UFC 97: Redemption (Silva v. Leites; Iceman v. Shogun) - Sat. April 18th

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UFC 97: Redemption

Date: Apr 18, 2009
Location: Montreal, Canada
Venue: Bell Centre (Le Centre Bell)
Broadcast: Pay per view

MAIN CARD

• Middleweight champ Anderson Silva vs. Thales Leites
• Chuck Liddell vs. Mauricio "Shogun" Rua
• Krzysztof Soszynski vs. Brian Stann
• Cheick Kongo vs. Antoni Hardonk
• Luis Cane vs. Steve Cantwell

PRELIMINARY CARD

• Xavier Foupa-Pokam vs. Denis Kang
• Jason MacDonald vs. Nate Quarry
• Ed Herman vs. David Loiseau
• David Bielkheden vs. Mark Bocek
• Ryo Chonan vs. T.J. Grant
• Sam Stout vs. Matt Wiman

 

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UFC 97 televised main card finalized

Just two days after UFC officials successfully negotiated with Canadian officials to keep "UFC 97: Redemption" in Montreal, the organization has released the official fight card, including a five-bout televised main card, for the April 18 event.

UFC 97 is headlined by a UFC middleweight championship bout between title-holder Anderson Silva and challenger Thales Leites. Former 205-pound champ Chuck Liddell meets Mauricio "Shogun" Rua in the co-main event.

UFC 97 takes place at the Bell Centre and airs on pay per view.

Also slated for the main card is a light-heavyweight bout between "The Ultimate Fighter 8" cast member Krzysztof Soszynski and former WEC 205-pound champ Brian Stann. Additionally, Steve Cantwell, the WEC's final light-heavyweight champion, takes on Luiz Cane.

A late-announced heavyweight fight between Cheick Kongo and Antoni Hardonk rounds out the televised main card.

With the event taking place in Canada, the UFC 97 preliminary card features many Canadian fighters, including Denis Kang, David Loiseau, Jason MacDonald, Sam Stout, Mark Bocek and UFC newcomer T.J. Grant.

The UFC's first event in Montreal, UFC 83 in April 2008, set the organization's attendance (21,390) and live gate ($5.1 million) records and remains one of the most successful and anticipated events in UFC history.

This year's return trip was briefly in jeopardy when commission executives stated earlier this month the UFC couldn't hold an event with its current rule set, which includes knee and elbow strikes, as well as foot stomps. In addition to wanting to ban those strikes, the commission also said fights would have to include a standing eight-count rule.

However, after meeting with UFC executives Lorenzo Fertitta and Marc Ratner, the commission decided to allow UFC 97 to go on as expected with its current rules, which they felt would keep competitors adequately protected.


UFC 97 sells out in less than a week

Earlier this week, the UFC contacted the Nevada State Athletic Commission with back-up plans to move its April UFC 97 event from Montreal to Las Vegas due to regulatory issues.

The UFC, though, worked with Canadian officials and resolved those problems, and more than 20,000 Canadian fans who purchased tickets for the show are now breathing a sigh of relief.

The UFC today announced that the April 18 event, which takes place at Montreal's Bell Centre, has officially sold out – in less than a week.

The UFC first ventured to Montreal in April 2008 for what was the organization's Canadian debut. With Georges St. Pierre ready to reclaim his title from Matt Serra in the night's main event, UFC 83 drew a UFC and North American MMA attendance record with 21,390 fans, who accounted for a $5.1 million gate.

More than 13,000 UFC 83 tickets were sold in a presale to UFC Fight Club members, and the event officially sold out one minute after tickets went on sale to the general public a week later.

"I knew going back to Montreal would be another home run," UFC President Dana White stated on UFC.com. "Our Canadian fan base is incredibly strong and continues to grow even in these hard times. UFC events continue to bring a substantial economic impact to the city of Montreal."

UFC 97 tickets went on sale to Fight Club members on Feb. 11 and the general public on Feb. 14.

UFC 97 features a main event between UFC middleweight champion Anderson Silva and top contender Thales Leites, and future UFC hall-of-famer Chuck Liddell meets Mauricio "Shogun" Rua in the co-main event. Numerous Canadian fighters (including Denis Kang, Jason MacDonald, Sam Stout and T.J. Grant) have been booked for the night's undercard.

 

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<table bordercolor="#cccccc" cellpadding="1" width="96%"><tbody><tr><td bgcolor="#000000">

[FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]UFC 97 Odds[/FONT]​

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</td> <td bgcolor="#000000">
</td> <td bgcolor="#000000">
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</td> </tr> <tr> <td bgcolor="#000000">Thales Leites</td> <td bgcolor="#000000">

+365​

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+350​

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</td> <td bgcolor="#000000">
</td> <td bgcolor="#000000">

+325​

</td> </tr> <tr> <td bgcolor="#000000">Anderson Silva</td> <td bgcolor="#000000">

-460​

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-450​

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-525​

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</td> <td bgcolor="#000000">
</td> <td bgcolor="#000000">
</td> <td bgcolor="#000000">
</td> </tr> <tr> <td bgcolor="#000000">Shogun Rua</td> <td bgcolor="#000000">

+160​

</td> <td bgcolor="#000000">

+165​

</td> <td bgcolor="#000000">
</td> <td bgcolor="#000000">
</td> <td bgcolor="#000000">

+145​

</td> </tr> <tr> <td bgcolor="#000000">Chuck Liddell</td> <td bgcolor="#000000">

-185​

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-205​

</td> <td bgcolor="#000000">
</td> <td bgcolor="#000000">
</td> <td bgcolor="#000000">

-175​

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</td> <td bgcolor="#000000">
</td> <td bgcolor="#000000">
</td> <td bgcolor="#000000">
</td> <td bgcolor="#000000">
</td> </tr> <tr> <td bgcolor="#000000">Krys Soszynski</td> <td bgcolor="#000000">

-195​

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</td> <td bgcolor="#000000">
</td> <td bgcolor="#000000">
</td> <td bgcolor="#000000">

-200​

</td> </tr> <tr> <td bgcolor="#000000">Brian Stann</td> <td bgcolor="#000000">

+160​

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</td> <td bgcolor="#000000">
</td> <td bgcolor="#000000">
</td> <td bgcolor="#000000">

+160​

</td> </tr> <tr> <td bgcolor="#000000">
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</td> <td bgcolor="#000000">
</td> <td bgcolor="#000000">
</td> <td bgcolor="#000000">
</td> </tr> <tr> <td bgcolor="#000000">Luiz Cane</td> <td bgcolor="#000000">

-250​

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</td> <td bgcolor="#000000">
</td> <td bgcolor="#000000">

-250​

</td> </tr> <tr> <td bgcolor="#000000">Steve Cantwell</td> <td bgcolor="#000000">

+190​

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</td> <td bgcolor="#000000">

+190​

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[FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]UFC 97 Odds[/FONT]​

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</td> <td bgcolor="#000000">
</td> <td bgcolor="#000000">
</td> </tr> <tr> <td bgcolor="#000000">Nate Quarry</td> <td bgcolor="#000000">

-130​

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</td> <td bgcolor="#000000">
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-135​

</td> </tr> <tr> <td bgcolor="#000000">Ja MacDonald</td> <td bgcolor="#000000">

even​

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+105​

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</td> <td bgcolor="#000000">
</td> <td bgcolor="#000000">
</td> <td bgcolor="#000000">
</td> <td bgcolor="#000000">
</td> </tr> <tr> <td bgcolor="#000000">David Loiseau</td> <td bgcolor="#000000">

-135​

</td> <td bgcolor="#000000">
</td> <td bgcolor="#000000">
</td> <td bgcolor="#000000">
</td> <td bgcolor="#000000">

-140​

</td> </tr> <tr> <td bgcolor="#000000">Ed Herman</td> <td bgcolor="#000000">

+105​

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</td> <td bgcolor="#000000">
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</td> <td bgcolor="#000000">

+110​

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</td> <td bgcolor="#000000">
</td> </tr> <tr> <td bgcolor="#000000">Marc Bocek</td> <td bgcolor="#000000">

