Anything goes: Exclusive MMAmania.com interview with UFC welterweight Jon Fitch
by Jesse Holland on Jun 9, 2008 9:38 AM EDT
107 comments
UFC fans have a hard time agreeing on many topics, but almost all of them will agree on one thing.
Jon Fitch is due.
The former Purdue University wrestling standout is now a staggering 8-0 in the Octagon (17-2 overall) and has finally secured his chance to become the top 170-pound fighter in the world.
In less than two months, Fitch will face UFC welterweight champion Georges "Rush" St. Pierre at UFC 87: "Seek and Destroy" from the Target Center in Minneapolis, Minn., on August 9.
And it's been a long time coming.
I asked the son-of-a-Fitch about his thoughts on fellow welterweight Thiago Alves, how his personality fits in with today's MMA and why we'll see a different Jon Fitch when he finally faces GSP for the UFC welterweight title.
Check it all out and more after the jump.
Jesse Holland (MMAmania.com): Okay let's just get right to it. How does it feel to finally get your title shot?
Jon Fitch: Dude I'm soooo pumped. It's like starting in this sport all over again. I love everything about this sport: The excitement, the love - that burn. I'm back in the gym putting in 8-12 hour days. It's such a huge fight and the first time in a while that I've been a huge underdog.
Jesse Holland (MMAmania.com): And now you're fighting Georges St. Pierre (GSP) at UFC 87. How did it finally come about?
Jon Fitch: It was something I was pushing for. Everybody was talking about it. We knew the fight was going to happen, we just weren't sure when. I was keeping my fingers crossed, hoping nothing crazy would happen. No freak injuries or anything to prevent it from coming together.
Jesse Holland (MMAmania.com): Was there ever a point where you felt a little complacent in your career, especially after racking up so many wins and not being considered for a title shot?
Jon Fitch: I have a good attitude about that kind of stuff, I'm always pretty positive. When they offer me a fighter I'm just like "Yeah, alright." I just move forward and prepare for that fight.
Jesse Holland (MMAmania.com): Going into a fight how much of it is "Yeah this is my job" vs. "Holy crap - I'm living my dream"?
Jon Fitch: 90% is "I'm living my dream". Easily. Sometimes it feels like a job when you get on those Internet boards and listen to people and their retarded opinions.
Jesse Holland (MMAmania.com): Speaking of opinions, my last interview with Diego Sanchez yielded a lot of unkind words about your performance in that fight. Why do you think Diego is so hung up over that fight?
Jon Fitch: I think part of that is him just trying to get back into the limelight because I know he wants to fight Josh [Koscheck] again. He wants it to become a back-and-forth kind of thing where we respond, then it gets nasty, then it becomes an Internet thing. I understand what he's doing but he had a different story right after the fight. He wants to protect himself, I mean it was a good fight but I won.
Jesse Holland (MMAmania.com): Is he obsessed with Koscheck?
Jon Fitch: Yeah, he might be a little obsessed with Koscheck. There is an underlying hate between those two and they should fight again. I know Josh wouldn't mind doing it again.
Jesse Holland (MMAmania.com): What do you tell the fans who question your place in this division? I know for a lot of them your loss at the hands of GSP is kind of a foregone conclusion.
Jon Fitch: That's showing a clear ignorance to what they know about this sport. Most people don't even know half the guys I've fought. They can't even list more than three guys I've fought. Seriously, if you can't name ten of my opponents, then you have no idea what you're talking about. Go through my record. See who I've fought and then look at some of the people they've fought.
Jesse Holland (MMAmania.com): Like Thiago Alves.
Jon Fitch: I can't believe a lot of people are saying Thiago Alves deserves a title shot before I do. Hello people? I fought Thiago and I won. A lot of people don't even know I've beaten him because you never see fights like that on TV.
Jesse Holland (MMAmania.com): Do you think that's done to protect guys who are up-and-coming like Thiago?
Jon Fitch: I don't know why they choose not to show certain fights. It was an exciting fight. My first UFC fight with Brock Larson was also an exciting fight. They constantly show the Luigi Fioravanti fight and the Roan Carniero fight. Even the Diego fight doesn't get replayed.
Jesse Holland (MMAmania.com): A lot of fans are hung up on names. Do you think if you had a win over a big name such as Matt Hughes the fans would be more willing to consider you as a serious contender?
Jon Fitch: Of course, I mean Hughes is one of the most successful champions in UFC history so you'll get a lot of credit for that.
Jesse Holland (MMAmania.com): Do you feel obligated or is there pressure from the UFC to try and be a personality when so much of today's business is pay-per-view driven? Would you be further along if you were more colorful like a Tito Ortiz type or tried to trash a guy to sell a fight?
Jon Fitch: I don't think so at all. Half of the time when you try to hype a fight or be some character you end up sounding like an idiot becomes it comes across as forced. Some of the guys like Rampage are that character so it works, but some of these other guys I don't know what the hell they're doing. Just bring it to the cage and let that be who you are.
Jesse Holland (MMAmania.com): Let's say you manage to win the welterweight title. Do you think you could be a marketable champion?
Jon Fitch: I think so. Honestly I've held back a lot of who I am, a lot of my personality and what I do and say because I was pissed off about getting left at the fucking airport. You know, that "something" that makes you a little bit bitter when you see the success all these other guys get and you're right there, then you get kicked right back into the gutter out of nowhere. I was a little bitter about that for awhile. I was like "Oh I don't have a personality? Well okay then you're not going to get a personality out of me".
Jesse Holland (MMAmania.com): Now that you have a chance to change all of that, how will you prepare for GSP?
