Tito Ortiz to Affliction MMA official
by MMAmania.com on Aug 5, 2008 10:13 PM EDT
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Former UFC light heavyweight champion Tito Ortiz has officially ended his turbulent tenure with the most popular mixed martial arts promotion in the world, opting to sign with upstart Affliction MMA and reuniting with his on screen "boss," Donald Trump, from the "Apprentice."
No specific details of the contract were revealed at this time; however, the "Huntington Beach Bad Boy" told SportsIllustrated.com that deal is "like no other."
Here's a snip:
"I guarantee you that my contract will be like no other. It will be a ground-breaking record contract for sure, without a doubt. There's so much money to be made right now in mixed martial arts and it's all about the fighters trying to make that money. It's going to be a long-term deal where I put my heart and soul into the company and help build them. That's something I'm interested in doing. They're going to bring me on, not just as a fighter but also doing some of the back work also."
That "back work" likely includes an opportunity to somehow help grow the business behind the scenes. Ortiz -- one of the most recognizable and controversial faces in the sport -- has been a part of several of the top-grossing pay-per-view (PPV) events ever.
He can likely leverage that star power to contribute to the success of the promotion.
The interesting thing here is that Ortiz is clearly set to likely make a lot of money, which is not uncommon within Affliction MMA. For its first show, in fact, the promotion shelled out an astounding collective payroll that exceeded $3.3 million, cutting into any potential profit significantly.
And company Vice President Tom Atencio has been adamant that he's not in the business to lose money. Furthermore, he has indicated that he intends to scale back the purses for the encore event, which is slated for the Thomas and Mack Center in Las Vegas, Nevada, on October 11.
Can the promotion handle another huge salary? Time will likely tell that tale. Ortiz, meanwhile, is optimistic that his new home will soon become the best show in town.
Here's another snip:
"Mr. Trump sees it as a business and no more than that. He understands that and there's nothing personal to it at all and that's what the UFC has problem with. The UFC takes the work they do very, very personal and in any business once you let your personal feelings get involved with it everything goes to [crap]. Mr. Trump is a strict businessman who respects the fighters. This is going to be one of the biggest losses [the UFC] has ever had to date and one of the worst mistakes they've ever made."
Ortiz has all of his professional fights, 22, under the UFC banner in a career that dates back to 1997. He has three wins, two defeats and one draw since he returned to action in 2006 from a brief hiatus. And those three victories have come at the expense of a past-his-prime, Ken Shamrock (twice), and a controversial split decision over Forrest Griffin.
If this is indeed a mistake then he will have to prove it where he first made a name for himself -- inside the ring. His first test could come against Renato "Babalu" Sobral at "Day of Reckoning" on October 11.
Rest assured that everyone will be watching. However, if he loses, for how much longer? This appears to be yet another gamble that Affliction hopes will pay off in the long-term.
Literally.
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Tito is all about Tito…….nothing more. He loved the UFC when they fed him 185 pounders and let him duck Chuck to market to a certain crowd. He`s a tool…not a top 10,and always overrated in my opinion. He`s selfish…
by texen_1 on Aug 5, 2008 10:17 PM EDT reply actions
Anyone read about Aleks getting license denied in California and Bill Douglas of the CSAC said he will never fight in America. Can you say Hep B?
by the_mexicutioner on Aug 5, 2008 11:00 PM EDT up reply actions
I hate TIto, and can not stand hearing him talk or watching him fight, but I have to admit, signing TIto was the best thing Affliction could have done. TIto will really help sell the next pay per view. HIm and Babalu hate each other, the war of words between the two will heat up and his millions of fans will all purchase Affliction 2.
No fighter could help Afflictionm survive like tIto could!
This is really good news for AfFliction. its hard for me to admit, but I actually look forward to seeing tIto vs. Babalu!
by john on Aug 6, 2008 7:23 AM EDT up reply actions
I’d like to be “behind the scense” with Jenna… That’s what he meant right?
I like the idea of Affliction, but Trump is the last person who I’d trust my career too. He’s filed bankruptcy more times then Jenna’s taken one in the face. It would be funny if after the Oct. 11 “flop” if Trump sells his fighters contracts to the UFC. It’s just business Tito…
by Arnold on Aug 6, 2008 7:52 AM EDT up reply actions
Here’s a quote on Aleks:
“However in a recent interview on Wrestling Observer’s Figure Four Daily radio show, California State Athletic Commission representative Bill Douglas reportedly stated that Emelianenko was not cleared to fight in the state and will not be by any other state athletic commission in the country.
"The one thing that I can absolutely say is that he was not and will not be cleared to fight in California." Douglas said on the radio show. "He is officially licensed denied and that will stand for all of the United States of America". "
Source: http://www.mmaontap.com/mma/category/Aleksander-Emelianenko/
That has GOT to be HIV or Hep.
by BobC on Aug 6, 2008 8:34 AM EDT up reply actions
I have heard so many different rumors and versions about this situation that until there is some official news, I wont even speculate on this topic anymore. Fighting to the side, I really hope he is in good health.
we will all know pretty soon because if he is booked to fight at Affliction 2 and they dont allow him, then something is seriously wrong. I dont trust what this dude is saying because the California state commission is GARBAGE! They are always screwing something up. Now if he isnt allowed to fight in VEGAS on October 11th, then something is seriously wrong!
I hope to see him fight Tim Sylvia on October 11th, in Vegas.
by john on Aug 6, 2008 9:55 AM EDT up reply actions
john, I hope you didnt believe what Aleks said either? For a SAC to say he will never fight in the states, it has to be something major. It has to be something like what mexicutioner said. Aleks must have the (heebee jeebees)!!!
by JV on Aug 6, 2008 10:02 AM EDT up reply actions
yeah BUt I dont trust California! They are always screwing something up. If he isnt allowed to fight in Vegas in October then I will believe that something is up!
by john on Aug 6, 2008 10:34 AM EDT up reply actions
Some homework must be done before stating an assumption like that. For example the fact that Aleksander has been incarcerated in the past, representation of his tattoos are proof. Never really been much specifics even questions have been brought up about the significance of his tattoos and links to the Russian Mafia.
by DarkPhoenix on Aug 16, 2008 10:27 PM EDT up reply actions
Big rumor today: Tito ans Jenna are expecting a child.
by the_mexicutioner on Aug 6, 2008 8:43 AM EDT up reply actions
God lets hope that this news is false. This world can not handle an Offspring of those two Idiots..“We are just so smart” LOL, keep telling yourselves that!
