of GYM01 with UFC fighter Phil Harris, Brum was voted CWFC Fighter of the Year for 2012, due to his impressive performances inside the cage. The highest ranked European bantamweight not under contract with the UFC, Brum has taken 7 of his career victories by stoppage, with his only losses coming early in his career to Kris Edwards, and UFC Bantamweight contender Erik Perez.

James Brum's Cage Warriors 61 opponent is expected to be announced within the next few days.
 
Stay tuned to kingdomMMA.co.uk for all the latest on Cage Warriors 61.

Cage Warriors Sign Flyweights Damien Rooney and Marcin Lasota

Cage Warriors Sign Flyweights Damien Rooney and Marcin Lasota
by Chris Houten - @mrhouts

Photo used courtesy of Lasota & Cagewarriors.com

Cage Warriors have today confirmed the signing of exciting prospects Damien Rooney and Marcin Lasota (pictured), both of have joined on exclusive 5 fight contracts.

Unbeaten as a pro, Lasota (7-0) is ranked as the number one bantamweight in his native Poland, however the 24 year old now plans to pursue his career as a flyweight.

In his most recent outing, Lasota who fights out of Gracie Barra Lodz, became the first fighter to defeat, Polish compatriot Tymoteusz Swiatek (12-1), submitting Swiatek in the third round of their clash this past April; Lasota has taken 3 of 7 victories by way of submission.

“Signing with Cage Warriors is a huge step forward for my career,” said Lasota. “I’ll be working harder than I’ve ever done to win my debut and show that I belong among the very best in the flyweight division.”

 Also making the move to flyweight Irishman Damien Rooney (9-3-1) of Team Torres MMA.

A veteren of the Irish MMA scene, 29-year-old holds notable wins over Cage Warriors veterans Alan Philpott and Mark Connor; Rooney has taken all but one of his victories inside the distance.

Rooney said: “I’m very excited to be signing with Cage Warriors. The promotion showcases the best talent in Europe and I believe I deserve to be among that.

“I believe I’ll pose a threat to anyone in the CWFC flyweight division, regardless of where the fight goes, and my plan is to go straight after that world title.”

Both fighter are expected to make their Cage Warriors debuts in early 2014.

Stay tuned to kingdomMMA.co.uk for the latest on Cage Warriors.

Scott Askham Out Injured, Max Nunes in at Middleweight

Scott Askham Out Injured, Max Nunes in at Middleweight
by Chris Houten - @mrhouts

An injury has forced Bamma Middleweight Champion Scott Askham to withdraw from his Bamma 14 title bout against Ion Pascu; Pascu will now face former Light- Heavyweight title challenger Max Nunes.

Bamma 14 takes place on the 14th of December at the LG Arena, Birmingham. Bamma 14 will be headlined by Paul Daley taking on Romario Manoel Da Silva. Lightweight Champion Mansour Barnaoui will also feature on the card as he defends his belt against Colin 'Freakshow' Fletcher.

A former Light-Heavyweight title challenger Max 'Power' Nunes returns from his first career loss at Jason Jones for the BAMMA World Light Heavyweight title. 11-1 in his professional career, the London based, Swede who has spent time training with Alexander Gustaffason, has secured all of 11 victories inside the distance with 6 victories coming by TKO and 5 submission.

Now fighting for the first time at middleweight, Nunes said:

"I always intended to fight at Middleweight as I am not a big Light Heavyweight and previously did not cut any weight. I have always fought at my walk around weight. Ion is a very good striker and I have a lot of respect for him and I’m excited to be back fighting at BAMMA: I have a lot to prove. My last fight was my worst performance yet and I want the chance to showcase what I can really do."

Stay tuned to KingdomMMA.co.uk for all the latest on Bamma 14.

Darren Elkins vs Jeremy Stephens Set for UFC on FOX 10

Darren Elkins vs Jeremy Stephens Set for UFC on FOX 10  
by Chris Houten - @mrhouts

Fresh off a spectacular first round finish of Rony Jason at last weeks UFC Fight Night 32, Jeremy Stephens will make a quick return to the cage taking on top 10 ranked featherweight Darren Elkins at UFC on Fox 10.

UFC on Fox 10 takes place Jan. 25 at Chicago's United Center. it is not yet known if Elkins vs Stephens will take place on the main card or the preliminary card.

Rejuvenated since making the drop to 145 Stephens (22-9 MMA, 9-8 UFC) snapped a 3 fight losing streak since making the drop which included a 1 way beat down of Estevan Payan, and brutal head kick knockout of Rony Jason. One of the hardest hitting fighters at 145 and 155, Stephens hold notable KO victories over Rafael Dos Anjos, Marcus Davis, and Cole Miller.

Elkins (16-3, 6-2 UFC) enters the bout on the back of a unanimous decision victory over Hatsu Hioki at UFC Fight Night 27 in his home town of Indiana. The victory against Hioki took Elkins back into the win column following a short notice knockout loss in April. A state champion wrestler, Elkins loss to Mendes snapped a five-fight winning streak. Elkins is the first fighter in the UFC's feathweight division to record 5 straight victories.

Stay tuned to KingdomMMA.co.uk for all the latest on UFC on FOX 10

Benson Henderson vs Josh Thompson Set for UFC on FOX 10

Benson Henderson vs Josh Thompson Set for UFC on FOX 10
by Chris Houten - @mrhouts

Following the recent injury to UFC Lightweight Champion Anthony Pettis, John Thompson will now meet Benson Henderson at UFC on Fox 10, the bout will serves as the main event.

UFC on Fox 10 takes place at the United Center in Chicago on Jan 25, and will be the 3rd straight January the venue has hosted a Fox show.

Former lightweight champion Benson Henderson (19-3, 7-1 UFC) fights for the first time since losing his title to Anthony Pettis at UFC 164 via first round armbar. Prior to his loss at UFC 164 Henderson had put together a 7 fight win streak including successful title defenses over Nate Diaz, Gilbert Melendez, and Frankie Edgar.

His opponent, former Strikeforce Lightweight Champion Josh Thompson (25-5, 3-1) fights for the 2nd since rejoining The UFC when Strikeforce dissolved into The UFC. In his last outing Thompson knocked out former contender Nick Diaz with a spectacular head kick which earned the fighter knock out of the night and a lightweight title shot to go with it, when TJ Grant who was originally meant to challenge for the title suffered the effects of a concussion that took him out of the fight with Henderson, as well as a fight with Pettis who was brought in as a replacement for Grant when he was unable to fight Pettis.

Now in his second stint with the UFC, Thompson has has fought all over the world including Pride.

Stay tuned to KingdomMMA.co.uk for more on UFC on FOX 10.

