Issue 045

January 2009

There were more than a few nominations that made us chuckle, and some of the voting really caught our attention. Here are the highlights of his year’s World MMA Awards.  

‘Mothers Favourite’ Award

Owen Roddy

Getting a nomination in each of the Fighter of the Year, European Fighter of the Year, and Breakthrough Fighter of the Year categories, Irish fighter Owen Roddy is certainly someone’s favourite. Unfortunately it takes more than just the one nomination to be in with a chance of winning – better luck next year Owen!  

Most Popular Award

Ring Girl of the Year

Believe it or not, the most voted-on category was Ring Girl of the Year, with Arianny Celeste receiving more votes than any fighter in any category! 

The ‘Don’t Blink’ Award

KO of the Year

All five of the KO of the Year finalists lasted no longer than three minutes, showing that you just love the fast and furious fights!  

Most Fiercely Contested Award

Best Media Coverage

Only 8% separated the fourth-placed finalist.from the winner, MMA Junkie – talk about a close finish! We’re flattered to have come third, and thank you for all your support.

Most Convincing Win Award

UFC

Winning Promotion of the Year with 75% of the votes, the UFC effortlessly demonstrated that they rule the roost when it comes to holding events.  

Least Likely to Win Anything Next Year Award

EliteXC

EliteXC win this award hands down. The factors leading to the decline and closure of this promotion are well documented, but at least there are now a handful of excellent fighters up for grabs.

The Hardcore Surprise Awards

Fedor Emelianenko

With many hardcore fans claiming that the Russian is the best fighter in the world, why did he come last in Fighter of the Year? Two reasons: he doesn’t fight in the UFC, and he’s only fought one legitimate opponent in the nomination period, with all four other finalists facing two or more.  

The ‘Give us a Clue’ Award

“Matt Serra’s mate with a beard”

Some advice for next year. When nominating a fighter, please use their name instead of a giving us a description – it makes things so much easier. Our favourite entry (and winner of the ‘Give us a Clue’ Award) goes to the fan who suggested “Mathew Riddle vs Matt Serra’s mate with a beard” for KO of the Year.  

Honourable Mention

Aisling Daly

Despite only making her pro debut in September of 2007, Irish fighter Aisling Daly managed to make it to second place in the Female Fighter of the Year category. With five victories under her belt (all within the distance) it looks like ‘Ais the Bash’ is definitely one to watch.  

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