While I was unable to be in Vancouver for UFC 115 (for a number of reasons, including other obligations), that doesn’t mean I won’t be kept busy on the “MMA tour.” In fact, after two weeks since the last major event, the next couple weeks are packed.
There are plenty of upcoming shows for me (and indeed any Canadian MMA fan) with which to keep busy. Here’s a look at what I’m calling 10 shows in 10 days.
June 11 – “The A-Team” hits theatres
I use the term “MMA show” very loosely here, but the connection of course is that former UFC champion Quinton (Rampage) Jackson takes on his biggest silver screen role as B.A. Baracus in the motion picture remake of the popular TV series, which hits theatres Friday. I’m sure there are more than a few MMA fans interested in how he fares as an actor. I personally am not expecting much from him, but I think the movie will be entertaining. Over the top, though entertaining. (Which also perfectly describes Rampage’s personality.)
June 12 – UFC 115 in Vancouver
For those like me who won’t get a chance to see the event in Vancouver in person, you’ve got a few options. You can purchase the PPV (and of course catch Sportsnet’s preview show and watch a couple of prelims on Spike TV). You can also head to a Cineplex theatre to watch it on the big screen. Or instead of shelling out money to watch it, you can also choose to follow my live results, tweets and blog on sportsnet.ca.
June 12-13 – MMA Expo in Toronto
The third annual MMA Expo goes down Saturday and Sunday at the International Centre in Toronto. For the complete rundown of what to expect there, check it out here.
June 16 – Strikeforce: Los Angeles
Viewers in Canada can watch this event on Super Channel. The main event sees Robbie Lawlor take on Renato Sobral, with title shots on the line.
June 18 – Ringside MMA 7: No Escape in Montreal
This is the first two events in the Montreal area in two nights. You can also watch this on online PPV. Guillaume De Lorenzi makes his first lightweight belt defence against former UFC fighter Dale Hartt.
June 19 – W-1 MMA: Judgement Day in Laval
Yes, “judgement” is spelled the British way not the Canadian way, but that’s okay. This event goes down at the Colisee de Laval, a 25-minute drive from Montreal. There are two title fights (Wooley vs. Spence and Quenneville vs. Fraser), and B.C.’s Denis Kang also takes on Dae Won Kim. For more, click here.
June 19 – XCW 34 in Battleford, Sask.
Fans in the prairies have a chance for another live event, headlined by a title fight between Bobby-Leigh Flamond and Kurt Bailey. For more, , click here.
June 19 – TUF 11 finale in Las Vegas
Another free show on Sportsnet. Weeks of drama will finally be settled as the Season 11 Ultimate Fighter will be crowned between Kris McCray and Court McGee. And Ottawa’s Mark Holst makes his UFC debut.
June 20 – WVR Sengoku in Tokyo
Another early-morning show (for Canadian viewers) as the event from Japan will be available on HDNet (tape delay, Friday, June 25). It is expected to feature two championship bouts: Jorge Santiago vs. Kazuo Misaki and Masanori Kanehara vs. Marlon Sandro.
June 20 – WEC 49 in Edmonton
Finally, the UFC’s sister organization makes its Canadian debut at Rexall Place. Three Canucks on the main card: Chris Horodecki takes on Ed Ratcliff and Mark Hominick meets Yves Jabouin in all-Canadian affair.