Re: UFC Ongoing Thread
Man, I have been on HTF for 7 years, and been watching the UFC and others for a very long time and I just noticed this thread now. Man!
OK...first thing it first...UFC in HD...thank you! Brand new Optoma HD70, 92" Screen, and now UFC going HD...I'm all warm and fuzzy inside.
Ok, to anyone who thinks they are a noob to UFC...trust me you are in the majority. I have followed the UFC from day one with sporadic times of disinterest. But the MMA scene has exploded and there are many more new fans to the sport than there are old loyal fans. Regardless it will take time to understand the sport, to understand the rules, and to understand who the stars are.
The Ultimate Fighter really was the catalyst of the UFC's popularity. But it is not what will take it to the next level. What you saw tonight at UFC66 is what will. That was the best overall card they put on this year. With the exception of last months defeat of Matt Hughes by GSP this would have easily been the most entertaining event of the year.
The UFC is really starting to show their depth of talent. And it has taken some serious time. A lot of the cards earlier in the year were filled with TUF fighters who shouldn't be on the card at all. Tonight was a different story.
And the next card in February will be even better. Two championship fights and the debut of Quinton 'Rampage' Jackson and Mirko 'Cro Cop' Filipovic is too much for me to handle. And in HD...over the top. But to the "noobs" learn who these guys are, especially Cro Cop. Nuff said.
Spoilers on my thoughts on the card:
Warning: Spoiler! (Click to show)Bisping vs Schafer - I am glad Schafer put Bisping to the test. Many of my friends wanted Bisping to come out and destroy. But it is the mark of a great fighter to be one that can weather the storm, escape submission attempts, regain control of the fight, and finish with a victory.
Arlovski vs Cruz - Just glad to see the Pitbull back. The sound of his strikes were unreal. Poor Cruz was not smart enough to prepare for that devastating punch.
Leben vs MacDonald - Big fan Jason "don't call me Rob" MacDonald. Lebens got a chin, good take down defense, bricks for hands, and guts...but Jason MacDonald has pure skill. Swick vs Macdonald please.
Jardine vs Griffin - No major comments..,my eyes were opened to Jardine tonight. Didn't pick a winner in this one as I thought it would be a slugfest and the guy to catch the best strike would win.
Liddell vs Ortiz - Liddell is a beast and he can't be beat. And it's to bad because Ortiz has the heart of a Lion.