Jon Fitch: Pretty much the same approach as always, but you will definitely see a different type of fighter when I face him. It's going to be above and beyond what people have seen from me in other fights. It has to be in order to beat GSP.
Jesse Holland (MMAmania.com): What is the emphasis on? For example are you focusing on striking, jiu-jitsu, etc.
Jon Fitch: I'm just going to be ready for everything but with a little extra sprinkle of nasty on it. Plus he's got to deal with the incredible good looks of somebody from Indiana.
Jesse Holland (MMAmania.com): Do you believe guys like Pete Sell that label him as a mental case when it comes to fighting? That he needs a pre-fight shrink?
Jon Fitch: I don't know. I don't really know the guy. You never know what's going on inside someone's head before a fight.
Jesse Holland (MMAmania.com): Did you expect him to run through Matt Serra the way he did in their rematch?
Jon Fitch: Yeah, I called that fight exactly how it happened except it ended a round earlier than I predicted. I figured Serra would be a little more durable and he did try to do all the right things but GSP just shut him down.
Jesse Holland (MMAmania.com): Do you think that having Josh Koscheck help you train for this fight is a distinct advantage? Despite the loss, Kos was able to take GSP to the scorecards, something only three other people were able to do.
Jon Fitch: Yeah it's a big thing. My camp, my people were able to come up with a strategy to give GSP all he could handle. Josh got out-wrestled. He didn't get beat up, he didn't get hurt and he wasn't tired. It's a huge advantage.
Jesse Holland (MMAmania.com): Aside from training, I understand you've been doing a lot of charitable work like visiting wounded war veterans at the Walter Reed Army Medical Center in Washington, DC. What was that like?
Jon Fitch: One of our sponsors brought us out there to help improve the turnout for the job fairs they were holding. They set those up for post-war veterans to assist with career placement but the turnout had been low so they asked Josh and I to pitch in and they ended up with double the people they expected. It was hard though, hearing stories about these guys on their way to recovery talk about getting their freakin' body parts torn off in battle. It was insane. When a guy comes up to you with one arm and one leg and starts giving you props for being tough enough to get in the cage and fight it's like "Dude - you just got fucking blown up - don't be giving me ANY kind of admiration."
Jesse Holland (MMAmania.com): Where would you be without fighting?
Jon Fitch: Pulling my hair out! Seriously though I would probably be teaching. I would be a damn good high school wrestling coach - and a merely average high school gym teacher.
Jesse Holland (MMAmania.com): And for fun?
Jon Fitch: That's a strange transition. I had to give up all my hobbies. Now my hobbies are boxing and jiu-jitsu. In between fights I just try and polish my skills - though I will be trying to surf this summer. Trying. I've been out there a few times like when I went to Vietnam. I'm not great.
Jesse Holland (MMAmania.com): Uh, what were you doing in Vietnam Colonel Braddock?
Jon Fitch: Visiting my girlfriend's family. Her mother left 30 years ago with bullets behind her. She is one of those people - she's fucking gangster. We're going to see her, help out some orphanages and maybe the school for the blind.
Jesse Holland (MMAmania.com): So I guess you guys are pretty tight if you're going to Vietnam together.
Jon Fitch: Yeah, we've been together about four years. When you find a good one you've gotta keep ‘em around. She supports my fighting and she loved me when I was poor and had nothing. I remember traveling to compete. She was like "You're a fighter? Ok, sure whatever." Then one day I pop up in the UFC and she was like "What the hell?"
Jesse Holland (MMAmania.com): Can she watch you fight or is it too hard for her?
Jon Fitch: It's hard, but I give her a pre-fight allowance so that she can get a couple of drinks.
Jesse Holland (MMAmania.com): Nice. Well that pretty much does it for me. Anything you would like to promote?
Jon Fitch: The fight with GSP! It's going to be the best fight anyone has ever seen.
Jesse Holland (MMAmania.com): That's a bold statement.
Jon Fitch: Very bold. We're going to fucking throw down and it's going to be a war.
Jesse Holland (MMAmania.com): Is he in for a surprise?
Jon Fitch: Everyone is. I've only displayed about 35% of my potential technique in all of my fights.
Jesse Holland (MMAmania.com): Are you holding out on us?
Jon Fitch: A little bit! It's not necessary to give everything to get the win and I don't want to show all my cards. But this is for the title. Fuck that. I've got 25 minutes to make it happen - anything goes!
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Really looking forward to this one….
This is likely to be GSP’s best challenge since BJ if ol’ Fitchy is on his a game.
My moneys still St Pierre though.
by Ca$z on Jun 9, 2008 9:43 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
OFF TOPIC;
Did anyone else realize that the ‘pile driver" Nate did was 100% illegal!…I am VERY suprised that Joe didn’t say anything..
UFC rules–foul #18 ( illegal-foul)
18. Spiking an opponent to the canvas on his head or neck.
Slams are allowed, but you cant intentionally, slam a fighter directly on his head…
IMO’ Great rule!!!, but they seem not to use it?
MMAmania’ you guy’s should do a write-up on this confusion..
by Stagger-Lee on Jun 9, 2008 10:00 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yes. It was definitely illegal. I thought it was frustration from Nate. It was like “Fcuk you, I’ve beaten the snot out of you and now I’m going to lose.”
