UFC Quick Quote: Sylvia/Vera winner to fight Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira for vacant heavyweight title

That is crap. How do people come up and conted for a title like that? Its not not right. Make them earn the right to fight for the title.

Tell me… How did Big Nog get a title shot. His performance against Herring was lackluster at best.

This is UFC’s way of protecting Big Nog. They dont want to see Kongo beat him and then have Kongo at the superbowl. Not as marketable.

So kongo gets the shaft for beating cro cop.

WOW, that’s news! The UFC is completely disregarding Kongo as a contender. Gabe Gonzaga got an immediate shot at the title after beating Cro Cop. Kongo beats Cro Cop and he doesn’t even get considered to fight in a 4 way mini tourney to see who’s champ. I think that an argument can actually be make that Kongo is more deserving than Vera. Remember, its all about ‘what have you done for me lately’, and Vera hasn’t fought in a year. Sure Kongo won be decision, and Gabe KO’d Cro Cop, but what has Big Nog done in the UFC? He barely won a close decision to Heath Herring. That is not as impressive to me as a striker getting a decision win over Cro Cop.

The only reason I see the UFC doing this is to speed up the process of putting the HW belt around a fighter’s waist.

WOW, that’s news! The UFC is completely disregarding Kongo as a contender. Gabe Gonzaga got an immediate shot at the title after beating Cro Cop. Kongo beats Cro Cop and he doesn’t even get considered to fight in a 4 way mini tourney to see who’s champ. I think that an argument can actually be make that Kongo is more deserving than Vera. Remember, its all about ‘what have you done for me lately’, and Vera hasn’t fought in a year. Sure Kongo won be decision, and Gabe KO’d Cro Cop, but what has Big Nog done in the UFC? He barely won a close decision to Heath Herring. That is not as impressive to me as a striker getting a decision win over Cro Cop.

The only reason I see the UFC doing this is to speed up the process of putting the HW belt around a fighter’s waist.

VM return your emails please.

nog was horrible in his last fight almost losing to herring, the top contender???? he should fight kongo and the winner should fight the winner of the vera/sylvia for the title.

Slyvia vs Vera

Big Nog vs Kongo

Winner fights for the vacant title.

Its not really hard to see this is most logical and most simple way to crown a new HH Champ..and if pride guys had any say in this matter..have this tourney all in 1 night.

LAME

Why isn’t arlovski in the mix? – he was rumored to be up for a title shot prior to his fight w/Fabrico?
 If Sylvia wins the belt back Arlovski may never get another shot since Arlovski Sylvia IV would serve as much purpose as Liddell Jackson III at this point…

I’m tired of hearing about Big Nog putting on a lack luster performance. He dominated that whole fight and took a kick to the head that would have put 99% of the Heavyweight division to sleep.

In this sport any fighter has a chance to win a fight. If you can throw a kick or a punch or know even the most basic submissions, you can every now and then pull off a miraculous upset. That’s why I like MMA so much, there is no fight that is a garentee for any fighter, I don’t want to pay 40 dollars a month sometimes twice a month to see lop sided beatdowns and no competition.

I am surprised by this development make no mistake, but Big Nog is as creditable a heavyweight as anyone else you could name. And when Gonzaga beat Cro Cop, he finished him in the first round and Cro Cop was still unbeaten in the UFC, Congo beat him when he was coming off a knockout loss and he only one by decision. You can’t compare the two together and say if Gonzaga beat Crop Cop and got a title shot why not Congo?
Different circumstances, different types of victories.

At the end of the day who really cares, No Randy, no Fedor, no sense!!!!!!!!!!!

i would like this if big nog had to fight either arlovski or kongo first…either way i think it will be big nog fighting tim sylvia and i like that fight, i think nog will probably be the next hw champ…

Stupid to simply shaft Kongo like that. Nog wasn’t anything special in that fight with Herring. In fact, the hesitation by Herring made me think about whether he wanted to finish Nog or take the bigger paycheck and lose if you know what I mean. He took the bigger paycheck and lost, and hence we haven’t heard from him in a while. He’s enjoying his riches.

Nog doesn’t deserve a title shot. Who cares about who he was in Pride. It’s about what he is in the UFC and what he is is nothing special (so far).

As stated in the posts, Kongo vs. Nog should have been for the other side of the title fight. If I was Kongo right now, I’d be pissed. What has Nog done in the UFC that has put him above Kongo?

With Arlovski sitting on the shelf do you think he might be shopped by M-1? Or now that Fedor is gone and Randy might go there do you think it might force Dana to sign all his guys who’s contracts are already up so he doesn’t lose any top talent to M-1? If they pick up Hunt, Barnett , arlovski, fedor,sokoujou(LHW) they might start attracting a little attention. I know Randy probably had an impact on alot of fighters in the ufc as far as contracts go when he walked away from them maybe some other fighters will see the light and take off to. Could be a good thing to have some competition for the UFC it could force owners to pay out bigger contracts to there fighters and create some more legends. Any Thoughts?

that’s bulls**t, big nog has done nothing to even be considered….dana has made some stupid moves. the ufc is still the best around but true mma fans should be pissed this is a joke.

The reason why they arent making Nog fight Kongo is because there has to be people left to fight after someone is crowned. Ill put money down that the first title defense will be against Kongo. You have to run it like a business. Leave options open afterwards.

The only thing is….. NOG DEFINATELY does NOT deserve that shot. He hasnt exactly dominated 100% since he has been here in the UFC.

I would rather put Nog vs Vera right now for the title and have Kongo and Sylvia get in line for #1 and #2 contenders. Just to keep the division going.