I still cant get the taste out of my mouth of this interview Tito gave at Affliction where he stated that he would love to fight Fedor! What a JOKE! Who is he kidding? THe UFC practically had to drag him to the ring and lock him in the cage to get him to fight Liddell! TIto would never have the heart to step in the same Ring as King fedor!
Did I mention how much I love Fedor? lol
by john on Aug 6, 2008 9:57 AM EDT up reply actions
God, this poor kid. Can you imagine her as your Mom, and all your d*ckhead friends making jokes about rubbing one off to her early videos (back when she was actually attractive). At least their kid will probably win the “my Dad can beat up your Dad” thing.
by chefdaddy on Aug 6, 2008 10:27 AM EDT up reply actions
you are right. I feel bad for this kid already!
by john on Aug 6, 2008 10:35 AM EDT up reply actions
TITO has guaranteed that his 1rst fight in affliction will do 500,000 ppv buys. NO B.S. he probably actually believes it too.
by b.w. on Aug 6, 2008 2:17 PM EDT up reply actions
I agree 100%. Tito loves Tito. How can he still be popular. He takes the easiest fights, backs out of deals(Dana boxing thing, fighting Chuck) then cries and whines and makes excuses like it is someone elses fault.
I hope Affliction goes out of business after 1 more show and Tito gets screwed!!!!
by fightfan on Aug 6, 2008 1:34 AM EDT up reply actions
But even though, he’s still a big draw anywhere! You cannot deny that fact! And he’s one of MMA’s pioneers, so even if he’s got a big head, R-E-S-P-E-C-T…
by TheNegation on Aug 6, 2008 1:40 AM EDT up reply actions
I hate and like Tito all at the same time, he’s such a bullshiter & naive punk and in many ways a genuinely good guy. You’re right Neg, he’s still a big draw anywhere and I really respect that he’s going to fight Babalu… even though I think Sobral style is perfect for Tito to GnP on and Tito knows it. Still, Sobral is a world class fighter and no easy task for anyone except Chuck Liddell.
by THORAZINE on Aug 6, 2008 3:52 AM EDT up reply actions
Tito does have a big head, seriously, it’s f*cking huge… It looks like he’s had enough HGH to make Barry Bonds seem normal
by Arnold on Aug 6, 2008 7:56 AM EDT up reply actions
I’d never buy any PPV due to ‘Tito’ Ortiz. He didn’t have a thing to do with me watching MMA years ago and still doesn’t.
At least he doesn’t need any fans because he is his own biggest fan. He hasn’t evolved as a fighter and I doubt he ever will. Good riddance.
by KS on Aug 6, 2008 7:55 AM EDT up reply actions
He wasn’t always fed fighters. He was given the best fighters at that time.
by ruan-fiy on Aug 6, 2008 7:56 AM EDT up reply actions
I like the picture of Tito they put up. Its like whoopty-fucking-doo more Tito news
by Cogito Ergo Sum on Aug 6, 2008 10:32 AM EDT up reply actions
In my opinion Tito is done. Tito was a superstar when the sport was a toddler. The sport is now a young adult and striving. Too many young guns out there to shut him down now.
Rob Dib
http://www.break-your-face.com
by Rob Dib on Aug 5, 2008 10:20 PM EDT reply actions
The UFC’s worst mistake letting a loud mouth has-been go? Ha Ha!!! I will enjoy seeing Affiliction fail, and Tito along with them. What a punk!
by DJR on Aug 5, 2008 10:22 PM EDT reply actions
I hate people who jerk off to one organization. MMA is a sport, not a company. When free agency takes over and the UFC belt s the equivalent to having the WBO belt in boxing, I am gonna laugh my nuts off.
by El dirte on Aug 5, 2008 11:27 PM EDT up reply actions
i kinda agree. It will be nice to see who the best in world really is and thats the only way we will find out. The fighters will be getting the millions the want. We as fans get to see the inflated million dollar egos that cum with it. LOL!
by Kahaluu Caz!!!!!! on Aug 5, 2008 11:36 PM EDT up reply actions
True, but we if this were already were the case, we would have already seen fights like Kid vs. Faber and Fedor vs. Couture. All they would need for it to be legit would be something the equivalent of the Rings Magazine belts in boxing (Possibly WAMMA shrugs).
by El dirte on Aug 6, 2008 1:12 AM EDT up reply actions
I’m not sure we should be looking to boxing as our “gold standard” for how to structure a sport. Dana is thinking more NFL—you’re either in, or your not good enough. If I was him, I’d be doing the same. Besides, can a casual fan tell you what boxing organizations are out there and who has them?
by BobC on Aug 6, 2008 8:36 AM EDT up reply actions
You kinda just contradicted yourself bro. If it’s all about the love of MMA, then why would you want the UFC to fail?
by Jrandolph on Aug 6, 2008 2:03 AM EDT up reply actions
So your idea of MMA being at it’s best is the more organizations the marrier? So then we can have 15 LHW Champions. I want to see the best fights possible, it’s not about loving 1 organizaion, but wanting only 1 organization so we can always see the best fights.
by DJR on Aug 6, 2008 4:16 AM EDT up reply actions
I don’t care about the different organizatoins, I also just want to see the best fighting the best and I think having free agents is the best way to accomplish this.
Will it happen in the near future… NO.
Affliction won’t make it through ’09, Randy will never fight again, and Tito, who cares about tito.
UFC is it and will be for the next solid 5 years. That will be enough time to tell if this is a mainstream sport or a simular public fad like Poker was.
I’ll still be here…
by Arnold on Aug 6, 2008 8:07 AM EDT up reply actions
Of course my friend..And I’m looking forward to it. I’ve been a longtime fan of both fighters for as long as I can remember. Even though I think Tito’s style is almost 1-dimensional and his head grew in a couple of years, you must admit that he was fun to watch in his prime.