-280​

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</td> <td bgcolor="#000000">
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-285​

</td> </tr> <tr> <td bgcolor="#000000">Da Bielkheden</td> <td bgcolor="#000000">

+220​

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+225​

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</td> <td bgcolor="#000000">
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</td> <td bgcolor="#000000">
</td> </tr> <tr> <td bgcolor="#000000">Sam Stout</td> <td bgcolor="#000000">

-165​

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</td> <td bgcolor="#000000">
</td> <td bgcolor="#000000">
</td> <td bgcolor="#000000">

-160​

</td> </tr> <tr> <td bgcolor="#000000">Matt Wiman</td> <td bgcolor="#000000">

+135​

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</td> <td bgcolor="#000000">
</td> <td bgcolor="#000000">
</td> <td bgcolor="#000000">

+130​

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<table class="data_table" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"><tbody><tr class="data_title"><td colspan="7">Anderson Silva Vs. Thales Leites </td> </tr> <tr class="data_row"> <td width="15"> </td> <td valign="top" width="150"> <table class="data_table" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"> <tbody><tr class="data_row"> <td style="font-weight: bold;">Name:</td> <td>Anderson Silva</td> </tr> <tr class="data_row"> <td style="font-weight: bold;">Height:</td> <td>6' 2" (188 cm)</td> </tr> <tr class="data_row"> <td style="font-weight: bold;">Weight:</td> <td>185 (84 kg)</td> </tr> <tr class="data_row"> <td style="font-weight: bold;">Record:</td> <td>23-4-0</td> </tr> </tbody></table> </td> <td valign="top" width="185">

"The Spider"​

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</td> <td align="right" valign="top" width="150"> <table class="data_table" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"> <tbody><tr class="data_row"> <td style="font-weight: bold;">Name:</td> <td>Thales Leites </td> </tr> <tr class="data_row"> <td style="font-weight: bold;">Height:</td> <td>6' 1" (185 cm)</td> </tr> <tr class="data_row"> <td style="font-weight: bold;">Weight:</td> <td>185 (84 kg)</td> </tr> <tr class="data_row"> <td style="font-weight: bold;">Record: </td> <td>14-1-0</td> </tr> </tbody></table> </td> <td align="right" valign="top" width="185">

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</td> <td width="15"> </td> </tr> <tr> <td colspan="7" bgcolor="silver">
</td> </tr> </tbody></table>

<table class="data_table" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"> <tbody><tr class="data_title"> <td colspan="7"> Chuck Liddell Vs. Mauricio Rua </td> </tr> <tr class="data_row"> <td width="15"> </td> <td valign="top" width="150"> <table class="data_table" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"> <tbody><tr class="data_row"> <td style="font-weight: bold;">Name:</td> <td>Chuck Liddell</td> </tr> <tr class="data_row"> <td style="font-weight: bold;">Height:</td> <td>6' 2" (188 cm)</td> </tr> <tr class="data_row"> <td style="font-weight: bold;">Weight:</td> <td>205 (93 kg)</td> </tr> <tr class="data_row"> <td style="font-weight: bold;">Record:</td> <td>21-5-0</td> </tr> </tbody></table> </td> <td valign="top" width="185">

"The Iceman"​

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</td> <td align="right" valign="top" width="150"> <table class="data_table" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"> <tbody><tr class="data_row"> <td style="font-weight: bold;">Name:</td> <td>Mauricio Rua </td> </tr> <tr class="data_row"> <td style="font-weight: bold;">Height:</td> <td>6' 1" (185 cm)</td> </tr> <tr class="data_row"> <td style="font-weight: bold;">Weight:</td> <td>205 (93 kg)</td> </tr> <tr class="data_row"> <td style="font-weight: bold;">Record: </td> <td>17-3-0</td> </tr> </tbody></table> </td> <td align="right" valign="top" width="185">

"Shogun"​

</td> <td width="15"> </td> </tr> <tr> <td colspan="7" bgcolor="silver">
</td> </tr> </tbody></table>

<table class="data_table" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"> <tbody><tr class="data_title"> <td colspan="7"> Krzysztof Soszynski Vs. Brian Stann </td> </tr> <tr class="data_row"> <td width="15"> </td> <td valign="top" width="150"> <table class="data_table" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"> <tbody><tr class="data_row"> <td style="font-weight: bold;">Name:</td> <td>Krzysztof Soszynski</td> </tr> <tr class="data_row"> <td style="font-weight: bold;">Height:</td> <td>6' 1" (185 cm)</td> </tr> <tr class="data_row"> <td style="font-weight: bold;">Weight:</td> <td>205 (93 kg)</td> </tr> <tr class="data_row"> <td style="font-weight: bold;">Record:</td> <td>17-9-1</td> </tr> </tbody></table> </td> <td valign="top" width="185">

"The Polish Experiment"​

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</td> <td align="right" valign="top" width="150"> <table class="data_table" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"> <tbody><tr class="data_row"> <td style="font-weight: bold;">Name:</td> <td>Brian Stann </td> </tr> <tr class="data_row"> <td style="font-weight: bold;">Height:</td> <td>6' 1" (185 cm)</td> </tr> <tr class="data_row"> <td style="font-weight: bold;">Weight:</td> <td>205 (93 kg)</td> </tr> <tr class="data_row"> <td style="font-weight: bold;">Record: </td> <td>6-1-0</td> </tr> </tbody></table> </td> <td align="right" valign="top" width="185">

"All American"​

</td> <td width="15"> </td> </tr> <tr> <td colspan="7" bgcolor="silver">
</td> </tr> </tbody></table>

<table class="data_table" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"> <tbody><tr class="data_title"> <td colspan="7"> Cheick Kongo Vs. Antoni Hardonk </td> </tr> <tr class="data_row"> <td width="15"> </td> <td valign="top" width="150"> <table class="data_table" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"> <tbody><tr class="data_row"> <td style="font-weight: bold;">Name:</td> <td>Cheick Kongo</td> </tr> <tr class="data_row"> <td style="font-weight: bold;">Height:</td> <td>6' 4" (193 cm)</td> </tr> <tr class="data_row"> <td style="font-weight: bold;">Weight:</td> <td>240 (109 kg)</td> </tr> <tr class="data_row"> <td style="font-weight: bold;">Record:</td> <td>23-4-1</td> </tr> </tbody></table> </td> <td valign="top" width="185">

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</td> <td align="right" valign="top" width="150"> <table class="data_table" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"> <tbody><tr class="data_row"> <td style="font-weight: bold;">Name:</td> <td>Antoni Hardonk </td> </tr> <tr class="data_row"> <td style="font-weight: bold;">Height:</td> <td>6' 4" (193 cm)</td> </tr> <tr class="data_row"> <td style="font-weight: bold;">Weight:</td> <td>245 (111 kg)</td> </tr> <tr class="data_row"> <td style="font-weight: bold;">Record: </td> <td>8-4-0</td> </tr> </tbody></table> </td> <td align="right" valign="top" width="185">

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</td> <td width="15"> </td> </tr> <tr> <td colspan="7" bgcolor="silver">
</td> </tr> </tbody></table>

<table class="data_table" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"> <tbody><tr class="data_title"> <td colspan="7"> Steve Cantwell Vs. Luiz Cane </td> </tr> <tr class="data_row"> <td width="15"> </td> <td valign="top" width="150"> <table class="data_table" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"> <tbody><tr class="data_row"> <td style="font-weight: bold;">Name:</td> <td>Steve Cantwell</td> </tr> <tr class="data_row"> <td style="font-weight: bold;">Height:</td> <td>6' 2" (188 cm)</td> </tr> <tr class="data_row"> <td style="font-weight: bold;">Weight:</td> <td>205 (93 kg)</td> </tr> <tr class="data_row"> <td style="font-weight: bold;">Record:</td> <td>7-1-0</td> </tr> </tbody></table> </td> <td valign="top" width="185">