We also need to get through the AA contract disputes and put him back in the mix. AA still has one fight on his contract but hasnt fought because he wants to extend his contract before the fight. GET AA back in contention.

i think if arlovski wasn’t having contract issues he would definitely be a part of this thing, but i don’t think the ufc thinks kongo is deserving just yet…he’s still pretty one dimensional and cro cop did win that first round and had he not broken a rib or whatever who knows what would have happened in that fight…i think kongo needs to get a big win or two over a fighter who is proven on the ground, like frank mir…but at the same time maybe a fight with big nog would have been a perfect opportunity for him to prove he could beat a good ground fighter, i mean whos better than nog right?

even though i think sylvia and nog are going to be fighting, i would really really like to see brandon vera fight nog, that would be an awesome five round fight…

Have Kongo fight Nog and the winner advances to fight the winner of Saturdays fight.

How about this? Sylvia beats Vera and Nog and gets the title back. Randy comes back out of retirement and again puts Tim on his ass. haha

We also need to get through the AA contract disputes and put him back in the mix. AA still has one fight on his contract but hasnt fought because he wants to extend his contract before the fight. GET AA back in contention.

i know man, he’s a big part of the heavy weight division, how bad would that suck if he went somewhere else? cmon dana, do the right thing and show arlovski the money!

swartzel – this was discussed on a few different discussion threads (original randy resignation post) but to recap. Yes, Randy leaving is going to stir up the landscape of MMA on the short term. However, unless M-1 or another orginization is able to attract multiple top tier fighters in multiple weight divisions, it will not carry a lasting effect or impact on the sport. UFC has been and will continue to be the premier MMA production. But if the owners of M-1 or others have the deep pockets and and gumption to invest the money upfront on the promise of returns later, we could see another orginization rise to power and be a legitimate alternative to the UFC.

THAT IS BS!!!! Why do Tim and Brandon have to fight eachother, then fight Nog to become the Heavyweight champ. If anything just say that the winner of saturdays match is the champ if your not gonna put Nog against Kongo. This is completely unfair for Tim and Vera.

I just feel like who ever wears the belt is just going to be another UFC interim champion. How many times has this happened???

Rutten never defended it
Barnett left the title up after steroids
Frank Mir left the title due to motorcycle accident
Couture resignes
(I should include Penn in this list seeing that I’m sure at times he weighs over 205…)

Now we’re going to have another interim champion.

Big Nog and AA (if he ever gets signed) both need convincing wins in the very near future before they should be considered title contenders. As much as I like Vera, he should have to beat Big Poopy and someone else before getting a title shot. Right now I think Kongo makes the most sense for an immediate title match, possibly against Poopy if he beats Vera Saturday. And Gonzaga could get back into the mix with a win in his next fight, whenever that is. Man, this division is a disappointment right now.

WOW, that’s news! The UFC is completely disregarding Kongo as a contender. Gabe Gonzaga got an immediate shot at the title after beating Cro Cop. Kongo beats Cro Cop and he doesn’t even get considered to fight in a 4 way mini tourney to see who’s champ. I think that an argument can actually be make that Kongo is more deserving than Vera. Remember, its all about ‘what have you done for me lately’, and Vera hasn’t fought in a year. Sure Kongo won be decision, and Gabe KO’d Cro Cop, but what has Big Nog done in the UFC? He barely won a close decision to Heath Herring. That is not as impressive to me as a striker getting a decision win over Cro Cop.

The only reason I see the UFC doing this is to speed up the process of putting the HW belt around a fighter’s waist.

WORD, all that, Mike….. I still for now, see The UFC as being the only game in town, but silly, stupid shit like this could start to make boxing look like a legit sport again. I hate to see it, but I am beginning to favor the idea having less, yet higher quality events. Dana paid these under performers and now we have to swallow them as champ material… Give Randy what he wants so we can get the UFC back on track.

have a fight off. with all heavy weight.new and old fighters

I like the match up Nog vs Kongo wasnt a good “stylistic” match up. Kongo would have just gotten outwrestled, now this frees up a KONGO vs ARVLOVSKI match up that will be a great stand up fight where someone should get knocked out. Winner gets first title defense by the new champ. That way no one gets ignored and you can get a HV champ quick so that the title isnt vacant long. I think overall this was a smart move for the UFC and all the 5 fighters involved who get good matchups and styles fights that will help build their names better before they become champ, although i could make a case why all 5 guys deserve a shot. This way everyone will have their opportunity for the belt. Some will just have to wait longer than others.

Vera is used to fighting guys heavier than him so this should be to hard for him to adjust to.

The only reason Big Nog is not fighting Kongo because there is not enough time to fit all these fights before Feb 2nd. Even if Nog would fight Kongo on Dec 29th, it would not be enough time for him to prepare for UFC 81, considering two fighters might get injured, and having tournaments in one night is not happening in US, the NV athletic commision would not allow that.

i feel bad for kongo, odd man out but they need to fill the title void asap and it does make since to have it in feb. the only ones fighting are vera and slyvia the nov card doesn’t have a heavyweight bout on it. but kongo should be fighting the winner of the feb match or at least fight in dec against gonzaga or arlovski.

I heard AA is signing with M1 just like Fedor, what is heck is M1 that organization is joke !!!

On the subject though, Timmy, whether you like the giant or not, is a power striker with bricks in his hands, who also has decent takedown and submission defense. He will give give Vera his toughest test to date, and following this fight we will know if Brandon belongs we the names of the most elite HW. Personally, I think Vera is as good as the hype, he has great hands, quick reflexes and axe-like kicks. In addition, he has extremely underrated jujitsu. He also has octagon experience and has proven that the pressure does not affect his fights. He has also fought fighters much larger (though none as big as the Maineiac, but really, who is?)

It will be interesting to see if he looks to stand up and trade. While he is a great striker, if he gets caught with even one hit from Tim, it could spell for a short night for Vera. If he takes Tim to the ground, which I feel would be his greatest chance for success,this will negate some of the size and reach advantage. From here he can look to submit or strike from the top position. If he does this, I see this fight going his way. My prediction, Vera 2nd RD by TKO due to strikes

This is even going to motivate Vera more to whoop Tim’s A$$. I don’t agree with big Nog gettting a title shot, but there’s not much that the UFC does that I aggree with except sign the best fighters. I really not in to the title shots, but like to see the possible MMA match ups.