The point deduction for the back of the head was wrong. It landed on the side.
by RobH86 on Jun 9, 2008 10:32 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Probably made up for the questionable back of the head elbow that was called.
by eazye on Jun 9, 2008 11:02 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Joe Rogan acted as if it was a legal move. He was pumped about it. Maybe he didn’t know but I find that hard to believe. I’m curious as to what would have happened if it knocked Thales out.
by getrawbc on Jun 9, 2008 12:27 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I keep forgetting to bring this up:
Did anyone notice during the UFC 85 broadcast that the announcers kept saying: Tune in to trhe last episodes of the TUF show to see the biggest shock in TUF History? That means that CB Dollaway is going to loose to Amir Saddollah. What a shame! I am soooo pissed that they let the cat out of the bag! WTF! I did not want to know that. I am really pissed about it!
Fitch will be GSP toughest opponent besides BJ Penn, which makes this a really BIG TIME fight. It will be a WAR that will last at the very least, until the fourth round!
I still got GSP winning, but it wont be easy!
Fitch…..I am a big fan!
by john on Jun 9, 2008 10:24 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
That is the only “SHOCKER” that I can think of…
by ViolentMike on Jun 9, 2008 10:29 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Also off topic, regarding Thiago Alves asking for a title shot. Dana BETTER NOT grant him a title shot anytime in the near future. He came into his first ever main event 4 lbs heavy and he is coming off of a suspension from a banned diuretic to cut wieght. “I had an ankle injury so I couldn’t run” BS. SIT your fat ass in the sauna and lose the water wieght. An anke injury wouldn’t stop him from riding an exercise bike either. Running isn’t the only way to cut wait you retard.
Dana would be a complete fool to do so. Chubby needs to prove that he can make the WW weight limit of 170 (not even 1 lb over) at least 2 more times before they have him headline a PPV for a title and then he doesn’t make weight. Its too big of a risk to have the main event no longer be for the belt and only 3 rounds.
As for Hughes, he is sooooo done. How do you guys feel about the Hughes/Serra fight? Is it now Serra’s fight to lose?
Davis was VERY dissapointing. He did NOTHING at all. He lost be about $100.
Jason Day looked like that was his very fist fight ever.
Questionable stoppage in the Vera fight, but he just covered up and rolled over. He gave up defending himself.
I was rooting for Leites but he got beat the F up in that fight. It just shows how tough that kid really is. Marquardt shouldn’t have gotten that 2nd point taken away. People that bet on Nate should be VERY mad. I was going to bet on Leites but couldnt’ bring myself to do so. I couldnt’ see him win the standup and I couldn’t see him submit Nate. So I bet my mmaplayground balance on him, LOL
Kampmann looking sharp. He was my GUARANTEED pick, yet I bet a small amount on him (especially compared to Davis). I wish I bet my whole bank roll on Kampmann…
JOHN, I just checked and the odds on for Rampage have improved. I would always look that fight up under UFC FUTURES. Under there, he is still at -280. However, it now appears under STRAIGHT BETS and he is at -240. I hope the TUFsters keep bettin of Forrest and have Rampages odds keep coming down. If he goes down another 40 I am jumping on him hard and early.
I do not see how Diego can lose to Fioravanti. I wish a $100 bet would win a little more than $20
by ViolentMike on Jun 9, 2008 10:43 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
WOW, I got a comment that I didn’t even swear in that is being moderated for 40 minutes now… whats going on?
by ViolentMike on Jun 9, 2008 11:09 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
WOW it was stuck in SPAM. Please don’t complain about moderation. We’ll find them. It’s the best perk of this job. No, really, it is.
by MMAmania on Jun 9, 2008 11:13 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
VM- it’s the mystery of MMAmania-
Today, I am suprised! I must be on super-filter..My post’s seem to be going in quick..even the ones i say shit fuck in..
other days? not so quick.
by Stagger-Lee on Jun 9, 2008 11:14 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Didn’t mean to be a pest, I just thought something was going on because even when I swear or attack a poster, it gets right up…
I’m away from my desk for most of the day and I wanted to see the responses to my comment. 45 minutes later I was just surprised that it wasn’t up yet. That’s all. I know its the worst part of the job…
OOOOPS. I did say “a$$” in my post. Thats why. My bad. I usually leave that word out…
by ViolentMike on Jun 9, 2008 12:51 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
ended up in your SPAM folder? That is strange, unless thats where all the mod comments end up…
by ViolentMike on Jun 9, 2008 12:55 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Mike, I made the exact same comment the day of the PPV about Alves’ stupid excuse fornot making weight. Can’t run, then get on a bike!! 100% agree. No way he deserves a title shot, even if there is no clear number one contender after Fitch with Davis and Karo dropping down the ladder a notch.
by PJJ on Jun 10, 2008 12:13 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Maybe oh maybe Page gets outta bed and to a meeting on time? That would be a shock.
by moonuk on Jun 9, 2008 10:49 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Quick question How would C.B. losing be the biggest shock in TUF history?
by getrawbc on Jun 9, 2008 12:33 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Because hes the favourite. Think GSP losing to serra for the first time. (Atleast thats what i think)
by renners on Jun 9, 2008 1:14 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I really don’t think so, the biggest shock would be that CB is out for injury and they brought in someone fresh, naw wa um sain?
by Bic on Jun 9, 2008 6:10 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Fitch will lose and it won’t even be a fight. Alves looked incredible, but like VM said, I wouldn’t give him a shot either.
Alcatraz was unreal!! TThis was by far my best birthday ever, even considering how expensive everything in san fran is.
1 cup of soup, a kids pizza and a long island ice tea (for the wife) at 11:00 for lunch…40 bucks! ouch! lol hope hooters treated you well John, and sorry for using your line!
by kevin on Jun 9, 2008 11:34 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
kevin; dont lie’ That “long island ice tea” was for you..lol,j/k
btw Happy late b-day to you and john…
I would love to see Alcatraz up-close…
And I also agree with VM…As much as I like Alves right now. He will HAVE to fight another fight, and make weight before Dana gives him a title-shot..Give him Swick….I must say I was very pissed that Alves didn’t make weight, BUT he was so impressive, I totally forgot about his weight for an hour or so..
