This Saturday night, the #1 HW in the world, Fedor Emelianenko, makes his network television debut on CBS as he battles undefeated Brett Rogers, who is coming off a 22 second knockout of former UFC champion Andrei Arlovski in June. Also Jake Shields goes against Jason "Mayhem" Miller to crown a new Strikeforce Middleweight Champion after it was vacated by Cung Le back in September. Do not forget to post your predictions for this great card in our Strikeforce:Fedor vs Rogers Predictions Contest located on the MMA Union board.

A strange rumor surfaced on Halloween that had many scrambling to find out if Fedor Emelianenko had contracted the swine flu. It all started when someone posted, "Hello everybody/ ?????? ????!! Unfortunately i think that i got the flu, i hope i will get better very soon," the person wrote on what was presumed to be Fedor's Twitter account.

We quickly got in touch with Strikeforce executive Mike Afromowitz, who confirmed to us that the rumors were indeed false.

"Fedor doesn't have a Twitter account. His health is fine," Afromowitz told 5thRound.com. "Must be somebody playing games."

With his highly anticipated Strikeforce debut less than six days away, any "news" pertaining to Fedor will certainly generate a buzz.

Emelianenko will be facing-off against undefeated heavyweight Brett Rogers at "Strikeforce: Fedor vs. Rogers" this Saturday night on CBS.

Here are the fighters slated to participate inside the Sears Centre Arena in Hoffman Estates, Illinois

Preliminary Bouts:

Shamar Bailey vs. John Kolosci
Mark Miller vs. Deray Davis
Christian Uflacker vs. Jonatas Novaes
Jeff Curran vs. Sam Thao

Main Bouts:

Rameau Thierry Sokoudjou vs. Gegard Mousasi (Non-Title Bout - Strikeforce Light Heavyweight Champion)
Fabricio Werdum vs. Antonio Silva
Jason Miller vs. Jake Shields (Open Strikeforce Middleweight Title)
Brett Rogers vs. Fedor Emelianenko (WAMMA Heavyweight Champion)


Source: 5thround.com

Thoughts?

Although light heavyweight champ Lyoto Machida successfully defended his title at UFC 104 against Mauricio "Shogun" Rua, there weren't too many fans that left the Staples Center in LA, CA thinking he should have exited the Octagon with UFC gold still wrapped around his waist.

UFC fans are notorious for expressing their loud and boisterous opinions, however following this 5Round affair, it was UFC president Dana White that appeared to be the most disappointed fan of them all.

"I'm ready to make this rematch as fast as we can," White said that the UFC 104 post-fight press conference. "That's me the fight fan, the business fan, whatever you want to call me. I want to see this fight again."

They say that you don't ever forget your firsts, and Machida will certainly have a difficult time forgetting his first ever title defense as faced the toughest challenge of his impeccable career. The two Brazilians battled for five grueling rounds, with each stanza becoming harder and harder to score.

Although the championship bout was closely fought, it appeared obvious to most the challenger had done enough to upset the division's top dog and capture the light heavyweight crown. However, much to the surprise of nearly everyone in attendance, Machida was awarded a UNANIMOUS DECISION WIN BY ALL THREE JUDGES.

Machida, who appeared to be shocked by the announcement, joyfully screamed as if he had just found the last Golden Ticket. The bad part is, the ENTIRE Staples Center crowd started expressing their displeasure regarding the scores and let the UFC and their champ know all about it.

"I don't think guys want to come in here all banged up, bumped out and lose and win the way these guys did tonight. I don't think we'll see the same fight the second time," White said. "You never want to hear people booing the main event. It's unfortunate. That's why I truly believe, I think this will be a good rematch."

He's not the only one that believes a mulligan is in order. A disappointed Shogun also shared his thoughts on not walking away with the strap, however stated that he was definitely down to set a rematch up ASAP.

"Of course I'm thinking about a rematch ever since the fight, and if that's Dana's wish and Lyoto's wish, I'll fight him anywhere, anytime, wherever. It's just a matter of people wanting to put the fight together," said the former top ranked 205-pounder in the world.

White appears more than ready to go as well. In fact, by the way he was pushing it at the UFC 104 post-fight presser, you would have thought the modern-day Don King had already signed the paperwork to host "Machida vs. Shogun II" next weekend.

"I think that the second fight will be the fight we want to see," White added. "I love this rematch. I think it's a great rematch."

Can someone please explain to me what UNANIMOUS means again?

Source:5thround.com

Thoughts?

It is that time of the month again and UFC 104 is right around the corner. That also means that the MMA Union's Prediction Contest is set to go. Drop by and post your predictions in the UFC 104 Predictions Thread by Saturday.

He may have walked into the WEC cage as an underdog on Saturday night in front of 5,176 spectators, but he walked out a champion as Ben "Smooth" Henderson picked up a unanimous decision win to claim the interim lightweight title in a war against Donald "Cowboy" Cerrone that could vie for "Fight of the Year" honors when 2009 comes to a close.

