Issue 047
March 2009
The great thing about MMA is that it is so subjective. Everyone’s got an opinion and we love a bit of debate, so we spoke with four people from across the MMA world to find out their thoughts on the current state of play, including their opinions on the pressing matters of the hour.
The Fighter
Terry Etim, popular UFC fighter from Liverpool, England.
The Fan
Ryan Stewart, A 24-year-old salesman from Milton Keynes, England.
The Writer
Graham Smyth, full-time journalist and FO contributor.
The Insider
Andy Lillis, Cage Warriors promoter and manager of many top UK fighters.
Q1. Who should challenge Rashad for his newly won 205lb title?
A: Etim
There are a few people there; it’s gone a bit mad. Rich Franklin and Dan Henderson have just moved back up - obviously there’s Rampage. I’d have to say Rampage, he deserves the shot. He’s come off a massive win.
A: Stewart
It’s a tough one. If Rampage carries on the way he has, I’d like to see him fighting for the title. It would be nice if Chuck could get a couple of good fights and have another go at the title this year.
A: Smyth
I reckon Lyoto Machida should be the next in line, regardless of what is said about his style. I’d like to see him beat Evans.
A: Lillis
It’s a tough one. The 205lb division has been roughed up since Chuck lost his title. I would say Rashad looks really sharp. I’d like to see Rampage fight him next, but I think he needs another fight to get rid of some of his demons.
Q2. Brock vs Mir – who takes the rematch?
A: Etim
I’d have to go with Brock. I think now he’s had more time to work, he’s going to be even better than the first time they fought. Mir’s come off a big win. It’s going to be a win.
A: Stewart
I hate to say it, but I think Brock will do it. It’s just annoying he hasn’t been in the game that long. But with his size and agility it’s not going to be easy to stop him. He’s a force to be reckoned with.
A: Smyth
After demolishing Big Nog, Mir should be brimming with confidence, and even if Brock catches him again I think Mir will submit him. If Mir does win the rematch, I think we’ll see him go on a tear.
A: Lillis
I would like to see Mir take it. I think Brock is the UFC’s version of Kimbo: they’ve tried to build him up. I would really like to see Mir beat him again.
Q3. Are fighters trying to fit too many sponsors on their shorts and banners?
A: Etim
Some might be. Myself personally I’ve only got three. I’d say quality is better than quantity. Fighters need the sponsors to make a living though.
A: Stewart
Yes, but they’ve got to make a living. Look at Formula One!
A: Smyth
If shorts or banners covered in sponsors are what it takes to pay the bills then so be it. Fighters don’t get paid enough for putting their bodies on the line, and a cluttered banner or shorts fighting to be seen under sponsor logos don’t bother me at all.
A: Lillis
You’re officially limited to only four patches on the shorts. The UFC wages aren’t great unless you’re a top fighter. I’d like to see them allowed more.
Q4. WAMMA, a company with no promotion, are handing out ‘world’ titles. What do you think of this?
A: Etim
Everyone who knows the sport will know it doesn’t make sense at all. Fedor is the number one heavyweight, but the real champ is whoever is the UFC champ.
A: Stewart
I don’t really agree with it. It would be great if there was a global governing body for the sport, but you can’t just make up a name and start giving things out.
A: Smyth
I’m not sure how I feel about world titles being handed out when not all promotions are involved. If everyone was on board then it might be worthwhile, but until then it seems a little pointless.
A: Lillis
Handing out titles without your own organisation is a bad thing and it won’t last. Not having a show is a problem. Their titles are devalued by not being fought for on a show.
Q5. What do you think the UFC will do for their 100th show?
A: Etim
I could see every fight a title fight and some big fights the fans will love - some dream matches.
A: Stewart
I’ve heard they might have all the titles on the same night, which would be brilliant to see. I don’t really know, maybe induct some more people into the hall of fame. Shame it won’t be in the UK!
A: Smyth
Hopefully a main card with fights all worthy of the main event, with titles on the line. Some recognition of the finest champions in UFC history, and some big, surprise fighter signings like Fedor would be nice. I’m sure they’ll pull out all the stops.
A: Lillis
I personally would do a night of champions, every title contested to celebrate their 100th show. Either that or bring back some of the older fighters, like a hall of fame show.