But dude is on a terror right now, and his next fight will most likely not be a title fight, but it will be on the main card..
by Stagger-Lee on Jun 9, 2008 11:48 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I’ll tell you guys one thing, if for some reason GSP loses, it just makes it that much easier for BJ to win the WW title!!
by kevin on Jun 9, 2008 12:54 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
“University of Purude”….hahaha….
it’s PURDUE UNIVERSITY
by GoColts on Jun 9, 2008 9:49 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
good interview Jesse!
Jon seem’s like a stand-up guy…
I am a fan of him, and think he is the #1 contender 100%, and he definatly deserves his title-shot..
That said’ I do think GSP will win, but it won’t come easy!..Fitch will be in there the whole time..
GSP will have to finish Jon, to beat him..No taking his time, feeling out the fight..or Jon will up-set him quicker then Serra did…
This is a crazy sport, and I know the business. Anything can happen. But if I made my pick now?..I got GSP via TKO early to-mid 3rd……
Also I really want to see a Alves/Fitch-2..
by Stagger-Lee on Jun 9, 2008 9:51 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Nice interview. Going to be an awesome fight.
by Silo on Jun 9, 2008 9:53 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
At least in this case we have a true number one contender fighting the champ.
by jimmy_dean on Jun 9, 2008 12:36 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
This will be a great fight. Hopefully Fitch starts a little pre-fight trash talk (yea, I said it) to get GSP’s blood going.
by ATT Maccabee on Jun 9, 2008 9:54 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
I think Fitch’s comments about GSP being afraid to get knocked out was enough trash talk. I doubt he’ll add anymore fuel to the fire. I’m sure the UFC will play that up as well.
by Silo on Jun 9, 2008 10:22 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Oh Fitch you are due for a good beating.
I can not stand this guy he is so overrated. The only thing I give him is that he is strong 170 his stand up don’t impress me his ground game so so.
HE IS OK AT EVERYTHING, BUT GREAT AT NOTHING.
Remember he is not fight Chris Wilson GSP is the man in WW division. In my humble opinion thiago is the only one that can give GSP some trouble. I know I know Fitch beat thiago but that was then and this is now.
by TKO on Jun 9, 2008 10:18 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
As Fitch says, do you even know him? And can you list the last 10 guys he has fought (do this without researching)?
Apparently, at this moment, we can only speculate who’s overrated or not. Anything can happen. In any case, I do think Fitch has a good chance to give GSP plenty of trouble. GSP’s chin is still questionable (see Serra’s KO of GSP).
by 123boogie on Jun 9, 2008 10:47 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
WHATEVER!!!!!
Fitch is well over rated.
TKO knows his stuff.
It’s going to be another GSP vs Kos scenario.
I’m a huge GSP fan but do agree with one thing you stated 123Boogie and that is ’GSP’s chin is questionable.
GSP is the only one who is questioning it and needs to get rid of that demon.
He is in danger of becoming a outright wrestler, his excuses for going to the ground are running out.
I personally think his chin is good. Serra caught him in an area that would drop a horse!
by Automation on Jun 9, 2008 11:14 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Serra did catch him in a bad spot…He caught him in the temple area…Then Serra landed a HUGE bomb right on GSP’s chin while GSP was still dazed from the first hit…
.What im trying to say is’ GSP was rocked big time, and still took a HUGE punch right on the button, and did not go out..Yes he went down(just to jump back up), but he was not out…
This tells me GSP has a great chin..
by Stagger-Lee on Jun 9, 2008 11:32 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I’m sick to death of people questioning GSP’s chin. Does Liddel have a weak chin cause he got knocked out by a guy with heavy hands? He got caught with a hell of a punch, to the back of the ear I might add, not the chin. Hate these people on the band wagon, questioning the mental game and chin of GSP. Possibly the best pound for pound fighter on earth and people still doubt him. He got the living shit kicked out of him for a round against BJ, who also has heavy hands. Did he get knocked out?
by Todd on Jun 9, 2008 4:37 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
“do this without researching”? Are you kidding me, thats the whole point is for him to research and check the information. I know he’s beaten Joslin, Alves, Luigi, Roan, Wilson, Diego, Burkman, and the all might Shonie Carter. Thats 8 guys out of the 19 guys he’s faced. Although I can’t name ten I can tell you that he has had most of his wins by decision. Why do I need to know ten people he has faced if most of them are not guys I think are relevant to his fight with GSP. None of these guys listed even proves he can hang with GSP. Alves is the next guy in line, so the only thing that it proves is that GSP is miles ahead in the WW division. The guy said he only uses about 35% of potential technique in all of his fights. Well yeah and you only use 10% of your brain. People who believe this are silly.
by Smokes on Jun 9, 2008 11:23 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
heck, that’s what Fitch is challenging or even daring us in his interview here. And since that TKO thinks he’s “overrated”, so I’m only merely bringing him a challenge from Fitch. The “overrated” is an overused term in the mma world. Anybody can have a puncher’s luck. Even great ones do get themselves caught by lesser opponents. This happens a lot in the mma.
by 123boogie on Jun 12, 2008 12:30 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I’m sick to death of people questioning GSP’s chin. Does Liddel have a weak chin cause he got knocked out by a guy with heavy hands? He got caught with a hell of a punch, to the back of the ear I might add, not the chin. Hate these people on the band wagon, questioning the mental game and chin of GSP. Possibly the best pound for pound fighter on earth and people still doubt him. He got the living shit kicked out of him for a round against BJ, who also has heavy hands. Did he get knocked out?
by Todd on Jun 9, 2008 4:36 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
lol.