Just seconds after the bout started, Cerrone made a mistake with a kick as his legs slipped out from under him and Henderson rushed in looking to take advantage. The bad position was short lived as Cerrone caught a tight guillotine choke that he rolled, landing on top of Henderson as it looked like the fight might come to an abrupt end.

Somehow, someway, Henderson got out of the choke, but then found himself on the bad end of a triangle choke from Cerrone. Again, Henderson battled his way out and actually landed a nice takedown and spent the remainder of the round reigning down shots inside of Cerrone's guard.

Henderson shot in early on Cerrone to start the 2nd round, getting the fight to the ground, and working his ground and pound attack. Cerrone did a great job of throwing punches and elbows from the bottom, while also almost sinking in an armbar. Fighting his way out of another submission, Henderson controlled the rest of the round standing over Cerrone, and throwing big, powerful punches, negating any offense from his opponent.

The intensity stayed just as fierce in the third round as Henderson again used his superior wrestling to keep Cerrone off balance and on his back. Frustration seemed to creep across the face of the Greg Jackson trained fighter, as Henderson's suffocating wrestling attack outdueled Cerrone's stand-up.

Likely dropping the last 2 rounds on the scorecards, Cerrone looked just as composed as the fight started, especially when he locked on another guillotine choke that had Henderson looking for a way out. Digging down deep, Henderson wiggled his way out of the hold, and started to look for takedowns once again, only this time Cerrone was able to withstand his attack. Landing a few powerful knees to the body, coupled with some dangerous strikes, Cerrone pulled out a great performance in the 4th round to put Henderson on notice the fight was far from over.

The fifth, final and definitely the championship round brought the best out of Donald Cerrone as he came after Henderson with everything he had left in his gas tank. Henderson did manage to get the fight to the ground late in the round, but Cerrone again battered him with a barrage of submission attempts moving from a omo plata to a triangle to a shoulder lock. Through it all, Henderson continuously gave the referee a nod that he was okay as the fight continued. Just seconds away from the horn sounding, Cerrone again went for a triangle before transitioning to an armbar before the fight finally came to an end.

The judges all came back with the same score, 48-47, giving the nod and the interim lightweight championship to Ben Henderson, with the deciding factor likely coming by way of a razor close first round between the two lightweight warriors.

"Donald Cerrone, my hat's off to him, he's a great, great guy, that was an absolute war," said the new interim champion after having the title wrapped around his waist. "That's exactly what I wanted coming into the fight, now I don't ever want to do it again, please no."

With the other lightweight champion standing just a few feet away from him, an emotionially charged Ben Henderson made a plea for the title holders to meet.

"Jamie Varner, we got a date!" Henderson screamed. "Phoenix, Arizona, let's do it!"

WEC lightweight champion, Jamie Varner complimented longtime foe Donald Cerrone for his performance, and then turned his focus towards his next opponent, Ben Henderson.

"Let's do this in December, let's do it whenever," said Varner. "All I want, I want this fight in my home state, where Ben trains, where I train, I want to do it in Phoenix, Arizona, so hopefully we can make that happen."

It seems all but certain that a December showdown awaits Henderson and Varner in Arizona.

WEC 43: CERRONE VS. HENDERSON LIVE PLAY-BY-PLAY:

-Donald Cerrone (10-1) vs. Ben Henderson (9-1)

R1 - Cerrone misses with a high kick and slips. Henderson rushes him and works for a takedown, Cerrone slaps on a guillotine. Henderson gets out, but Cerrone transitions to a triangle choke. Henderson escapes and Henderson gets back to his feet. Cerrone with a leg kick and Henderson works for a singl leg off it and gets it. Henderson lands a few big shots but Cerrone looks for submissions. Henderson stands above his opponent and throws big punches down. Cerrone tries to flip out but Henderson stays on him. The round ends with Henderson standing and throwing shots. MMAWeekly scores the first round 10-9 for Henderson.

R2 - Henderson shots in after a brief period of feeling each other out. Cerrone defends and nearly takes Henderson's back but Henderson ends up in Cerrone's guard. Cerrone landing shots from the bottom followed by an up kick. Cerrone works for a kimura and takes his back before tansitioning to an armbar. Henderson gets out and is back in Cerrone's guard. He stands and lands shots to the body and head. Cerrone goes for a knee bar but it wasn't there. Ther round ends with Henderson throwing shots standing above Cerrone in his guard. MMAWeekly scores the second round 10-9 for Henderson.

R3 - Cerrone tries to flurry but Henderson backs away to start the round. Henderson dives in for a takedown and gets it. He had Cerrone's back and lands three shots to the body before Cerrone flips to his guard. Henderson passes to side control and Cerrone gives up his back before flipping back to guard. An upkick by Cerrone but Henderson stands above him throwing punches. Cerrone pushes him away with his feet and is back standing. Henderson seems to be slowing a bit, but goes for a single leg takedown and switches to a double and gets the takedown, but their immediately back to their feet. Henderson with a double leg but Cerrone is back up. Henderson with another takedown and the round ends in a scramble. MMAWeekly scores it 10-9 for Henderson.