Randy leaving leaves the HW div in shambles.

That said, Big Nog is going to be the next HW champ. There is no doubt in my mind barring some freak accident.

I heard AA is signing with M1 just like Fedor, what is heck is M1 that organization is joke !!!

You know AA is still under UFC contract right?

I think that UFC needs to saddle up and get Brock Lesnar and Ben Rothwell inside the Octagon as soon as possible.

Ben Rothwell is a free agent, and Brock Lesnar could be the next big thing.

Throw them in there with Frank Mir, Tim Slyvia, AA, Chiek Kongo, Mirko Cro Cop, Heath Herring, Gabriel Gonzaga, Brandon Vera, Big Nog then we can see who the real heavyweight champion is.

The heavyweight division is very weak right now because AA is not fighting, Heath Herring and Cro Cop have horribly under performed, Frank Mir is in and out, so that leaves Kongo, Gonzaga, Vera, Nog and Slyvia for the title.

GEEZE!

WAR BEN ROTHWELL AND BROCK LESNAR SIGNINGS!

WOW, that’s news! The UFC is completely disregarding Kongo as a contender. Gabe Gonzaga got an immediate shot at the title after beating Cro Cop. Kongo beats Cro Cop and he doesn’t even get considered to fight in a 4 way mini tourney to see who’s champ. I think that an argument can actually be make that Kongo is more deserving than Vera. Remember, its all about ‘what have you done for me lately’, and Vera hasn’t fought in a year. Sure Kongo won be decision, and Gabe KO’d Cro Cop, but what has Big Nog done in the UFC? He barely won a close decision to Heath Herring. That is not as impressive to me as a striker getting a decision win over Cro Cop.

The only reason I see the UFC doing this is to speed up the process of putting the HW belt around a fighter’s waist.

I totally agree. It is stupid for Big Nog to fight for the title. He should fight Arlovski or another heavyweight before there is a title match.

WOW, that’s news! The UFC is completely disregarding Kongo as a contender. Gabe Gonzaga got an immediate shot at the title after beating Cro Cop. Kongo beats Cro Cop and he doesn’t even get considered to fight in a 4 way mini tourney to see who’s champ. I think that an argument can actually be make that Kongo is more deserving than Vera. Remember, its all about ‘what have you done for me lately’, and Vera hasn’t fought in a year. Sure Kongo won be decision, and Gabe KO’d Cro Cop, but what has Big Nog done in the UFC? He barely won a close decision to Heath Herring. That is not as impressive to me as a striker getting a decision win over Cro Cop.

The only reason I see the UFC doing this is to speed up the process of putting the HW belt around a fighter’s waist.

your right man, bollox to this – Big Nog aint proved anything in the UFC. Give Arlovski a chance to get in on this – Big Nog V Arlovski – Its Arlovski’s time right now, just that nobody knows it yet – hes just picked off 2 top bjj guys – Big Nog wont be a huge challenge at all for that animal.
I dont think any of these guys should be considered for the vacant title shot :- Gonzaga, Vera, CroCop,Big Nog – that leaves Arlovski, Sylvia and Kongo as deserving contenders – crazy really, just shows how empty this division really is.

I think Big Nog should fight Tank Abbot for the belt.

Although Nog pretty much came within spitting distance of losing his debut and really hasn’t impressed me enough to think he’s champ material at the moment, I’m more disgusted at how they just looked past Kongo.

as they say: Holdin’ the black man down.

while i hope it’s not that, it just seems lame that they’d forget about him altogether.

What is everyone complaining about? Nog is the most qualified to fight for the title b/c of what he’s accomplished outside of the Octagon.

Besides, I remember a similar case where a certain former Pride star came over to the UFC, beat a B level opponent, and was immediately offered a title shot afterwards.

Rampage, anyone? Were you all complaining about that matchup, b/c I sure wasn’t. Just relax.

Also a good link for some of vera’s highlights:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tWnKt_XD_Ew

immediately offered a title shot afterwards.

Rampage, anyone?

whoa…agreed..nog is a good choice and a real bad match up for kongo…

How can AA not be in the mix is so far beyond me. Are they still “negotiating”? Somebody should set a timeline and get things done!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AqYPpbwJFXw

Yo CLICK ON THIS LINK!!!! Tim Slyvia the blind date show!!!

Mad Funny!!

Why don’t we just have an over the top rope Royal Rumble with all the heavyweights?

ROYAL RUMBLE!!!! Winner takes the HW belt!!

Is Lesnar really a viable option for the HW division… really, seriously? I don’t have a hard time believing he’s a tough guy, but can he compete within the MMA talent pool on his wrestling credentials alone (which aren’t all that current anymore). Big Ben’s alright… but how far can you really expect him to get, maybe Heath Herring or lower.

Clearly the UFC has overlapped the rankings from the Pride purchase. Rampage got Chuck right away, Silva got Franklin 2nd Fight, Big Nog now gets his shot at his division due to circumstance (We would all love best case scenario, but i can’t even bring myself to type it out, everyone should know)

Think about Gomi coming over tomorrow… no title shot after he beats someone???? Then “Mach”… he would have a title shot in 2 or less fights. Thats the formula.

Vera is gonna Hurt Tim… if it came from Iberra, you have to respect it.

ANYONE KNOW WHO RANDYS PICKING??? lol.

BZ.

MANIA???

Can you please find some new about when BROCK is coming into the picture??!?!?!?!

What is everyone complaining about? Nog is the most qualified to fight for the title b/c of what he’s accomplished outside of the Octagon.

That would be like giving the Saskatchewan Rough Riders a free pass to the Super Bowl because of what they did in the CFL. If Big nog wants something in the octagon, he has to earn it in the octagon. I think we’ve all seen how far a reputation gets you in the UFC.