I still get confused with this format.
Which guy were you trying to post to??
I assume it was 123boogie as I don’t question GSP’s chin.
by Automation on Jun 9, 2008 4:47 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
ha! you guys are easily ruffled by what I said. relax, it’s just my opinion.. take it or leave it. I never questioned the fighting ability of GSP and I do think he’s one of best fighters in his own right, but I still think Fitch has a good chance to compete at GSP’s level. Koscheck, the very same guy who says Fitch kicks his ass in the training, has fared well with GSP. That’s why I think he’s got a chance.
The only thing I’m disputing in TKO’s comment is the word, “overrated”.. it’s a slippery term. That’s the only thing I disagree with. Jeez!
by 123boogie on Jun 12, 2008 12:15 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Wow. We’ve entered the Karo Parisyan portion of the comments. TKO with the quote Karo uses almost everytime in his pre-fight interviews: “HE IS OK AT EVERYTHING, BUT GREAT AT NOTHING.” Then 123Boogie with the “Do they even know who I am?” quote. That made me laugh a little, guys.
by PJJ on Jun 10, 2008 12:25 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
fitch wil have nothing for GSP. gonna get handled on his feet, on his back. GSP by submission rd 2.
by newfie on Jun 9, 2008 10:35 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
100 PERCENT CORRECT… ONLY I DONT SEE THIS FITCH FELLOW LASTING THE FIRST ROUND….. HE WILL BE EXPOSED AS THE VERY AVERAGE FIGHTER HE IS!!
by G.S.P.P4P.CHAMP!!! on Jun 24, 2008 9:55 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
great interview Jesse…Fitch is definitely a character and has a ton of personality – can’t wait for this fight.
by Seamus on Jun 9, 2008 10:38 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Right on, it was a very good interview.
I’ve followed a lot of Fitch’s fights and personally was disapointed with the Wilson fight. So I hope he was serious about 35% and only doing enough to win. Not a great way to secure fair-weather fans but a solid long-term plan.
I also love the comment about his Indiana good looks…
by Arnold on Jun 9, 2008 11:28 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Thiago has a better chance of beating GSP than Fitch does, no doubt about it. Wins don’t make fights, styles make fights. Although Fitch beat Thiago doesn’t mean he has a better chance against GSP. GSP is going to take this fight easy.
by bostonmmajunkie on Jun 9, 2008 10:51 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
I agree that Thiago has a better chance at GSP. i think if Fitch and Thiago fought again, Thiago would kill Fitch now.
by TO on Jun 9, 2008 11:23 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Based on What!?!? Thiago was a great striker when they fought the first time. He’s a great striker now. Has he suddenly rounded out his game and only told you two?
Thiago was nothing when Fitch destroyed him, but now that he beat Hughes, he’s suddenly legit.
How about Thiago was legit then, but got beat up by a better fighter?
By the way, “Smokes” you are EXACTLY the guy Fitch was talking about in his interview.
by TonyDrip on Jun 9, 2008 12:45 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
TONY TONY TONY
Based on both of there last two fight, I remember Thiago when he first fought UFC he lost to Spencer Fisher and Fisher was 167 pounds yes not a typo Spencer Fisher do you think Fisher has a chance with Thiago now. Other than your obsession with fitch things change fighters get better and some get worst. Thiago is a young guy and Fitch is 30 or something not old but on a downward slope. Yes we all know couture is 43 and he is great but in most cases with age people then to slow down and they are not as explosive. Finch did not impress me at all.
I base my opinion base on what I see, Dude FITCH IS OVERRATED and come August UFC87 we will see.
by TKO on Jun 9, 2008 4:06 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I saw the Spencer Fisher fight dude, so don’t act like you’re educating me. No doubt I’m a Fitch fan, I’ve known the dude for 5 years and he’s down to earth, humble and goes to work every fkn day!
Now, answer the question – what has Thiago suddenly gotten better at!? He fought Hughes EXACTLY the same way he tried to fight Fitch. The only difference was the outcome.
I’ve seen almost all of his fights, so your opinion based on 5% of his work doesn’t seem very relevant.
by TonyDrip on Jun 10, 2008 11:57 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Right man, well said. I think even though Alves beat Hughes, Hughes could beat Fitch cause Fitch would be challenging Hughes at what he does best. Where Fitch is also challenging GSP at wrestling which GSP is pretty damn good at, Alves will be challenging his stand up which again would lead me to believe GSP would beat Alves easy as well.
by Smokes on Jun 9, 2008 11:26 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Wow, it’s remarkable how much you can fit into a paragraph… Just to clarify, Wins don’t count… Style only matters oh yeah and GSP will never be defeated… at least not again. Also don’t forget Alves now deserves to lose to GSP more then Fitch does????
Please watch the Fitch Vs Alves fight, then watch the GSP vs Serra first fight. Ok thats all I got, if you’re still certain Alves should be fighting an unbeatable GSP then its clear that your Man-Crush for GSP is unbreakable…
by Arnold on Jun 9, 2008 11:37 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Tony, doesn’t sound like you are biased at all… Why do you get to choose Fitch w/out question but others can’t do the same w/ Alves? They’re just opinions. You talk about knowing Fitch for 5 yrs and stating he puts in his work everyday. Who says Alves isn’t working harder everyday, improving everyday?