R4 - Cerrone goes for a takedown. Henderson goes for a takedowna and Cerrone slaps on a guillotine. Cerrone continues to work it, but Henderson survives. They're back to their feet where Henderson lands a body kick. Cerrone defends a takedown. Cerrone stuffs another takedown and lands an uppercut. Cerrone defends another takedown. The tide could be turning. Henderson shoots in and Cerrone defends again and lands another uppercut. It's Cerrone now standing above Henderson throwing shots. Cerrone coming on. Cerrone drops him in the final seconds. MMAWeekly scores the round for Cerrone.

R5 - Cerrone stuffed another takedown and looks to be taking over. Henderson gets him down, but Cerrone goes for a triangle and switches to an armbar. Cerrone, after another submission that was almost in, gets back to his feet. With 30 seconds left, Cerrone knocks Henderson down with an upkick. The round ends with Cerrone cranking on Henderson's arm. MMAWeekly scores the final round for Cerrone.

-Ben Henderson def. Donal Cerrone by unanimous decision (48-47, 48-47, 48-47)


-Rich Crunkilton (16-2) vs. Dave Jansen (12-0)

R1 - After each miss with punches, Crunkilton tries to get it to the canvas but Jansen defends. Crunkilton gets a throw but Jansen bounces back to his feet. Jansen gets a takedown of his own taking the back of Crunkilton in the process. Cleat explodes out of it but Jansen takes him down again where he works short elbows in Crunkilton's half guard. Cleat goes for a knee bar and then a foot lock but Jansen gets out quickly and is in side control. Cleat goes for a D'arce choke and Jansen counters and goes for a north-south choke. Nice exchange of submission on the ground but both get out. Jansen with hammer fists and briefly took Cleat's back. They're back to their feet and Jansen gets hurt with a right hand by Cleat. Awesome round. Hard to score with Crunkilton hurting Jansen in the final seconds. Jansen controled most of the round.

R2 - Crunkilton looks tired but hurts Jansen again, but Jansen gets a takedown off a kick by Cleat. Jansen lands a low knee and the action is stopped for Crunkilton to recover. The fight is restarted and Crunkilton lands a straight right hand. Jansen attempts a takedown and Crunkilton lands a knee that sends Jansen's mouthpiece flying. Jansen lands a powerful double leg. Jansen fires off ground and pound and they referee stands them up. Not a good stand up at all. Crunkilton with a body kick. Jansen gets it back to the canvas with 30 seconds to go. The round ends with Jansen in Crunkilton's half guard. Another close round with a horrible stand up.

R3 - Crunkilton turns it on pressing the action and landing shots. Jansen takes him down and passes gaurd but Crunkilton stands up. Jansen diving for legs and Crunkilton defending. Crunkilton tries to sink in a choke but Jansen escapes. Three minutes left. Jansen looks exhausted, but gets a takedown and passes guard to side control and then to mount. Crunkilton gets back to half guard and the referee stands them back up. Crazy fast stand ups. The referee has changed the outcome of this fight possibly. Jansen gets another takedown and goes for a kimura but Crunkilton defends. Jansen lands a couple of elbows inside Crunkilton's guard. The fight ends with Jansen landing soft elbows to the side of Crunkilton's head.

Dave Jansen def. Rich Crunkilton by unanimous decision (30-27, 29-28, 29-28 )


-Raphael Assuncao (13-1; #7 Featherweight) vs. Yves Jabouin (14-4)

R1 - They both miss with their opening strikes and Assuncao lands the first solid shot with a right hand. Assuncao moving forward while Jabouin circles. A few minor exchanges before Assuncao pulls guard but before long Jabouin is back on his feet. When Jabouin closes the distance, Assuncao unloads punches. Assuncao gets a takedown and has Jabouin in his guard, but Jabouin stands up out of it. They clinch along the cage working for position with each landing short shots. They separate as the round ends. MMAWeekly scores the round 10-9 for Assuncao.

R2 - Jabouin moving around light on his feet. Jabouin mixing it up more this round. Assuncao stalks him and moves forward landing leg kicks. Spinning back kick lands for Jabouin to the body of Assuncao sending him back and looking for a takedown. After a brief tie up against the fence, they go back to striking from the outside. Assuncao with a left hand and shoots in for a double leg. Assuncao works a guillotine choke in the final seconds. Jabouin gets out. Close fight thus far. Very close round.