Do you think its time for people to stop dissin the winner of this fight? Serious question. A lot of people give Vera crap about being overrated and cocky. Alot of people give timmy crap about being fat and lacking killer instinct. if Vera beats Tim, has he proven himself. If Tim finishes Vera does he get a little more respect. I’m not trying to sound like I’m pissed about people dissin fighters, I could care less. I’m just thinking, the winner of this fight could possibly be a HW Champ, I’m not really a huge fan of either, but I may have to become one.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QVtNjUxYFwI

Josh Thomson on a BLind Date…where he says " I’m the number 1 155..humm.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=opw9-i6r8dc

Tiki G. on a BLind Date.

That February 2nd card should have another heavyweight match like AA or GG vs Kongo. That winner could then fight the champ in June or July. You can say what you want about whether or not it’s fair to Vera and Sylvia to have to fight to be a contender at UFC 81, but you can’t say this isn’t a great marketing move. The HW fight Saturday just got a lot more interesting when they put a title shot on the line.

Slyvia vs Vera

Big Nog vs Kongo

Winners fights for the vacant title.

Brandon Vera = Jason Mcdonald.

They look great for a while, and then they step into the cage with a top 5 fighter.

Silvia by K.O. second round.

Brandon Vera = Jason Mcdonald.

They look great for a while, and then they step into the cage with a top 5 fighter.

Silvia by K.O. second round.

HAHAHAHAHAHHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAAHA!!!!!! Are you crazy??? Brandon Vera was supposed to fight Tim for his belt and his contract negotiations fell through because of his management and thats the only reason Randy came in to take the spot. Brandon is way more at the top then Jason Macdonald. Brandon will pick Sylvia apart until Sylvias frustrated and tired and then Brandon will go in for the kill.

Vera is gonna Hurt Tim… if it came from Iberra, you have to respect it.

Word. Ibarra knows a great fighter when he sees one.

Brandon Vera = Jason Mcdonald.

They look great for a while, and then they step into the cage with a top 5 fighter.

Silvia by K.O. second round.

Huh? Jason Macdonald already got exposed before he even entered the UFC. Nobody has yet to find a hole in Vera’s game. I’m not saying he won’t lose, but to compare him to Jason is just non-sensical.

They dont want to leave the title vacant..if they do it sort of causes lack of interest in that division..Hence as soon as they found out about mirs injury back when he was the champ the arlovski vs sylvia fight

Good news. Nog is the highest ranked HW in the UFC and should fight for the title. No disrespect to Kongo, but his ground game still needs improvements before he can take Nog.

Slyvia vs Vera

Big Nog vs Kongo

Winner fights for the vacant title.

Its not really hard to see this is most logical and most simple way to crown a new HH Champ..and if pride guys had any say in this matter..have this tourney all in 1 night.

Seems obvious, but damn! Way to spit in a man’s face. They are telling Kongon his efforts will be worthless despite the outcome of the fight. Kongo is just something to do in the meantime? He didn’t knock out Cro Cop but he definitely neutralized him. Cro Cop didn’t do any damage in that fight. Just for that I hope Kongo breaks Nog’s face open. Having the 2 fights in the same night would be sweet, a big money maker- that’s all that matters to Dana anyway.

Why isn’t arlovski in the mix? – he was rumored to be up for a title shot prior to his fight w/Fabrico?
If Sylvia wins the belt back Arlovski may never get another shot since Arlovski Sylvia IV would serve as much purpose as Liddell Jackson III at this point…

It would be really nice to have Arlovski in the mix, Dana better pony up the money to set everything and everyone straight.

There’s gonna have to be some sorting done in this division. What’s all the moaning about Kongo not getting a shot?……… GOOD cos he’s not ready. AA would murder the bum. And where’s the er little but WIDE Jeff monson? He’d kick some ass still but obviously got outBOXED by Silvia and found the guys size too much.
And I agree with signing Ben Rothwell, he’s a beast. He’s won loads of fights lately and lots of KOs.
Also (!) Josh Barnett would sweep most of these guys away with minimal effort. Dana doesn’t like him… SO WHAT! The fans WILL pay to see the guy wrecking some heads! :)

dude you all forget about ARLOVSKY, you know hes still the shit, before a questionable knock out which can happen to anybody he lost a decision where he clearly wasnt himself after that he has 2 wins i mean that dude is like 8-2 in his last 10 fights damn he is still the shit they should put him against kongo, or noguera or vera, hes deserving “THE PITBULL”

You guys have to stop disrespecting Big Nog… It is sopmewhat of a shocker to me also but don’t take out your frustrations on the UFC upper echelon decisions with Big Nog… And all this earning a title fight is nonsense, Randy comes out of retirement and with losses to get an instant title shot, when Chuck and other UFC guys came to Pride they didn’t have to fight more than a couple of times to get shots at their dsesired fights, also concerning the Herring fight, how was that a horrible performance, becuase he got rocked once? And don’t tell me that Herring didn’t try and finish it, if you think that then go back and re-watch that fight, he instantly jumps on him and thorws hammerfists, which only a couple land and NOg is clearly defending, then Herring makes the mistake of relenting and standing back up (probably because he realized he wasn’t landing and Nog was cognizant and we all know about his ground game)

and in Vera vs Sylvia I see it pretty close tim is always dangerous standing i dont believe he can clinch and knee the shit out of tim nor can he score that high kick he knock Eilers with and we havent really seen him utilize his hands so im kinda leaning more on tims side his only opportunity is landing a big right hand if any opponent has studied him that same punch has dropped him in 3 fights so Vera should be looking to set up the right hand but I still think Sylvia has the edge

Good news. Nog is the highest ranked HW in the UFC and should fight for the title. No disrespect to Kongo, but his ground game still needs improvements before he can take Nog.