As for Babalu, he’s one of the underrated fighters out there. And I like his style. It’s just a shame that he didn’t get to defeat Liddell during their 2 fights…
by TheNegation on Aug 6, 2008 2:01 AM EDT up reply actions
hell make some money ..get his ass beat..talk some shit..die of herpes!!
**mania sherk vs tyson griffin ufc 90
by tuffguy01 on Aug 5, 2008 10:26 PM EDT reply actions
Tito to Affliction, no big shock there! Ofcourse fighters are going to try to get a piece of the Affliction pie. Affliction is so stupid to think your going to pay fighters that high and then expect them to take less. Titos pay will just help sink them even more IMO. To me, job security (UFC) is more important than a few big pay days (Affliction)
by JV on Aug 5, 2008 10:28 PM EDT reply actions
I agree with you there. I don’t see Tito being a long term money making machine in the long term, especially once they run out of legitimate opponents for him to face.
Plus the ground breaking salary which he will apperently get won’t make things better either. I don’t care who and how much money money backs your company, if the profits don’t roll in from the other end the gravy train will come to a stop.
by Bojangles on Aug 5, 2008 11:09 PM EDT up reply actions
The groundbreaking contract is probably going to be based on percentage of ppv’s over a certain number as well as a guaranteed salary that is maybe lower than some of the other superstars they signed. It’ll be based on how much audience he brings to the table more than anything, him taking risk etc etc.
But he’s a gentleman. His wife said so and she’d know. I’ve seen her on the internet, treating gentlemen with the utmost…um…respect.
by dave on Aug 6, 2008 12:58 AM EDT up reply actions
Job security in the UFC? Kinda an Oxy Moron if you ask me.
by TabascoSAUCE on Aug 6, 2008 1:13 AM EDT up reply actions
However, Affliction does have the backing of Mr. Trump and so that helps. I do agree with Tito on one point: Dana does take a lot of things personal (often comes with obscene language) and that he should keeps it business.
by 123boogie on Aug 6, 2008 2:04 AM EDT up reply actions
Actually, Trump doesn’t have any money invested in Affliction. He is just a salaried spokesman.
by Muscle Dolphin on Aug 6, 2008 2:41 PM EDT up reply actions
I hope Babalu gives Tito a lesson in respect and puts him to sleep like the Heath fight, Tito is an idiot and so is Affliction, they can’t handle that pay and he can’t win for anybody. He made so much money for every fight (loss) with the UFC how can that cock waffle complain.
by Kimber on Aug 5, 2008 10:30 PM EDT reply actions
Now we can see Tito REFUSE fights against Vitor and see him fight once in the year that Affliction remains before bankruptcy
by fightfan on Aug 6, 2008 1:37 AM EDT up reply actions
hes gonna make some money..get his a** beat..talk some smack ..then die of herpes!!
*mania ..sherk vs.tyson griffin ufc 90
by tuffguy01 on Aug 5, 2008 10:31 PM EDT reply actions
The article mentions two victories over Ken Shamrock, but I believe he beat Forrest Griffin via decision, no?
by Vic on Aug 5, 2008 10:32 PM EDT reply actions
When Affliction goes down the drain from repeated “poor choices” and Tito’s big pay, record deal is a part of that it will be Dana’s proudest day.
by Kimber on Aug 5, 2008 10:33 PM EDT reply actions
I think this is great for Tito and Affliction. Like him or not, Tito is still a huge draw. Hopefully other fighters will follow his example and Affliction will be in it for the long haul. They still need a lot more talent, but this is a great start and Tito will certainly bring in a lot of money.
by clayton on Aug 5, 2008 10:35 PM EDT reply actions
Clayton – you’re the only one with reason. I don’t even know why I read these blogs anymore. Everyone is so one sided and can’t form their own opinion if their life depended on it. Every post is, “this guy will get killed”, “this guy sucks”, “this organization is a joke”, “Tito is a dummy”, on and on and on. Almost everyone on here probably like WWE as well. In love with the fan favorites and hates the bad guy/underdog.
Tito is a massive draw for one. Two, he’ll be motivated to get his mma career back on track and will start mowing down opponents. Others will see how much money he’s making and will soon follow suit. This is a massive deal for both Tito and Afflication.
by Derrick Fox on Aug 5, 2008 11:02 PM EDT up reply actions
Yes you are so right, all MMA fans should support fighters that try new things and help start up promotions, if we all just get sucked in by the UFC vortex, no one wins, its like major sports teams organizing unions to protect themselves. We all know most owners could give a shit if a an athelte leaves their repsective sport broke and in pain, they only care about how much money they made
by bigmcmac on Aug 5, 2008 11:31 PM EDT up reply actions
The only problem with Clayton’s statement is tha Tito’s skill level isn’t getting better. Most feel that Tito left the UFC to get to a weaker talent pool of fighter. I agree that Tito has and will have a great fan base, but if his sucks in the UFC fans will drop him so fast! What Affliction is doing is giving him a chance to get back in a weaker game. Tito has struggeled with his last few UFC fights and would continue with Forest, Chuck, Rampage, Henderson, even Anderson if he stays at 205. Face it, Tito was done in the UFC and Affliction is giving him a second life. Tito’s true colores will come out as a declining fighter.
I loved Tito when he could fight and was fearless!! Now he looks scared.
by mmamac on Aug 6, 2008 12:48 AM EDT up reply actions
Well, fighting Babalu isn’t exactly a weak opponent. But you’re right, there wasn’t much for him to do in the UFC LHW.
by dave on Aug 6, 2008 1:01 AM EDT up reply actions
Mowing down opponenta?? Who has he fought worthwhile in the past 5 years?? He will duck any top 5 and go for fights against the likes of terry Martin and maybe even the elderly Lindland.