The point is athletes improve their skills. Fitch is no doubt the number one contender but Alves has caught up and is right behind him now. He did so by knocking out two top welterweights in Karo and Hughes while Fitch grabbed a couple decisions. No need to take it so personal and start calling people ignorant because they may not agree with you.
by PJJ on Jun 10, 2008 12:49 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Biased? Of course I’m biased – who on this site isn’t biased?
When did I pick Fitch without question? I say Fitch would beat Alves based on the fact he already has…and that nothing has changed in Thiago’s game. He’s still a great striker….just like he was when he lost.
I don’t argue that Thiago is next in line – I’m arguing with people saying he has leapfrogged Fitch -In What aspect – that’s all I have asked.
As far as picking Fitch to beat GSP – that’s just my opinion. You don’t hear me saying anything negative about GSP or any other fighter for that matter.
By the way, I didn’t call anyone ignorant, just ignorant ideas, but hey; if the shoe fits….
by TonyDrip on Jun 10, 2008 1:52 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Not really seeing any aspect of MMA where Fitch is better than GSP. Not saying Fitch sucks, just not sure how he plans on winning the fight. That said, anything can happen.
by efisher on Jun 9, 2008 11:29 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
I personally think fitch is gonna shock the world. He gonna bring his A game for this fight. I think he will be able to out wrestle GSP he’s just as strong and maybe even bigger. Plus GSP is scared to to get knocked out. I Hope the Nightmare gets the winner
by Maximus on Jun 9, 2008 11:33 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
I don’t see this fight beeing easy for GSP. I think Fitch is bigger and stronger than Kos and Kos took GSP to a decision. KOS never got hurt and he wasn’t tired at the end of the fight. I see this fight going 4 or 5 rounds and possibly to a decision with GSP getting a hard fought win.
by brac on Jun 9, 2008 11:34 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Kos is the best wrestler in the UFC in my opinion. I think he’d give fitch all kinds of trouble personally. Fitch has size, but I KOS is a better MMA wrestler, which is different than a guy who can wrestle, but hasn’t molded into his MMA game.
by Todd on Jun 9, 2008 4:44 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Didn’t you see GSP beat Kos by outwrestling him?
by RedDog on Jun 9, 2008 11:24 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
actually Kos was the one who actually said that Fitch outwrestled him in their trainings.
by 123boogie on Jun 12, 2008 12:32 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Great article Mania. I can’t wait for this fight. Fitch finally gets his chance to prove himself and silence his many ignorant critics. Guys who:
1. Think fighters get to pick their opponents
2. Think fighters they haven’t seen in a title fight aren’t tough guys or legitimate contendors
3. 1 week ago thought Thiago Alves & Josh Burkman suck, but now want Thiago or Mike Swick to get title shots after Bedlam
4. Think that Fitch is just a wrestler
5. Make big bold predictions about fighters who are obvious favorites while talking Sh!t about someone they would wait in line to get an autograph from if they saw them walking down the street.
GSP is a top of the foodchain class act fighter, but Fitch is coming for him. Can’t wait!
by TonyDrip on Jun 9, 2008 11:36 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
6. Think GSP is very cute
7. Think GSP Vs. Brad Pitt would be a Fab fight
by Arnold on Jun 9, 2008 12:11 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
good comments. fitch is the undisputed #1 conteder in the ww division imo. he will give gsp his toughest fight to date, but i still see gsp putting him on his back often and winning this fight. we still have our gentlemens bet right? btw i cant believe someone said hughes would beat fitch!
by b.w. on Jun 9, 2008 3:31 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah b.w. we still have our gentlemens bet. I can’t wait for this fight. I think it will be a war.
I agree with your assesment of the Hughes comment. I was having that debate with one of the other bloggers the other day.
I think they were saying Hughes would destroy Fitch, ground and pound the shit out Thiago, walk through Jake Shields and maul Kos. Someone’s holding on to distant memories!
by TonyDrip on Jun 10, 2008 12:36 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Whats up with Fitch’s grin? He looks like hes got to take a shit. GSP is in a zone right now, I dont think theres a WW at this time that will break that.
by JV on Jun 9, 2008 12:19 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
It’s a snarl. You don’t think it makes him look mean??
by PJJ on Jun 10, 2008 12:55 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
No, like I said he looks like he’s got to shit.
by JV on Jun 10, 2008 2:42 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
GSP striking, wrestling, and subs are all better than Fitch’s… Fitch doesnt have knockout power… how does he think hes going to win this fight? Loosen up a light fixture so it falls on GSP’s corner?
by brendan on Jun 9, 2008 12:27 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
decision maybe. i agree, its BAD NEWS when the other guy is better than you in your BEST aspect. What’s Fitch gonna do to GSP? can any of you mma experts out there answer that 1?
by kama kaze on Jun 9, 2008 1:01 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Fitch will attempt to do to the same thing to GSP that he does in all his other fights: take him down and make sweet love to him. If GSP can protect his rectum, Fitch will be unable to submit him, giving GSP a much better opportunity to come out on top.
by PW on Jun 9, 2008 1:20 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Thats funny!! I dont know who is worse to watch Machida, Sherk or Fitch!
by yoda on Jun 9, 2008 2:06 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
COMe on guys Fitch is too small against GSP. GSP is so freking hudge for 170lbs, HOW DOES HE DO IT.
NO WAY FITCH IS WINNING THIS!!!!!!!