Someone with a brain…refreshing, nice post my frined

I meant that i dont believe Vera can clinch and knee and yada yada…

I heard AA is signing with M1 just like Fedor, what is heck is M1 that organization is joke !!!

What are they gonna do? Have AA anf Fedor fight each other over and over again. I know fighters have to go where the money is sometimes, but M-1? What a joke. I guess Fedor doesn’t think he has anything to prove.

i dont’ understand the hype around Brock or Ben Rothwell. Brock is green. he only has one fight under his belt, he isn’t even close to being ready for any sort of title picture.

as for Ben Rothwell? the guy is a joke. the only reason he is undefeated is because he is the IFL’s golden boy. a couple of his decision wins shouldn’t have gone his way. The guy is one dimensional. he’s just a barroom brawler that would get destroyed in the UFC heavyweight division.

i say let chuck move up to heavyweight to fight for the title

Yeah I agree that its nonsense for them to offer Minotauro a title shot so fast… Dana isn’t treating the veteran UFC fighters right… Arlovski has been in the UFC for 7 years, since UFC 28, Sylvia has been there for 5 years, then some guy from PRIDE comes in and beats Heath Herring by decision to get paid a reported $200,000 and get a title shot.

In my opinion, the UFC is favoring the wrong guys. The future faces of the UFC are the guys like Vera, Arlovski, Kongo, Rampage, Houston Alexander, Forrest Griffin, Anderson Silva, GSP, Jon Fitch, Roger Huerta, BJ Penn… they are the exciting, likeable bunch of fighters who would carry the torch of MMA through the UFC’s next era.

I understand that Minotauro has paid his dues in PRIDE (and I heard that he went through some really tough times in life), but at least make him fight another top contender for a shot at the title. When Randy Couture came out of retirement, he set the bar very high for MMA fighters, especially Heavyweights. It seems like they are letting certain guys just walk under the bar instead of going the distance to clear it.

Thats bull. Big Nog is good n all, but not impressive enough in the cage for a title shot after one fight. Bring back Pitbull and get him to fight Cro Cop. THEN we’ll see if Cro Cop belongs in the cage and the winner fights a winner of Big Nog V Vera/Sylvia

Huh? Jason Macdonald already got exposed before he even entered the UFC. Nobody has yet to find a hole in Vera’s game. I’m not saying he won’t lose, but to compare him to Jason is just non-sensical.

I’ve got a hole—he’s not a heavyweight. He’s a lightweight. Other than that, he’s got it all.

[quote comment=“181011”]Slyvia vs Vera

Big Nog vs Kongo

Winner fights for the vacant title.

Its not really hard to see this is most logical and most simple way to crown a new HH Champ..and if pride guys had any say in this matter quote]

thats exactly what should happen…

You know AA is still under UFC contract right?

I think that UFC needs to saddle up and get Brock Lesnar and Ben Rothwell inside the Octagon as soon as possible.

Ben Rothwell is a free agent, and Brock Lesnar could be the next big thing.

Throw them in there with Frank Mir, Tim Slyvia, AA, Chiek Kongo, Mirko Cro Cop, Heath Herring, Gabriel Gonzaga, Brandon Vera, Big Nog then we can see who the real heavyweight champion is.

The heavyweight division is very weak right now because AA is not fighting, Heath Herring and Cro Cop have horribly under performed, Frank Mir is in and out, so that leaves Kongo, Gonzaga, Vera, Nog and Slyvia for the title.

GEEZE!

WAR BEN ROTHWELL AND BROCK LESNAR SIGNINGS!

And dont get me started on Brock Lesnar the dude is a joke he would loose to Ben Rothwell so that sums it up

Care to elaborate? Why is it that when an accomplished NCAA wrestler like Kos comes through the UFC, they get all the hype, but when it’s Brock Lesnar, he’s quickly discounted. Do you think he forgot how to wrestle b/c he did the fake stuff? Do you think he will go into the Octagon and try pro wrestling moves? I know he hasn’t accomplished much yet (1 fight, 1 win), but if he keeps training hard, he can be legit competition. Brock Lesnar has all the physical tools you could ever want in an MMA fighter. But he’s like clay right now, and just needs someone to shape his MMA skills.

Care to elaborate? Why is it that when an accomplished NCAA wrestler like Kos comes through the UFC, they get all the hype, but when it’s Brock Lesnar, he’s quickly discounted. Do you think he forgot how to wrestle b/c he did the fake stuff? Do you think he will go into the Octagon and try pro wrestling moves? I know he hasn’t accomplished much yet (1 fight, 1 win), but if he keeps training hard, he can be legit competition. Brock Lesnar has all the physical tools you could ever want in an MMA fighter. But he’s like clay right now, and just needs someone to shape his MMA skills.

i agree. Brock has the potential to be great. But signing him to the UFC now would be premature. he needs to fight in the minor leagues for a while first. Ben Rothwell, even though he’s a terrible fighter, still has more experience and would probably beat Brock because of that. As much as i dislike the Militich camp, i think brock should go train with them a bit. Honestly though i’d like to see Brock hook up with Rampage and his camp. i bet they could mold him into an MMA monster.

what about Kongo or AA like Vera but who has he beat Frank Mir even if he beats Silvia he still dosent deserve a title shot

Brock needs more seasoning, but the thing is I don’t think the UFC wants to risk Brock exploding into a big star and then going elsewhere. Hey might not pan out, but it’s a risk they’re probably willing to take. It’s like drafting a high school kid in the NBA. You’re not really sure what he’s made of yet, but if you pass on him now, you might not get another chance to acquire him later. I think the sensible thing to do is to sign him to a contract that has him fighting in the WEC, but includes a clause that can have him called up to the UFC at any time. In fact, they should structure most contracts like that when signing MMA newcomers.

And from a marketing standpoint, a pro wrestling star making it into the UFC would be huge news. The only thing bigger would be if an established boxing star made it to the UFC.