Cage Warriors Intends to Expands into Scandinavia with 3 Events; Adds 12 Nordic Fighters to Roster

Cage Warriors Intends to Expands into Scandinavia with 3 Events; Adds 12 Nordic Fighters to Roster
by Chris Houten - @mrhouts

Cage Warriors have today announced intentions to expand into Scandinavia in 2014 with officials confirming that three events have been scheduled for the Nordic region.

In addition the promotion  have signed 13 Nordic fighters to compete under the CWFC banner, as well as appointing well-known MMA coach and manager in the Nordic region Tue Trnka as its Head of Operations in Scandinavia.

Cage Warriors will host its first ever Nordic event in Denmark in the first quarter of 2014, with Sweden will be next on the agenda later in the year. The promotion has also vowed to work to develop the MMA situation in Norway, where events are currently prohibited.

“Given the rate at which Cage Warriors Fighting Championship has grown in recent years, it was only a matter of time before we spread our wings into the Nordic region, where the appetite for live MMA is absolutely enormous,” said Cage Warriors CEO Graham Boylan.

“People are constantly telling me that Cage Warriors is the biggest promotion in Europe and moving into a new territory like this will be further proof of that. I have very big plans for Scandinavia and fans will get a look at some of those in 2014.”

Nordic-based fighters have featured prominently on CWFC cards over the last few years, with the likes of Mats Nilsson, Mohsen Bahari, Matteus Lahdesmaki and Bruno Carvalho all currently contracted exclusively to the promotion.

They’ll now be joined on the roster by over a dozen new fighters operating under the guidance of Tue Trnka, including unbeaten welterweight Nicolas Dalby (11-0), light-heavyweight Joachim Christensen (8-3) and lightweight Ayub Tashkilot (11-3).

Co-owner of the Rumble Sports gym in Copenhagen, new Cage Warriors Head of Operations in Scandinavia, Trnka has an extensive background in combat sports in Scandinavia, the 34-year-old has also worked in media roles for the likes of Danish Eurosport.

Trnka recently met Cage Warriors officials in London to discuss the expansion into Scandinavia, after being identified by CWFC boss Graham Boylan as the ideal candidate to represent the promotion in the Nordic region.

“With all due respect to the other Scandinavian events,” said Trnka, “I honestly feel Cage Warriors brings a whole different level for the fighters to perform at. You can’t put a price on the attention and publicity a strong performance at a Cage Warriors event gives a fighter.

“Cage Warriors creates worldwide exposure for fighters like no other MMA event in Scandinavia, or anywhere else in Europe for that matter, and now this scene is set to open up for Nordic fighters in a big way.

“I’m really excited about this massive opportunity, both for myself and for Nordic fighters, who now get a golden chance to regularly perform on the big stage. The history of Cage Warriors, what they’ve done for the sport and the level of their events is really second to none in Europe".

“This is an extraordinary opportunity for me, and I especially feel very honoured to be chosen as Head of Operations for the Scandinavian arm of Cage Warriors. I’m going to do my very best to help raise the bar for Nordic MMA along with the rest of the Cage Warriors crew. This is a splendid day for Nordic MMA.”

Cage Warriors Fighting Championship is currently in the process of finalising a schedule of 18 events to be held across several countries worldwide next year, starting with CWFC 64 at The Forum in London on Saturday, 15 February, 2014.

The promotion will finish 2013 on the back of 14 events in seven different countries. Last year saw 12 CWFC shows staged across nine countries, bringing to 26 the total number of CWFC events that have taken place since February of last year, cementing Cage Warriors’ reputation as the busiest promotion with the widest international footprint outside of the UFC.

Graham Boylan added:

“Our rate of expansion recently has been satisfying, but in 2014 we’ll be taking things to a whole new level. There are some very exciting times ahead for this promotion and I’m delighted to be welcoming Tue Trnka onboard to lead us into Scandinavia.

“I’ve also just finalised a hugely significant deal, which will allow me to widen my resources by doubling the size of my current team and bringing in industry-based staff. In 2014 we’re coming out with all guns blazing.”

Cage Warriors Logo used courtesy of CageWarriors.com

UFC 167 Pro Picks: Twitter Weighs In

UFC 167 Pro Picks: Twitter Weighs In
by Chris Houten - @mrhouts

Everyone from fans to fighter are buzzing for tonight's 20 year anniversary UFC show - UFC 167, and there seems to be a mixed bag of predictions coming out from MMA's elite - GSP or Hendricks, Sonnen or Evans - who you got?

The pros take to twitter and weigh in:

Really looking forward to the fights today.Im going with gsp, sonnen, lawler, koscheck, cerrone. Who you got?
— dean amasinger (@deanamasinger) November 16, 2013

Got my coffee on the ready for tonight. Staying up to watch UFC 167! My picks - GSP, Sonnen, McDonald, Koscheck and Cerrone.
— Brendan Loughnane (@Brendan264) November 16, 2013

My #UFC167 picks: Hendricks (but don't count GSP out), Sonnen, Lawler(I hope), Woodley, Elliott, Cerrone, Leites, Ebersole, Perez.
— Tim Kennedy (@TimKennedyMMA) November 16, 2013

Going to try pull an all nighter to watch the fights!! Who u got winning? My picks Kos,McDonald,Sugar,GSP
— Ross Pearson (@RossTheRealDeal) November 16, 2013

@DanHazlehurst GSP, lawyer , rashad
— curt warburton (@curtwarburton) November 16, 2013

Gsp has gota stay away from JH and try control him for 25mins, JH has 25mind to land one punch, I'm goin Hendricks
— Brett Bassett (@Brettbass_MMA) November 16, 2013

@fraz1001 chael and gsp
— Robert Whiteford (@Flyinjudoka) November 16, 2013

@JamesH3aton I think GSP mate
— Davey Grant (@DaveyGrantMMA) November 16, 2013

@CarolinePearce @GeorgesStPierre @JohnyHendricks @ufc @btsport @btsportufc I can't see Gsp getting beat but Hendricks is his biggest threat
— STORMIN NORMAN PARKE (@norman_parke) November 16, 2013

@Mmanarchy GSP, Lawler, Woodley, Evans are my picks mate, not necessarily who I want to win but who I think will.
— Jack Mason (@JackStoneMason) November 16, 2013

@RichieKinsella Big Rig Hendricks - sonnen - and Robbie Lawler :-D why not ha
— Paul Redmond (@RedserMma) November 16, 2013

Think Gsp tonight, (peds will b the diff) wants sonnen but going Evans, McDonald and kos
— rob sinclair (@robc4sinclair) November 16, 2013

“@Garyhop: @bisping who's going to win Hendricks or GSP? #votebisping”Hendricks
— michael (@bisping) November 16, 2013

"@CaptainPlanck: @KelvinGastelum who do you have for this fight? I'm guessing you have sonnen but for the GSP fight"GSP
— Kelvin Gastelum (@KelvinGastelum) November 16, 2013

@TheMMaRanter GSP ,Evans,MacDonald,Woodley,Elliott.