NO WAY BUT BY A FREAK MISTAKE
by GORANDY on Jun 9, 2008 12:29 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
HUH? Fitch is one of the biggest WWs out there.
by TonyDrip on Jun 9, 2008 1:08 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Fitch is a big WW. The only WW that I think is bigger is Roan Carneiro. That guy is freaky big for 170 lbs.
by Silo on Jun 9, 2008 1:14 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I hope that nickname sticks. That is awesome.
by PJJ on Jun 10, 2008 12:58 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
alot of good comments, however i don’t think that alves has a better chance than fitch. GSP and alves have very similar stand up but on the ground gsp would just absolutely work alves even though he is a brown belt. Fitch will also loose i believe but the man has heart and will force a good fight. I can see alves getting killed by gsp.
by freestyle on Jun 9, 2008 12:46 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
and about fitch using 35 percent of his arsenal…i laughed out loud..that is not only a huge slap in the face to everyone he has fought but who the hell is he trying to kid? Even if he was joking, not funny at all..that comment alone makes me dislike him
by freestyle on Jun 9, 2008 12:49 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Fights I wanna in WW
GSP vs. Thiago b/c two more exciting fighters
Finch vs. Karo b/c hate each other
Kos vs. Diego b/c have history
Hughes vs. Serra b/c wanna see Hughes go out winner
Swick vs. Anthony Johnson b/c two lengths guys going at it
I would give my left nut to watch these fight, well maybe I will shave my nuts but get the point.
Why don’t UFC have tournaments like DREAM
by TKO on Jun 9, 2008 12:51 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
“Colonel Braddock” F’ing classic!!! LMAO!! Norris would give that a thumbs up!!
by ( (Adam G) ) on Jun 9, 2008 1:35 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
All things considered in this interview and the comments after, I say Fitch is a great fighter but I still don’t think he beats GSP. I will be surprised if it makes it to the 4th round maybe 3rd. From what I’ve seen the only guy right now that has a shot is a devastative Sprawl and Brawler. Alves is that guy now but I think he will still lose. As for the future in a year or 2 Anthony Johnson (tall black guy who KOed Speer)is the next guy if he continues to work on his sprawl and other skills. I know Speers is no GSP but Johnson is a humble hungry young strong fast striker who if he plays his cards right will do big things in the UFC. If Fitch loses, then Alves, then Kos, and BJ is still the champ at 155 (I think Florian is the only true test right now and he will probably lose valiantly) we may get that rematch we’ve all been wating for
by GodannarJunkie on Jun 9, 2008 1:52 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Anthony Johnson is very good but he is far from humble. That guy has a major ego. See some of his post-fight interviews.
by Silo on Jun 9, 2008 4:34 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I’m not giving Fitch must of a chance against GSP, but he’s a cool dude and someone I would cheer for if he’s not facing my favourite fighters.
by Pat on Jun 9, 2008 1:54 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Fitch is stronger, a better wrestler, has a better chin, and is nearly possible to submit. Only way GSP wins is by KO, and I dont think mentally he wants to stand anymore. Fitch round 3 rear naked choke. For those who hate on Fitch, im sure being undefeated in the Octagon and beating the likes of Burkman, Alves (BY TKO!), and Diego Sanchez means nothing.
by Druby Sunshine on Jun 9, 2008 2:46 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
You’re right, it means nothing to us. Seeing as how GSP has beatin the likes of Koscheck (who has beatin Diego), Hughes (TWICE!), Trigg, Spratt, Sherk, Strasser, Parisyan, Hieron, Miller etc . . Only two losses (both by freak luck based on the rematch outcomes) And lets move on to his greatest victory of all; BJ PENN! Fitch wouldnt last two rounds with BJ in shape or hopped up on blunts and twinkies. AND BJ calls out GSP everyday!! Penn probably doesnt even know who John Fitch is LMAO! So why does the best fighter in the world want to fight GSP and not Fitch??? (and its not just to avenge a loss, BJ wants the best or else he’d be calling out Hughes at the same time) Hell, Fitch hasnt even stepped into the cage with someone on BJ’s level let alone beatin someone of BJ’s caliber. GSP wins via TKO like in the 2nd Serra fight, he’s gonna treat ’em like his red headed non canadian step-child! And im not even a GSP fan (like ’em but thats it) (everyone knows im BJ all day baby!) but i know a spade when i see a spade, and this fights a spade, nothing more. GSP TKO RND2.
by ( (Adam G) ) on Jun 9, 2008 3:42 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
No kidding. I can see BJ in the middle of eating his Chicken McNuggets, getting up and beating Fitch, then using Fitch’s blood as ketchup to finish his last nugget.
by Pat on Jun 9, 2008 4:51 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
LMAOOOOOOOOOOOOO! Classic! Motha F*cka said “In the middle of a happy meal!” love it!
by ( (Adam G) ) on Jun 9, 2008 4:58 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Just because people say Fitch will lose to GSP does not mean they are Fitch haters, or GSP huggers (Kevin’s no fan of GSP and picked him). Fitch is great, but he just matches up badly with GSP. It’s hard to say one way or another who’s stronger (Fitch has more muscle, but look at Anderson-Rich). Going by statistics, GSP is the best functional wrestler in MMA. He regularly out-wrestles Rashad Evans and holds his own against Olympic calibre wrestlers. Even if Fitch is the best wrestler that GSP has ever faced in MMA (debatable), it’s not by a large margin, and GSP has never even been close to being out-wrestled in MMA. GSP’s stand-up is over-rated, but it’s still better than Fitch’s. He gets flak for using his strength (wrestling), but Hendo is criticized for not using his enough. Go figure. As far as your prediction goes, wouldn’t he have to get GSP’s back to get a RNC? Yeah, good luck with that.
by Pat on Jun 9, 2008 4:32 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
hahaha, the perfect post on the subject. Good one dude, agree 100%
by The Anomaly on Jun 11, 2008 1:09 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Druby, how do you say Fitch is better in any of those areas? Stronger based on what? Better wrestler? Everyone including Fitch would rank him 2nd in his own camp & GSP has already outwrestled Kos. Joslin knocked Fitch around and had him out on queer street so his chin can be seen as just as questionable. Finally, Diego nearly subbed him if it weren’t for the clock running out so it isn’t farfetched to think he can get caught just like the next guy.