Mowing down people? How laughable. I understand that your are in love with Tito, but come on, he has ducked the best fighters ever since Liddell was after him and they were such great “friends” taht they couldnt fight. So, Liddel fought all the guys
by fightfan on Aug 6, 2008 1:40 AM EDT up reply actions
Who gives a shit where Tito goes. Atleast he wont be fagging up any more ufc ppv events. And seriously, why the fuck is Donald Trump sticking his fat ass into MMA now? Does he think being seen with Tito and other affliction people will make him ‘cool and hip’.
by spawn on Aug 5, 2008 10:51 PM EDT reply actions
id bet the house jacob shows up at ufc 87. he talks about not letting business get personal and then says that the ufc made the biggest mistake of it life letting him go. that sounds pretty personal to me. jacob will most likely be the anchor that crashes a hole in the ship rather than be the one that steadies it
by b.w. on Aug 5, 2008 10:59 PM EDT reply actions
He may show up. I bet the camera doesn’t show him on the big screen or on the tv. Dana will make sure of that.
by UKmmaBOY on Aug 6, 2008 6:39 AM EDT up reply actions
Dude thats a bit harsh, looks like tito knows how to work up a crowd if he’s got folk wanting him to die.
by ruan-fiy on Aug 6, 2008 7:59 AM EDT up reply actions
I love the way they say tido been such a big draw on the biggest ppv events, I rented every one, none of them to see tido, maybe to see him get beat down, but that not even fun anymore, goodbye tido, good riddance, to fighter who wasn`t that good to begin with.
by steve on Aug 5, 2008 11:08 PM EDT reply actions
tido? ok stevo, do you even know who your talking about?
love him or hate him, he doesn’t care. he will keep cashing in!
by slaughter time on Aug 6, 2008 11:44 AM EDT up reply actions
ya tito is washed up but hes got a hot ass girlfriend, but besides that what he thinkin the lighthevy weight divison in affliction is stacked, i would love to see him get knocked out by bobalu.
by dave on Aug 5, 2008 11:09 PM EDT reply actions
This is how u know that affliction will fold. Why Tito out of anyone. Is he a fighter or a promoter now? Sure he may draw people but after he gets exposed a few more times no one will care anymore. I think it’s too short-sighted for Atencio and company to only care about PPV buys over their long term goals. Sad that this will probably contribute a lot to their demise.
by NameNotRequired on Aug 5, 2008 11:14 PM EDT reply actions
C’mon, I don’t love the guy but he’s a legit fighter. He pretty much beat Rashad, who’s undefeated, took it to Machida for a decision, who’s also undefeated, and lost to Chuck Liddel, who hasn’t lost to Chuck (besides Rampage)?
Yeah he’s on the downhill, and he’s certainly not a top ten or anything, but it’s not like he’s a sideshow only drawing people in. And Affliction has to be focused on the short term and the long term. It has to steady the ship and mature a little more before it can make only long term decisions.
by dave on Aug 6, 2008 1:05 AM EDT up reply actions
took it to machida huh? go watch that fight again and watch him cry at the bell of the 2nd round because he can’t even touch the man. face it tito is the new ken shamrock.
by newkoba on Aug 6, 2008 7:17 AM EDT up reply actions
machida could have finished that fight come on, but you are right he is on the decline and people forget that 2 of his 6 losses came from chuck.
by dave on Aug 6, 2008 2:03 PM EDT up reply actions
Article up for 1 hour. Already over twenty comments…mostly by Tito haters (lovers aren’t even here yet).
’Nuff said.
by introvert on Aug 5, 2008 11:19 PM EDT reply actions
I think that The Donald signed Tito because he likes sitting next to Tito’s porn star girlfriend, Jenna Jameson, like he did at the first Affliction event.
by DrPepper on Aug 5, 2008 11:24 PM EDT reply actions
Yes Tito WAS a big PPV draw. But as the sport grows, so do the fans. For an organization to excel in today’s MMA world, they need to appeal to the new fan of the sport, not appease the fan of the past. I am not sure Tito helps develop the new fan base unless he can be a dominant, well rounded fighter. I guess we wait and see.
by Ferg on Aug 5, 2008 11:26 PM EDT reply actions
you need established talent and new guys to make a successful organization. people are not going to watch a non-UFC card for people they have never heard of.
by El dirte on Aug 5, 2008 11:31 PM EDT up reply actions
fair point… but shouldn’t established talent be a recent consistent winner. Otherwise Ken Shamrock is established talent.
by Ferg on Aug 5, 2008 11:37 PM EDT up reply actions
i think tito going to affliction is a very good draw, hes still got potential to beat babalu and get his career back on track and who wouldnt want to see tito.
by itsT.O.baby!!! on Aug 5, 2008 11:27 PM EDT reply actions
THANK goodness we finally have a real fighter back in action…this move will put affliction over the top in ratings and above the ufc [which i see starting to fade away]….team punishment forever!!!
by ORTIZ!!!!!!08....BABY! on Aug 5, 2008 11:28 PM EDT reply actions
I became a huge Tito fan after his stint on TUF, but this makes no sense at all. Can you back up this statement (“UFC fading away”) with any logic, reason, or facts?
by Jrandolph on Aug 6, 2008 2:10 AM EDT up reply actions
Well all you have to do is listen to all the fighters coming forward now and expressing there thoughts,huerta is the latest..i mean look at this next ppv..do you really think fitch has a chance against pierre?,lol lets get real dana this is not worth buying just read about it on this blog the next day.and look at who they are hyping up know,fitch,florionext all are second,third tier fightersand they stooped down low enough to bring back that idiot that got kicked off the tuf show and he got smashed,what a wast of a match that was.them [ufc] in a downward spiral is just my opinion i just think affliction is going to overthrow the ufc in the near future due to fighters crossing over to get the pay they deserve.
by ORTIZ!!!!!!08....BABY! on Aug 6, 2008 6:15 PM EDT up reply actions
Why is tito getting a big deal?He hasnt beat anyone good in years,and im saying that cause he didn,t beat forrest in my own opion,wow he beat up that brused turd shamrock. 2wice thats not a very big accomplihment. Any one think Jenna’s helping him get the deal done with affliction.we will offer you 2 mil a fight as long as jenna flashes a boob every round,oh and um she has to sit on mr.trumps lap! lol
by DBG on Aug 5, 2008 11:34 PM EDT reply actions
And if you think Tito’s past his prime, Jenna’s something else altogether. I actually might not want to see her rack (and that’s saying something since I’m a confirmed boob man). Nasty, nasty, nasty…
by BigRedOne on Aug 5, 2008 11:44 PM EDT up reply actions
It’s called CHARISMA thats why he’s getting such a big deal! David Beckham has never been the best soccer player in the world but but he’s by far the biggest superstar and has made more money than anyone in the sport, and to have a guy like that is good business!
by RoB on Aug 6, 2008 12:18 AM EDT up reply actions
1. Beckham is considered one of the sexiest male athletes in the world and any advertisers dream. (no melon-head like “Dido”) and thats where most of the money comes from. NOT from the clubs he played in.
