While 2013 has come and gone, its storylines have spilled into the New Year. Some things will never change, while others will be implementing a Plan B.
Never say never but I agree with your assessment. Here’s the real question on my mind: what’s going through George St-Pierre’s mind now that Anderson Silva may be done for good? Does it open up the possibility for the Canadian to return sooner in hopes to add more lustre to his own legacy?
Plus, I have to wonder what GSP will be thinking once the welterweight title is wrapped around the waist of either Johny Hendricks or Robbie Lawler. That’s when another reality check could trigger an interesting decision from St-Pierre.
First and foremost, the product is a fantastic idea. Once the kinks are ironed out it’s going to be an MMA fan’s dream come true. I’ve spent some time watching the newer/original content, but rest assured, I’ll be going back and watching all the earlier shows. Let’s just say I have the first 60 UFCs on VHS – I know, I just aged myself – but it may be time to get rid of them all.
Not that I’m aware of. I believe the UFC’s Canadian schedule will be announced within the next two weeks. At least that’s what I’m hoping will happen.
To some it makes no difference, while it does to others. Truth be told, if a non-Canadian fighter doesn’t have a good accountant who understands Canadian tax laws, then the issue is on him/her. We all get taxed, but there are likely ways to minimize the percentage that is deducted from a fighter’s purse/winnings and perhaps avenues to be reimbursed during tax season. Due diligence is key for any and all who travel and get paid outside of their home jurisdiction.
No – I was just wondering why he was taking so long. When he kept stopping and dropping down to the ground, I was simply thinking, “What’s he doing?”
Yes, it’s getting to that point. If both guys clear their divisions, then that’s the super fight people will be clamouring to see.
Same answer as I’ve given in the past – I’m not counting on the UFC returning to Calgary anytime soon. I hope I’m wrong because I want to come back and visit as soon as possible. I love the city.
Jon Jones and Ronda Rousey are the next two who can prime themselves for super stardom. But as for the rest of 2014, it’s tough to say who can step up. You need that “It” factor (see Chael Sonnen and Conor McGregor) and I just don’t see anyone who has it today.
They may think they do, but the number of pay per views purchased is the key indicator as to who is a star or not. Guys like Anthony Pettis and Dominic Cruz are on the cusp. Urijah Faber is there as well. But the recipe for a super star is somewhat unique and you either have it (McGregor) or you develop it (Sonnen).
From my Facebook page:
Chris Beauchamp asked “If Rory MacDonald had beaten Robbie Lawler, would he be fighting Hendricks for the belt next?”
That’s a question only Dana White and Joe Silva could truly answer, but since you asked me, I’ll tell you what I believe: Yes
Joshua Seeton asked “Where does Silva’s legacy go from here?”
I believe it stays right where it’s at – he’s still widely considered the greatest of all-time. I believe it. But I have an inkling 2014 may change that.
Calum Pointon asked “What’s next for Miesha Tate?”
She has to get back to the cage as soon as possible. I don’t believe she needs any sort of extended time off. I firmly believe she needs to get back on the proverbial horse and keep her place amongst the division’s elite. Tate should guard her ranking and if Ronda ever loses, she could get the next title shot.
“kickserv” asked “If Showdown Joe was in charge of the UFC, what would you do when fighters miss weight?”
I would look at each case separately, but I’m not sure I’d be as lenient as the UFC is today. Some believe prize fighting should not be compared to the real world of employment, but the UFC is a business. If I was in charge (and again, based on the circumstances) I would likely release someone after they competed, whether they won or not. I’d allow them to fight so their opponent doesn’t throw away 10-12 weeks of preparation for someone else’s miscalculations/errors.
If their explanation was satisfactory, they would still be on very thin ice for the rest of their career. Many fighters have expressed their disdain for their fellow brethren who don’t make weight. They have told me it’s insulting and disrespectful when other fighters don’t make weight. It’s a sport of professionals, so they believe their adversaries should act like they are just that.
Kenny J DaSodbusta Boucher asked “Who do you see being the biggest challenge to Weidman’s belt?”
It’s a toss-up between Vitor Belfort and Ronaldo Jacare Souza.
Kenny J DaSodbusta Boucher also asked “What do you think about Weidman versus Jon Jones in a super fight? Who do you see winning that match? I have Weidman by Darce Choke!”
Weidman has only defended his belt once. A super fight for him is years away. In order to compete in a super fight, the UFC maintains that a champion must clean out their division. Jon Jones has almost done that. Weidman has to worry about Belfort, Jacare, Lyoto Machida, Michael Bisping, Luke Rockhold, Francis Carmont, Tim Kennedy, Costas Philippou, Chael Sonnen and others.
It will likely be a very long time before any legit talk of Chris Weidman in a super fight takes place. The rest will be stuff that should be reserved for the upcoming release of EA Sports’ UFC video game.