R3 - It's anyone's fight heading into the final round. Assuncao landing leg kicks and catches Jabouin off balance and sweeps his leg but Jabouiin immediately gets back to his feet. Assuncao works for a takedown and gets it where he takes Jabouin's back. Assuncao works for a rear naked choke as the ref tells them to "show him something." What? With two minutes remaining Jabouin escapes and gets to his feet. Jabouin pressing the action, moving forward for the first time in the fight and lands a nice right hand. Jabouin with a spinning back fist that lands. Assuncao misses with one of his own. Assuncao takes him down in the final seconds and the first ends with Assuncao taking his back. Great fight. MMAWeekly.com scores the round for Assuncao.

Raphael Assuncao def. Yves Jabouin by spit decision (30-27, 27-30, 29-28 )


-Damacio Page (11-4) vs. Will Campuzano (6-0)

R1 - Page winging right hands to start the fight. Campuzano answers with each landing big punches. Page takes the fight to the ground where he takes Campuzano's back and applies a rear naked choke forcing Campuzano to tap out.

Damacio Page def. Will Campuzano by submission (rear naked choke) at 1:02, R1


WEC 43: CERRONE VS. HENDERSON QUICK RESULTS:

Main Card (on Versus):
Ben Henderson def. Donald Cerrone by unanimous decision (48-47, 48-47, 48-47)
-Dave Jansen def. Rich Crunkilton by unanimous decision (30-27, 29-28, 29-28 )
-Raphael Assuncao def. Yves Jabouin by spit decision (30-27, 27-30, 29-28 )
-Damacio Page def. Will Campuzano by submission (rear naked choke) at 1:02, R1
-Anthony Njokuani def. Muhsin Corbbrey by TKO at 1:42, R2
-Scott Jorgensen def. Noah Thomas by TKO at 3:13, R1
-Mackens Semerzier def. Wagnney Fabiano by Submission (triangle choke) at 2:14, R1
-Eddie Wineland def. Manny Tapia by unanimous decision (30-27 on all cards)
-Charlie Valencia def. Coty Wheeler by unanimous decision (30-27, 29-28, 29-28 )
-Deividas Taurosevicius def. Javier Vasquez by split decision (29-28,28-29, 29-28 )

BJ PENN has backed Quinton Jackson to be a Hollywood hit - but tipped the former light-heavyweight champion to return to the UFC in the future.

Lightweight title-holder Penn reckons Rampage's decision to accept the role of BA Baracus in the forthcoming A-Team movie is the correct one.

The Prodigy insists many mixed martial artists are looking at opportunities outside of the Octagon to give their bodies a break from the fight game.

Speaking exclusively to SunSport, Penn said: "Fighting wears on you - especially in this sport - so everybody wants to get the big break and do some stuff outside of the sport.

"That whole Rampage thing is amazing. I think he is perfect for the role.

"If anybody can do it, he can - but I want to see him with a Mohawk!"

Jackson's decision to retire from MMA angered UFC president Dana White and left Rashad Evans without an opponent for the main event of UFC 107.

The cancellation of their clash saw Penn's fight with Diego Sanchez moved back to fill the void but the Hawaiian is convinced Rampage will be back fighting one day.

He added: "I hope everything works out for him - but you could see him back in the UFC.

"Dana's a forgiving guy and I'm sure Rampage is too so I can see him fighting again.

"I hope this movie thing really works out for him though. He is a little burnt out but it'd be awesome to see him settle his differences with Rashad one day."

Source:Thesun.co/uk

Thoughts on this?

I thought that we needed something that shows who has won the MMA Unions Favorite Fighter competition via a picture some sort and then I remembered that UFCFREAK made a new Banner and avi that I turned down,so I decided to ask if he would mind creating a Bulleting Header,and here it is.I hope you all like it as much as I do,and all creative props go to UFCFREAK for this great sig he created for us.Thank you!

Thoughts?

Dan henderson Started off with a bang as he defeated the Legend Randy Couture 10 - 4 to move on to face Forrest Griffin who he beat 10 - 6,He then moved on strong via beating Rashad Evans 10 - 6 to make it into the EAST FINALE!In the East Finale Dan Henderson Beat Antonio Nogueira overwhelmingly 12 - 4...Henderson then moved into the Finals to face Quinton "Rampage" Jackson....Dan Henderson was Victorious 14 - 11 to become the 2nd The MMA Unions Favorite Fighter!


Dan "Hendo" Henderson

Born: August 24,1970 (age 39)
Nationality: American
Height: 5 ft 11 (1.80 cm)
Weight: 185 lb (84 kg)
Reach: 74 in (1.90 cm)
Division: Middleweight/Light Heavyweight
Camp/Team: Team Quest
Years Active: 1997 - 2009 (12 years)

Record: 25 - 7
Win Record: 25 Wins (11 wins via TKO/KO,1 win via Submission,13 wins via Decision)
Loss Record: 7 Losses (3 losses via Submission,4 losses via Decision)

Thoughts on this MUFF winner?

This month the poll for who gets in the MMA Union Hall Of Fame is the biggest ever,it features 4 superstars of the modern world who can all have a big shot at the Hall Of Fame.