2. He was definetely top 10 midfielders in the world at his prime and has a very exciting style and do stuff that other players simply cannot to. People love to see him play.
by cmon_chokehim on Aug 6, 2008 9:28 AM EDT up reply actions
you guys are just some haters, get off danas nuts the ufc sucks.once they sign randy, roger,matt,cain,nag bj the ufc aint going to do shit
by chicanos finest on Aug 5, 2008 11:41 PM EDT reply actions
If Donald Trump and Tom Atencio really view Tito as a big add to their organization it makes me wonder how clued in they are. I like Tito and certainly think Tito was the man back in the day. Tito today? Ya, not so much. PPV draw moving forward? Not at all. If I didn’t pay to watch Tim Silvia fight Fedor there ain’t no way I’m going to pony up to watch Tito. Sorry Affliction, that dog won’t hunt anymore…
by BigRedOne on Aug 5, 2008 11:42 PM EDT reply actions
Tito was a huge part of the biggest PPV’s ever! he knows how to hype a fight and is a superstar with personality and charisma! .. ppl that talks trash about Tito should be real for a second and look at what he’s done for the sport and is still doing for the sport! he’s a great entertainer and fights with alot of heart realize that and don’t let your personal feelings get in the way!
by RoB on Aug 6, 2008 12:07 AM EDT reply actions
Wrong. Tito was part of big PPVs in the recent past because no one knew for sure how he’d do against quality competition. He’s since proved that he’s part of an era gone by and people just aren’t going to pay to see him fight anymore. We pay to watch fights, not personalities.
by BigRedOne on Aug 6, 2008 12:11 AM EDT up reply actions
ok.. you’re kidding me right? he was and is big PPV’s.. no one is a bigger ppv draw than Tito just face it! not even your boy Chuck is a bigger draw even if Dana didn’t want to market Tito as he should’ve.. Tito is a solid fighter with personality, put 100 Machidas in there and there will be 1 PPV buy and 2 ppl in the crowd after some time and Machida is a better fighter than Tito right? so it’s not all about who’s the best with the best record.. I think Tito still beats Forrest the UFC champ in a rematch and he would do well against W.Silva , Evans and alot of other that is supposed to be better than him and it’s always worth seeing his fights whoever he fights..
by RoB on Aug 6, 2008 12:44 AM EDT up reply actions
Is it ever hard to talk with Tito’s sack in your mouth?
by BigRedOne on Aug 6, 2008 12:48 AM EDT up reply actions
Rob buddy,you’ve got to be kidding me that tito is a bigger draw than chuck all joking aside chuck and randy (mostlychuck) are the guys that turned this sport into what it is today,got a home work assignment for you go up to s 5th grader ask him/her do you know who chuck liddell is / do you know who tito ortiz is then if you really get a kid who knows there stuff ask what happend whaen they fought. Then ask them who they would rather see fight. I,m only 25 but have 2 girls both have seen every ufc,affliction elitexc,kotc,pride,tapout,there ever was,there was never any two people better marketed than chuck and tito, both the same equil amount of publicy,the fact of the matter is chuck was way better,seen it twice. tito just cant match up to the competitors today face it chuck can, but probably only for a little while longer and then i’ll have to face it.point of the matter is tito is done live off the name ufc gave you like Shamrock,Baroni,Tank,Belfot(i hope you make a come back)and this one hurts Gracie
by DBG on Aug 6, 2008 3:19 AM EDT up reply actions
I’m with you 110 percent! Just like the tito machida fight i didn’t uy it cause tito was on there,i bought it because there was a fight on tv and I wanted to see it!The only fight i bought because tito was on it was chuck vs tito to see his punk ass get beat down,and it’s not cause we are on dana’s nut sack it’s cause tito has a big mouth and cant back it up.He let chuck do all the fighting for him in the old days,then wouldn’t take the number 1 contender Instead quit and came back fought a over hyped old man,got beat the hell up by chuck,lost i dont care what any one sayas,come to my house we’ll watch it again to forrest,and should have lost to rashad,(grab the fence),then Got beat by NIKE indorced Machida,He will draw a seen the vey first affliction fight he is in ,if it last that long after thatanyone remember where paul varlens went ! Tito will try to keep himself in the lime lite as long as he can but frankly my dear no one givesa damn,He’s done his wresteling is bad ,and out of date,because of his back his stand up has always sucked,no one has seen his jits,except for the last 30 seconds of machida,the affliction lhw card is not impressive, sorry tito should have kept your damn mouth shut,fought and went to different camps and got betterat what you can and cant do. Ps…. loved to see you cry after randy spanked your ass do you cry when jenna does
by DBG on Aug 6, 2008 2:09 AM EDT up reply actions
Can anyone translate that jumbled up mess of a comment?
by Spider Rulz on Aug 6, 2008 10:05 AM EDT up reply actions
of course i know that Chuck is more well-known but the haters are also buying the ppv to see Tito get beat.. so you don’t think Tito had a part in helping the sport, and more important helping the UFC to get where they are today? go home and get a list of the numbers of the PPV’s that Tito’s been on.. and they also sold out the arena faster than ever when Tito fought Forrest Griffin and got numbers that they’ve never seen before when he came back! it’s not just a one man show but it’d be better if they still had Tito because he’s still got starpower and fans.. Tito has always been Tito and if he wouldn’t be that he wouldn’t be the superstar that he is he would be just another fighter!
by RoB on Aug 6, 2008 10:26 AM EDT up reply actions
Signing Tito is a great move by aff. He is still a huge draw. I am having a hard time picking a winner between him and babalu, I think Tito has a slight advantage. Noguira will beat him though
by Big Ox on Aug 6, 2008 12:26 AM EDT reply actions
funny comment^^^^^ ..
1. babalu would destroy tito.