"Robot"​

</td> <td width="95">

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</td> <td align="right" valign="top" width="150"> <table class="data_table" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"> <tbody><tr class="data_row"> <td style="font-weight: bold;">Name:</td> <td>Luiz Cane </td> </tr> <tr class="data_row"> <td style="font-weight: bold;">Height:</td> <td>6' 2" (188 cm)</td> </tr> <tr class="data_row"> <td style="font-weight: bold;">Weight:</td> <td>205 (93 kg)</td> </tr> <tr class="data_row"> <td style="font-weight: bold;">Record: </td> <td>10-1-1</td> </tr> </tbody></table> </td> <td align="right" valign="top" width="185">

"Banha"​

</td> <td width="15"> </td> </tr> <tr> <td colspan="7" bgcolor="silver">
</td> </tr> </tbody></table>

<table class="data_table" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"> <tbody><tr class="data_title"> <td colspan="7"> Denis Kang Vs. Xavier Foupa-Pokam </td> </tr> <tr class="data_row"> <td width="15"> </td> <td valign="top" width="150"> <table class="data_table" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"> <tbody><tr class="data_row"> <td style="font-weight: bold;">Name:</td> <td>Denis Kang</td> </tr> <tr class="data_row"> <td style="font-weight: bold;">Height:</td> <td>5' 11" (180 cm)</td> </tr> <tr class="data_row"> <td style="font-weight: bold;">Weight:</td> <td>185 (84 kg)</td> </tr> <tr class="data_row"> <td style="font-weight: bold;">Record:</td> <td>31-11-1</td> </tr> </tbody></table> </td> <td valign="top" width="185">

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</td> <td width="95">

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</td> <td align="right" valign="top" width="150"> <table class="data_table" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"> <tbody><tr class="data_row"> <td style="font-weight: bold;">Name:</td> <td>Xavier Foupa-Pokam </td> </tr> <tr class="data_row"> <td style="font-weight: bold;">Height:</td> <td>n/a</td> </tr> <tr class="data_row"> <td style="font-weight: bold;">Weight:</td> <td>185 (84 kg)</td> </tr> <tr class="data_row"> <td style="font-weight: bold;">Record: </td> <td>
</td> </tr> </tbody></table> </td> <td align="right" valign="top" width="185">

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May not be broadcast. Click for details.​

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<table class="data_table" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"> <tbody><tr class="data_title"> <td colspan="7"> Jason MacDonald Vs. Nate Quarry </td> </tr> <tr class="data_row"> <td width="15"> </td> <td valign="top" width="150"> <table class="data_table" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"> <tbody><tr class="data_row"> <td style="font-weight: bold;">Name:</td> <td>Jason MacDonald</td> </tr> <tr class="data_row"> <td style="font-weight: bold;">Height:</td> <td>6' 3" (191 cm)</td> </tr> <tr class="data_row"> <td style="font-weight: bold;">Weight:</td> <td>185 (84 kg)</td> </tr> <tr class="data_row"> <td style="font-weight: bold;">Record:</td> <td>22-11-0</td> </tr> </tbody></table> </td> <td valign="top" width="185">

"The Athlete"​

</td> <td width="95">

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</td> <td align="right" valign="top" width="150"> <table class="data_table" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"> <tbody><tr class="data_row"> <td style="font-weight: bold;">Name:</td> <td>Nate Quarry </td> </tr> <tr class="data_row"> <td style="font-weight: bold;">Height:</td> <td>6' 0" (183 cm)</td> </tr> <tr class="data_row"> <td style="font-weight: bold;">Weight:</td> <td>185 (84 kg)</td> </tr> <tr class="data_row"> <td style="font-weight: bold;">Record: </td> <td>16-3-0</td> </tr> </tbody></table> </td> <td align="right" valign="top" width="185">

"Rock"​

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May not be broadcast. Click for details.​

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<table class="data_table" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"> <tbody><tr class="data_title"> <td colspan="7"> David Loiseau Vs. Ed Herman </td> </tr> <tr class="data_row"> <td width="15"> </td> <td valign="top" width="150"> <table class="data_table" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"> <tbody><tr class="data_row"> <td style="font-weight: bold;">Name:</td> <td>David Loiseau</td> </tr> <tr class="data_row"> <td style="font-weight: bold;">Height:</td> <td>6' 0" (183 cm)</td> </tr> <tr class="data_row"> <td style="font-weight: bold;">Weight:</td> <td>184 (83 kg)</td> </tr> <tr class="data_row"> <td style="font-weight: bold;">Record:</td> <td>15-5-0</td> </tr> </tbody></table> </td> <td valign="top" width="185">

"The Crow"​

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</td> <td align="right" valign="top" width="150"> <table class="data_table" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"> <tbody><tr class="data_row"> <td style="font-weight: bold;">Name:</td> <td>Ed Herman </td> </tr> <tr class="data_row"> <td style="font-weight: bold;">Height:</td> <td>6' 2" (188 cm)</td> </tr> <tr class="data_row"> <td style="font-weight: bold;">Weight:</td> <td>185 (84 kg)</td> </tr> <tr class="data_row"> <td style="font-weight: bold;">Record: </td> <td>16-6-0</td> </tr> </tbody></table> </td> <td align="right" valign="top" width="185">

"Short Fuse"​

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May not be broadcast. Click for details.​

</td> </tr> </tbody></table>

<table class="data_table" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"> <tbody><tr class="data_title"> <td colspan="7"> Mark Bocek Vs. David Bielkheden </td> </tr> <tr class="data_row"> <td width="15"> </td> <td valign="top" width="150"> <table class="data_table" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"> <tbody><tr class="data_row"> <td style="font-weight: bold;">Name:</td> <td>Mark Bocek</td> </tr> <tr class="data_row"> <td style="font-weight: bold;">Height:</td> <td>5' 8" (173 cm)</td> </tr> <tr class="data_row"> <td style="font-weight: bold;">Weight:</td> <td>155 (70 kg)</td> </tr> <tr class="data_row"> <td style="font-weight: bold;">Record:</td> <td>6-2-0</td> </tr> </tbody></table> </td> <td valign="top" width="185">

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</td> <td width="95">

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</td> <td align="right" valign="top" width="150"> <table class="data_table" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"> <tbody><tr class="data_row"> <td style="font-weight: bold;">Name:</td> <td>David Bielkheden </td> </tr> <tr class="data_row"> <td style="font-weight: bold;">Height:</td> <td>5' 10" (178 cm)</td> </tr> <tr class="data_row"> <td style="font-weight: bold;">Weight:</td> <td>155 (70 kg)</td> </tr> <tr class="data_row"> <td style="font-weight: bold;">Record: </td> <td>13-6-0</td> </tr> </tbody></table> </td> <td align="right" valign="top" width="185">

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May not be broadcast. Click for details.​

</td> </tr> </tbody></table>

<table class="data_table" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"> <tbody><tr class="data_title"> <td colspan="7"> Ryo Chonan Vs. TJ Grant </td> </tr> <tr class="data_row"> <td width="15"> </td> <td valign="top" width="150"> <table class="data_table" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"> <tbody><tr class="data_row"> <td style="font-weight: bold;">Name:</td> <td>Ryo Chonan</td> </tr> <tr class="data_row"> <td style="font-weight: bold;">Height:</td> <td>5' 9" (175 cm)</td> </tr> <tr class="data_row"> <td style="font-weight: bold;">Weight:</td> <td>170 (77 kg)</td> </tr> <tr class="data_row"> <td style="font-weight: bold;">Record:</td> <td>15-9-0</td> </tr> </tbody></table> </td> <td valign="top" width="185">

"Piranha"​

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</td> <td align="right" valign="top" width="150"> <table class="data_table" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"> <tbody><tr class="data_row"> <td style="font-weight: bold;">Name:</td> <td>TJ Grant </td> </tr> <tr class="data_row"> <td style="font-weight: bold;">Height:</td> <td>n/a</td> </tr> <tr class="data_row"> <td style="font-weight: bold;">Weight:</td> <td>170 (77 kg)</td> </tr> <tr class="data_row"> <td style="font-weight: bold;">Record: </td> <td>
</td> </tr> </tbody></table> </td> <td align="right" valign="top" width="185">