Quinton "Rampage" Jackson

Vitor "The Phenom" Belfort

Mirko "Cro Cop" Flipovic

Antonio "Rodrigo" Nogueira

Vote Now by going to the sticky Hall Of Fame topic and posting who you think deserves the spot.

Get on over to the Official MUFF thread inside the board and vote on either Rampage or Hendo....THE FINALE IS HERE!

Only two episodes into this season's "The Ultimate Fighter" reality series and we're already going to see the show's most anticipated fight. It was announced by Rashad Evans on last Wednesday's episode that Kevin "Kimbo Slice" Ferguson will be taking on Roy Nelson in tonight's episode.

Nelson is a former IFL heavyweight champion that carries with him a ton of experience in the sport, something that Kimbo is clearly lacking. Not to mention the fact that the competition Slice has faced is nothing compared to what Nelson has already seen.

Although Nelson has won seven of his last ten pro scraps, his three losses came against the likes of Ben Rothwell, Andrei Arlovski and Jeff Monson, respectively.

On the other hand, Kimbo has fought against Bo Cantrell, Tank Abbott, James Thompson and Seth Petruzelli, a bout he lost. However, let's not forget to mention the slew of talent the street fighting legend must have faced in his many backyard battles (sarcasm at its finest).

The show will begin at 10PM ET/PT on Spike TV, and is guaranteed to be a ratings blockbuster for the UFC and its longtime network partner.

Ready or not, Kimbo is headed straight for our living rooms with an opportunity to silence his critics ... or prove all of them right.

Source:5thround.com

KIMBO VS NELSON!

http://mmajunkie.com/dyn/images/fighters/anderson-silva-10.jpg

MMAJunkie.com has been following a story first reported by The Los Angeles Times that UFC Middleweight Champion Anderson Silva(25-4) will most likely face Brazilian knockout artist Vitor Belfort(19- come January. UFC 108, being held January 2nd, is rumored to be the card which will feature this highly anticipated bout. The Los Angeles Times has cited Dana White for news on this announcement.

Previously, it was thought that Dan Henderson would most likely face Silva in a rematch for the title after his huge knockout of Michael Bisping at UFC 100, but Henderson is still in talks with the UFC over a new contract. Vitor Belfort has jumped ahead in line for a title shot after his most recent fight, beating Rich Franklin, a former UFC Middleweight champion, minutes into the first round.

Silva is also reported to be going under the knife to fix issues dealing with his elbow. Dana White, President of the UFC, is quoted as saying about Silva's elbow, "He's having some bone spurs removed from his elbow, which is a simple little procedure that happens, but you've got to have recovery time."

It all started after Rampage wrote a blog about that he would be done with fighting due to the things Dana White had been saying about the movie and also bringing up financial issues in making movies and fighting in the UFC.Rampage felt like Dana White was hurting his movie career by what he said and felt disrespected by Dana,Who was his boss and also his close friend,Now Rampage said that he is done with Fighting,and says that he is not Randy Couture and cannot fight for that long time so he wants to maybe pursue an acting career...Rampage also mentioned that He would still be fighting if Dana would not have said the things he said about his acting career.

Full Story LINK: http://www.gamespot.com/pages/unions/forums/show_msgs.php?topic_id=27047227&union_id=8830

Dana White fired back and started calling Rampage a "Baby" Just because of the things he said in his blog ...and also brought up how hard it is to make it in acting these days...Dana also brings up how he thinks about fighters and fights in general.

Full Story LINK: http://www.gamespot.com/pages/unions/forums/show_msgs.php?topic_id=27049467&union_id=8830

Rampage Now fires back and talks about how he felt about Rashad,Lyoto,Dana and Fighting in General...Quinton says that Respect is something you earn,you cannot buy it and says "You can have all the money in the world,but if you aint got Respect,You aint got Nothing"...Rampage also brings up loyalty and how UFC and Pride treated him...

Full Story LINK: http://www.gamespot.com/pages/unions/forums/show_msgs.php?topic_id=27050360&union_id=8830

"The fighters for Saturday's UFC 103: Franklin vs. Belfort event in Dallas weighed in Friday at the Dallas Convention Center Arena. There were a few hiccups along the weigh, with three fighters having trouble making weight. There were also a few tense moments with some intense staredowns."

Vitor "The Phenom" Belfort

Main Card Bouts:
-Vitor Belfort (196)*** vs. Rich Franklin (195)†
-Mirko "Cro Cop" Filipovic (226) vs. Junior dos Santos (236)
-Martin Kampmann (169.5) vs. Paul Daley (170)
-Josh Koscheck (170) vs. Frank Trigg (170.25)
-Tyson Griffin (155.5) vs. Hermes Franca (159)**

Preliminary Bouts:
-Efrain Escudero (156)* vs. Cole Miller (155)
-Drew McFedries (185.25) vs. Tomasz Drwal (185)
-Jim Miller (154.5) vs. Steve Lopez (154.5)
-Rafaello Oliveira (155.25) vs. Nik Lentz (155)
-Brian Foster (170.75) vs. Rick Story (170)
-Jason Brilz (205.25) vs. Eliot Marshall (204.75)
-Vladimir Matyushenko (205) vs. Igor Pokrajac (203)
-Robert Emerson (155.5) vs. Rafael Dos Anjos (155.5)

† 195-Pound Catch-weight Bout

*Escudero weighed in at 156 pounds on his second attempt.
**Fight was agreed to at a catch weight of 159 pounds.
***Belfort made 196 pounds on his fourth attempt.