I’m getting off-topic now, but that gives me an idea for a TUF series. Get fighters who are great in one combat sport, and who want to cross-over to MMA. You can have a participant each for wrestling, Muay Thai, BJJ, judo, sambo, boxing, TKD, karate. It’s like a throwback to the old UFC.

The heavyweight division is the worst division in the ufc…but lets not stoop down and say they should just start signing WWE superstars…who’s to say Lesnar can even think about passing a drug test? stupid to even being writing about him

LOL… no fight for NOG?…. what the FnnK?…

Nog, Arlovski, Gonzaga, one of these matchups should happen.

Kongo should fight one of those not in the line up.

Randy leaving leaves the HW div in shambles.

That said, Big Nog is going to be the next HW champ. There is no doubt in my mind barring some freak accident.

BIG NOG will take a standup beating or GnP beating… no doubt.

The UFC Heavyweight Divison is quickly becoming like Boxings Heavyweight division….Boring and something nobody cares about anymore. What a joke.

i dont see how you leave gabe gonzaga, aa, and kongo out of the title picture when i think they have all proven themselves more than nog and vera that is unless vera beats silvia.

What are all these nonsensical complaints? Big Nog is the number 1 rated fighter remaining in the UFC HW division, and Tim Sylvia used to be the champion. Kongo does not deserve a title shot, Gabriel Gonzaga just got one and lost, Andrei Arlovski hasn’t worked his way back up yet… I used to hate Tim Sylvia but nobody gives him any respect for what he’s accomplished as a fighter, and I’m sickened by the Vera bandwagon. Absolutely sickened. I hope Tim wins and when he fights Nog, those will be the two that should be fighting for the title, I don’t agree with any of your guys’ complaints.

Brock Lesnar needs some work in the minor leagues before going into the UFC? If Andy Wang can fight in the UFC, then Brock Lesnar sure as hell can.

man i really don’t care if couture has left yeah sure he was popular but i for one will never consider him the greatest champion. I just went too look the record for CC and how many times he fought man this guy has fought 46 times in amateur boxing then he did like 23 fights in K-1 then he has 30 fights in mma. Holy man that is lots of fighting and he is only 33. Combining randy and chuck they don’t even come close to how many times CC has fought.

I’am not even a fan of CC and he impresses me more then anyone in UFC at this point. Yeah Big nog doesn’t deserve the shot so fast, one more fight then. Who cares bout Ckongo he is gona be like gonzaga lose a fight and then we will never hear about him in a long time.

man i really don’t care if couture has left yeah sure he was popular but i for one will never consider him the greatest champion. I just went too look the record for CC and how many times he fought man this guy has fought 46 times in amateur boxing then he did like 23 fights in K-1 then he has 30 fights in mma. Holy man that is lots of fighting and he is only 33. Combining randy and chuck they don’t even come close to how many times CC has fought.

I’am not even a fan of CC and he impresses me more then anyone in UFC at this point. Yeah Big nog doesn’t deserve the shot so fast, one more fight then. Who cares bout Ckongo he is gona be like gonzaga lose a fight and then we will never hear about him in a long time.

100%. remember that Randy lost two times in row twice.

Everyone who is on Vera nutz right now will be off them just as soon as Tim beats his arse.

get arlovski in the mix already WTF!!!!!! put him in there with kongo.

if big tim gats by big nog (which is a tough fight for him)then the only person that is gonna beat him is arlovski. he matches up good against tim. he’s got size, power, nd the speed that, when confident and at his best, tim cannot handle.

That is crap. How do people come up and conted for a title like that? Its not not right. Make them earn the right to fight for the title.

Earn it? If, or should I say when, Vera beats Tim ,that will be FIVE wins in DOMINANT fashion in a row. How many more wins do you think he should get to deserve a shot? Maybe he should earn it like Nog, get KOed by HH and then get a title shot.

Big Nog… a title shot? as weird as that sounds… there’s no one else who really deserves it. Kongo isn’t there yet, Cro Cop got destroyed… twice. Randys gone, Fedor’s in r-5, or y-6.. m-1… whatever. Arlovski is ??… Vera/Sylvia-Big Nog is the only thing going.

man i really don’t care if couture has left yeah sure he was popular but i for one will never consider him the greatest champion. I just went too look the record for CC and how many times he fought man this guy has fought 46 times in amateur boxing then he did like 23 fights in K-1 then he has 30 fights in mma. Holy man that is lots of fighting and he is only 33. Combining randy and chuck they don’t even come close to how many times CC has fought.

I’am not even a fan of CC and he impresses me more then anyone in UFC at this point. Yeah Big nog doesn’t deserve the shot so fast, one more fight then. Who cares bout Ckongo he is gona be like gonzaga lose a fight and then we will never hear about him in a long time.

-His intials are K.C…. It looks like you’re mixing up Kongo’s MMA record with Nogs MMA record.

As far as the greatest champion, the only other ones worthy of consideration so far are Matt Hughes, Dan Henderson and Fedor. Randy has a lot of losses but he’s held the title in 2 weight classes and regained the title more than any other champion and done it over a 10 yr span begining with a win over Maurice Smith in 1997… hard to say who is the greatest… my guess is GSP will be if he sticks with it another 10 yrs, he’s only 25yrs old.

Brandon Vera = Jason Mcdonald.
They look great for a while, and then they step into the cage with a top 5 fighter.
Silvia by K.O. second round.

Yep, Sylvia will get KOed in the second round. I wish Jason = Brandon, He could really use some leathal striking ability.

and in Vera vs Sylvia I see it pretty close tim is always dangerous standing i dont believe he can clinch and knee the shit out of tim nor can he score that high kick he knock Eilers with and we havent really seen him utilize his hands so im kinda leaning more on tims side his only opportunity is landing a big right hand if any opponent has studied him that same punch has dropped him in 3 fights so Vera should be looking to set up the right hand but I still think Sylvia has the edge

Why couldn’t he score that high kick on Tim? Eilers is 6’2" and that kick rolled off the top of his head. That is about 6’4,right on the side of Tims head ( Right where GG nailed CC)

That said, Big Nog is going to be the next HW champ. There is no doubt in my mind barring some freak accident.