2. nogueira is a heavywieght , tito is light heavy.
by ubetchya on Aug 6, 2008 1:00 AM EDT up reply actions
Funnier Comment^^^^^^^^^^
Big Nog is a HW. Little Nog (signed to Affliction) is a LHW, Rameau Sokoudjou beat him in Pride. Just so you know.
by UKmmaBOY on Aug 6, 2008 9:34 AM EDT up reply actions
Not the Nogueira thats with Affliction. He is LHW!
And yes, he would beat Tito. And so will probably Babalu even if the match-up is for sure handpicked by Tito himself.
by cmon_chokehim on Aug 6, 2008 9:36 AM EDT up reply actions
hes so full of crap and he knows he can talk cause every time he loses he talks more and more..
by coolguy on Aug 6, 2008 12:39 AM EDT reply actions
Well he is getting what is has been wanting for years, good for him. No matter how long it lasts, he’s a hustler and turn it into another opportunity.
by DSmith on Aug 6, 2008 12:41 AM EDT reply actions
Wow. Too bad this website isn’t called ufcmania any more. Or did they threaten a lawsuit? Org nut swingers.
by jonny on Aug 6, 2008 12:48 AM EDT reply actions
tito is a chump.. he thinks hes soo damn tough and so damn good.. affliction is askin fighters to take a cut and tito thinks it will be a ground-breaking record contract .. What a douche bag. Nowonder his girlfriend is jenna jamison. shes useless both her holes are stretch beyond repair.
by ubetchya on Aug 6, 2008 12:58 AM EDT reply actions
whats with the " done , but with errors on page" on this site.
by ubetchya on Aug 6, 2008 1:02 AM EDT reply actions
The only way it will be so ground-breaking, is if he gets a piece of some small company and a chunk of all the revenue. Would have to be an organization where Tito’s bame is bigger then them… ad that is possible. I doubt Affliction will give him that, but he does have bigger following then Tim Silvia, so he might get that kind of money. Tito hype and popularity is almost done, more fans are becoming educated and have easier time spotting “fighting to win and be the best” fighters with “trying to make money” fighters. IMO if Tito got the money he wanted in the first place from UFC, he would not open his mouth to defend the “other fighters” that he claims so much concern about
by riskreturngroup on Aug 6, 2008 1:04 AM EDT reply actions
tito needs to get over himself. he is not the big draw he used to be. if he really thinks they will do better on the ppv because a wahed up tito is fighting he is smoling some good stuff. i know tito has payed his do and is a pioneer of the sport but he eihter needs to get serious or get lost. i would love to see the old tito but i dont think it will happen.
by woody on Aug 6, 2008 1:26 AM EDT reply actions
IM REALLY GETTING SICK AND TIRED OF TITO ASS ,IS ALL ABOUT MONEY TO HIM, BESIDE LAST TIME HE WIN WAS AGAINST OLD , IS BAD FOR AFFLICATION TO SIGN HIS ASS ANY WAY UNLESS IF HE PUT SOME WIN UNDER HIS BELT , ALL HE DOES TALKING SMACK ABOUT ALL DAYS AND WALKING AROUND WITH THE HOOKER
by the king on Aug 6, 2008 1:29 AM EDT reply actions
Good move for both parties. Tito gets paid, and it seems that if AFF stays in business Tito will be involved after his fight retirement in some manner. The guy did beat the current UFC 205 champ, so its no like he sucks – don’t pull that he didn’t really beat Forest crap either, Tito’s decision was no more/less controversial than Forest’s over Page. He is still a big draw, which is what AFF needs here at the beginning of their life. Makes sense, I would watch Tito/Babalu or Tito/Lil Nog. Not sure why so many people hate on here, he has beaten Wandy/Vitor/Forest…I personally don’t like the guy but it doesn’t mean I can’t see both sides of this move.
by efisher on Aug 6, 2008 1:30 AM EDT reply actions
I actually like what tito has done in his career and the personality he has within the sport. However the statement regarding tito being involved in the 2 biggest ppv events ever are for good reason, 1 Tito at the time was seen as the best or one of the best in the business along with his personality and reputation, was something that appealed and sold to all fans!! 2 and most importantly he was fighting chuck liddell, who many considered to be the best, it sold because it was two popular fighters at the top of the sport and there fighting games. The second time they fought liddell was without doubt the most popular of the fighters and carried the flag there after!!
In relation to tito doing the same in affliction….who is he going to sell ppv’s to when he isnt fighting other top name and attractive fighters, cos although tito may be an attraction to his fans, the mma fans want to pay for exciting fights not just tito, and affliction doesnt have these fights!! Sorry tito its a no no for me!!
by mo on Aug 6, 2008 2:02 AM EDT reply actions
There is a world of MMA outside the UFC, and people need to start recognizing that fact. I’m even more skeptical of the UFC’s greatest fighters now due to the amount of hype every PPV seems to heap on the pile. They could speak mountains about Mir, Kongo or Vera (very overrated IMO, don’t think so, remember he said he’d have both heavyweight and lightheavyweight belts), without ever giving them their chance outside the octagon to prove their greatness. It seems the last time the UFC lent a fighter out to prove his merit, Liddel squeaked by Overeem (he was losing that fight before he landed that ONE punch of his) and then threw in the towel against Rampage, and they’re a little gun shy of doing that again (don’t want to see Penn submitted by gogoplata, or Nogueira losing to Fedor for a thirs time, though Anderson Silva and GSP seem safe enough for now).
by Belisarius on Aug 6, 2008 2:18 AM EDT reply actions
Look, I want to like Tito, I do like Tito, but he has not looked good at all in any of his recent fights. It became so tiring rooting for him. I felt like I was screaming at the TV, while he was kind of dragging himself around the cage. I totally agree, he is a big draw, but he has to start wining (and in dramatic fashion) to get the luster back. If the fans don’t think you can beat the other guy up, theres no validity to the hype before a fight.
