Issue 085

February 2012

Rob Hewitt, President & CEO Fighters Only

Unaccustomed as I am to writing anything, never mind a column in my own publication, I want to start by saying a huge thank you to every reader, fan and MMA industry figure for playing such a huge part in this year’s Fighters Only World MMA Awards ceremony and for making it the success that it was. 2011 has been a huge year for mixed martial arts as a whole, and also a monumental one for Fighters Only. Reliving the highs and lows of the past 12 months at the awards show made me realize how lucky and blessed we are to be part of an industry that benefits from the passion and commitment of everyone either working within it or watching from the stands.

Having been asked to reflect on this year’s event, there were a few aspects of the ceremony I thought might be of interest to anyone who can either be bothered or interested to read about what I might have to say. As a publisher, it is imperative to me that every page in the magazine carries as much interesting content as possible so as to give value for money to you, the reader, so I apologize in advance if this page fails to deliver (oh, and there will be no refunds either, unfortunately). 

Firstly, as host of this year’s ceremony, Chael Sonnen was, initially at least, a hot topic of debate. When I first suggested the idea of the UFC middleweight contender as presenter in an early planning meeting it was met with very differing opinions. And the fans later maintained this response, some of whom wrote to congratulate us and some who chose to remonstrate. Regardless, I bet there is now no one who, having seen the show, cannot deny Chael did a great job. He shone on stage as he so often does inside the Octagon. 

Always a showman in front of the camera, he is also a gentleman and true professional behind it. Like his fighting persona, Chael is hard working to say the very least. His name was first on the signature sheet of the hotel gym every morning and he was last to leave rehearsals every evening. I am a huge fan of Anderson Silva, but have to acknowledge that if a rematch ever happens between the two, Chael will, in my opinion, pose the biggest threat ever to the reign of the middleweight champion.

On another note, presenting the ‘Lifetime Achievement Award’ to Shawn Tompkins’ wife Emilie was a very humbling experience. She had no idea we were going to present an award for Shawn and, after Greg Jackson won ‘Coach of the Year’ for the fourth time, she probably thought any risk of having to go on stage had been avoided. 

Yet as I stood to the side and watched her keep her emotions in check to perfectly present one of the most inspiring acceptance speeches ever seen at the Awards to date, I could not fail to understand more the saying that behind every great man is an even greater woman. I am sure Shawn was looking down on her with as much pride as Emilie obviously had in him. This was also the second posthumous award we have made in as many years, and I pray it is the last.

Finally, I cannot make a trip to Nevada without taking the opportunity to dine at the best restaurant in the world! Word to the wise, if you ever go to Texas de Brazil in Town Square, Las Vegas, I can give you a few tips to make the evening go with the most success... Ideally, try not to eat all day and wear, if possible, loose-fitting trousers or alternatively ones with an elasticated waistband. Furthermore, always try to invite a Brazilian legend along to dinner, as it gets you far more attention from the waiters. Fortunately, my good friend Wanderlei Silva was free that evening and came with his son Thor to celebrate another successful awards ceremony. 

And lastly, no matter how much of the delicious meats you gorge on, always leave room for Banana Foster Cake for dessert. Do not (I repeat) do not, be tempted by the other very attractive deserts on the platter. The Banana Foster is the best. If you don’t believe me, just ask Wandy!