Big Nog will never be UFC champ. There is no doubt in my mind. Vera will be next HW champ. The only guy well rounded enough to pose a threat to him is GG.

Care to elaborate? Why is it that when an accomplished NCAA wrestler like Kos comes through the UFC, they get all the hype, but when it’s Brock Lesnar, he’s quickly discounted. Do you think he forgot how to wrestle b/c he did the fake stuff? Do you think he will go into the Octagon and try pro wrestling moves? I know he hasn’t accomplished much yet (1 fight, 1 win), but if he keeps training hard, he can be legit competition. Brock Lesnar has all the physical tools you could ever want in an MMA fighter. But he’s like clay right now, and just needs someone to shape his MMA skills.

i agree 100 percent, i see nothing but potential in brock lesnar, i think he could be really really good

The heavyweight division is the worst division in the ufc…but lets not stoop down and say they should just start signing WWE superstars…who’s to say Lesnar can even think about passing a drug test? stupid to even being writing about him

he passed one after his fight, i’m pretty sure they tested all the fighters on that show because two of them failed their tests…johnny morton and royce gracie

Lame man, I agree with those that say AA and Kongo should be thrown into this mix, I think they both earned it more than NOG, but I don’t have a problem with Sylvia and Vera in there for contention as of now. Oh well. AA and Kongo should fight.

Just cause Nog has one fight in the UFC doesn’t mean he hasn’t proven more than Kongo or AA. Nog has a much more impressive record. Look at who he’s beat; there’s no comparison between him and the other contenders. Kongo beat Cro Cop… so did Nogueira… and a bunch of other elite fighters like Josh Barnett, Ricco Rodriguez, Dan Henderson, Fabricio Werdum, Sergei Kharitonov, Mark Coleman, Jeremy Horn, Valentijn Overeem (twice)- these have to count for something. Overeem submitted Randy Couture, submitted Renato Sobral and Nog submitted him twice. If it wasn’t for Fedor I think Nogueira would be the top ranked fighter. Give the guy his respect.

Nogueira’s actually beat 4 of the guys who have beat Randy Couture.

If it’s like that,are we expecting to see AA vs Kongo???
Guess we are !

WArrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr Pitbull !!!!!!!!!

Brock Lesnar Vs Min Soo Kim

Now you tell me he doesnt have potential. . .

http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=-8665170554847905875&q=Brock Lesnar Vs Min Soo Kim&total=10&start=0&num=10&so=0&type=search&plindex=0

Pray that Verra wins, because Noguerra vs. Sylvia will be just like Noguerra vs. Sammy Shilt. If Verra is 4 real, I 5 rd title shot against Noguerra could be very technical and exciting.

Kongo should get thrown in the title picture, but it looks like the UFC head honcho’s definetly want to see Noguerra in the match for the vacant title, and they dont want to risk noguerra loosing against Kongo.

Let Kongo fight Arlovski to see, who is 1st in line for a title shot once a HW champ has been crownd. Or Arlovski vs. Cro Cop…… a make it or break it fight from both feared strikers.

Gonzaga vs. Arlovski also sounds good. Can anyone tell me how long Gonzaga will be out for, whiule recovering from a busted nose?

-His intials are K.C…. It looks like you’re mixing up Kongo’s MMA record with Nogs MMA record.

As far as the greatest champion, the only other ones worthy of consideration so far are Matt Hughes, Dan Henderson and Fedor. Randy has a lot of losses but he’s held the title in 2 weight classes and regained the title more than any other champion and done it over a 10 yr span begining with a win over Maurice Smith in 1997… hard to say who is the greatest… my guess is GSP will be if he sticks with it another 10 yrs, he’s only 25yrs old.

Hey Thorazine: U dont mention wanderlei as one of the greatest champs. Wandereli held on 2 the title for 5 years while destroying everyone in his past and also winning the Pride Middlewweight grand prix in 2003. Gotta mention wanderlei as 1 of the greatest champs of all time. What about Liddell? he looks washed up now, but you cant discredit what he has done in MMA

the best pound for pound fighters to come out of the ufc are coutoure/liddell/hughes period.im not saying there arent better fighters in the ufc or other organisations but im talking what they have done consistently ove a period of time.what was it 7 defences by chuck all won by ko or tko.matt hughes over 40 mma fights longest reigning ufc champion and as 4 randy a 16-8 record doesnt look good but he has always fought the best and defied age 2 annihilate gonzaga and give sylvia a lesson.

man i really don’t care if couture has left yeah sure he was popular but i for one will never consider him the greatest champion. I just went too look the record for CC and how many times he fought man this guy has fought 46 times in amateur boxing then he did like 23 fights in K-1 then he has 30 fights in mma. Holy man that is lots of fighting and he is only 33. Combining randy and chuck they don’t even come close to how many times CC has fought.

I’am not even a fan of CC and he impresses me more then anyone in UFC at this point. Yeah Big nog doesn’t deserve the shot so fast, one more fight then. Who cares bout Ckongo he is gona be like gonzaga lose a fight and then we will never hear about him in a long time.

-His intials are K.C…. It looks like you’re mixing up Kongo’s MMA record with Nogs MMA record.(/quote]

Actually,I think that the “CC” stood for Cro Cop, as usual. Please confirm Matt.

Brock needs more seasoning, but the thing is I don’t think the UFC wants to risk Brock exploding into a big star and then going elsewhere. Hey might not pan out, but it’s a risk they’re probably willing to take. It’s like drafting a high school kid in the NBA. You’re not really sure what he’s made of yet, but if you pass on him now, you might not get another chance to acquire him later. I think the sensible thing to do is to sign him to a contract that has him fighting in the WEC, but includes a clause that can have him called up to the UFC at any time. In fact, they should structure most contracts like that when signing MMA newcomers.

i thought WEC didn’t have a heavyweight division?