by Jrandolph on Aug 6, 2008 2:19 AM EDT reply actions
Ok Again Because my last wasnt posted, It’s not that alot of us do not like tito, it’s the fact he did duck chuck!!!! he doesent know how to keep that mouth shut, he ducked chuck came back and got spanked by randy in the octagon,litalary,then quit for awhile came back then beat a washed up old man (shamrock) like he did something,i meen did any one give him a chance,(shamrock)then got ko’d by chuck again,because he cant keep that mouth shut,lost to forrest i dont care what anyone sayas come to my house we’ll split a twelve pack and watch it again, Forrest,tied with Rashad,witch should have lost that last round grabbed the fence,it’s not that were on dana’s nut sack it’s the fact ufc is trying to bring in the bes and keep the best,styles for fights,and the fact of the matter is tito just doesnt’t have that any more his wresteling has gone sour,not up to date,his back is gone his stand up sucks,his jits all we have got to go off is the machida fight where he lost to the NIKE indorced Machida,I’ll give one prediction,witch the only thing i have against this site is,to many non fighters give predictions,dont take it personal person reading this. Tito will draw a crowd of ppv viewers the first fight after that no one will buy just cause tito is on there,i never bought one cause he was on there,every card i bought that he was on was cause it was a good card,except Liddell vs Ortiz 2 I bought that to see him get knocked out.afflictions lhw card is not that impressive name 4 fight you would love to see,i cant,Look all im saying is tito should go home rub up next to jenna,think about all the hundereds of guys before him live off the porn money, and we will se him on tv at the AVN awards!
by DBG on Aug 6, 2008 2:49 AM EDT reply actions
ok homeboy! are Dana sitting right beside you, open your eyes.. Tito wanted more money to fight Chuck that’s why he wanted to wait til he got more money as he should have had, and Dana couldn’t handle that so he made Tito look like a coward so that he would have to fight Chuck, and still today Dana makes whoever that is complaining about the money leave the UFC and stuff! And it’s all about the money in this business get that!!! And finally dbg just because you’re not interested in buying ppv’s when Tito’s fighting doesn’t mean that no one will!
by RoB on Aug 6, 2008 10:43 AM EDT up reply actions
First off im not your home boy second,off tito is a bitch get off his nut sack and realize he is on a downward spiral
by DBG on Aug 6, 2008 1:29 PM EDT up reply actions
by the way how much to buy this site! really respond !
by DBG on Aug 6, 2008 2:54 AM EDT reply actions
what is al the talk about afflictions payouts? most boxers make more money than the whole affliction card got paid. Affliction sold out and had about the same amount of buys as most boxing events. I believe they will sign a deal with abc, cbs, fox, or nbc. Then dana will have to match money or he will be the one out of business.
by CLETIS on Aug 6, 2008 3:30 AM EDT reply actions
Finally, someone who can see through Dana! How long will it take the UFC fighters to stand up to Uncle Fester and demand more $? People don’t realize that Dana was Tito’s Manager before he bought the UFC w/ the Fertittas. How would you feel if your manager who would fight to get you the best deal possible, turned into the guy at the other end of the bargaining table. UFC will be for the new, upstart, low paid fighters and Affliction will be for the smart and toughest fighters in mma. Fighters like B.J. and G.S.P. will definitely demand more from the UFC. Let’s see if Dana and Lorenzo step it up for them. Remember this is a profession that does not last 30 years, these guys need to be paid more! Jardine made about 30k this year. How can Dana sleep at night? Go Tito! Too bad it took so long for someone to listen. Thanks Mr. Trump!
by Sister Law on Aug 6, 2008 12:38 PM EDT up reply actions
Trump has no equity in Affliction – he’s a salaried spokesman. “UFC will be for the new…..” Your post is a snark right?
by Muscle Dolphin on Aug 6, 2008 9:21 PM EDT up reply actions
“This is going to be one of the biggest money losses [Affliction] has ever had to date and one of the worst mistakes they’ve ever made."
just correcting what the Hungtington Beach Fagboy said.
by rhys on Aug 6, 2008 3:59 AM EDT reply actions
I think that Ortiz will give them a bump (maybe an extra 25 000 PPVs) on their next card and then his effect will be minor. I really think that Affliction is in trouble financially unless they change their way of doing business and the Tito deal seems like a “Hail Mary” pass. Didn’t Rampage once get a big deal (wasn’t matched by the UFC) to fight in the WFA?
by Muscle Dolphin on Aug 6, 2008 2:49 PM EDT up reply actions
Your outcome is probably closer to reality than Tito’s naive predictions.
by Muscle Dolphin on Aug 6, 2008 2:54 PM EDT up reply actions
Former UFC lightweight champion Sean Sherk (32-3-1) will take on Tyson Griffin (12-1), at UFC 90
by braveheart on Aug 6, 2008 4:01 AM EDT reply actions
Sorry to derail the thread,
Would anyone be able to confirm/deny if sherk took up bj penn’s offer to train with him after their last fight?
I really hope sherk makes a good comeback with this fight – he seems like a top bloke and has generally put on decent fights. Then again, tyson griffen looked damn tough in his last fight too.
by spawn on Aug 6, 2008 4:44 AM EDT up reply actions
Tito is definitely a draw – he s one of these guys i ll always watch in the hope he gets his ass kicked
by Jakey on Aug 6, 2008 7:26 AM EDT reply actions
Any word on whether or not they’re going to sign Ken Shamrock?? After all, that’s the only guy Tito Ortiz can beat nowadays.
by R-Dizzle on Aug 6, 2008 7:51 AM EDT reply actions
FYI, Tito has fought out of the UFC before, his third fight was in WCNHBC against Jeremy Screeton.
by Haze on Aug 6, 2008 9:09 AM EDT reply actions
I have never been a fan of Tito’s but I do acknowledge that fact he was one of the fighters responsible for the growth of the sport, and if he helps Affliction to keep going that much longer, that’s fine with me. He also didn’t back out of fighting Machida who a certain couple of top LHW seem to be to scared to face. Apart from thatI still think he is @sshole.
by Ade on Aug 6, 2008 9:12 AM EDT reply actions
3 wins in 2 years…shamrock and griffin…sad sad sad…Tito sucks and is not a big loss for the UFC cause there are so many light heavyweights who would kick the shit outta Tito.
by newfie-mma-fan on Aug 6, 2008 10:02 AM EDT reply actions
Not a big loss for the UFC but will be a draw of sorts for his new banner. Hopefully he will only fight big names and give us a couple of good fights. And by the way he is banging Jenna and we just watch her movies.
by Brian "Bisping-Hater" on Aug 6, 2008 11:07 AM EDT reply actions
Tito is still a huge draw. He beat Griffin incase anyone forgot he’s the light Heavy Weight Champion of the UFC.
by Mike on Aug 6, 2008 11:10 AM EDT reply actions
1.) That was over 2 years ago. Forrest is a COMPLETELY different fighter.