— Mauro Ranallo (@mauroranallo) November 16, 2013

UFC 167 Predictions

UFC 167 Predictions

The UFC is back, and back in a big way with UFC 167 marking the companies 20th anniversary.

For the 3 time in 2 weeks the UFC will be back on your TVs on Saturday night with the biggest fight of them all, an intrigueing welterweight match up between one of the most dominate champs in UFC history in George St. Pierre, and NCAA champion and hardest hitting man in The UFC Johnny Hendricks.

Kingdom MMA writer Jack Broadey (Twitter @j3cK_b) and Tommy Strong (Twitter @strong_tea) give you their predictions for the event which is sure to be a cracker!

George St. Pierre vs Johny Hendricks
Strong: Finally a fight for GSP that puts him in real danger of losing his title he's clung onto for so long. GSP will no doubt try and get the fight to the floor for as much as the fight as possible trying to avoid Hendricks punching power. Though can GSP get Hendricks to the ground?

The odds certainly favour GSP but Im backing Hendricks to land at some point in the fight to end GSP title rein and become the 'new welterweight' champion! .

Prediction: Johnny Hendricks - TKO RD 2

Broadey: I love this fight, Johny Hendricks is easily the biggest threat to GSP's title reign especially with St Pierre having spent so long sidelined in the last couple of years.

Hendricks matches up very well with GSP and I have liked his chances here for a long time. Hendricks has huge power in his left hand and very good wrestling that's well adapted to MMA. GSP is GSP though, you can never count him out. He will have the gas tank to go the championship rounds and if it goes that far he could well take over and win a decision.

That's not to say I don't see Hendricks winning a decision. He showed against Condit he can fight smart when it matters. Getting the round stealing takedowns etc. At this point if anyone is going to beat GSP it's Hendricks, perfect style to beat him, experienced with the youth factor still and maybe catching GSP in the twilight of his career.


Prediction: Johny Hendricks - TKO RD 3

Rashad Evans vs Chael Sonnen
Strong: Sonnen has everything to do here to beat Rashad. He's met his match in the wrestling department and won't be able to take him down at will and sit on him for 3 rounds. If thats the case Rashad is the much better striker who carries power , something Sonnen doesn't. Rashad will be to quick, too strong and athletic for Sonnen.

Prediction: Rashad Evans - Unanimous Decision

Broadey: It's been well documented how evenly matched these 2 guys are. I see Evans having the edge on the feet, he likes to use feints and pushes his jab out but Sonnen doesn't let you settle for a minute and is in your face pushing the pace constantly. Sonnen will look for the takedown and it will be interesting who has the edge here.

In a fight so close I'd be looking to take on the favourite and I think Sonnen offers enough value for a play here. Him pushing the pace will be key to him picking up a decision win.

Prediction: Chael Sonnen - Unanimous Decision

Rory MacDonald vs Robbie Lawler
Strong: A win for either men will put them in prime position to fight the winner of GSP vs Hendricks.

Robbie Lawler has looked a different fighter since dropping down to welterweight again. Knocking out Koscheck and Bobby Voelker in his last 2 fights he will be coming in with lots of confidence. MacDonald is a massive set up for him Though.

In my opinion MacDonald will win this fight then go on to win the welterweight title within a year and I predict him to hold onto it just like GSP has. Lawler does have a punchers chance and a very good one at that, though landing it before being taken down might be the obstacle.

Prediction: Rory MacDonald - Submission RD 2

Broadey: Lawler has a punchers chance but that's all I would give him here. If anyone but GSP was champ we would be talking about an impressive win for MacDonald being enough to earn a title shot. But where does his motivation lie?

If MacDonald wins he's clearly the number 1 contender but won't get a title shot. He needs to figure that out later and get the win 1st. If he remotely looks like getting in trouble on the feet he won't have any trouble taking Lawler down.

Prediction: Rory MacDonald - Unanimous Decision

Josh Koscheck vs Tyron Woodley
Strong: Tyron Woodley will be eager to get back to winning way after suffering a loss last time out to Jake Shields, a fight that what won't be remembered for anything other than a stinker of a fight!! I just hope this doesn't go the same way as it could be a fun fight.

Koscheck even at 35 will give anyone a fight. Though he is coming off a knockout loss to Robbie lLawler, many thought the fight before he was unlucky not to get the win over Johny Hendricks, losing via split decision.

I'm Struggling to pick a winner, though I'm going to predict we might be in a for a bore fest here! (flips the coin)

Prediction: Tyron Woodley - Unanimous Decision

Broadey: This is a hard fight to call, it's difficult to look good against Koscheck. He's looked really poor lately and I would question his motivation at this point. However Woodley has hardly been tearing up trees himself after a strangely tentative performance against Jake Shields.

I think Koscheck might be done, if his motivation isn't there I see him being clipped and stopped again. Woodley has to pull the trigger and go after him.

Prediction: Tyron Woodley - TKO RD 3

Tim Elliot vs Ali Bagautinov
Strong: Nothing like a good flyweight fight to kick off the main event!

Elliot is coming off a very good win over Louis Gaudinot and will be looking to put himself in title contention with a win over Bagautinov in what many believe is the weakest division within the UFC.

Elliot will have his work cut out though fighting the heavy handed Russian Bagautinov who is on a 9 fight winning streak, and has finished his last 3 opponents via knockout.

If Elliot employs the right game plan, I think the fight should go his way, though when you have genuine knock out power of Bagautinov you always have a chance.

Prediction: Tim Elliot - Unanimous Decision 

Broadey: I feel this fight will mostly take place on the feet,  and if it plays out that way Bagautinov should have the edge. His striking is on a different level and he should have the know how to stay off his back. Elliot is well rounded fighter and will have his moments but will be worn down late on.

Prediction: Ali Bagautinov - TKO RD 2

UFC 167 - UK Betting Odds

UFC 167 - UK Betting Odds

The UFC is back weekend with one of the most intriguing welterweight battles, and one of GSP toughest oppoents since..... maybe ever! We team up with partners William Hill to bring those who fancy a little flutter the latest clear cut, betting odds - Good Luck, and don't miss out on your free £25 bet below!