Pat, I kind of like that idea – old school. But my only concern would be that even the winner wouldnt be able to compete well in the UFC. As we often times see, one trick pony’s don’t always come out on top!

I know what you mean, but the guys will learn other techniques in the show just like Kos did.

Actually,I think that the “CC” stood for Cro Cop, as usual. Please confirm Matt.

yes CC=Cro Cop

yes CC=Cro Cop

yeah Cro Cop for sure has an impressive record. When he was in amateur boxing he had a record of of like 45-1. I heard that he might be fighting in england in january which is still a maybe. I’am sick of Crocop fightin in europe, even last time i found out the results before spike showed it on tv. I would love to see him in vegas, and also wondering is CroCop maybe thinking not to fight in england? he has lost there two in a row.

Have Kongo fight Nog and the winner advances to fight the winner of Saturdays fight.

that what i was thinking too dont screw Kongo he is on fire

Hey Thorazine: U dont mention wanderlei as one of the greatest champs. Wandereli held on 2 the title for 5 years while destroying everyone in his past and also winning the Pride Middlewweight grand prix in 2003. Gotta mention wanderlei as 1 of the greatest champs of all time. What about Liddell? he looks washed up now, but you cant discredit what he has done in MMA

Notable comments John.

I felt Matt Hughes has a similar type of record as Liddell with more wins and more title defenses and beat Penn in a rematch, and Liddell never beat Rampage. Arguably I’ll say Hughes is more deserving of the title the greatest champion ever, more so than Liddell and keep Liddell off the list(currently).

Now Wanderlei that’s a different story…massive title defenses, 21? I never liked that he lost to Tito and never fought Liddell and finally lost to Henderson.. If Wanderlei beats Liddel can win the UFC title.. He may just be the greatest period. Now having said that… yeah, he should probably be on that list before Fedor…

so I’ll change my mind (LOL) and take off Fedor, and subsitute Wanderlei. Fedor hasn’t had enough title defenses, he’s still got a ways to go and I don’t know if he can achieve that status fighting unkowns in M-1.

Everybody’s talking about NOG, Vera and Sylvia (even Arloski)……but what about Gabe?? With RC in retirement, I’m thinking the GABESTER should return to the top or at least be mentioned in the same light as these other guys.

Everybody’s talking about NOG, Vera and Sylvia (even Arloski)……but what about Gabe?? With RC in retirement, I’m thinking the GABESTER should return to the top or at least be mentioned in the same light as these other guys.

I think GG is right up there with Vera as #1 and 2 HWs. They are the two most well rounded HWs.I know alot of guys wouldn’t agree, but in a year Vera will be the champ with a couple of defences and GG will have earned a shot a him and it will be one of the best fights of all time.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AqYPpbwJFXw

Yo CLICK ON THIS LINK!!!! Tim Slyvia the blind date show!!!

Mad Funny!!

Let me get this right, the UFC let Fedor get away because they didn’t want him fighting in Sambo, but they didn’t have a “no self-humiliation” clause in bib poopy’s contract.

How embaressing- next he’ll turn up on the view and cackle with the hens

Everybody’s talking about NOG, Vera and Sylvia (even Arloski)……but what about Gabe?? With RC in retirement, I’m thinking the GABESTER should return to the top or at least be mentioned in the same light as these other guys.

Agreed…especially since the broken nose on a takedown/slam was freakish and basically changed the whole fight.

It’s notable that everyone has been talking about Sylvia’s size against Vera… Sylvia should still have a definite reach advantage, but really didn’t look that much taller at today’s weigh-in. With the odds, I dropped coin on Timid Tim, but I may be changing my bet.
I watched the countdown show and it was all about how Sylvia was in the best shape of his life and would come in at a much lower wait eg: 250ish but he still weight 260 and was working hard to suck in that pudgy gut.

the division is so messed up arlovski has no new contract and they wont give a title shot to arlovski if he wont defend his title. gonzaga being ignored sems stupid to me. no talk of gonzaga in the mix. he is a devastating fighter and he should be looking at a second shot inside 12 months if he wins some fights. i cant wait to see undefeated jake o brien fight soon too he got injured but hopefully he will be back and also cant wait to see frank mir get in the mix. not to forget a whole host of pride fighters who havent got contracts yet. most notably josh barnett who probably wont get back in the ufc but with the loss of randy and fedor who knows?

Nogueira’s actually beat 4 of the guys who have beat Randy Couture.

Ya, 7-10 years ago when Randy was just starting MMA and was just a wrestler. I think Randy would own those guys now. Plus Randy has beaten a guy Nog fought to a draw. If you were counting Barnett, Nog also lost to him. I think Nog has one of the best (if not the best) records, because he’s fought the who’s ,who and has very few losses, but I still think Randy would beat him, by his superior wrestling and he is very hard to submit NOW.

Nog has the nost solid chin in mma, less page and hunt, takes a KO head kick recovers and out boxes Herring. He has 4 loses 2 being to Fedor, has proved himself his whole career, and how does he not deserve a title shot. he doesnt deserve a shot? wow

Big deal that Nog drew with someone Randy beat and the draw was 7 years ago. Randy is amazing and is so much improved, but beating Sylvia and GG isnt too impressive, Sylvia fights people not to lose and whoever fights him is coutions for some reason. Nog has beaten 6 11 Semmy Schilt, armbar’d gigantic bob sapp and zuluhzino,has beaten just about every guy that couture has been defeated by, and im in defense of big nog because on tv reality and the internet people are really shitting on this man

Randy has lost to the following people:
Valentijn Overeem
Enson Inoue

Not impressive, and your stating that Randy’s jits is soooo good that one of the best bjj practitioners wont submit him? Souza drew with him so i will give him that