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</td> <td width="15"> </td> </tr> <tr> <td colspan="7" bgcolor="silver">

May not be broadcast. Click for details.​

</td> </tr> </tbody></table>

<table class="data_table" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"><tbody><tr class="data_title"> <td colspan="7"> Sam Stout Vs. Matt Wiman </td> </tr> <tr class="data_row"> <td width="15"> </td> <td valign="top" width="150"> <table class="data_table" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"> <tbody><tr class="data_row"> <td style="font-weight: bold;">Name:</td> <td>Sam Stout</td> </tr> <tr class="data_row"> <td style="font-weight: bold;">Height:</td> <td>5' 9" (175 cm)</td> </tr> <tr class="data_row"> <td style="font-weight: bold;">Weight:</td> <td>155 (70 kg)</td> </tr> <tr class="data_row"> <td style="font-weight: bold;">Record:</td> <td>14-5-1</td> </tr> </tbody></table> </td> <td valign="top" width="185">

"Hands of Stone"​

</td> <td width="95">

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</td> <td align="right" valign="top" width="150"> <table class="data_table" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"> <tbody><tr class="data_row"> <td style="font-weight: bold;">Name:</td> <td>Matt Wiman </td> </tr> <tr class="data_row"> <td style="font-weight: bold;">Height:</td> <td>5' 10" (178 cm)</td> </tr> <tr class="data_row"> <td style="font-weight: bold;">Weight:</td> <td>155 (70 kg)</td> </tr> <tr class="data_row"> <td style="font-weight: bold;">Record: </td> <td>10-4-0</td> </tr> </tbody></table> </td> <td align="right" valign="top" width="185">

"Handsome"​

</td> <td width="15"> </td></tr></tbody></table>

 

[CrimsonK]

Brian Stann +160 to Popov vodka??? I'll take the Marine at that price all day

 

[Avarice]

No line yet on Kongo/Hardonk? Be curious to see what it is.

 

[CrimsonK]

Kongo -140??? Purely a guess.. Interesting matchup with the kick boxing

 

[Avarice]

I think he will be more expensive than that.

 

[CrimsonK]

He certainly could be

 

[CrimsonK]

Kongo -140??? Purely a guess.. Interesting matchup with the kick boxing

Kongo -310 :seeya:


Hardonk +250 is a must play IMO

 

[mogo]

Kongo -310


Hardonk +250 is a must play IMO

i agree.... you'd have to be insane to lay -310 on Kongo!!!!

 

[laffit]

i agree.... you'd have to be insane to lay -310 on Kongo!!!!

i agree, id never lay -310 on kongo. but... i dont like hardonk either. kongo is more talented than hardonk and they will be trying to do the same thing. i will be passing on this one.

 

[spooks]

Shogan looks decent, given he piss poor performances ever since he came into the octagon. He was very good in Pride, but cant put much weight on Pride fighters coming into the UFC these days.

Chuck of-course will keep the fight standing, but if Rua can take him down, he has a good shot of beating him.

 

[mcdrewcarey187]

Shogan looks decent, given he piss poor performances ever since he came into the octagon. He was very good in Pride, but cant put much weight on Pride fighters coming into the UFC these days.

Chuck of-course will keep the fight standing, but if Rua can take him down, he has a good shot of beating him.

After winning money on that Rua Coleman fight. I could NEVER again put money on Rua. That was the ugliest victory I've ever seen. The only play I may make is Krystoff no way he loses his first fight

 

[CrimsonK]

After winning money on that Rua Coleman fight. I could NEVER again put money on Rua. That was the ugliest victory I've ever seen. The only play I may make is Krystoff no way he loses his first fight

I disagree.. I like Stann as a dog in this one. I don't see a big difference in either fighter that the line indicates. Should be closer to a pick IMO

 

[ahitspat]

i think a fighter like rua is taylor made for big chuck backward ko

 

[spooks]

After winning money on that Rua Coleman fight. I could NEVER again put money on Rua. That was the ugliest victory I've ever seen. The only play I may make is Krystoff no way he loses his first fight

Yeah...ever since he came into the UFC, along with other Pride fighters, he doesn't seem the same. That fight against Coleman was a rematch, in which he lost to Coleman in Pride from a dislocated elbow. Shogun needs this win more than Iceman, I wouldn't trust Chuck at that price either....

 

[mogo]

bump - just a few weeks away....

 

[Avarice]

While I hate going againt the more promoted fighter (Krzysztof), I like Stann's chances here.

I'll be on Cantwell.

Lean towards Chuck but I'm not willing to put my money on either of these guys right now.

Won't lay -310 on Kongo but I think he dominates here so won't be putting anything on Hardonk.

I like Nate Quarry.

 

[Pincher]

Quote:
<table width="100%" border="0" cellpadding="6" cellspacing="0"> <tbody><tr> <td class="alt2" style="border: 1px inset ;"> Originally Posted by mcdrewcarey187
After winning money on that Rua Coleman fight. I could NEVER again put money on Rua. That was the ugliest victory I've ever seen. The only play I may make is Krystoff no way he loses his first fight
</td> </tr> </tbody></table>

Yeah...ever since he came into the UFC, along with other Pride fighters, he doesn't seem the same. That fight against Coleman was a rematch, in which he lost to Coleman in Pride from a dislocated elbow. Shogun needs this win more than Iceman, I wouldn't trust Chuck at that price either....

One big reason...Pride - no roid testing - UFC - roid testing...

 

[bvmajik]

I love seeing the conspiracy theories surrounding why pride fighters do worse in the ufc :]

Chuck is gonna KO Rua. Rua could barely finish a guy that gassed in the first round. His "aggressive" style lends him to getting KOed by one of the best counter punchers in the game.

 

[Pincher]

I agree 100% on Chuck vs Rua...that display against coleman was was embarrassing...

I also like MacDonald to submit Quarry.

 

[spooks]

I'll take a shot with Shogun at that price....

Key is IF he can take Chuck down, he has chance for a submission. But, when was the last time Chuck got dominated on the ground?....Couture 1st fight!!!

Given the way Rua has performed in his last fights....this might be a snoozer and go to the judges....I wouldn't be surprised.

 

[spooks]

I love seeing the conspiracy theories surrounding why pride fighters do worse in the ufc :]

Cant argue the fact that when Pride existed, many have speculated who has the better fighters. Kind of like WCW vs. WWF at that time of existence....

Rules are differen't in both organization between Pride and UFC and of-course ring and octagon....which can be an advantage/disadvantage. Ala....Cro-Cop!!!

 

[bvmajik]

Don't get me wrong, I wasn't cutting anyone down. It's just always fun to hear why pride fighters don't do well in the ufc (minus spider, rampage, hendo of course) :]

It'll be good to see the crow back in action! Should be a fun night if silva shows up ready to tango.

 

[Pincher]

http://www.mmalinker.com/news/29185/UFC_97.html

FYI

 

[Avarice]

Bump - This Saturday.

Still looking at the same plays.

Quarry
Cantwell
Stann
If the odds work out to be decent Kongo/Silva parlay

 

[Pincher]

link wont take...

Anderson Silva vs Thales Leites

In the main event of UFC 97 , highly Pound for Pound ranked Anderson Silva puts his middleweight belt on the line against Thales Leites. Anderson has defended his belt successfully on many occasions and will look to keep on rolling as champ. Leites gets his title shot after a very questionable decision win over Nate Marquardt , which was a split decision even though Nate was penalized for fouls. Getting to the fight ,I dont see how Leites can last on his feet with Silva , he can take a shot but Silva will hit you so many times that even if u have a good chin and can take a shot you will go down through a flurry of strikes. Grappling wise Leites is better but I expect Silva to avoid getting close to Leites and just making it a striking battle , no reason to mess around on the ground where he can be submitted. Im sure Anderson can stay out of trouble on the ground for a while because hes no slouch there but staying there may lead to a submission by Leites,so keeping it on the feet where he is at a huge advantage would be the best thing to do. If Silva can avoid getting taken down and strike with Leites I think it will be a short night and Leites will probably be finished with a sweet looking combination.