Preliminary Card
3/10 Gian Villante v Cody Donovan 5/2
3/1 Will Campuzano v Sergio Pettis 1/4 
1/3 Jason High v Anthony Lapsley 9/4
2/7 Erik Perez v Edwin Figueroa 13/5
8/5 Brian Ebersole v Rick Story 1/2 
8/5 Ed Herman   v   Thales Leites 1/2
10/11 Donald Cerrone v Evan Dunham 10/11

Main Card
4/6 Tim Elliott v Ali Bagautinov 6/5
EVS Josh Koscheck v Tyron Woodley 4/5
1/4 Rory MacDonald v Robbie Lawler 3/1
4/7 Rashad Evans v Chael Sonnen 11/8
4/11 Georges St Pierre v Johny Hendricks 21/10
 *Blue Denotes Favourite

Jan Blachowicz vs Virgil Zwicker Completes KSW 25

Jan Blachowicz vs Virgil Zwicker Completes KSW 25

KSW25 fight card is now complete with today’s announcement of Jan Błachowicz’s opponent for the December 7th show. KSW light heavyweight champion will face American Virgil Zwicker in the event’s co-headliner.

Zwicker, nicknamed Rezdog is a former Strikeforce and Bellator fighter. He won eleven out his fourteen professional bouts. He is one hundred seventy-seven centimeters tall , weighs ninety-two kilograms and trains in Team Quest Temecula along with such renowned MMA stars as Dan Henderson, Vladimir Matyushenko and Chael Sonnen. The American is thirty-one years old and is represented by the MC Hammer’s Alchemist management group.

The showdown against Zwicker will be Błachowicz’s third defense of his KSW World title. He won the belt back in November 2011. The popular “John” currently trains in Stockholm, Sweden where he prepares for the fight with the former UFC light heavyweight contender Alexander Gustafsson.

With Błachowicz being a submission expert and Zwicker sporting heavy hands in his striking arsenal, this fight might not see the final bell. The three-five-minute-rounds contest with a possible five-minute overtime will decide who is the superior fighter.

Bamma 14 Card Finalised with the Addition of Saville vs Dequesnoy

 Bamma 14 Card Finalised with the Addition of Saville vs Dequesnoy

BAMMA, has confirmed a Featherweight bout between James Saville and Tom Duquesnoy to the BAMMA 14 preliminaries.

James ‘Scraps’ Saville fights out of AVT fight team in West Yorkshire with 9 first round victories out of 12 to his name. Scraps has scored the majority of his wins via a range of Chokes, and also via TKO. He has also obtained his losses by the same methods against respectable competition.

Tom ‘Fire Kid’ Duquesnoy comes from France and has fought across Europe. Fighting out of Team Kayjn, Tom holds a record of 7-1-0. Only one of his fights have made the third round and he has won two of his fights within the first 36 seconds. The 20 year old, known for his devastating speed and aggression, most recently beat the previously undefeated Scott Hunt via way of TKO in just 34 seconds at the Margate based Killacam Promotions.

BAMMA’S VP of Talent Relations, Jude Samuel, said:

“I kept hearing about Duquesnoy: He has some serious talent and power in those hands of his and he could be the next big thing in the Featherweight division. Scraps is not to be overlooked either as another upcoming talent known for his durability and excellent ground game. These guys are set to present a real challenge to each other on the night and I can’t wait to see how this fight maps out.”

BAMMA14: Daley vs. Da Silva takes place on 14th December at the LG Arena, Birmingham. Tickets are on sale HERE

Cage Warriors Sign Australian Duo Benny Alloway and Damien Brown

Cage Warriors Sign Australian Duo Benny Alloway and Damien Brown

Cage Warriors Fighting Championship has today added Benny Alloway (pictured) and Damien Brown to its ever-expanding roster of fighters.

The Australian pair, who also train under renowned coach Marc Fiore at Altitude MMA in Colorado, have each put pen-to-paper on five-fight deals, which will see them compete exclusively for CWFC over a minimum period of 18 months.

Alloway (12-5) joins Cage Warriors on the back of a three-fight stint with the UFC, which started with a ‘KO of the Night’ victory over Manny Rodriguez last December.

The 32-year-old, who picked up a TKO win against CWFC middleweight Valentino Petrescu last year on The Ultimate Fighter, first fought for Cage Warriors in February 2012 when he overcame Mauro Chimento via unanimous decision at CWFC Fight Night 3 in Beirut.

“I’m very grateful to Graham Boylan and the Cage Warriors family for welcoming me back to one of the most respected organisations in the world, and I’m really looking forward to stepping on their canvas again,” said Alloway.

“CWFC is the best thing for my career at this stage and I don’t plan to disappoint them for bringing me back. My plans for the division are simple; get back to finishing fights, one at a time, and eventually become champion.”

Brown (10-4), one of Australia’s top lightweights, has dropped just one loss in his last five outings, an impressive run that has seen him pick up notable wins over fellow Legend FC veterans Haotian Wu and Rob Hill.

Baghdad Iraq Set to Host Cage Warriors 61

Baghdad Iraq Set to Host Cage Warriors 61

Cage Warriors Fighting Championship is to sign off on its busiest year to date with a hectic December schedule which will feature three events in three different countries.

CWFC officials can today confirm that terms have been agreed to bring Europe’s leading MMA promotion to Baghdad for a ground-breaking event on Saturday, December 14.

The Iraqi capital will play host to Cage Warriors 61 just seven days after CWFC’s next scheduled event, which is set for Newcastle, England. Once again, the curtain will be brought down on the year in Dublin, Ireland, on December 31, when Cage Warriors will stage its fourteenth and final event of 2013.

However, the promotion’s visit to Baghdad next month is sure to attract worldwide attention, as Cage Warriors Fighting Championship continues to expand into previously uncharted territories with a view to satisfying the enormous appetite for mixed martial arts in the region.

While some small-scale shows have taken place in Iraq in recent years, Cage Warriors 61 will mark the country’s first taste of an internationally-recognised MMA event, which will feature some of the top talent on the CWFC roster.

Iraq will become the eleventh country to play host to a Cage Warriors event since the start of last year. At the outset of 2012, the promotion embarked on an ambitious international schedule, breaking new ground for the sport of mixed martial arts in countries like Jordan, Lebanon, Bahrain, United Arab Emirates and Ukraine.

That campaign of expansion has continued in 2013, the highlight of which thus far was an extremely successful and hugely significant event – Cage Warriors 58 – in the Russian republic of Chechnya this past August.

“Cage Warriors Fighting Championship is an international promotion, the biggest and busiest outside the USA, and this announcement further enhances that fact and that reputation,” said Graham Boylan, Cage Warriors CEO.

“We’ve shown our ambition for breaking through frontiers in the past so I’m sure it will come as no surprise to see us confirming an event in Baghdad. It has had a troubled past but we’re looking forward to visiting this fantastic city and giving the people there a taste of world-class MMA.