Source: MMAWEEKLY.COM

Next On: Wednesday, September 16 at 12AM

Keep track of TUF 10 on Spike: http://www.spike.com/show/22307

The Ultimate Fighter: Heavyweights is the tenth installment of the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC)-produced reality television series The Ultimate Fighter. In a press conference following UFC 98, Dana White announced that filming for the season would begin on June 1, 2009. The season will debut on Spike TV on September 16, 2009, following UFC Fight Night 19.

The UFC and Spike TV held an open casting call at The Marriott Seattle Airport Hotel in Seattle, Washington on April 6, 2009. The casting called for mixed-martial artists in the middleweight, light-heavyweight, and heavyweight divisions. On the day of tryouts, 250 potential fighters appeared including UFC fighters, International Fight League fighters, and former National Football League football players. As with the previous season, all applicants must have had a professional MMA record.

This season will not feature an elimination round as have the past few seasons. All competitors invited to Las Vegas for the show's taping will participate in the entire season.

Get Ready for the Best Ultimate Fighter Season yet...Rampage and Evans will put their teams against each other to determine the best Heavyweight of TUF 10.

Are you Ready?

This month we have 4 nominees, all worthy of a spot in The MMA Union's Hall of Fame. With an ever-growing list of legends being inducted, do not forget to participate in this month's vote.

The 4 nominees this month include:

Rickson Gracie-Legendary Family Member of the Gracie Family. Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu expert

Mark Coleman-First Ever UFC Heavyweight Champion and PRIDE Grand Prix 2000 Winner. A pioneer in Ground N' Pound.

Frank Shamrock-First Ever UFC MiddleWeight Champ. Former King of Pancrase. One of the original true mixed martial artists

Wanderlei Silva-Former PRIDE Middleweight Champ. Former PRIDE Middleweight Grand Prix Champ in 2003.

"RANDY COUTURE'S three-round war with Antonio Nogueira must surely be a contender for Fight of the Year.

If you didn't enjoy that fight I'd check your pulse to make sure that you're still alive.

Coming into the bout, many thought it was being held too late in their careers but we saw outstanding vintage performances from the veterans at UFC 102.

Despite only fighting three times since 2006 prior to Saturday, The Natural, 46, showed no sign of ring rust as he pressured his 33-year-old opponent early on with the jab.

Nogueira, for his part, seemed to have banished the spectre of his uncharacteristic performance against Frank Mir and put on by far his most exciting and liveliest performance in the Octagon yet.

The Brazilian submission master almost tapped out the former heavyweight and light heavyweight champion midway through the first round and from then on it was an uphill struggle for Couture.

As the fight progressed, Captain America seemed more content to head hunt, with Nogueira picking shots from head to toe, eventually landing twice as many strikes as Couture by the final bell.

Minotauro also used a lightning fast sweep to take control from Couture in the second round, almost sinking in a rear naked choke.

But Couture took whatever punishment Nogueira handed out and kept on coming when others would have quit, demonstrating the attitude that has made him a fan favourite and one of the most fabled champions in this young sport.

Short of having a knockout finish or a submission (although we came close on more than one occasion), this fight showed every aspect of MMA.

Great striking, excellent wrestling, beautiful BJJ, drama and tenacity from both men - it was a ****c. Although the Fighters Only World MMA Awards are nominated by the fans, this definitely makes my Fight of the Year shortlist.

Open nominations in the Fighters Only World MMA Awards close September 30. Completely driven by the public, fans can choose who they want to win in 18 categories including Fight of the Year, Fighter of the Year and European Fighter of the Year. Visit http://www.worldmmaawards.com/ to nominate and have your say on who wins."

Source: thesun.co/uk

The competition is now Up one more time to see if GSP can still hold his crown from the last time as the face and as the favorite MMA fighter of this Union!

Just click on the link below to go to the official Thread and read the rules carefully and nominate your favorite 15 fighters.

LINK: The MMA Unions Favorite Fighter!

So I hope you all are as excited as I am for this new edition of "The MMA Unions Favorite Fighter" because we now have more new members as the Union is crowing So,I am expecting a lot of nominations and a lot of daily votes when Step 2 comes out...But dont worry bout that,I will be sending another telegram to you all.

So come and Nominate!

"As many of you have already heard, former UFC light heavyweight champ Chuck Liddell will be competing in the ninth season of ABC's popular reality show, "Dancing with the Stars." However, most have not seen the promo pics just released by the network, and Liddell's leaves me speechless...if not ROFLMAO.

