Ortiz-Machida was exactly what I expected--I REALLY don't like Machida as a fighter. he's Boring, and he runs.
I've seen fighters run. I didn't see running out of Machida. He's not overly aggressive, he sets up his punches, and does a good job of avoiding a takedown. Very patient and in control.
Good points, but keep in mind that one of the very factors judged in a fight is AGGRESSION. I simply don't see pure aggression out of Machida.
take a look at his record--8 of 13 fights have gone to decision. Not a very exciting ratio, especially given so few fights.
I don't see his style of fighting being a drawing card, and I can guarantee that I'm not the only one.
Putting him against Tito gave the UFC a win-win--Tito wins, Tito leaves and takes Machida's perfect record with him. Machida wins, Tito still leaves, and now Machida must step in with one of the truly BIG boys--Wandy, Chuck, Shogun, etc. Now, Machida will be forced to fight, and hard--out of pure self-preservation.
on a side note, did anyone else hold their breath when Jardine went down like he did? I was genuinely concerned that we had just seen MMA's first death. Wanderlei is BACK.
Tito will wind up in EliteXC, since he's still a name and can draw casual fans.
I can't decide, however, if I wanna see Tito vs. Kimbo.
right now, I still think Tito is too experienced and still too good.
in a few fights, however......
I fought for 1 1/2 years before I decided that I didnt want to do it full time and make a career out of it.
I watched the fight and called all 3 of the big fights. Machida is a VERY good fighter although if you are looking for a KO or submission, he rarely delivers. He is very illusive and has a lot of counter punches.
Silva is one of the best fighters in the business. He will get a shot at the championship after 1 more win although I think he may drop to the middle weight. Silva walks around at 205 while most light heavyweights walk around at 235 and cut down.
BJ Penn is the best fighter in the game right now. When he is focused, no one is better. I got a chance to meet him in Vegas right before I went and met Randy Coulter at his gym. BJ Penn is an awesome guy. Faber is training with BJ in Hawaii by the way so watch out for his fight with Pulver. Should be a GOOD one.
Tito will become a celebrity fighter because he is not focused on fighting and wants to do other things (act).
Dawson, what is your opinion of Chuck Liddel? I used to work with a guy who fought mma for years who trained with him early in his career.
One of the hardest punchers in the game. People also dont know that he is an EXCELLENT wrestler as well. He and BJ Penn have some of the best take down defense I have ever seen.
He lost focus for several months but hopefully he is back on track.