“The event will be one of three in December, which allows us to finish this year having staged 14 shows in the space of 10 months; that’s 26 in total across 11 different countries since February of last year. With 18 shows scheduled for next year, you can expect our international growth to continue at pace in 2014.”

Cage Warriors 61 was originally scheduled for Dagestan on November 16, but a number of logistical issues paved the way for the change of date and venue to December 14 in Baghdad, with a strong fight-card matched for the event which will be revealed in due course.

While the chronological order of numbered events has subsequently been impacted, officials have opted to continue with the December 7 event in Newcastle being billed as Cage Warriors 62, with Cage Warriors 61 following a week later in Baghdad.

2 More Fights Added to Cage Warriors 62

2 More Fights Added to Cage Warriors 62
by Chris Houten @mrhouts

Photo used courtesy of Cage Warriors

A Welterweight match up between Tommy Quinn and Alan Johnston, as well as a lightweight battle between Paul Gregson and Frankie Slater have been added to Cage Warriors 62.

Cage Warriors 62 takes place on the 7th of December at the Metro Arena in Newcastle and features a Flyweight title fight in the main event, where newly crowned champion Neil Seery will defend his title against former UFC fighter Ulysses Gomez.

Quinn (5-1) fights for the first time in 2013 having not competed since his Cage Warriors 51 victory over Philip Mulpeter last New Year Eve in Dublin.

Quinn who has spent the last year training in Australia said:

“I cannot wait to fight in a city that has been my home for the past six years. All I want is to put on an exciting fight.”

Fighting out of Dink Ninjas Fight Team, Alan Johnston (7-2-1) fights for he second time under the Cage Warriors banner having took an impressive victory over TUF contestant Aaron Wilkinson at Cage Warriors 50. In his most recent outing, the 22 year old become only the 2nd man to go the distance with 13-0 Walter Gahadza, when he faced Gahadza as a late replacement replacement for injured Ryan Scope at Made 4 the Cage 11.

Johnston, who has finished all but one of his victories said:

“It’s great to be back on the best show in the UK against a guy like Tommy Quinn. He looks to bring a fight, which is exactly what I want.”

Elsewhere, in a meeting of two lightweight prospects, Frankie Slater (2-1) will take on Paul Gregson (3-1).

Tickets for Cage Warriors 62 are on sale now HERE

Curt Warburton vs Wesley Murch Added to Cage Warriors 62

Curt Warburton vs Wesley Murch Added to Cage Warriors 62
by Chris Houten - @mrhouts

Photo: Little Red Creative

Curt Warburton will begin his Cage Warriors career against fellow promotional newcomer Wesley Murch in a 160lb catchweight bout at Cage Warriors 62, at the Metro Arena in Newcastle, England on the 7th of December.

Currently fourth in the UK's lightweight rankings, Warburton (12-4) fought 3 times for the UFC between 2010 and 2011 earning a 1-2 record, before signing for Bamma where he went on to win the promotions lightweight title defeating current CWFC champ Stevie Ray.  

“I’m looking forward to making my Cage Warriors debut against a tough opponent. Wesley is on a bit of a win-streak at the moment but that will end in Newcastle on December 7,” said Warburton.

His opponent, Wesley Murch (13-6) enters the bout with Warburton on the back of a 4 fight win streak. 

Murch, who today signed a 5 fight exclusive deal with Cage Warriors is 9-2 in his last 11 fight; the 30 year old has also taken 12 of his 13 professional wins inside the distance.

He said: “It’s great to be joining Cage Warriors and getting the chance to compete against the top lightweights out there. Curt is an example of that. He’s a great fighter and beating him will prove that I’m among the best in Europe.”

Cage Warriors 62 is headline by Flyweight Champion Neil Seery taking on UFC vet Ulysses Gomez, tickets are on sale now HERE  

Press Release: CES Sign UFC Vets Chuck O'Neil and Irishman Tom Egan

Press Release: CES Sign UFC Vets Chuck O'Neil and Irishman Tom Egan 

With a thrilling combination of top-rank veterans, up-and-coming pros and some of the best amateurs in the region, this is the type of event that, in a nutshell, captures the essence of Classic Entertainment & Sports' famous "something for everyone" edict.

"A November To Remember," coming to Foxwoods Resort Casino on Friday, Nov. 15th, 2013, is the latest installment of CES' wildly-popular mixed martial arts division, and it will be the promotion's second pro-am card this month at Foxwoods, including its recent boxing pro-am at the beginning of November.

This time, CES will bring heavy-hitters Chuck O'Neil (11-6, 3 KOs) of Bridgewater, Mass., and popular Irish middleweight Thomas Egan (7-3, 5 KOs) of nearby Dorchester to Foxwoods' venerable Fox Theater, adding two former Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) veterans to an already-stacked lineup.

Egan, who starred in UFC 93 four years ago in his native Ireland, will face the always-dangerous Bombsquad veteran Harley Beekman (4-2, 2 KOs) of Amsterdam, N.Y., in a three-round bout. Looking to continue his climb back up the ladder in the welterweight division, O'Neil will tangle with Atlanta's Chris Woodall (12-4, 5 KOs) in a three-round bout. A former contestant on The Ultimate Fighter reality television series, O'Neil is looking to a rebound from a first-round knockout loss to Brazilian Gil de Freitas in August.


The undercard of "A November To Remember" features more of the region's top talent as North Haven, Conn., bantamweight Blair Tugman (5-3) will face Eugene Barrett (3-6) of Toledo, Ohio. Also on the card, hard-hitting heavyweight Josh Diekmann (13-5 9 KOs), fighting out of TriForce MMA and Groton, Conn., will battle Chris Guillen (13-15, 1 KO) of Fort Worth, Tex., and Providence, R.I., flyweight Dan Cormier (1-3) will face newcomer Marvin Malonado of Latham, N.Y.

One of the most impressive up-and-comers in New England, light heavyweight Willie Brown Jr. (1-0) of Meriden, Conn., will return to face Pittsburgh newcomer Chazz Dowell, and Dorchester, Mass., featherweight James Murrin will make his professional debut against fellow newcomer Douglas Monteiro, fighting out of the Dragon's Lair in Framingham, Mass.

On the amateur side, welterweight Kyle Bochniak (3-1) of Boston's Broadway MMA will face Travis Demko (1-0) from Wai Kru, also out of Boston, and bantamweight Mike Piacentini (0-1) of Coondog MMA in Meriden will face Dashawn Robinson (1-1) from Ultimate MMA in North Haven, Conn. The amateur undercard also features welterweight bouts between Eduardo Conde (3-0) of Team Thunder MMA in Watertown, Conn., and Jose Quinones (3-1) of New England Combat in Johnston, R.I.; and Romulado de Freitas of the Dragon's Lair and independent fighter Angel LaBoy (0-1) of Hartford. All amateur bouts feature three five-minute rounds.