2.) Tito won the first round and lost the last 2. Please go back and watch that fight.
3.) He’s boring as hell, and can no longer back up all the talking that he does. Affliction just wasted a whole lot of money.
by R-Dizzle on Aug 6, 2008 12:02 PM EDT up reply actions
He was given a DECISION over Griffin.
Many people, myself included, do NOT think that ‘Tito’ won that fight.
by KS on Aug 6, 2008 12:05 PM EDT up reply actions
too bad the judges saw it differently.. ppl are forgetting that Tito had a serious injury on his knee and back in that fight.. if the Ortiz that showed up against Machida would have fought Griffin today it would have been a close fight, since Tito would have finished Machida if it was a 5 rounder..
by RoB on Aug 6, 2008 5:29 PM EDT up reply actions
Sure Tito is still a draw. In the full article though he comes across as somewhat naive. Some people are forgetting that Lorenzo Fertitta is now “running the ship”. If he was so concerned about losing Tito, don’t you think that he would of signed Tito?
by Muscle Dolphin on Aug 6, 2008 2:30 PM EDT reply actions
He tried to sign Tito. Dana was leaving messages for Tito to reconsider. Tito needs a change of scenery. Lorenzo waited way too long to start monitoring Dana’s decisions. Can’t wait to see which fighters go over to Affliction. I’m sure Chuck would be the only one who wouldn’t. He’s Dana’s UFC poster boy, but Chuck is not stupid, he should demand more $.
by Sister Law on Aug 6, 2008 8:25 PM EDT up reply actions
Tito going to Affliction will only accelerate the rate of their demise. They’re already loosing a lot of money and actually declare that they have to cut payroll. I highly doubt that they will be getting a worthwhile return on their investment with Tito. Tito is not worth the hassle. There’s no way in h*ll that Dana was leaving messages for Tito to reconsider. Get real! Even if he wanted Tito back, no one would leave messages in such a sensitive situation. Tito hasn’t won a fight in over 2 years. Why would you like to see fighters leave the UFC for Affliction? Affliction has accomplished nothing in MMA. They’re just trying to “ride the coattails” of the UFC. Affliction will most likely be out of business in ‘09. I’d put my money on Lorenzo Fertitta (who is now working at the UFC fulltime) over Tom Atencio any day of the week.
by Muscle Dolphin on Aug 6, 2008 9:02 PM EDT up reply actions
I don’t think that things will be as straight forward as Tito believes. He stated in the original article (paraphrasing) that he will be responsible for 400 000 more PPV buys??? Furthermore, Trump has no equity in Affliction – he is a hired spokesperson. Tito’s supposed “groundbreaking” contract seems pretty risky for an organization that has already said that they need to cut back on their expenditures. It has become hard to take Tito seriously lately. I’d like to hear Lorenzo Fertitta’s take on this.
by Muscle Dolphin on Aug 6, 2008 2:36 PM EDT reply actions
Indirectly, Tito is bashing the likes of Arlovski and Fedor by inferring that with him (Tito) the PPV #‘s will go up over 400% compared to just with Fedor et al. on them. BTW, Ortiz’s statement of 100 000 buys for the first Affliction PPV is incorrect (probably half of that). Can Tito be any more “full of himself”? I wonder how the other fighters think of Ortiz’s “prima-donna” act? How long before Tito starts complaining about Affliction? Dana should stop his reclamation projects (e.g., Randy given a title shot out of retirement, Tito on TUF when he was desperate for work). I’d really, really like to hear Lorenzo Fertitta’s take on this whole Ortiz fiasco. Obviously, the UFC thought that letting Ortiz go was worth it and that Ortiz is not capable of salvaging Affliction. Tito appears to be a “know it all” type of guy. Is it just me or does Ortiz come across as somewhat insecure with all his ridiculous bragging?
by Muscle Dolphin on Aug 6, 2008 5:17 PM EDT reply actions
I hope Tito get what he wants, but he needs to do something different when he fights again ,the time for the ground and pound is over. Look at Matt hughes he is almost done. Tito needs to bring sometjing new to the table, I like him ,but that is the reality, He hasnt shown much in his last fights. Good luck for Tito.
by Ysa on Aug 6, 2008 5:53 PM EDT reply actions
Apparently Ortiz DOES NOT HAVE A DEAL according to Loretta Hunt and Trump’s lawyer. Atencio hasn’t even spoken to Ortiz. Odd behavior from Ortiz. Remember when Ortiz was saying years ago that he had a deal with the WFA and he ended up signing with the UFC?
by Muscle Dolphin on Aug 6, 2008 9:43 PM EDT reply actions
your right. he hasnt signed with them or agreed to a fight with babalu and didnt show up at the affliction press conference, all according to tom atencio himself. honestly i dont see affliction or elitexc making it through the year. this is just being realistic.
by b.w. on Aug 7, 2008 12:25 AM EDT up reply actions
Good lord. Just watching that fight again is painful.
There is NO WAY ‘Tito’ won the second and third rounds vs Forrest.
by KS on Aug 6, 2008 9:59 PM EDT reply actions
You go tito,
I really dont care how it seems this move will only be positive for the sport at large.
by mma on Aug 8, 2008 10:58 PM EDT reply actions
besides ,more money for him means mo money for everyone else!
by mma on Aug 8, 2008 10:59 PM EDT reply actions
I am and have been a huge fan of the UFC. Seen them since the beginning UFC1. But have to agree witht the fact that Dana takes things too personal. Dana did great things building the UFC to what it is today. But it is time to stop trying to create grude matches for fights and start pitting the best fighters against one another. As for Affliction, we’ll see how they do in time. They have some of the best heavyweights in the world right now. They need to build on the other weight classes as well to be successful. Having other organizations can be good for some things and bad for others. What they need to do for the fans is have cross promotional pay-per-views from time to time so we can see the best in each square off!
by CLF on Aug 13, 2008 8:44 AM EDT reply actions
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