Here is ABC's teaser to promote Liddell's participation in the show:

Chuck Liddell is the face of the Ultimate Fighting Championship and the icon of Mixed Martial Arts - the fastest growing sport in America. In 1998 he won his first UFC Mixed Martial Arts fight. Soon after, Liddell rose through the ranks to become the light-heavyweight champion of the world. In July of 2009, he was inducted into the UFC Hall of Fame. He is tied for the most wins by a UFC fighter, with 16, and also holds the most knockout wins with 10. In 2008 Liddell penned his autobiography, "Iceman: My Fighting Life," which quickly became a New York Times bestseller. He has a BA in Business/Accounting from Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, where he also wrestled. He teams with Anna Trebunskaya, who returns for her fourth "Dancing With the Stars" season.

"They asked a couple different times, but it would be too much time to take off from training for fights," Liddell stated when he was first announced as a contestant. "Now I don't have any fights coming up and I'm not training, so it's something to do."

The former face of the UFC has dropped four of his last fights, however does not seem to be interested in hanging up his MMA gloves just yet. Company president and long-time friend Dana White has already gone on record stating that Liddell should retire from combat fighting, and that might be why Liddell hasn't been assigned another opponent since Mauricio "Shogun" Rua TKO'd him at UFC 97 this past April.

Whether we see Liddell fighting again remains to be seen. If anything, "DWTS" will buy the UFC Hall of Famer and the organization some time before they make a final decision on his future, or this venture might open up other doors for the 39-year-old.

Regardless, this season should be the most entertaining "DWTS" ever, particularly for MMA fans. "The Iceman" is either going to burn up the dance floor, or melt away as the show's laughingstock. Here's to hoping that it's the later because having a likable MMA fighter win fans over nationwide is certainly going to be a great step for the sport of mixed martial arts."


Source:5thround.com, Cagepotato.com, Fightlinker.com

PORTLAND, Ore. - The payoff was worth the wait.

In one of the most thrilling heavyweights fights in recent UFC history, Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira topped fellow ex-champion and an exceptionally resilient "Captain America" Randy Couture in a fight that was years in the making.

The heavyweight clash headlined UFC 102, which took place Saturday at the Rose Garden Arena in Portland, Ore. The UFC's Pacific Northwest debut aired live on pay-per-view.

Despite a crowd clearly and loudly in his favor, Couture simply could not overcome his opponent's stifling offense. After losing his interim title to Frank Mir during a lackluster December 2008 performance, a healthy Nogueira topped Couture both standing and on the mat.

Nogueira knocked down Couture in the first round, locked in deep arm-triangle submission in the second, and again rocked the UFC Hall of Famer in the third. While fighting through the type of abuse that would break just about any other fighter, Couture survived and fought back.

It wasn't enough, though, and the judges ultimately gave Nogueira the unanimous decision with scores of 30-27, 30-27 and 29-28.

"I know I fought a guy who was important (to the Portland crowd)," Nogueira said. "I respect Randy. ... He's one of my idols in the UFC."

As Couture dominated the UFC's light-heavyweight and heavyweight divisions, Nogueira ruled as PRIDE's longtime heavyweight title-holder in past years. The Brazilian's reign included a 17-3 record with the Japanese-based organization from 2001 until the company's eventual demise (and UFC buyout) in early 2007.

As each reigned supreme in his respective organization, fans clamored for a matchup between the two. It was first offered while Couture was engulfed in a contract dispute from 2007 to 2008, and although they had to wait for it, fight fans finally got the matchup. And despite their aging bodies, each entered the fight in grape shape. With a 10-month break since his title loss to Brock Lesnar in November, Couture entered the fight in what he called the best shape of his life (a real feat for a 46-year-old fighter).

Likewise, the 33-year-old Nogueira entered the fight near 100 percent. He wasn't even close to that level when he fought Mir nine months ago. Just a week before the fight, Nogueira was hospitalized with a staph infection. Before that, he was dealing with a torn meniscus and other ailments. Now healthy and with a meaningful win over Couture, Nogueira now has his sights set on Lesnar's belt.

"I had a lot of injuries (with) my neck, my knee and everything," Nogueria said. "I want to be the top fighter in the UFC. I want to win a title belt. If you guys gave me a chance to fight Brock Lesnar, it would be my pleasure."

While many openly pondered if a loss would mean retirement for Couture, the fan favorite made it clear he has no intentions of calling it quits just yet.

"I'll let the dust settle, take a week and see what the UFC wants to do," he said. "I'm here, and I'm ready to fight. I feel the best I've ever felt."

Nogueira moved to 32-5-1 (3-1 in the UFC) with the win. Couture now stands at 16-10 (13-7 UFC), which includes a staggering 13 title fights in his past 15 bouts.