Shinobi War Adds 2 More Fights to Debut November Card

Shinobi War Adds 2 More Fights to Debut November Card

Amateur upstart promotion Shinobi War have added two more fights to its debut November card.

Craig Dransfield of Next Generation MMA in Liverpool will be taking on Fergus Williams-Tanton who is an independent fighter.  Dransfield is a BJJ Blue Belt under Head Coach, Paul Rimmer, and has a solid stand-up game to match.  Williams-Tanton has a very game fighter who has trained in many martial arts over the years including Muay Thai, Sambo and Wrestling.  

Igor Pusharskis of Team Elite has made a promising start to his MMA career and holds an amateur record of 4-0.  He will face another independent fighter in the form of Gary Tyrer.  Tyrer always comes to fight and is himself unbeaten having won both of his amateur bouts to date.

Unfortunately, as with Liam Bird has been forced to withdraw from the card leaving Bobby Pallet without an opponent. Again Team Shinobi have managed to find a more that suitable replacement in Jordan Barton from Team Elite.  Jordan has a strong striking background, which is a trademark of Team Elite and has rounded out his game by competing in and winning grappling tournaments.

Shinobi War takes place on Saturday 23rd November 2013 at the Deeside Leisure Centre, North Wales.  The full fight card is as follows:

Shinobi War Fight Card

Featherweight Bout - Wayne Hughes (HFFS) vs Reece Phillips (Beyond Black Belt)

Lightweight Bout - Paul Jackson (HFFS) vs River O'Callaghan (Silverback MMA)

Light Heavyweight Bout - Mario Data (HFFS) vs Piotr Chyska (Beyond Black Belt)

Middleweight Bout - Igor Puskarskis (Team Elite) vs Gary Tyrer (Independent)

Bantamweight Bout - Mak Mwanza (Silverback MMA) vs Jordan Chester (Reps MMA)

Welterweight Bout - Alan Hunt (Team Elite) vs Tony Hristov (Silverback MMA)

Middleweight Bout - Mark Sutton (Next Level MMA) vs Tom White (Beyond Black Belt)

Featherweight Bout - Lloyd Sweeney (ASW) vs Gav Samuels (Independent)

Lightweight Bout - Craig Dransfield (Next Generation) vs Fergus Williams-Tanton (Independent)

Lightweight Bout - Bobby Pallett (HFFS) vs Jordan Barton (Team Elite)

Catchweight 54Kg Bout - Adam Penketk (Sapphire MMA) vs TBC

Flyweight Bout - Ollie Harris (Next Level MMA) vs TBC

Featherweight Bout - Chris Pieroni (HFFS) vs TBC

Featherweight Bout - Jay Clay (Next Generation) vs TBC

Light Heavyweight Bout - Joe Cook (HFFS) vs TBC

Light Heavyweight Bout - Nathan Rigby (HFFS) vs TBC

Light Heavyweight Bout - Matt Clempner (ASW) vs TBC

Heavyweight Bout - Matt Allen (Beyond Black Belt) vs TBC

UFC Fight Night 32: Belfort vs Henderson Predictions

UFC Fight Night 32: Belfort vs Henderson Predictions

With Tim Kennedy's knock out, Alexis Davis' masterclass, and James Krause nether region (take that how you will) still fresh in our mind, The UFC is back already, and this time from Goiania, Brazil with UFC Fight Night 32: Belfort vs Henderson.

Kingdom MMA writer Jack Broadey (Twitter @j3cK_b) and Tommy Strong (Twitter @strong_tea) give you their predictions for the event which is sure to be a cracker!

Vitor Belfort vs Dan Henderson:
Strong: A fight between 2 of my least favourite fighters in the UFC. Not because of their fighting style, but because they both use TRT, but thats for another discussion.

I'm still trying to work out why this fight is happening? Belfort coming into the fight with stunning wins over Michael Bisping and Luke Rockhold at Middleweight, I'm struggling to see why he would move up in weight to take on someone very dangerous like Henderson.

Henderson though is in the twilight of his career, now 43 and coming off 2 very close losses to Machida and Rashad Evans, a loss here would surely see the end of his UFC career.

Im torn between who to pick. Can Vitor knock Hendo out? I don't think so. Can Vitor have the cardio for 5 rounds? I don't think so... 

Prediction: Vitor Belfort - Submission RD 3

Broadey: All I'm seeing is people not only completely write Dan Henderson off but totally underestimate him too. Belfort has looked amazing lately finishing fights with one shot or the infamous "Belfort Blitz." Henderson just doesn't get knocked out, by anybody. If we see a KO in this fight I feel it's likely to come from Hendo's right hand as Belfort rushes in. Neither man is renowned for there gas tank but Hendo also has a huge advantage there should the fight go deep. Belfort may well submit Henderson if this turns into a wrestling match.

Prediction: Dan Henderson - Unanimous Decision

Cezar Ferreira vs Daniel Sarafian:
Strong: Really looking forward to this fight. Both were scheduled to meet in the Brazil TUF final before Sarafian had to pull out due to an injury. Ferreira went onto beat the replacement and the man Sarafian beat in the semi finals Sergio Moraes via unanimous decision and win the TUF Middleweight tournament.

I think size might be the difference here, I really like Sarafian and wouldn't be surprised to see him win, though I have to go with Cezar Ferreira.

Prediction: Cezar Ferreira - Unanimous Decision

Broadey: We finally get to see the TUF Brazil finale. Safarian hasn't impressed me at all so far whilst the injury hit Ferreira has looked mightily impressive in his limited appearances so far. Cesar has way to much power in his hands for Safarian and he will stand and trade.

Prediction: Cezar Ferreira - TKO RD 2

Rafael Cavalcante vs Igor Pokrajac:
Strong: All of Rafael 11 wins have come via KO and his losses come to think of that, though Igor just isn't in the same league for me, having lost his last 3 fights I only see one winner here!

Prediction: Rafael Cavalcante - KO RD1 (Banker of the Night)

Broadey: Pokrajak has no business at all being on a main card never mind the 3rd main fight. He's lost 3 in a row and that should have been 4. He's tough and doesn't often get beatdown but he doesn't impose himself in fights. Cavalcante is very much hit and miss himself. Losing 2 of his last 4 with a win being chalked off after a drugs ban. He has motivational issues which makes him kind of hard to predict. If he turns up in the right frame of mind he should win this fight.