Silva via 2nd rd KO

CHUCK LIDDELL vs. MAURICIO SHOGUN

12 events after it was orginally slated to occur, finally at UFC 97 longtime UFC light heavyweight champion Chuck Liddell will face PRIDE 2005 MW GP champion, Mauricio Shogun. Both fighters are coming off some very poor performances, as Chuck has lost 3 of his last 4 to Quinton Rampage Jackson, Keith Jardine and Rashad Evans while Shogun has gone 1-1 in the UFC with a loss to Forrest Griffin and a win over Mark Coleman, yet the poor performances can be traced all the way back to his fights with Kazuhiro Nakamura and Alistair Overeem. Chuck is known as one of the most devastating counterpunches in MMA history, holding the one-punch KO power to put just about anyone to sleep, and great takedown defence to boot. Shogun became known in PRIDE for his furious pace, slick muay thai and BJJ, yet his cardio and technique has looked awful in his last few apperances. As much as I would love to pick Shogun here, I cant do it. This fight fits the mould for something Chuck should win, as Shogun likes to come forward while Chuck will welcome him in and successfully counter. I doubt Shogun can drag this to the mat, but if he somehow manages to I think if he can hold Chuck down he could take the fight, but this is highly unlikely in my opinion. Shogun hasnt been KOd before and while Chuck would be the one to do it, I dont see it happening. Shogun will most likely gas and get picked apart by Chuck in what should be an entertaining scrap for the majority of the fight, while Chuck takes home the unanimous decision.

Liddell via unanimous decision.

Krzysztof Soszynski vs Brian Stann

TUF 8 and IFL Veteran Krzysztof Soszynski takes on former WEC Light Heavyweight champion Brain Stann in this bout at UFC 97. This fight promises to be a good stand up battle , Stann makes his first appearance in the UFC coming over from the WEC merge and Soszynski is fighting for the first time since the TUF Finale. I dont think either guy is going to try and grapple as these guys like to strike and I think are pretty well matched there. I give an advantage to Soszynski on the feet but a small one , at times Stann looked lackluster against Cantwell but still has shown he is an explosive and competent striker in the past. Soszynski is a solid striker himself and wouldnt be surprised if either took home a win honestly but I think Stann is the harder hitter to top that. Either fighter might be wise to use a combination of takedowns and striking to take home a win but I see a close and drawn out striking battle between these two. This is definitely one of the harder fights to call on this card, no doubt about that.

Soszynski via UD

CHEICK KONGO vs. ANTONI HARDONK

A fight that promises to be an enjoyable one, as UFC HW contender (?) Cheick Kongo takes on Dutch kickboxer Antoni Hardonk. Kongo started to turn heads two years ago with wins over veteran Assuerio Silva and the highly regarded Mirko Cro Cop, yet fell of the horse with a loss to Heath Herring. Now riding a 2 fight win streak consisting of two TKOs, Kongo looks to make a run at the tetle. Hardonk has had mixed success in his UFC career, going 4-2, but is now riding a 3 fight win streak into this bout. Im sure most people will be picking Kongo here, but I think this is probably the best underdog bet you can make on this card, as I think Hardonk is going to take this. Kongo is a good striker, yet he is slow no matter how you look at it. Also, he has got to be one of the most stupid MMA fighters in the game today, often trying to grapple with people who he has no business trying to grapple and putting himself in guillotine chokes on more than one occasion. Kongo has a wrestling edge over Hardonk, but Antoni is the better grappler and the far better striker in my opinion. The only weakness I see in Antoni is how he holds his hands, as he is more accustomed to fighting kickboxing and doesnt really seem to notice that there isnt as much room for error when wearing 4oz gloves, often leading to him taking unneccesary shots. However, Hardonk will no less chop down Kongo with leg kicks throughout the first and finish the fight after hurting Kongo with a punch in the second, as Mr.Perfect prospect Hardonk scores a perfect upset, to the delight of Cro Cop fans all over the world.

Hardonk via second round TKO.

Steve Cantwell vs Luis Cane

Very good battle of two rising talents here and Im looking forward to it. Luis Cane after his win over Sokoudjou takes on Steve Cantwell who is also coming of a win , his coming by armbar at Fight For The Troops. Should be a good striking match , Cane really impressed me against Sokoudjou and Lambert while Cantwell impressed me with a submission win and also great win over Brian Stann , taking his belt. Cane has advantage on the feet in my eyes and I think that will decide the outcome of this fight , he is really on a roll right now and Cantwell is not the man to stop him. Cantwell in his own right is a good talent and can give a lot of people a great fight , he definitely is not gonna make it easy for Cane. Finishing the fight for Cane will be a tough task I think , although he has the skills to do it. Cantwell will probably try to strike which I think is just a battle he cant win against Cane.

Cane via UD

ELIOT MARSHALL vs. VINNY MAGALHAES

Two veterans of TUF8 and the sport of BJJ collide here as Eliot Marshall takes on BJJ world champion Vinny Magalhaes. This fight I guess could be somewhat hard to call, as Eliot is a decently well-rounded fighter, having some good wrestling, a black belt in BJJ and some OK kickboxing skills. Vinny has only that he is a world class BJJ player in the sport of MMA, almost akin to a Dean Lister of sorts. If Eliot could keep this on the feet and outstrike Vinny he can take this fight with ease, while his stand up is slow a predictable, it is definitely good enough to take out Vinny. Yet, most likely Marshall will go to the ground with Vinny as some point and get submitted. While Marshall is a game BJJ practioner himself, he isnt on Vinnys level.

Magalhaes via first round submission.

Denis Kang vs Xavier Foupa - Pokam

One of MMAs most disappointing fighters Denis Kang (this coming from someone who roots for him and is personally affected by each loss) , returns to the Octagon to face Cyrill Diabate trained Xavier Foupa-Pokam. Kang returns after his stunning submission loss to Alan Belcher while Professor X makes his debut coming off a sick looking KO at PFC over Kyacey Uscola. A standing edge clearly goes to Xavier but grappling wise is clear for Kang. I think Kang should not mess around in this fight at all, he needs a win here. Focus on getting the fight to the ground , not testing his standup at all. Kang can survive standing because he has good striking but if he stays there it can lead to bad times for him. If he can get a takedown he can submit Proffesor X no doubt. Prof. X has some submission defense but I think Kang will be too much to handle on the ground for him. He has good takedowns so it should be no problem to get. I personally will be hoping for a Kang win.

Kang via 2nd rd Submission

Jason MacDonald vs Nate Quarry

Good fight here , The Athlete Jason Macdonald takes on TUF 1 vet Nate Quarry. Coincidentally both of these guys have been submitted by Demian Maia in recent fights. This fight should be entertaining , Jason is a great grappler while Nate is a wrestler who likes to strike , so clash of styles perhaps. I think Jason can get a takedown on Nate if he wants one , he can pull guard if necessary and probably get a submission this way as well. I give him a big edge in the grappling game while I give Quarry a striking edge. Nate can win this one by sprawling and striking but I cant see him avoiding all attempts , and one is all J-Mac will need I think , then the submission will come. Quarrys takedown defense isnt the best , but Im sure it will take a few attempts to get him down from MacDonald. On the ground I just say its a matter of time before J-Mac works for a finish on Quarry , ill say in the second round.