And Adam, you pretty much hit the nail on the head.
by PJJ on Jun 10, 2008 1:20 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Druby do you honestly think Fitch’s wrestling is better than GSP’s? He schooled Koscheck and Hughes in wrestling…
by brendan on Jun 9, 2008 4:54 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
gsp should just outright say he comes out to beat a guy at his own game so he’s in there head.. i give fitch this fight by better wrestling and a split decision,with a rematcj. and any idiot saying alves deserves a shot should realise he hasnt made 170 without a banned substance really, and 4lbs can be lost so easily without running it’s insane he had plenty he coulda lost he just didn’t want to after fitch if gsp wins i think the next guy in line will fight him in december or so
by randy murders on Jun 9, 2008 5:14 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
The thing that keeps me from putting money on Fitch is that he never dominated any of the past fights I’ve seen him in. He’s right, I’ve never seen him in his first fight or whatever he means by that but I have seen him fight in his biggest wins (Diego, Luigi, Thiago, etc.) and they’ve all been close. He rarely finishes his opponents. If he beats GSP it will be a real surprise to me. A couple of his fights I’ve seen it seemed that his opponents were having a bad day more that Fitch dominating and the example I’m going to use here is Fitch v. Sanchez. Fitch just maintained his top position barely getting any punches in or attempting any meaningful submission attempts from the top and for some inexplicable reason Diego doesn’t try to get out from the bottom but keeps on going for an armbar. I mean, that does not show me the skill of Jon Fitch or the fightback of a tough and strong-willed opponent with a good plan.
On the other hand, you’ve seen most, if not all of GSP’s prior opponents bring their A-game and lost to GSP. In fact, one can say that GSP brings out the best in all of his opponents.
by bostonmmajunkie on Jun 9, 2008 5:19 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Good interview. Going to be a good fight. A lot of people are writing off Jon Fitch. But Im picking him to win this fight.
by "Mr. NC-17" on Jun 9, 2008 5:52 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
He only uses 35% of his skills. The other 65% probably are sucky.
It’s defo Georges’ to lose, but anything can happen and I’m looking forward to seeing someone give GSP a challenge at his own game. Fitch is good at surprises, but GSP is good at changing things up as well. Maybe he’ll try and stand and trade with him.
by dave on Jun 9, 2008 6:45 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Fitch is a good wrestler, and an average fighter. And a boring individual as well. OK game, no market, and about half of GSP. There is no question about this fight considering he’s fighting for the title, due to default. And Yes Alves would crush him this time around (remember that was a couple years ago). Fitch is soooo huge he is a whole 1 inch bigger. Wow. I can’t believe this dude, and hope he is 90% better than his Wilson fight.
by GodDamnMike on Jun 9, 2008 7:24 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
i love/hate hate/love when i like both fighters but i gotta go with GSP as he is a good Canadian boy eh (and i think he may be best Pound For Pound or second at worst to Silva)(and so so well rounded !)… but damn i wish Fitch well .. should be a great great fight .
by bDavid on Jun 9, 2008 9:51 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Fitch is a good fighter and I think it will be a close fight. On the other hand I can’t really see him pulling out a win, I’d give GSP the edge in standup, arguably his jujitsu is better while I think the wrestling is about even. I simply see GSP having more ways to win this fight. Fitch won’t be able to rely on his size and wrestling to the same extent he can against lesser opponents. I don’t think his stand up is good enough really to make him seriously dangerous to GSP on the feet, and I don’t think he has enough of an advantage to dominate on the ground.
I mean we’re all talking about how GSP’s outwrestled Hughes and Koschek lately, but I’m going to make a prediction that he wins this one on the feet. His stand up is clearly better than Fitch’s and I doubt he’ll allow himself to be caught off guard again like he did against Serra.
Truthfully, I tend to concur with others that Alves may well be a tougher opponent for GSP than Fitch. Alves has heavy hands, good standup and good take down defense. I think he’s have more of a chance of an upset KO.
by Chris on Jun 10, 2008 2:09 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Giving 35% in his fights is the biggest load of bull I’ve ever heard. What does that say about the guys hes faced? I didnt like Fitch’s boring style, now that he said this I can’t stand him.
by JV on Jun 10, 2008 4:35 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Fitch will beat his ass and eat his French crepes for dinner! Round 3 Rear Naked Choke!
by Buuck on Jun 10, 2008 1:09 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
FItcht hardly ever finishes opponents and his skills are far below those of GSP.
GO GSP!
by Ramon on Jun 10, 2008 4:35 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Fitch dominated Thiago Alves and KO’d him.
by 123boogie on Jun 12, 2008 3:05 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I don’t know if GSP will be able to finish Fitch. At the same time, I don’t think Fitch has the stand up to finish GSP (a la Serra) or the BJJ (a la Hughes). I think this fight will surprise some people because I expect it to be a good one. However, I still think GSP takes this via decision.
by UFCAddict on Jun 11, 2008 8:21 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Gsp better win thats all i gotta say…….Fitch says nobody knows other people he faught, well I say they shoulda asked him about when he faught Jeff Joslin…. and how is it possible to take a time out after being rocked…and also about the headbutt the lands (accidental or not)…
by curt on Jun 20, 2008 4:59 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
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