Prediction: Rafael Cavalcante - Unanimous Decision 

Paulo Thiago vs Brandon Thatch
Strong: This welterweight fight really has me interested, merely to see Brandon Thatch back in action again! His stunning debut knocking out Justin Edwards inside the 1st round was very impressive! Having won 10 fights inside the first round via KO or submission (1 loss) he may have to wait a little longer to get the job done on Thiago.

Thiago isn't the force he once was, though will be a good test for Thatch to see where he is in the division. Thiago doesn't possess the striking ability of Thatch or knock out power so will have to try and work some magic on the mat.

Prediction: Brandon Thatch - TKO RD 2

Broadey: This is a very fun fight. Thatch entered the UFC with a ton of hype and duly delivered and outstanding KO on debut. Thiago has been there and done it all, he's a whole different league to the competition Thatch has so far faced. Thiago generally only loses to the top guys in the division. Thatch will put himself in that mix after he knocks Thiago out.

Prediction: Brandon Thatch - TKO RD 1

Santiago Ponzinibbio vs Ryan LeFlare
Strong: Not going to lie here, I don't know much about Santiago if anything at all, but I know how good LeFlare is at grappling, takedowns and top position! I always back a man who can control a fight on the floor over a striker.

Prediction: LeFlare - TKO RD 2

Broadey: I don't know much Ponzinibbio other than he beat some descent competition on the way to the final of Tuf Brazil 2 including the eventual winner Santos before having to pull out due to injury. LaFlare is a huge Welterweight but very inexperienced. That could be a factor fighting in Brazil against a huge crowd favourite here. Benny Alloway took him the distance in a close fight so I won't expect fireworks here.

Prediction: Ponzinibbio - Unanimous Decision

Rony Jason vs Jeremy Stephens:
Strong: Not normally I like to pick the favourites for each fight, though I'm struggling to pick against Rony Jason here. Jeremy Stephens made his featherweight debut in May this year where he defeated Estevan Payan in dominating fashion via UD. But can he raise his game even further?

Rony Jason is a joy to watch at times , if he can get Stephens to the ground I fancy him pulling off a submission win. Though is the fight stays on the feet this could a very bad night for Rony.

Prediction: Jeremy Stephens - Unanimous Decision (Although not really comfortable about this pick)

Broadey: Jeremy Stephens although predominantly a striker is good everywhere but Jason is excellent everywhere - his one isn't close.

Prediction: Rony Jason - Submission RD 1 

UFC Fight Night 32: Belfort vs Henderson - UK Betting Odds

UFC Fight Night 32: Belfort vs Henderson - UK Betting Odds

With UFC Fight for the Troops 3 still fresh in our mind the UFC is back this time with UFC Fight Night 32 and as always there is a chance to make some money! We team up with partners William Hill to bring those who fancy a little flutter the latest clear cut, betting odds - Good Luck, and don't miss out on your free £25 bet below!

Preliminary Card
4/5 Jose Maria Tome v Dustin Ortiz 10/11 
17/20 Adriano Martins v Daron Cruickshank 17/20
4/9 Thiago Tavares v Justin Salas 13/8
13/8 Thiago Perpetuo v Omari Akhmedov 4/9 
17/20 Godofredo Pepey v Sam Sicilia 17/20

Main Card
1/2 Rony Jason v Jeremy Stephens 8/5 
6/5 Santiago Ponzinbibio v Ryan LaFlare 4/6
9/4 Paulo Thiago v Brandon Thatch 1/3
4/11 Rafael Cavalcante v Igor Pokrajac 21/10  
4/6 Cezar Ferreira v Daniel Sarafian 6/5
4/9 Vitor Belfort v Dan Henderson 7/4

*Blue denotes Favourite

What's Next for the Winners of Fight for the Troops 3

What's Next for the Winners of Fight for the Troops 3
By Jack Broadey - @j3ck_b

Tim KennedyTim Kennedy was never going to lose in front of his brothers in the armed forces against a good but limited Natal. He still doesn't seem to see eye to eye with Dana White and it's no coincidence in my eyes that the UFC tried and ultimately failed to match Kennedy with 1st Vitor Belfort and then Lyoto Machida. Circumstances determined neither of these happened but I think we see the theme continue with another dangerous opponent put in front of Kennedy. If Bisping is ready for UFC London that would be the logical matchup. If that doesn't happen then Ronaldo "Jacare" Souza would make sense and I think that's what happens.

Alexis Davis
Alexis Davis looked very comfortable against a solid contender. Division is tied up for the immediate future so a fight with Jessica Eye makes sense to me and allows the division time to sort itself out.

Yoel Romero
Yoel Romero didn't look like he would fulfil his potential when he was in the Strikeforce ranks. Since the Zuffa merger he's opened up his UFC account with 2 straight wins. He's not been severely tested and the UFC won't be in a hurry to rush his progress. Derek Brunson strung together his 2nd UFC win in a row in impressive fashion on the undercard and a battle between the former Strikeforce colleagues would push a contender into the proverbial mix.

Rustam Khabilov
Rustam Khabilov put together his 3rd successive UFC win and deserves a higher calibre opponent. He's got solid wrestling credentials and his standup looks very sharp. I like the idea of the Maynard-Diaz winner facing Khabilov but they may be pushed into bigger fights. An all rounder like Myles Jury would see where Khabilov belongs in the division.

Michael Chiesa
Michael Chiesa rebounded from a loss to Jorge Masjvidal with a good win over Colton Smith. Although 3-1 in the UFC he's a middle of the pack guy and is likely to get another guy with a similar standing. Lightweight has a big roster so there's plenty of choices. Jon Makdessi is of similar standing and isn't currently matched so that would be a fun fight to make.

Press Release: Lonsdale Extends Partnership with Bamma

Press Release: Lonsdale Extends Partnership with Bamma

Europe’s flagship Mixed Martial Arts promotion, BAMMA, is proud to announce a renewed partnership with Lonsdale, ahead of ‘BAMMA 14: Daley vs Da Silva’ as Lonsdale extends its commitment to British MMA into 2014. BAMMA 14 takes place on 14th December at Birmingham’s LG Arena and tickets are available Here
 
The name Lonsdale became inextricably associated with the history of boxing when in 1891 the 5th Earl of Lonsdale organised the first boxing fight with gloves. When veteran fighter, Bernard Heart, adopted the Lonsdale name for his original boxing range in 1960, Lonsdale further established itself as a pioneer in combat sports history becoming the emblem of names that included Muhammed Ali, Henry Cooper and Sugar Ray Leonard.