MacDonald via 2nd rd Submission

ED HERMAN vs. DAVID LOISEAU

Excited for this fight, even if ill probably have to wait a bit to see it as UFC veteran David The Crow Loiseau returns to take on TUF3 runner up Ed Herman on the preliminary card of UFC 97. Loiseau is a former number one contender for the UFC middleweight belt and is now riding a 3 fight win streak (one that should be 5, since he was robbed against Jason Day in HCF). Herman is coming off of two straight losses to Demian Maia and Alan Belcher, with wins over Scott Smith and Joe Doerksen before this. First off I will say I am pretty biased for this fight as Im glad to see David back in the UFC and hope he takes this one home, as Herman faces the UFC axe with the possibility of three straight losses looming over his head. Loiseau we all know is longtime friends with GSP and trains out of Tristar Vale Tudo with the welterweight champion and also trains with Greg Jacksons Submission Fighting. Loiseau does have a good kickboxing base, and is known for his devastating elbows on the feet and when he is on top. Also, ever improving is Loiseaus takedown defence, training with the calibur of wrestler that GSP is and other people like Rashad Evans. Herman is more known as a decent wrestler and grappler, yet with questionable stand up and submission defence. Hermans cardio also didnt look the best against Belcher and I expect more of the same here. Ed will have a difficult time getting Loiseau to the mat and just get outclassed on the feet in my opinion. After Davids loss to Jason Day, he went back and worked heavily on his cardio and in his 5 round fight with Soloman Hutcherson his cardio looked much improved, which is another area he will shine here. This all leads to an impressive unanimous decision win for The Crow.

Loiseau via unanimous decision.

DAVID BIELKHEDEN vs. MARK BOCEK

A decent lightweight attraction here on the prelims as two talented grapplers met as The Scandinavian Lion David Bielkheden takes on Canadian Mark Bocek. Bielkheden is a product of BTT, earning his BJJ black belt under Murilo Bustamante and has competed all across the world in ADCC, Shooto, Cage Rage, PRIDE and now the UFC. Bielkheden failed in his debut at 170lbs to Diego Sanchez and then rebounded with a win over Jess Liaudin after shedding 15lbs to drop to LW. Also, in the past he has a win over Charles McCarthy and notable losses to Ryuta Sakurai and Mitsuhiro Ishida. Bocek had a tough debut in the organization as well, taking on Frankie Edgar, losing that fight by TKO and then going 2-1 since that fight with wins over Doug Evans and Alvin Robinson, with a loss to Mac Danzig. Bocek also has switched camps throughout his MMA career, going from Nova Uniao, to Team Quest, to Xtreme Couture and now has found a home at ATT. This fight in my opinion is pretty easy to call, while Bielkheden may hold a size advantage, I think Bocek is the much better wrestler and in general a better grappler and MMA fighter. Hopefully we will see some nice scrambles in this one which Bocek has become known for in his fights, yet the wrestling and superior grappling will lead Mark to take home a comfortable unanimous decision.

Bocek via unanimous decision.

Ryo Chonan vs TJ Grant

UFC newcomer TJ Grant faces PRIDE veteran Ryo Chonan in this UFC 97 Preliminary battle. Grant is clearly a submission specialist with 13 wins ,12 by submission. A 13-2 record in total. I think he is way in over his head here against Chonan as Chonan is very hard to submit and is tough as nails, on a side note many people thought he beat Brad Blackburn in his last fight as he dominated the last round but due to the ten point must system he lost , losing the first two rounds clearly to Brad. Grant will probably look to go for a takedown , judging from one fight I saw of Grant in TKO his takedowns are okay and he has striking that is not on Chonans level and Chonan has good defense and submission defense. Striking Chonan has a hard head and very good striking , once Grant is frustrated by the fact that he cant do much to Chonan on the ground I think Chonan will exploit his advantage and end this.

Chonan via 2nd rd KO

SAM STOUT vs. MATT WIMAN

Another prelim im looking forward to as Hands of Stone Sam Stout returns to take on TUF veteran Matt Wiman in a lightweight bout. Stout is coming off two straight losses to Terry Etim and Rich Clementi via controversial decision, while in the past holding wins over Spencer Fisher, Fabio Hollanda, and Per Eklund with losses to Kenny Florian and Fisher. Wiman looked set to become a legitimate contender in the UFC LW division after knocking out then highly regarded Thiago Tavares, yet his last loss to Jim Miller has taken him back a few steps. This fight is definitely tough to call, I can see an argument for either fighter winning. Wiman is fairly well rounded, being versed in all the areas of MMA yet being a true master in none, while Stout is known for his cardio, takedown defence and kickboxing, yet his grappling off his back still leaves fans with something to desire. As tough as this fight is to call, I think Stout will win it. I think his takedown defence will cause Wiman some problems as he will no doubt want this fight on the mat. Also, Wiman got beat to the punch by Jim Miller, and Stout is much faster than both of these guys and has a few inches of reach on both. Wimans cardio also wasnt the best in his last apperance and I feel that Stout will win a decision just based on being the harder working fighter and constantly coming forward on Wiman.

Stout via unanimous decision.

Meyers picks
-

loiseau via third round TKO
bocek via unanimous decision
wiman via unanimous decision
magalhaes via first round submission
hardonk via unanimous decision
shogun via unanimous decision
silva via second round KO
cane via unanimous decision
macdonald via second round submission
soszynski via unanimous decision
chonan via second round KO
kang via second round submission

Matts picks

 

[Pincher]

ahhh god, be sure to highlight the green before reading, so as not to go blind in the process, sorry about that.

 

[mcdrewcarey187]

I'm gonna be on Liddell and Krystov both to win 2 units

 

[mcdrewcarey187]

Does anybody see a line for the Marshall/Vinny fight?

 

[Pincher]

nope. 5 dimes puts up MANY more option come fight day...maybe tomorrow...

 

[mogo]

sorry guys, i'm a bit preoccupied with other things at the moment.... BOL on your plays! :shake:

 

[mogo]

Performify's Picks for "UFC 97: Redemption," Silva vs. Leites

Results of 2-3 for +1.66 units for UFC 96 brings the running total for my public predictions since UFC 75 to 76-57 for +30.285 units.

As usual, except where otherwise indicated, all lines are current market lines from MMAjunkie.com's recommended sportsbook, Bodog. It's easy to open an account at Bodog; you can fund your Bodog account with as little as $25 and bet as little as $1 on fights. Until you've experienced the added excitement of betting on MMA, you really haven't watched MMA. Having your heart race when "your" fighter steps into the cage – even if you've only got a few dollars in play – is a feeling like none other. (But you should only wager you'd feel comfortable losing. Keep it fun.)

If you're interested in learning more about betting on MMA, be sure to check out our MMAjunkie.com MMA Wagering Guide series, which allows even the most novice bettor to be a long-term winner wagering on MMA. You can also stay up to date with the latest MMA and UFC odds directly via our new UFC Odds page.

Anderson Silva (-600) vs. Thales Leites (+475)

Seemingly invincible, middleweight titleholder Anderson "The Spider" Silva (23-4 MMA, 8-0 UFC) looks to defend his crown for the fifth straight time when he takes on fellow Brazilian Thales Leites (14-1 MMA, 5-1 UFC).

Silva needs little introduction; he's perhaps the most dominant UFC fighter of the modern era, a Muay Thai specialist who also holds a Brazilian jiu-jitsu black belt under Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira. His opponent is primarily a grappler, holding a BJJ black belt himself under Welton Ribeiro.

I am extremely surprised to find several people I respect advocating Leites as a smart underdog bet here. Those who are advocating the play will point to how easily Silva was taken to the mat by past opponents, including Rich Franklin, Travis Lutter, Dan Henderson and Nate Marquardt. Those pundits will claim that the roadmap for defeating Silva is via a stifling top game. While I couldn't agree more on the latter point, I believe Leites is far from the right person to be able to bite back against The Spider.

Leites is a well-regarded jiu-jitsu practitioner, but I believe he is significantly outclassed in this fight. His most impressive career win to date is effectively a unanimous-decision loss to Nate Marquardt, which he won only on a series of marginal fouls.

Leites has, in my opinion, far from the stifling top game that will be necessary if someone is ever to defeat Silva. He was able to secure mount on three fighters in his recent past: Pete Sell, Martin Kampmann and Nate Marquardt. Against all three, not only was Leites completely unable to capitalize on MMA's most dominant position, he was in fact unable to hold mount against all three! Marquardt is an elite-level grappler and one of the strongest fighters at 185, so that can be forgiven. However, Kampmann (while underrated on the ground) is not an elite grappler and was one of the physically smallest guys at 185 (such that he's now fighting at 170 pounds). Pete Sell is far from an elite grappler.