MARQUARDT, SILVA DAZZLE WITH SWIFT KOs

Heading into UFC 102, UFC president Dana White wouldn't promise the winner of a fight between middleweight contenders Nate Marquardt and Demian Maia a title shot. (In fact, he wouldn't even give the contest co-main-event status.) Instead, he said an impressive performance from either fighter could "possibly" earn him a shot at Anderson Silva's title.

Marquardt staked claim in dramatic fashion.

Marquardt's first punch of the fight, a right hand that connected just as his opponent was throwing a left head kick, caught Maia flush. The jolt sent the Brazilian grappler airborne and spun him 180 degrees and face first into the mat.

But just as Marquardt was about to deliver a follow-up blow, and in a show of true **** he pulled back and retreated - and even helped Maia to his feet - knowing the fight was over.

The stoppage came just 22 seconds into the opening round.

"I want that belt," said Marquardt, who suffered a first-round TKO loss to Silva in a 2007 title fight. "I don't know who's getting the shot next, but if you want someone that can get in there and kick Anderson's butt, you're going to give it to me."

The bold statement earned a nod of approval from Silva, who was standing cageside. Although Dan Henderson has already been promised a title shot, Marquardt's stunning win and Silva's apparent approval could allow the Team Jackson fighter a cut in line.

The former seven-time King of Pancrase and UFC veteran is now 29-8-2, which includes an 8-2 mark in the UFC. Maia, who entered the bout with a 5-0 UFC record (and four "Submission of the Night" bonuses), falls to 10-1.

In the night's official co-main event, both Keith Jardine and Thiago Silva hoped to rebound from recent losses to get back in the ever-crowding light-heavyweight title picture. Heading into the 205-pound contest, the general consensus was that a short fight favored the explosive Silva and a longer one favored the well-rounded Jardine.

The fact that the fight ended in just 95 seconds should be pretty telling.

Jardine was the early aggressor and even scored a slick escape from the ground through the first minute of the fight. But a seemingly innocent short left hook caught Jardine perfectly and instantly dropped him. Silva quickly followed him to the mat, and after a few blows, Jardine went limp and forced the TKO stoppage at the 1:35 mark.

"Tonight was my night," said Silva, who successfully rebounded from a January loss to Lyoto Machida. "I proved my worth. ... This fight was very important for me because I love fighting here. The UFC is my life."

Silva moves to 14-1 with 12 wins via strikes. He's also 5-1 in the UFC and now firmly back in the title picture. Jardine, meanwhile, suffered the first back-to-back losses of his career and owns a 14-6-1 record and 6-5 mark in the UFC.

A fight between middleweights Chris Leben and Jake Rosholt played out as predicted: Leben dominated the stand-up while Rosholt had the edge on the mat.

However, the war of attrition ultimately climaxed in the third round. As the takedowns became easier, Rosholt, a three-time NCAA Division I national wrestling champion at Oklahoma State University, got the position he needed. After taking the fight to the mat, Rosholt looked to take his opponent's back. Instead, he secured an arm, passed guard and slapped on the fight-ending arm-triangle choke 90 seconds into the final frame.

Leben, a crowd favorite who hails from Oregon and now fights of out of Hawaii, appeared to tap out briefly, but the referee backed off and kept an eye on the action. As it turned out, Leben only quit tapping because he lost consciousness, and the fight was then immediately halted.

Rosholt, who was part of the WEC's middleweight division that was folded into the UFC earlier this year, moves to 6-1 overall and 1-1 in the UFC after suffering a submission loss to Dan Miller in February.

"It feels great," Rosholt said of the win. "I want the last one back. ... I'll get it back someday."

A tearful Leben waved to the crowd, who embraced the fighter even after the loss. Leben, who returned from a nine-month drug suspension (anabolic steroid) following UFC 89, is now 18-6 and 8-5 in the UFC. The veteran fighter, who entered the UFC after appearing on the first season of "The Ultimate Fighter" in 2005, is now just 2-4 since December 2006.

A bout between two recently explosive and entertaining light heavyweights proved a bit of a dud as Brandon Vera topped Krzysztof Soszynski via unanimous decision in the night's first televised bout.

Vera proved too well-rounded and simply too strong for Soszynski, a cast member on "The Ultimate Fighter 8" who suffered his first UFC loss in four outings with the unanimous decision defeat. All three judges awarded Vera the win via scores of 30-27.

The mostly stand-up affair favored Vera, a Muay Thai practitioner who picked apart his opponent from range and from within the clinch. Kicks to the ribs, especially, took a toll on Soszynski, who continually slowed as the body blows mounted through the 15-minute fight.

Vera, a former top heavyweight contender, is now 3-1 as a light heavyweight since a drop in weight ****in 2008.

"Cutting weight is pretty easy now," he said. "It's going to be some good times at 205 right now."

The win pushes Vera's record to 11-3, including 7-3 in the UFC. Soszynski drops to 18-9-1 and 3-1 in the UFC.

-Source:MMAJunkie.com