Lonsdale extended its sporting heritage to Mixed Martial Arts when it first partnered with BAMMA for ‘BAMMA 5: Daley v Shirai’ in 2011. The partnership has seen many unforgettable British MMA bouts in the BAMMA cage, and Lonsdale has notably championed stars that have included Colin ‘Freakshow’ Fletcher and Tom ‘Kong’ Watson. Lonsdale has also become associated with the coveted BAMMA Lonsdale British title belts.

BAMMA’s Director, Ashley Bothwell said: “We are really pleased to continue a very successful relationship with Lonsdale. We are proud to be associated with the combination of boxing heritage, British culture and iconic style that only Lonsdale can bring. We value the support that Lonsdale has put behind the growth of MMA in the UK and we look forward to a really strong 2014 as we increase the number of our shows on a wider TV platform under this partnership.”

Stay tuned to Kingdom MMA for all the latest on Bamma 14.

UFC Fight Night 31: Fight for the Troops 3 Main Card Predictions

UFC Fight Night 31: Fight for the Troops 3 Main Card Predictions
by Chris Houten - @mrhouts

The UFC is back on Wednesday showing some love to the US troops in Kentucky for UFC Fight Night 31: Fight for the Troops 3. There has been some grips about the quality of the card, but hey... its free, and what else are you doing on a Wednesday night (or Thursday for those with jobs like me).

Kingdom MMA writers Chris Houten and Ben Heather take a look at the main card for UFC Fight Night 31: Fight for the Troops 3 and give you their thoughts and predictions on the night affairs.

Michael Chiesa vs Colton Smith 

Houten: Its safe to say, year on year the winner of TUF get weaker and weaker. The fact that guys like Colton Smith and Michael Chiesa share the same honours as guys like Bisping, Evans, Griffin etc just isn't right.

I personally don't care about this fight, I would have rather had Camozzi vs Larkin, or Bermudez vs Siler on the main card because I don't expect this fight to be that good.

I do think Chiesa will take this one though by submission though much to the dismay of the troop... surely this is the more exciting prospect of a Smith cuddle hug victory.

Prediction: Michael Chiesa - Submission RD 2 

Heather: A battle of TUF winners here and also a potential showcase that the talent in the house recently has got very stretched. If either of these guys were in any of the earlier seasons they surely wouldn't have gone on to win.

I think Smith was exposed last time out and may be again, has any TUF champion gone 0-2 after the finale (yes I know he beat Ricci in the final) but i think Chiesa will have enough to take the win.

Prediction: Michael Chiesa - Unanimous Decision

Rustam Khabilov vs Jorge Masvidal

Houten: Fight of the night right her anyone? Who wins - the fans.....end of!

Prediction: The Fan

Heather: Khabilov has certainly excited the fans since arriving in the UFC and some great team mates to train with at Jacksons. I think he will carry on his path up the ladder of the lightweight division on Wednesday night.

Prediction: Rustam Khabilov - TKO RD 2


Ronny Markes vs Yoel Romero

Houten: Markes is likely to be better that Romero in most areas, but does that matter when you an Olympic wrestler? My answer is no! Romero could surprise us again with some 'flying shit' but its more likely he will take this fight to the ground as and when he wants. I expect him to grind out a unanimous 30 - 27 decision.... I cant guarantee excitement however.

Prediction: Yoel Romero - Unanimous Decision

Heather: This fight is one of the fights I am really excited to see on Wednesday night. Ronny Markes welcomes the heavy hitting Olympic wrestler Yoel Romero to the UFC and I think it is sure to bring the excitement.

I think Markes should be able to put his experience of fighting tougher opponents to use and I think after what should be a very exciting first round Markes will get the victory in the second if he doesn't get caught early on.

Prediction: Ronny Markes - Submission RD 2
 
Liz Carmouche vs Alexis Davis

Houten: Alexis Davis is currently considered the 3rd best 135 in the world at the moment, and with good reason too. Davis is on a good win streak, has descent boxing, and is one of the best submission artist in the female division.... She's also pretty big for the weight too.


Her opponent Carmouche is a great little wrestler, and her ground and pound is one of the best in the division.

With both fighters possessing unique skill sets, the stage is set for an intriguing fight which could go either way. I'm gonna go Davis in this one though by late submission victory. I do think Carmouche with drag this fight to the floor, however I can Davis catching Carmouche off her back to take the victory, setting up Davis as the no. 1 contender.

Prediction: Alexis Davis - Submission RD 2


Heather: after seeing what Andrade did to Rosi Sexton in Manchester by first thought was how good it made Liz Carmouche look in the way she beat Andrade last time out. Davis also beat Sexton in her UFC debut but I think Carmouche will have enough to get the win.

Prediction: Liz Carmouche - Unanimous Decision


Tim Kennedy vs Rafael Natal

Houten: A lot of people have complained about this fight.... "It's not main event worthy".... "worst main event in the history of The UFC" blah, blah, blah, personal fans need to look at the facts - it's on free television in the US, and all of the tickets have been given out for free to US soldiers, what's more a former Marine in Tim Kennedy tops the bill, in a fight he will win, again Natal who steps in as a late replacement for Lyoto Machida who was move to last weeks Fight Night 30 card where he replaced injured Michael Bisping.


One can't help but think the moving and shaking at the top of the 2 cards brought on a huge sigh of relief for Kennedy. Natal is a much easier fight for Kennedy that a Machida who just crippled a wrestler in Munoz far beyond Kennedy's skill set. I like Kennedy to stick in move in this one, keep Natal again the cage, and mix up takedown to take a convincing unanimous victory.

Prediction: Tim Kennedy - Unanimous Decision


Heather: Originally, when he was scheduled to fight Machida I had this as a fight to make Kennedy pay for speaking out against UFC pay and his lacklustre performance against Roger Gracie. Now after calling out the whole division he is set to fight Natal, this fight I now see as a give me fight to Kennedy and I think he will be too much of a step up in opposition for Natal.

Prediction: Tim Kennedy - Unanimous Decision

UFC Fight for the Troops 3 - UK Main Card Betting Odds

UFC Fight for the Troops 3 - UK Betting Odds

With UFC Fight for the Troops 3 approaching on Wednesday, we team up with partners William Hill to bring those who fancy a little flutter the latest clear cut, betting odds - Good Luck, and don't miss out on your free £25 bet below!

Please Note: At Present Only Main Card Odds Have Been Released, More Markets to Follow

Main  Card
13/10 Colton Smith v Michael Chiesa 8/13 
11/8 Jorge Masvidal v Rustam Khabilov 4/7 
8/5 Ronny Markes v Yoel Romero 1/2 
4/9 Liz Carmouche v Alexis Davis 7/4 
2/7 Tim Kennedy v Rafael Natal 13/5

*Blue denotes Favourite