Silva's credentials on the ground are also frequently underrated. He is a legitimate black belt under a highly touted practitioner and has the MMA jiu-jitsu chops to roll with the best in the world. His defense off his back and his ability to effectively transition and protect himself is world-class. Look at his ability to recover from full mount by Lutter and to completely stifle and negate both Marquardt and Dan Henderson, who together possess perhaps the No. 1 and No. 2 jiu-jitsu top games at middleweight.

Silva is one of the largest, strongest fighters at 185 pounds. Between his underrated jiu-jitsu skills, his excellent defense, his amazing transition ability and his extreme strength and leverage, I expect that he should not have any problems at all with Leites on top of him. I'd go as far as to say that I'd probably bet Silva at even money if the fight started with Leites in full mount.

In the stand-up department, Leites will simply get destroyed. He has shown an overwhelming propensity to get hit frequently by all classes of opponents. He was significantly outclassed standing by Kampmann in their fight (and Silva is light years more dangerous than Kampmann, even though Kampmann is a well-regarded kickboxer in his own right).

I believe, for the reasons I outlined above, that Leites is far from the effective stylistic match for Silva that some claim and instead is perhaps the worst possible stylistic match for facing The Spider. He tends to get hit a lot, which is a recipe for unmitigated disaster against Silva. He has shown a complete inability to hold top position against competition significantly steps below Silva, which means even if he can use his below-average wrestling and takedowns to get the fight down, he's extremely unlikely to be able to capitalize or hold position.

I believe Leites has essentially no clean, clear paths to victory, outside of the usual statistical outliers like a freak submission or flash punch. Leites has zero clean knockouts on his record, only two TKOs, and neither coming by way of the referee (one was a doctor stoppage and the other a corner stoppage back in 2004 in Brazil).

While anything can happen in MMA and there's always the "puncher's chance" phenomenon, there's very little reason to think that Leites will suddenly develop KO power against an opponent as fearsome as Silva, who has never been knocked out or even been on the receiving end of a TKO. Leites' best chance is perhaps to pull guard early and try to secure a triangle or armbar from his back, but with Silva's excellent jiu-jitsu defensive skills, that is extremely unlikely as well.

I believe Silva at -600 is still being significantly undervalued in this fight. I would comfortably bet Silva for value here up to approximately -800. Anderson Silva by KO in the first round to set the UFC record for consecutive wins at nine.

Anderson Silva line via Bookmaker.com

Chuck Liddell (-190) vs. Mauricio Rua (+160)

Once considered one of the UFC's most dominant champions following a championship victory and four title defenses (from 2005 to 2007), 39-year-old Chuck Liddell (21-6 MMA, 17-5 UFC) is now 1-3 in his past four fights.

The unfortunate streak included knockout losses to Quinton Jackson and Rashad Evans, a split-decision defeat to Keith Jardine and a narrow unanimous-decision win over Wanderlei Silva.

It has been two-and-a-half years since Liddell's most recent knockout win (Tito Ortiz at UFC 66).

Once widely regarded as one of the top light heavyweights in the world, Mauricio "Shogun" Rua (17-3 MMA, 1-1 UFC) has lost a lot of luster in the eyes of pundits and fans after two knee surgeries and a slow recovery process hindered his performances in a 2007 loss to Forrest Griffin and a lackluster win over Mark Coleman in January. The 27-year-old has the profile of a classic Brazilian mixed martial artist: a specialist in Muay Thai and a black belt in Brazilian jiu jitsu (under esteemed master Nino Schembri).

Popular opinion is that Rua is a tailor-made opponent for Liddell to KO, thanks to Rua's aggressiveness and Chute Boxe's history of looping punches and toe-to-toe fighting. As with the Silva vs. Leites fight, I'm on the other side of most critical opinion here as well; I think Rua will easily handle Liddell here, for several reasons.

First, I believe that many people are significantly misinterpreting information from Rua's past two fights, especially his most recent against Coleman at UFC 93. Reports of Rua having terrible conditioning based on this fight are drastically overstated; I've studied that fight dozens of times, and while his conditioning definitely wasn't top notch, what most people are regarding as extremely poor conditioning by "Shogun" is more so a combination of ring rust after 16 months between fights and more importantly a blatant disregard for the power of his opponent later in the fight.

Specifically, in latter rounds Rua has been widely perceived as gassing due to dropping his hands and wildly exchanging with Coleman for several minutes without a finish. In my opinion, this is an erroneous observation. I believe that Rua was not nearly as gassed as most conclude and instead that he correctly recognized that Coleman was significantly gassed, significantly hurt, and presented almost no threat on the feet. As such, Rua was happy to drop his defenses entirely and unload on Coleman. The fact that his hands were at his side in latter rounds was not as much due to gas-tank problems (though a partial factor) but more so due to a complete lack of offensive threat from his opponent.

That he couldn't more quickly put Coleman away in the third round I ascribe more to both ring rust (sloppy punching resulting from time away from the fight game) and Coleman's overall toughness. Coleman, after all, had only been stopped by strikes twice prior in his 13-year career (by a prime Mirko "Cro Cop" Filipovic in PRIDE in 2005 and by a highlight-reel head kick by Pete Williams back at UFC 17 in 1998). Coleman even took the best of Fedor Emelianenko's standup assault for a full round before he was submitted by an armbar early in the second round of their fight.

Rua's struggles against Griffin in their fight have been well documented, but I believe many fail to accurately account for the extemporaneous factors in that fight as well. I think it's safe to say that Rua took Griffin lightly seeing how he didn't hold a full, traditional training camp due to getting married right in the weeks prior to the fight. And I believe had the usual violent adjustment period to the UFC that is typical of the former PRIDE fighters as they discovered their American counterparts were fighting 20-plus pounds heavier than their fighting weight )compared to those in the Japanese organizations who rarely cut weight). Griffin deserves full credit for the legitimate win, but I believe it's a mistake to automatically assume that a second fight, which wouldn't be Rua's UFC debut and would allow him a full training camp, would turn out the same way.

While it's no startling revelation or cutting insight to say that I believe Liddell is well past his peak, I think his recent record (1-3 in his past four fights) is extremely telling. I think the fact that he was unable to put away Silva despite hitting him with everything he had demonstrates that he's decreased significantly in both hand speed and power; Silva came in to their fight off consecutive light-switch flash knockouts by "Cro Cop" and Dan Henderson and yet was able to go toe to toe with Liddell at length without being dropped (let alone stopped).

Counter-punchers traditionally have a very steep fall off at the end of their careers. They build their primary fighting style on the fact that their speed and power enable them to punish opponents at every opening. When their hand speed reduces to the point that they can no longer effectively counter, they cannot usually shift their lifelong striking philosophy to become a lead puncher. When their power reduces to the point that those counters are no longer devastating, not only are they reduced in what they can land and forced out of their comfort zone in striking due to the speed change, but when they do land they do so with such reduced power that their whole game unravels abruptly. The best example of this fall off comes from Roy Jones Jr.; he was without a doubt one of boxing's career greats, but he hit an absolute wall in 2004 and dropped three consecutive fights despite being favored to win in the first two.

I believe history is going to show the same progression to Liddell's 2007-2009 career in retrospect. I respect Liddell greatly as a pioneer of the sport, and I know he has one of the most loyal fanbases, but I do not believe the decision victory over a clearly aging Silva was the turning point in the revival of his career. Instead, like Jones Jr. defeating a clearly aged Felix Trinidad in early 2008, it was a lone bright spot amidst a sharp decline courtesy a carefully crafted opponent.

I believe this fight will sadly illuminate in crystal-clear detail the decline of a UFC legend, but it should serve as a key moment of rebirth for "Shogun," who I still believe has the talent and athleticism to be a top-three fighter at 205 pounds in the UFC.

I expect Rua to come out and use his Muay Thai skills to score from range initially. As esteemed as Jardine's leg kicks are, Rua has equally deadly leg kicks, if not even more deadly. Look for Rua to follow the initial roadmap set out by Jardine, punishing Liddell with leg kicks while more effectively peppering in kicks to the body and head to keep his opponent further off balance and unable to effectively counter. If Liddell gets in trouble in the standup game and is unable to close range, he's in more danger if he takes the fight to the ground. Liddell has greatly underrated offensive MMA wrestling skills, but Rua has significantly more dangerous jiu-jitsu skills and most definitely has the tools to finish the fight on the ground.

I expect a surprisingly one-sided fight with Rua securing a TKO victory in the second round.

For those interested in a look inside Rua's camp, here's a quick video from our friends at Bad Boy MMA:

<EMBED src=http://blip.tv/play/AfqoFQA width=512 height=300 type=application/x-shockwave-flash allowfullscreen="true" allowscriptaccess="always"></EMBED>​

Mauricio Rua line via Bookmaker.com

Krzysztof Soszynski (-155) vs. Brian Stann (+140)

Team Quest fighter Krzysztof Soszynski (16-8-1 MMA, 1-0 UFC) is a veteran of the IFL who is currently riding a four-fight win streak, whiwch was capped off by a submission victory over Shane Primm in his UFC debut at The Ultimate Fighter 8 Finale. Soszynski was a contestant on the eighth season of "The Ultimate Fighter," where he lost in the semifinals to eventual show runner-up Vinicius Magalhaes.

Brian Stann (6-1 MMA, 0-0 UFC) is a former WEC fighter – and former WEC champion – who is making his UFC debut. Stann won his first five fights in the WEC, all by TKO or KO, before being badly exposed by Steve Cantwell at WEC 35.

Stann and Soszynski are both exciting, undisciplined strikers and could put on a heck of a show if they decide to stand toe to toe. Both have knockout power, and neither are particularly technically sound or accurate. Stann is more athletic, has a bit crisper striking and a bit more power, and Soszynski has a poor habit of swinging with his head down. But Stann is at a significant disadvantage on the ground, and if Soszynski wants to secure an easy win, he should be able dump Stann to the mat relatively quickly and secure a finish by submission.

This is definitely a high-volatility play as Soszynski could decide to go for Fight of the Night honors instead of focusing on getting the win. Team Quest fighters also have not done well in recent fights, excluding Quest frontman Dan Henderson. However, I believe this is a solid play. I salute Captain Stann for his service in the Marine Corps, but I think his athleticism and power will be overmatched by Soszynski's experience and submission skills. Soszynski by submission in the first round. Being athletic can only get you so far in modern MMA.

Brian Stann line via Bookmaker.com

Cheick Kongo (-290) vs. Antoni Hardonk (+260)

On paper, a fight between French fighter Cheick Kongo (13-4-1 MMA, 6-2 UFC) and Dutch fighter Antoni Hardonk (8-4 MMA, 4-2 UFC) should be a dynamic, exciting K1 match between two explosive kickboxers. However, this is not K1. Hardonk is a real threat on the feet, but he has proven himself horribly inept on the ground despite holding a blue belt under Rickson Gracie himself. Kongo is no jiu-jitsu wizard, but he has demonstrated THE ability to take the fight to the mat and keep opponents there, and unless Hardonk has dramatically improved his grappling since his past few fights, Kongo should be able to wrestle him down and keep him there the entire fight. If Kongo is smart, look for him to grind out an agonizing unanimous decision while in zero danger. If he's not smart and decides to exchange, Hardonk can very easily pull out the upset as a standup battle could go either way.

Cheick Kongo by unanimous decision.

Cheick Kongo line via Bookmaker.com.

Steve Cantwell (+260) vs. Luiz Cane (-275)

Steve Cantwell (7-1 MMA, 1-0 UFC) is a veteran of the WEC and formerly held the organization's light-heavyweight title. Cantwell holds a brown belt in Brazilian jiu jitsu under Sergio Pehna and has a background in amateur kickboxing.

Luiz "Banha" Cane (9-1 MMA, 2-1 UFC) is a prototypical Brazilian fighter with a background in Muay Thai and a brown belt in Brazilian jiu jitsu.

Cane should hold the edge in physical strength and in toughness. He is primarily a brawler who is happy to take punishment in order to give it. Cantwell is a well-rounded fighter but has not demonstrated an ability to handle fighters that press the pace effectively. Cane traditionally does exactly that; look for a rugged brawl here with a lot of back and forth early before Cane's ability to absorb and dish overwhelms Cantwell in the second round.

Luiz Cane line via Bookmaker.com

Undercard:

Eliot Marshall (no line) vs. Vinicius Magalhaes (no line)
Denis Kang (-325) vs. Xavier Foupa-Pokam (+250)
Jason MacDonald (-110) vs. Nate Quarry (-120)
David Loiseau (-130) vs. Ed Herman (+100)
Mark Bocek (-285) vs. David Bielkheden (+225)
Ryo Chonan (-200) vs. TJ Grant (+160)
Sam Stout (-140) vs. Matt Wiman (+110)

Performify's Picks for UFC 97:

• Anderson Silva -600: 18 units to win 3 units
• Mauricio Rua +160: 1 unit to win 1.6 units
• Krzysztof Soszynski (-155): 0.93 units to win 0.6 units

 

[kushBsmokin]

Chucks counterpunching style is tailor made to give shogun fits with his looping punches and wild kicks. But somehow i can see the future.....

 

[mogo]

let's see how the undercard treats me.....

CHONAN -210 (84/40)
WIMAN -115 (35/30)
KANG -340 (102/30)
HERMAN Even (30/30)
QUARRY Even (30/30)

:box:

 

[ahitspat]

took wiman, herman, macD, donkey, cane, krispy, lidell, leites for a very very very small bet

 

[mogo]

UFC 97: Redemption play-by-play coverage and official live results


The first fight begins at 7:30 p.m. ET (4:30 p.m. PT).....

SAM STOUT VS. MATT WIMAN


:box:

 

[guaranteeed]

Eliot Marshall def. Vinny Magalhaes by Unanimous Decision (29-28, 30-27, 30-27), R3

 

[mogo]

ugh......


T.J. Grant def. Ryo Chonan via split decision (30-27, 28-29, 29-28).

 

[mcdrewcarey187]

ugh......


T.J. Grant def. Ryo Chonan via split decision (30-27, 28-29, 29-28).

that one hurt:whip:

 

[guaranteeed]

Mark Bocek def. David Bielkheden by Submission (Rear Naked Choke) at 4:57, R1

 

[laffit]

ive got herman +110 coming up. if he comes thru, im letting the profit ride on leites.

i actually have reasons to bet against silva. i dont like him jumping around weight class, seems to be losing some focus. he was 3lbs under 185, something's is not right. he walks around over 200 and comes in under? i dont know why, but its usually not good in these kind of situations. if he's sick or overtrained, leites is the kind of fighter that will be a real problem. silva is obviously more talented and should win and i usually hate big underdogs (moneyburners), but there's enough there tonight. im going to hit it hard with the book's money. short fuse needs to come thru first though.

 

[guaranteeed]

ive got herman +110 coming up.

.

Ed Herman def. David Loiseau by Unanimous Decision (30-26, 30-27, 30-27), R3:shake:money;

 

[laffit]

all right ed herman, leites +500 now.

 

[mogo]

ok at least i got a win from herman.... moving on.....

 

[guaranteeed]

Nate Quarry def. Jason MacDonald by TKO (Strikes) at 2:27, R1

 

[mogo]

nate "the rock" is always good for a win....

 

[mogo]

so far 2-1 (-24) .....

sucks to be 2-1 and down, but the Chonan loss by a split decision can be one of those goes either way fights.... could just as easily be 3-0...


REALY need a Kang win here... can't lose this one!!!!

 

[mogo]

main card plays locked in.....

CANTWELL +230 (43/100)
HARDONK +230 (43/100)
RUA +160 (50/80)


:box: