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Alert for Android MMATorch Users: Please read as you may need to get new version of MMATorch

Sun, 20 Jan 2013 17:10:22 PST

If you are using an Android Device, and if you are using our "classic" original version of MMATorch, we need you to migrate to our newer version as the "classic" version will be discontinued soon. Please click on the link below to download our latest version.

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This newer version of MMATorch is faster, more stable, and features a better layout than the original version.

If you have a "very old" Android phone running an early version of Android, please update your Android OS so the new version of MMATorch works. Our data shows fewer than 2 percent of you are running an old version of Android, so for most of you this upgraded version of MMATorch will work immediately and you'll fine it a better overall experience due to the upgrades and updates compared to the classic version you may be using.

(HINT: If the headline of this article at the top of the page that says "Alert for Android..." is white letters on a black background, you are running the new version of MMATorch and don't need to migrate. If the headline is black letters over white background, you have the older version and you need to update.)

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Strikeforce Champ Gilbert Melendez still wants to be number one, but resigned to current spot for now

Wed, 16 May 2012 21:55:25 PST

By: Jamie Penick, MMATorch Editor-in-Chief

Strikeforce Lightweight Champion Gilbert Melendez is in a bit of a hold in his MMA career. While he's reigned supreme in that organization for a few years now, his status as one of the top fighters in the world at 155 lbs. is hampered by the fact that he's not facing the same level of competition as his contemporaries in the UFC.

Case in point, he's fighting Josh Thomson for a third time this Saturday night, a fighter who just returned in March after 15 months out of action, and he suffered a loss in that prior fight in 2010. Not only that, but Melendez defeated fairly handily by decision just two and a half years ago. Still, while Melendez has a burning desire to be proven the number one fighter in the weight class, he understands why he's where he is right now.

"The goal is to be number one and the only way to do that is in the UFC," Melendez said in an interview with BJPenn.com. "Right now it's going to be a hold off because I have some more fights on my contract, which means I will be in Strikeforce for probably at least another year. After this fight, there will have to be more for me. I'm prepared for that."

Melendez wasn't exactly clamoring for a rubber match with Thomson considering where the two are at in their respective careers, and indeed he campaigned for a bout with the UFC's B.J. Penn and Anthony Pettis. However, that wouldn't happen, and this is the fight he received. He'd certainly like to face a higher level of competition, but he knows once he's past this fight the pool of contenders will be fairly shallow in Strikeforce.

"I mean there's some guys coming up. I don't know if they can catch me because I'm ahead of the game and training twice a day," he said. "There are guys like Ryan Couture coming up who I'm impressed with. Pat Healy and Couture, I am really impressed with those guys. Other than that JZ [Cavalcante] and Thomson have been around for a while. I don't see too much talent coming this way because I think they are all headed to the UFC."

"There are some tough guys here and you definitely can't take them lightly. Thomson is no walk in the park. None of these guys are. I still don't see many guys out there. Ryan Couture did impress me with his last performance. He impressed me a lot and I think he's on to something. Besides those guys I mentioned everyone else is in the UFC."

Penick's Analysis: It's good to see Melendez take a realistic approach to his current situation. He's often complained about not being able to fight the guys at the top of the UFC, but those complaints fell on deaf ears due to the fact that he was the one that re-signed with Strikeforce early last year before Strikeforce was purchased by Zuffa. The lack of currently elite level competition is a very real issue for him in Strikeforce, but it's something he just has to deal with and he's sounding more resigned to that fact for the time being. That places more pressure and importance on every fight for him going forward, though, as any loss to the fighters he'll be facing will send his stock down precipitously.

NFL's Arthur Jones "wouldn't mind seeing" brother, UFC Champ Jon, against Anderson Silva

Wed, 16 May 2012 20:30:51 PST

By: Jamie Penick, MMATorch Editor-in-Chief

UFC Light Heavyweight Champion Jon Jones isn't the only high level athlete in his family. His younger brother Chandler was just drafted in the first round of the 2012 NFL Draft by the New England Patriots, and his older brother Arthur is already in the NFL, a defensive end for the Baltimore Ravens.

Arthur featured in the UFC's Primetime series for the UFC 145 event, which saw the Champ take on former friend-turned-rival Rashad Evans in Atlanta. On Tuesday, the elder Jones decided to take in a UFC event not involving his brother, as he trekked to the Patriot Center in Fairfax, Va. for UFC on Fuel 3.

While there, he spoked with CSN Washington regarding his Champion brother and his upcoming bout with Dan Henderson.

"It's a major match-up, you know, Hendo is a guy you can't really sleep on, he's old but he's very explosive and he has knockout power so Jon just has to stick to the gameplan and everything's going to be ok," Arthur commented. "Youth and his ability to be creative [are in Jon's favor]. Jon is a hard guy to study for a fight and I think just his mindset and how he moves is going to be tough for him [Hendo]."

One other fight on his mind is one between Jones and UFC Middleweight Champion Anderson Silva. While Jon has stated in the past that it's not a fight he's likely to want, Arthur says it's one he'd enjoy seeing.

"They're great friends and they have mutual respect," Arthur said, while saying the fight wouldn't actually happen. "I know Jon doesn't want to hurt their friendship, you know, like how he did with Rashad [Evans], so, you know, I don't think it will ever happen."

"I wouldn't mind seeing it though."

Penick's Analysis: This Jones family is a very talented bunch. Jon's the highest profile member at the moment as the reigning UFC Champ, but Arthur and Chandler in the NFL is a big deal as well. Not too many families can claim multiple professional athletes at their respective levels. Arthur's training in the offseason now consists of working with his younger brother in MMA training, and he's clearly a fan of the sport in general as well.

[Jon Jones art by Grant Gould (c) MMATorch.com]

Urijah Faber's UFC 148 opponent to be announced on Friday's new "Ultimate Fighter: Live"

Wed, 16 May 2012 19:10:37 PST

By: Jamie Penick, MMATorch Editor-in-Chief

With the knee injury to UFC Bantamweight Champion Dominick Cruz, the UFC announced last week that former WEC Bantamweight Champion Urijah Faber will fight for an Interim Bantamweight Championship at UFC 148 on July 7.

Faber and Cruz are coaching against one another on the current season of "The Ultimate Fighter: Live" on FX, and would have faced each other for a third time if not for the injury. Now, UFC President Dana White will make an official announcement on Faber's new opponent during Friday's new episode of TUF on FX.

UFC representatives revealed the forthcoming announcement during a media conference call on Wednesday.

There's not much mystery to the pick, as Brazil's Renan Barao is expected to be moved up from an undercard bout with Ivan Menjivar into the fight against Faber, but that won't be official until Friday's announcement.

Penick's Analysis: Faber-Barao's the fight to make, and though there's an outside chance they run with Michael McDonald in this slot, I highly doubt that. Instead, Menjivar will get a suitable replacement partner, and Faber will try to become the first person since Barao's very first professional opponent to hand him a loss.

[Urijah Faber art by Grant Gould (c) MMATorch.com]

Fabio Maldonado upset at judging in UFC on Fuel 3 loss to Igor Pokrajac

Wed, 16 May 2012 18:25:55 PST

By: Jamie Penick, MMATorch Editor-in-Chief

Fabio Maldonado has been a part of two straight wars inside the Octagon, and in both cases he wound up on the wrong end of a unanimous decision. In the most recent instance, Maldonado dropped a decision to Igor Pokrajac at Tuesday's UFC on Fuel 3, and he's livid over that result.

"I don't have an answer to that [decision]," Maldonado said in an interview with Tatame.com. "There was a judge who scored it 30-27. There's no logic in it. I'm really sad."

"I won it and that's it. Everybody saw it, even the judges. The three judges who gave it to him know deep down I won. In my opinion it's not a mistake, is called having a bad character, mainly the one who scored 30-27... They want to f*** me up, they didn't want to give me the win once again."

Maldonado certainly had a case for the fight, delivering a ton of punishment throughout the bout to Pokrajac, outstriking him in every round. However, much of the attack was to the body, and the judges didn't credit him nearly enough for that portion of his attack. For Maldonado, he simply can't believe that the decision came down the way it did.

"He hit me with an elbow really hard, he has heavy hands," Maldonado admitted. "It's been a while since I was last hit that hard. He took me down, got the mount, but that was it. I won the second and third rounds. I'm punched, get kneeled on the face and nothing happens, but then I throw a couple of punches on his face and he gets all dizzy and can walk... It's complicated."

Unfortunately for him, the judges didn't agree with his assessment, and he's now 0-2 in the UFC.

Penick's Analysis: Maldonado absolutely has a right to be upset about the decision, especially after looking over the numbers from the fight in conjunction with what happened. He out-struck Maldonado 166-64 overall, with a 98-36 edge in significant strikes. In the first round, Maldonado's significant strike edge was 36-6, yet Maldonado's one takedown with almost no striking earned him the round. It's unfortunate for him, but bad judging is sadly nothing new in this sport, and because of that he sits with two losses under his belt in the UFC.

ROUNDTABLE: Who are realistic options to face the Strikeforce Heavyweight Grand Prix winner later this year?

Wed, 16 May 2012 17:55:53 PST

The winner of the Strikeforce Heavweight World Grand Prix will have one more fight in Strikeforce. Who are the realistically possible opponents for that fight, and who would you like to see them face later this year?

RICH HANSEN, MMATORCH COLUMNIST

True story from a previous life as an orthopedic surgeon.

So, one day a guy walks in to my posh office with his hand way in the air, and tells me that for 20 years he's been unable to lower his arm. It's been a horrible inconvenience. He's had surgeries, therapy, hypnosis, even acupuncture, and he's so desperate that he's considering amputation. So, I took this poor chap into a room full of MMA fans and asked the following question:

If you think Josh Barnett or Daniel Cormier are going to actually have a fight in Strikeforce after they fight each other on May 19, raise your hand. I looked around, not one hand in the air. And after about five seconds I heard a lone voice wail, "THANK YOU! I'M CURED!"

Like I said, true story. Absolutely no use of poetic license. None. What. So. Ev. AH.

BRAD WALKER, MMATORCH COLUMNIST

I would like to see them face each other first, it feels like this grand prix has been moving in slow motion for an eternity. Who is out there that provides a realistic challenge to either of them? Fedor? Unlikely - but stranger things have happend. Couture is retired, Cro Cop is dead in the water, so unless they bring in a UFC heavyweight there is really slim pickings. I would like to see the winner fight someone who actually poses a threat, and the best answer I can think up is a returning Shane Carwin.

ANWAR PEREZ, MMATORCH COLUMNIST

Honestly, there are other heavyweights in Strikeforce? I did not know that. I have no idea who they would face, I would rather them be put in the UFC, but what'll happen more than likely is that a UFC heavyweight will be brought in to face the tournament winner. Maybe a Matt Mitrione or Roy Nelson.

ERIC HOBAUGH, MMATORCH CONTRIBUTOR

I think the most interesting fight out there for the winner of the Strikeforce Heavyweight World Grand Prix would be a fight with Shane Carwin. This would be a big fight for Strikeforce and a good test for each fighter. We would find out right away where Carwin is in his comeback. Another good fight would be against Fabricio Werdum. He is a legitimate top five fighter and I have not heard who his next opponent will be. Either of these two fights would be great.

ALEX WILLIAMS, MMATORCH CONTRIBUTOR

I don't even know who's left in the Strikeforce heavyweight division aside from Josh Barnett and Daniel Cormier. Maybe sign Tim Sylvia to a single fight contract? Todd Duffee if the Super Fight League folds by then? There aren't any good options.

DAN MOORE, MMATORCH UK CONTRIBUTOR

I couldn't care less about who they should fight next in Strikeforce. I can guarantee that I won't be tuning in to watch, as that would mean paying hard cash for viewing privileges here in the UK. Both fighters though, should be instantly catapulted into the UFC after this weekend rather than mess about with another pointless fight in a pointless organization. Their respective opponents for future fights will probably be determined by the outcome of the heavyweight fights at UFC 146 later this month.

If I were to play virtual matchmaker, i'd pit the loser against the winner of Roy Nelson and Dave Herman, and i'd throw the winner into a fight with Frank Mir after he loses to Junior dos Santos. That would provide firm evidence of their future credibility in amongst the big boys whilst Cain Velaquez is busy being the next contender for JDS.

DeBlass-Penner, Natal-Craig added to UFC on Fuel 4 in July

Wed, 16 May 2012 14:30:44 PST

By: Jamie Penick, MMATorch Editor-in-Chief

***image1***Two new fights have been added to the UFC on Fuel 4 event, as TheScore.com reports that light heavyweights Tom DeBlass and Nick Penner will square off on the card, while Rafael Natal revealed on Twitter Wednesday that he's meeting Andrew Craig on the card.

The July 11 event is expected to come to the HP Pavilion in San Jose, Calif., headlined by a middleweight bout between Mark Munoz and Chris Weidman.

DeBlass made his UFC debut on short notice last month, taking on Cyrille Diabate at UFC on Fuel 2 in Stockholm, Sweden. The 30-year-old won his first seven fights, but dropped a decision to Diabate on 12 day's notice. Penner took on Anthony Perosh in his organizational debut back in March, losing by TKO at the end of the first round. That defeat was just the second of his career, and snapped an eight fight winning streak.

After suffering a decision loss and fighting to a draw in his first two fights in the UFC, Natal has since picked up consecutive wins inside the Octagon. Most recently, he defeated Michael Kuiper by decision at UFC 143 in February. Craig made an impressive debut in March at UFC on FX 3, keeping his undefeated record intact with a decision win over Kyle Noke.

Video: Highlights of UFC on Fuel 3's "Fight of the Year" main event between Dustin Poirier and The Korean Zombie

Wed, 16 May 2012 14:00:34 PST

By: Jamie Penick, MMATorch Editor-in-Chief

Tuesday's UFC on Fuel 3 main event between Dustin Poirier and "The Korean Zombie" Chan Sung Jung was an easy front runner for 2012's Fight of the Year, but odds are most of the UFC's fanbase didn't see the fight.

The furiously paced action of the featherweight bout saw Jung showcasing every aspect of his MMA game against a tough to finish Poirier. After three rounds at that pace, he then finished the fight with a D'Arce choke after knocking Poirier down with a flying knee.

For those that missed the event on Tuesday night, FoxSports.com posted some highlights from the fight. Check it out below:

Video: Highlights: Korean Zombie - Poirier

Video URL: http://msn.foxsports.com/video?videoid=30a7c063-2821-433b-88ce-01906dbbb04f&src=v5:share:sharepermalink:&from=sharepermalink

UFC President Dana White undergoing surgery this week, missed first UFC event in 11 years

Wed, 16 May 2012 13:05:47 PST

By: Jamie Penick, MMATorch Editor-in-Chief

UFC President Dana White missed Tuesday's UFC on Fuel 3 event in Fairfax, Va., marking the first time since Zuffa purchased the UFC 11 years ago that he's missed an event. He head a good reason, however, as he revealed on Twitter that he'll be undergoing surgery this Wednesday in Los Angeles to treat Meniere's disease.

White was recently diagnosed with the disease, which is a condition where fluid in the inner ear gets too high, affecting balance and hearing. In an interview with Kevin Iole at Yahoo! Sports, White revealed that his symptoms began months ago.

"I was on vacation in Fiji and it really started," White said. "Then, you remember that press conference [after UFC 141] where I was holding the podium? I was feeling terrible and things were spinning around."

He said things got bad on Tuesday when he was meeting with Lorenzo and Frank Fertitta at the Red Rock Casino in Las Vegas, and he ended up needing to be taken out of the casino in a wheelchair. The surgery will keep him off his feet for about a week, and brings with it a risk of hearing loss. He's hopeful for the best, and though he said it "totally sucks" having to miss fights, it was unavoidable.

"You know me and you know how I love to be at the fights, but I can't," White said. "If it were possible for me in any way, I'd be there. But I can't. I'm having fun [Tweeting] with the fans and watching on TV."

Penick's Analysis: I wish nothing but the best for White in this surgery and hope he has a speedy recovery. For any criticisms that are laid upon the man, he is one of the hardest working people in the sports world, and he runs himself ragged with his travel schedule. I'm sure that in some way may have contributed to this disease manifesting; I'm by no means a medical expert, but an inner ear issue and his frequent flyer status may certainly be connected. Still, hopefully everything goes well with this surgery, and we'll see him back in good health next week for UFC 146.

After UFC on Fuel 3, Donald Cerrone wants Anthony Pettis bout at UFC 150 in Denver

Wed, 16 May 2012 11:40:38 PST

By: Jamie Penick, MMATorch Editor-in-Chief

Donald Cerrone took five months between fights after his UFC 141 loss to Nate Diaz, and come Tuesday's UFC on Fuel 3 event it appeared to be time well spent. Cerrone was the far superior fighter to Jeremy Stephens on Tuesday night, out-classing him on the feet and making a very solid vet in Stephens look downright inept at times.

Getting that win taken care of puts Cerrone back on track to make a run up the UFC's lightweight division, as he's now 5-1 in six Octagon appearances. But he's not looking to sit out long after this win, as he said after the event he'd like to fight at UFC 150 in Denver, Colo., this August.

"I want to fight in Denver," Cerrone said after the event (transcribed by Sergio Non of USA Today via MMAJunkie.com). "Whoever's begging at the bit to go is who I want to fight."

Cerrone said he's "100%" ready for a top five opponent in the UFC's lightweight division, and when Anthony Pettis' name was brought up, he completely agreed with that fight's merits.

"That'd be a good match-up," Cerrone said. "Stylistically it'll work out perfect for me. He'll stand and want to fight and try and take me down. I'll beat him up, and then we'll keep fighting. That'd be good fight, especially for Denver."

Penick's Analysis: August 11 may be too early for Pettis to return to action after shoulder surgery, but the fight itself is one I like a lot. If Cerrone is hell bent on fighting in Denver, Pettis isn't likely to be his opponent, nor will he likely get a "top five" name. If he can hold out one extra month, Pettis should be able to go in September as was rumored for a potential fight with Nate Diaz. Otherwise, they'll both likely be matched up against decidedly less interesting options in the division.

HYDEN BLOG: Reaction to Dana White's UFC on Fox 3 Ratings Rant, and How to Help TV Ratings

Wed, 16 May 2012 10:25:55 PST

By: Frank Hyden, MMATorch contributor

Dana White released a video rant on his blog about the negative reporting by the MMA media concerning the low ratings for UFC On FOX 3. He brings up some valid points, and it's about what I'd expect from a promoter defending his product. On the surface it sounds great, it's a nice spin job on Dana's part. I'm not a big fan of the cattiness of going after Dave Meltzer, as it detracts from Dana's argument. Anytime you start naming names you run the risk of taking away from the point you're trying to make. The offended party can then smokescreen your argument by playing the victim card and making the issue less about your points and more about your supposed personal attack on them. This is a tactic that Fox News and the Republicans that appear on that network use all the time.

That aside, the video was what any promoter would do. I hope, though, that the UFC and FOX are taking this seriously internally. The low ratings for UFC On FOX 3 is a very real issue, and one that has to be addressed. Dana's video brings up how 10 million fewer viewers were watching television that night. Very true, but that doesn't change the fact that viewership was down, even going by percentages.

The important thing for the UFC and FOX relationship is to meet internal goals. Obviously, we don't know what those goals are, but it's safe to assume that they want to see some traction in the ratings. And they definitely don't want to lose viewers as the show goes on. As long as a UFC event doesn't do that, there's always something positive to look at.

There's a large numbers of articles out there about ways the UFC should handle these FOX events moving forward, especially with regard to trying to draw more viewers. My personal opinion is that they need to leverage the past and present to better the future. The UFC should look at potential match-ups that are big match-ups, but aren't going to sell pay-per-views. The first fight I think of when it comes to that is Tito Ortiz vs. Forrest Griffin at UFC 148. That fight's not going to sell many PPV's, but it could provide a big boost to a free card on FOX. They could even market it as Tito's retirement fight, the "final chance" to see Tito fight.

There's another fight on that same UFC 148 card that would fit the bill of "big names, small PPV footprint," Rich Franklin vs. Cung Le. Either of these fights would have provided a much-needed boost to viewership of UFC On FOX 3. They could play with the placement of the fights, but even if you put either of these fights in the main event, hardcore fans would know that these wouldn't be the real main event because there's nothing of consequence at stake. Ortiz vs. Griffin and Franklin vs. Le are like special attraction fights, the guys involved aren't in the title picture, but you use their names to help pull in viewers. Pulling one of these fights away from UFC 148 wouldn't leave a large hole to fill because the UFC isn't relying on them to sell the event.

How many people would pay money to see either of these fights at this point in time? There's probably not many people who would. However, interest would be much higher if the fight were free. People might say they want to see Tito's final fight, or that they know that Forrest brings an entertaining style. If you were to use Franklin vs. Le, you have a long history of highlights and championships to tout. You could also frame it as the UFC giving away a PPV-quality fight for free.

There's another name that comes to mind when discussing a guy with star power who's near the end, Quinton "Rampage" Jackson. I'm torn on Rampage because I've always liked him, but lately he's just become more sideshow than real fighter. There's two schools of thought on this, on how to deal with someone leaving acrimoniously. One, you take the old-school wrestling approach where you just bury the guy and don't even put him on television. I prefer the second way, you use whatever star power he has left to bolster a free card. I can't imagine many people, if any, who would be willing to pay to see Rampage fight. Again, though, he is a known fighter and you could use that to your advantage.

There's many other fights and fighters who fit this bill, guys who are known, but aren't close to a title shot. The UFC should use these guys to bring eyeballs to the free events, thus increasing the exposure of the other guys on the card. They don't even have to sacrifice PPV buys to do this. MMA is a star-driven sport. A lot of casual fans don't know a lot of fighters so you have to introduce them. However, you can't expect casual fans to tune in to watch guys they don't know. Give casual fans a point of reference, someone that they might have heard of, and they'll be more likely to watch. Most hardcore fans will tune in regardless of name value, as long as it's a good card.

Comments and suggestions can be e-mailed to me at hydenfrank@gmail.com

Emotional Dustin Poirier disappointed in himself following UFC on Fuel 3 loss to The Korean Zombie

Wed, 16 May 2012 10:15:38 PST

By: Jamie Penick, MMATorch Editor-in-Chief

Dustin Poirier was the favorite entering Tuesday's UFC on Fuel 3 main event against "The Korean Zombie" Chan Sung Jung, but the 23-year-old fell victim to a much improved opponent, losing by submission in the fourth round.

It was an unexpected result for most. Poirier had come on strong as an emerging featherweight contender, and this fight was supposed to be his move up to the next level and possible title contention. However, after surviving some tough spots early in the fight, Jung proved too much in the fourth, cracking Poirier with a flying knee and locking up a D'Arce choke for the win.

"He was just as tough as I expected," Poirier said after the fight in a post fight interview with Ariel Helwani on Fuel TV. "I expected a good fight. I'm just upset with myself. We got to those later rounds. He hit me with some big shots, I think in the fourth round. I never was completely out of it, but when I came back to realizing what was going on, I could have sat out I was in D'Arce position. I felt it, but I just didn't defend it right. I feel like I let myself down."

Poirier fought back tears of sadness, frustration, and disappointment as he spoke, and was somewhat in disbelief considering the work he put into this fight. While it was certainly a tough loss, he's still a very young competitor and he plans on making it back.

"I had a really long training camp. I put 100% of myself into the training camp. I'm trying not to get emotional, but I care so much, man, I let myself down. I deserved to win; my wife deserved for us to win..."

"It wasn't even the pressure. I felt fine, I was excited to fight in the main event, it was a huge opportunity for me. I wasn't really worried about the five rounds, my strength and conditioning program was incredible, I felt like I was in the best shape ever. I just took some bad shots, made some mistakes. But I'm going to go back to the gym, work on it, come back and get a 'W'."

Penick's Analysis: This was a rough and unexpected loss for Poirier, but he was caught just as off guard as everyone else at the improvements to The Korean Zombie's game. Jung was just really good in every aspect of the game on Tuesday night, landing some really great shots on the feet, threatening with submissions early, transitioning beautifully at times, etc. Then to get a flying knee knockdown and end with that choke was just fantastic, and Poirier wasn't ready for it. But it can't be forgotten that he's only 23. This is far from the end for him in an eventual run for a title shot. He's still an immensely talented fighter, and he'll learn from this loss moving forward.

With UFC on Fuel 3 win, The Korean Zombie earns title shot against Aldo-Koch winner from UFC 149

Wed, 16 May 2012 09:30:49 PST

By: Jamie Penick, MMATorch Editor-in-Chief

Chan Sung Jung's night just keeps getting better. After an incredible win over Dustin Poirier at UFC on Fuel 3 Tuesday night, "The Korean Zombie" was awarded with two "Fight Night" bonus checks for the fight, and now he's got something even bigger to look forward to: a title fight.

That's the word from UFC President Dana White, who texted Fuel TV's Ariel Helwani to pass along the news that Jung has leapfrogged Hatsu Hioki in the UFC Featherweight Title picture, and will take on the winner of UFC 149's Jose Aldo vs. Erik Koch bout later this year.

Hioki had the spot firmed up, but the combination of him turning down a title fight at UFC 149 and Jung's spectacular fight with Poirier puts him further down on the ladder. Jung will enter the title fight later this year on the strength of three highly impressive wins.

First up was his victory over Leonard Garcia in a rematch of their crazy brawl in the WEC in 2010. In that rematch early last year, Jung pulled off the very first twister submission in UFC history. When he returned to action last December, he added another incredible highlight when he knocked out Mark Hominick - who had just went five rounds with Aldo earlier that year - in under seven seconds.

But Tuesday's win may have been his best. Against a well rounded and highly skilled young opponent in the 23-year-old Poirier, Jung showcased a superior grappling game, an unpredictable striking attack, and a very adept submission game. After a fantastic start through three rounds, Jung then landed a flying knee to drop Poirier, which opened him up for a D'Arce choke, which he used to choke Poirier unconscious.

Now he'll get his opportunity to either unseat Aldo, or take the title away from a newly crowned Koch. Either way, that shot is now in view.

Penick's Analysis: That's absolutely the right move for the UFC. There's only a couple of months between the fights, so it gives Jung a good six to seven months of preparation for his first ever title fight. Given how much improvement he's continued to show from fight to fight in the UFC, that can only be a good thing. Add in three incredible performances in a row, a rabid and rapidly growing fanbase, and it's right for the UFC to put him into a title fight as quickly as possible. He was awesome on Tuesday night, and regardless of what he does or doesn't have to offer Champ Jose Aldo or current challenger Erik Koch, he'll be an immensely exciting challenger.

UFC ON FUEL TV 3 LIVE RESULTS: Hansen's round by round report on "Poirier vs. Korean Zombie" event in Virginia

Tue, 15 May 2012 22:59:00 PST

By: Rich Hansen, MMATorch Columnist

UFC ON FUEL TV 3: THE KOREAN ZOMBIE VS. POIRIER
MAY 15, 2012
LIVE FROM FAIRFAX, VA.

======FACEBOOK PRELIMINARY CARD QUICK RESULTS======

* Francisco Rivera def. Alex Soto via unanimous decision (30-27, 30-27, 30-27)
* Johnny Eduardo def. Jeff Curran via unanimous decision (29-28, 29-28, 29-28)
* Rafael dos Anjos def. Kamal Shalorus via submission (rear naked choke) at :40 of the first round
* T.J. Grant def. Carlo Prater via unanimous decision (30-27, 30-27, 30-27)
* Cody McKenzie def. Marcus LeVesseur via submission (guillotine choke) at 3:05 of the first round
* Brad Tavares def. Dongi Yang via unanimous decision (29-28, 29-28, 29-28)

======UFC ON FUEL TV: KOREAN ZOMBIE VS. POIRIER PLAY BY PLAY======

FIGHT ONE: JASON MACDONALD VS. TOM LAWLOR

- MacDonald is seven years older, three inches taller, and has a whopping six inch reach advantage. His sleeves can’t touch Lawlor’s mutton chops, though.

ROUND ONE: Todd McGovern is the referee for this fight. MacDonald shoots a double, but nothing comes of it. After they separate, Lawlor celebrates his 29th birthday with a left to the chin and a right to the ear to get the quick knockout. It was more dramatic than it reads…

WINNER: Tom Lawlor by knockout at 0:50 of the first round

STAR RATING: (**+) My write up pretty much covered everything. Moving on.

FIGHT TWO: IGOR POKRAJAC VS. FABIO MALDANADO

- Maldanado has an inch of height and reach on Pokrajac, who is a year older than Maldanado.

- Igor vs. Fabio sounds much more bad-ass than Pokrajac vs. Maldanado. Plus, it’s easier to type…

ROUND ONE: Big Dan is the third man in the cage. Maldanado misses a looping left and gets taken down quickly. Pokrajac is in a loose half-guard, looking to get to side control. Pokrajac takes his back during a scramble, which he uses to get mount. Maldanado’s right arm is trapped, but Pokrajac isn’t able to throw a single strike, and Maldanado gets out of the mount to half-guard. Pokrajac has been on top for 2 minutes and not thrown even one strike. OK, there’s a punch, missed. Pokrajac is in half-guard looking for a Salaverry. He eventually gives up that attempt. Maldanado escaped, dumped Pokrajac on his back, and stands over him until Big Dan separates them. Pokrajac stalking Maldanado down, but Maldanado unloads a dozen or so punches that stun Pokrajac. Pokrajac gets a plum clinch, but Maldanado starts working the body while being clinched. Pokrajac lets go of Maldanado’s head briefly, grabs it again, and lands a nice knee. 10-9 Maldanado Interesting round. Fun once Maldanado got back to his feet.

ROUND TWO: Pokrajac working the leg kicks early, mainly checked by Maldanado. Pokrajac’s left hand found a home on Maldanado’s chin. Nice combination, which he follows up with a single leg that presses Maldanado into the fence. Maldanado is landing short strikes while Pokrajac is relentlessly working for the high single leg takedown. Maldanado avoided the takedown, but still has his back against the fence. Both guys are trying to work the body from the clinch position. Pokrajac is going back to the Thai clinch, and just missed a big knee. Maldanado spins off the cage, and is throwing head body combinations to great effect. Pokrajac has controlled position for most of the fight, but Maldanado is landing more, and harder, shots. 90 seconds left. Maldanado has Pokrajac against the fence, and lands a nice three punch combo, body head body. And another similar combo as Pokrajac gets off the fence. Pokrajac grabs a quick Thai clinch and lands a knee. Spinning back fist from Pokrajac. It landed, but wasn’t very hard. Another Thai clinch, and more body shots by Maldanado. The body shots are wearing out Pokrajac here, who gives up an easy takedown to end the round. 10-9 Maldanado, 20-18 Maldanado Pokrajac is dog tired.

ROUND THREE: Maldanado pushes Pokrajac into the cage, gets Thai clinched and kneed, but lands a couple of punches to the body of Pokrajac. Maldanado is landing body shots at will up against the cage. Standing knee by Pokrajac. This is really sloppy, and devolving as both guys suck wind. Pokrajac gets Maldanado against the fence, and lands a strong jumping knee. That drew a small pop from the Virginia fans. 45 seconds later Big Dan separates them. Maldanado comes out aggressive, landing a nice combination. Pokrajac responds by landing a really hard left hook. That staggered Maldanado briefly. 2:30 left, and Pokrajac has Maldanado pressed into the cage. Maldanado lands 4 quick shots to the body. Pokrajac lost his mouthpiece, and Maldanado picked it up as Big Dan briefly stopped the clock. Fight restarted in the middle of the cage with 2:00 left. Leg kick by Pokrajac. Left hook by Maldanado. Maldanado is coming forward more than Pokrajac, but not mush has happened since the restart. Pokrajac just landed a really heavy straight left. Both guys are swinging hard now, and the crowd is cheering the efforts. No more pretense of defense, just swinging for the fences now. The fight ends in a clinch against the cage. 10-9 Pokrajac. 29-28 Maldanado Sloppy fun.

WINNER: Igor Pokraja by unanimous decision (29-28, 30-27, 29-28)

STAR RATING: (**) Nothing special or memorable, but there are worse ways to kill 20 minutes, ya dig? I don’t see how Pokrajac gets a 30-27. I understand how a bad judge could give him the first round since he was on top (and threw exactly 2 punches in 3 minutes) for half of the first round, and I even gave Pokrajac the third, but that was a crappy decision overall.

FIGHT THREE: YVES JABOUIN VS. JEFF HOUGLAND

- Hougland is a year older, and an inch taller. Both fighters possess a 68” reach. GSP is in the corner of Jabouin.

ROUND ONE: The referee is Todd McGovern. Jabouin lands a leg kick, followed a few seconds later by a nice left hand. Jabouin offering up a lot of feints, which help set up a nice spinning back kick which made Hougland recoi into the cage. Jabouin is dancing laterally, Hougland is straight in and out. 2 minutes in. Body kick by Hougland, to little effect. Lead head kick by Jabouin was blocked, but still made a loud thud. Lots of circling, not much action. Another left high kick by Jabouin, blocked again, more slapping than thudding this time. Thrusting side kick from Jabouin caught Hougland in the gut and made him bounce off of the fence. Another spinning back kick by Jabouin to the liver knocked Hougland down after retreating a solid 15 feet. Jabouin pounces, but is unable to finish. Jabouin backs away and throws kicks to Hougland’s legs. Axe kick to the ribs from Jabouin. Jabouin dives in, gets mount, but can’t do much with it as the horn sounds. 10-9 Jabouin Surprising non-finish there. Hougland’s too slow to stay on the feet with Jabouin.

ROUND TWO: McGovern got in the path of Jabouin after the big kick, and it cost Jabouin a second or two of pouncing time. That may have saved Hougland. Hougland shoots from distance, barely gets Jabouin down, but he pops back up after less than a second. He needs to do whatever he can to get the fight down, but shooting from six feet out is a good way to get unconscious. Spinning back fist from Hougland, but it didn’t land solid. Big body kick by Jabouin. Hougland’s doing a slightly better job of circling, but he’s still flat footed, leaving him vulnerable. Hougland ducks under an overhand right, but fails to get the takedown. Straight left by Jabouin catches Hougland as Hougland was coming in to try something. Jabouin is working the body again, this time with a right kick. Hougland’s movement is improved in this round, but he’s still eating leg and body kicks. 10-9 Jabouin. 20-18 Jabouin Better round for Hougland, but he didn’t win the round. I fully expect Hougland to win a decision.

ROUND THREE: Left hook from Jabouin followed by a straight right knocks Hougland down early. Jabouin pounces and gets warned harshly by the referee to watch the back of the head. After hesitating a few seconds, Jabouin attacks. Jabouin is pounding away, waiting for McGovern to stop the fight. Jabouin has landed a couple dozen strikes on the mat. Jabouin takes his back, but Hougland sweeps and gets on top. What a mistake by Jabouin. Back to standing. Hougland not letting go of Jabouin, pursuing the takedown. He gets it, but lands on his back. Jabouin is in full guard now. Still 3:15 left in the fight. Jabouin gets his right leg out, and now he’s got the mount. Hougland immediately gets back to full guard, well done by Hougland. Jabouin has Hougland’s head pressed against the cage. Hougland looked for an arm, but Jabouin saw it coming and escaped any danger. Side control, with Hougland stacked up against the fence. Hougland is taking a lot of punishment, but is in no danger of the fight being stopped right now. Full guard, Hougland still stacked up. Now to half guard. Gutty performance by Jeff Hougland. McGovern stands them up with 45 seconds left.Jabouin misses a spinning back kick, but as Hougland backs straight away into the fence Jabouin hits him with a jumoping knee which floors Hougland. As Hougland scrambles back to his feet, he eats a head kick that sends him back down. That landed with the foot, or else the fight would be over. Jabouin jumps into guard and lands fierce elbows until the fight ends. 10-8 Jabouin. 30-26 Jabouin That was a slaughter, but credit to Hougland for being tough.

WINNER: Yves Jabouin by unanimous decision (30-27, 30-26, 30-27)

STAR RATING: (**+) One sided ass beatings can be fun when they’re delivered as spectacularly as Jabouin delivers them.

FIGHT FOUR: DONALD CERRONE VS. JEREMY STEPHENS

- Cerrone is three inches taller, with a two inch reach advantage. But he did ome out to Kid Rock. I mean, I get the Cowboy thing, but there are a billion songs about Cowboys, Donald!

ROUND ONE: Mario Yamasaki is the ref, so watch the back of the head, Erick Silva. Several leg kicks from both guys in the first 45 seconds as they feel each other out. This has been an extended feeling out process. Not any combinations of note, lots of circling and missed punches. A lot of one off kicks landing by each fighter. Cerrone with a shot from the outside, to no avail. Cerrone lands a head kick, but didn’t land with any force. Cerrone’s staying on the outside, and is doing a good job of controlling the pace. Still not a lot of note, but Cerrone is starting to throw more often than Stephens now. Stephens caught something to the left eye, and he’s pawing at it a little. Stephens slipped on a head kick, but Cerrone backed away. Stephens is bleeding from the left eye now. Cerrone’s getting comfortable, jogging around and dropping his hands. Charging lef kick by Cerrone. Cerrone has his hands all the way down, and kands a flying knee at the horn. 10-9 Cerrone Cerrone found his range, Stephens didn’t.

ROUND TWO: low push kick by Stephens. Cerrone follows up with three kicks, leg, head, and body. This is Cerrone’s style of fight now. Stephens charges in to brawl, but Cerrone manages to evade and stay outside. Cerrone just threw a duck down back elbow. He’s very comfortable, and Stephens is lost now. Cerrone just hurt Stephens with a three punch combo, finished with an uppercut. Stephens shoots, but Cerrone stuffed it. 2 minutes into the round now. Body punch from the outside by Cerrone lands flush. When Liddell tried that on Rampage, he got KTFO for his efforts. Cerrone stalking Stephens, Landing whatever he wants. He’s being patient and methodical, not looking to finish until the time is right. Cerrone’s openly taunting Stephens now, but Stephens is too slow to do anything about. Leg kick by Cerrone almost dropped Stephens. Another punch-kick combo from Cerrone. Stephens charges in, Cerrone picks him up and lands a double. Full guard in the middle of the cage. Cerrone is stacking him up as the round ends. 10-9 Cerrone. 20-18 Cerrone

ROUND THREE: When Cerrone was on top at the end, Stephens landed an elbow to the top of Cerrone’s head, which opened a couple of small cuts. Stephens’ face is a bloody mess though, so Cerrone will take that deal. Third round starts with a kick to the groin from Cerrone. Stephens is down, and down hard. Stephens stayed down from 2-3 minutes, which is an eternity in tough-guy-time. 4:45 left. Nice punches and kick combo from Cerrone. This is a recording. Stephens is starting to hang his head, and looks to be broken. Nice step-in knee by Cerrone to Stephens’ body. Another charging leg kick by Cerrone drops Stephens. Cerrone backs up and lets Stephens stands. He’s landed a few of those now. Stephens is swinging for the fences, but isn’t landing. Another big leg kick, need I bother to identify who threw it? Everytime Stephens throws, Cerrone is ten feet away before the punch is fully thrown. Two nice body kicks, one from the left and one from the right. Stephens looks as lost and confused as I’ve ever seen a fighter. Another solid inside leg kick by Cowboy.. Stephens won’t be walking comfortably for a week. Stephens tries a flying knee, but Cerrone duckedunder and Stephens almost flew right over Cerrone’s head. 10-9 Cerrone, 30-27 Cerrone This was a thrashing.

WINNER: Donald Cerrone by unanimous decision (30-27, 30-27, 30-27)

STAR RATING: Cerrone’s never looked better. He may have finished Siver, but Stephens is a much more dangerous lightweight than Siver was back when he was at 155. Cerrone toyed with him almost as badly as Nate Diaz toyed with Cerrone five months ago. This wasn’t as one-sided as that fight was, but they were similar fights.

FIGHT FIVE: AMIR SADOLLAH VS. JORGE LOPEZ

- Sadollah is eight years older than Lopez, and has three inches of reach. I bet you thought Amir was still a ‘prospect’ didn’t you? Nope. He’s a veteran.

ROUND ONE: Keith Peterson is the referee for the co-main event. Hard leg kick by Lopez. Amir has missed on a couple of straight kicks. Double jab by Lopez, body then head. Lopez is working the jab lg-kick combo so far, to good effect. Lopez grabs Amir, pushes him into the cage with double underhooks. Amir is throwing knees to the legs, but Lopez lands a big knee to the body of Amir. Lopez throws Amir off and we’re back to the middle. Nice jab by Lopez, he’s finding a home for that and for his outside leg kicks. And another. Sadollah kicks, but Lopez uses it as a chance to grab a high single and push Amir into the cage. Still working a single. He gets the takedown, and lands in full guard with about 90 seconds left. Amir scoots back to the cage, and Lopez jumps into half guard while Amir scoots back. Lopez trying to get a kimura, but doesn’t have any leverage and Sadollah gets back to standing. Sadollah has Lopez’ back against the cage now. Lopez can’t be happy with that choice. The round ends with Sadollah looking for knees against the fence. 10-9 Lopez

ROUND TWO: Body kick by Lopez, who follows up by grabbing Amir and pressing to the fence. He’s dropping low in effort to get the single leg takedown. Sadollah’s landing a few short strikes. Lopez gives up the single and has over under now. The crowd is starting to boo this one. Sadollah escapes. Nice right hand by Amir. And now a hard body kick by Amir. Lopez ducks under a jab and presses Amir back into the cage. Lopez drops for a single leg, but his neck is vulnerable. Sadollah just read this report and grabbed a guillotine. It’s tight, but Lopez twists out, and has Amir’s back. Amir stands, and Lopez is half on Amir’s back still. Amir spins, and is working for a single leg against the cage. Lopez escapes, but eats a knee to the gut. Back to the middle with 90 seconds left. Amir lands a couple of kicks up the middle. Head kick by Sadollah. Lopez is slowing down. Body shot by Amir. Amir’s pressing forward now. A couple of leg kicks. Amir with another, but gets taken down. That was kind of ugly. Lopez is in guard. Sadollah’s trying to use the cage to get to his feet as the round ends. 10-9 Sadollah. 19-19

ROUND THREE: Lopez working the clinch against the cage. Lopez drops for a single, but Sadollah’s done a good job all night of stuffing the single leg against the cage. He’s going for another standing guillotine, but he gave it up. Sadollah reverses and goes for his own single, but Lopez grabs an arm and uses a kimura sweep to get Amir into the cage. They separate, and back to standing. Oh, and this fight really sucks, but you knew that before the first round started, right? Guess what? Lopez has Sadollah pressed into the cage and stuck his neck out too far. Guillotine attempt, nope. Takedown? Yep. Lopez in guard, eating elbows to the top of the head. Lopez threw a big knee… from guard. Creative? Sure, why not. Lopez did nothing, and Peterson stood them up. Lopez took his sweet time to get up. Lopez stuffing Amir back into the fence again. Working a single again. Crowd booing again. Sadollah almost got his back, but Lopez got back to that same damn position. Fight is over. Mercifully. 10-9 Lopez. 29-28 Lopez

WINNER: Amir Sadollah by split decision (28-29, 29-28, 29-28)

STAR RATING: (*) I hated every last second of this fight. It was so slow moving, that if you watch it in fast forward, you’ll still think they’re moving slowly. Also, sometimes I just don’t understand judges.

FIGHT SIX: CHAN SUNG JUNG VS. DUSTIN POIRIER

- Poirier is two inches taller, and has an inch of reach on Mister Zombie. The referee for this fight is Big Dan. Yay muscles!

ROUND ONE: Nice left right away by Poirier. Zombie catches a body kick and lands on top. Poirier sweeps and works a single against the cage. Zombie with short elbows to Poirier’s cranium. Zombie back to his feet, but Poirier is still working the single. Body shot by Poirier. And another. Big standing elbow by Poirier. Knee to the body from Poirier. Poirier tries to disengage, but Zombie gets a powerful takedown right into side control. Poirier defends well and scrambles into full guard, parallel to the cage now. Nice elbows by Zombie. Postures up, and drops a big elbow. Poirier’s guard is open, but Zombie’s not trying to pass. Zombie stands and eats an upkick. Don’t know if it hurt him or not, but Poirier immediately swept and got on top, and is in full guard. Zombie’s seated against the cage, looking bored. Poirier looking to move to back control, but Zombie defends as the rednecks start a USA chant. Morans (look it up). Zombie’s on his feet, but Poirier has a body lock.Big elbow, punch, and knee by Poirier as they disengagte. Zombie with a wild punch, Poirier ducks under and shoots, but Zombie stuffs it as the horn blows. 10-9 Poirier That was fun.

ROUND TWO: Zombie comes out firing with a leg kick. Poirier throws one of his own, but Zombie catches it and takes him down. Big shots from the top by Zombie. Zombie backs off and dives into guard, narrowly missing a fight ending upkick attempt. Zombie has Poirier stacked up against the cage. Parallel to the fence now. Big Dan telling htem to work. Poirier’s trying to control Zombie’s head. Huge left hook by zombie. That hurt Poirier. Zombie backs off, and Back to standing with 3:15 left in the 2nd. Poirier misses with a left corss. Spinnign back fist by Zombie, missed. This is nuts. Zombie with a flying knee into a muay thai clinch. He’s unloading. Uppercuts. Two knees . Poirier shoots and gets a takedown, but Zombie rolls through and gets full mount. It’s a high mount. This is awesome! Crowd chanting for Zombie now. Poirier has his arms wrapped around Zombie’s body. He won’t escape that way. Zombie’s starting to land a few shots. Zombie gives up mount for and armbar. Poirier gets out, but winds up having to fight off a triangle. This is wicked awesome. Zombie has a triangle and armbar, and elbows to the head. He’s got the arm! Poirier rolls out and gets on top in side control. Unreal action there! Zombie gets Poirier back to full guard with 45 seconds left. That was great stuff. Triangle from Zombie now! It’s tight! And the horn sounds. Poirier was dead in the water there, saved by the bell! WOW!! 10-9 Zombie. 19-19 Best round since Daley Diaz last year.

ROUND THREE: Poirier looked pissed off as he got off the stool. Touch of gloves to start the third round. Of five. Yay five rounders! Straight kick to the face by Zombie. Poirier finds his range, but Zombie is more than willing to brawl with him, so Poirier pulls out. Poirier is pressing forward, but isn’t landing with much accuracy. Nice jab from Poirier. Nice hook as well. Poirier’s getting sloppy, but he’s getting through a little more now. Zombie has done nothing this round. Straight punches from Poirier are getting through now. Poirier comes forward. Body lock by Zombie, takedown, right into side control. Poirier sweeps and gets back up. 2:30 left. These guys are slowing down after that epic 2nd round. Zombie’s hands are dropping. Big knee by Zombie to the body. Follows up by pressing Poirier to the cage and lands a few punches there. Standing elbow from Poirier as they separate. Zombie’s hands are at his waist, and he eats a jab. Poirier has no lateral movement, and Zombie’s gassing. Soopid five rounders! Zombie pressing forward, landing wild hooks and a big knee at the end. Poirier engages with a wild left, and Zombie counters with one of his own. Straight left by Poirier lands flush. Zombie’s left eye is swelling badly. Poirier’s straight punches are landing consistently. The round ends with both guys winging wild hooks. 10-9 Zombie. 29-28 Zombie

ROUND FOUR: Head kick from Zombie to start the round. Straight left to the body by Poirier. He needs to follow up with a right or a kick when that lands. Zombie with a standing knee to the ribs. Right uppercut left hook by Zombie, and Poirier is hurt. Poirier is against the cage reeling, and eats a flying knee from the Zombie. Poirier is down. Poirier is turtled, and Zombie has north south. Transitions to a D’Arce, and POIRIER IS UNCONSCIOUS! FIGHT OF THE YEAR, FOLKS!

WINNER: Chan Sung Jung by submission (D’Arce choke) at 1:07 of the fourth round.

STAR RATING: (****+) This fight had everything. It was the best fight I have seen since Shogun-Henderson, and might wind on my short list of best fights of all time. Heat of the moment is strong, so I’ll let that simmer for a few weeks, but son of a bitch that was an awesome fight.

Also, I think Poirier was unconscious, but it was announced as a submission, not a technical submission. I didn’t see no tap.

Follow Rich Hansen on Twitter @MMATorchRich

UFC on Fuel 3 Bonuses: The Korean Zombie earns double bonus for Fight, Submission of the Night

Tue, 15 May 2012 22:45:58 PST

By: Jamie Penick, MMATorch Editor-in-Chief

"The Korean Zombie" Chan Sung Jung had an excellent night on Tuesday night. Not only did he choke out Dustin Poirier in the fourth round of an incredible fight, he earned an extra $80,000 for doing so as well.

UFC President Dana White, who was watching at home for the first time in 11 years as President of the UFC, Tweeted the $40,000 bonus winners following the event, with Jung earning double honors for "Fight of the Night" and "Submission of the Night."

He and Poirier rightfully took "Fight of the Night," and set the standard for "Fight of the Year" honors for 2012 in the process. The fourth round D'Arce choke for Jung, which came after he dropped Poirier with a flying knee, was simply an incredible finish to an awesome fight.

The $40,000 bonus for "Knockout of the Night" went to Tom Lawlor. It was partially by default, as his 40 second stoppage of Jason MacDonald was the only knockout or TKO on the card, but it was still well earned. A well placed left hand to MacDonald's jaw rocked him, and Lawlor dropped him with a right behind the ear to finish him off.

UFC on Fuel 3 Results: The Korean Zombie submits Dustin Poirier in fourth round in "Fight of the Year" leader

Tue, 15 May 2012 22:30:28 PST

By: Jamie Penick, MMATorch Editor-in-Chief

"The Korean Zombie" proved that his 2011 performances were no fluke on Tuesday, as he choked out Dustin Poirier in the fourth round of their main event bout at UFC on Fuel 3 to establish himself as a top contender in the UFC's featherweight division.

In what would become the early front-runner for 2012's Fight of the Year, Chan Sung Jung showcased an immensely improved overall game, and controlled much of the fight against the betting favorite in Poirier before scoring the finish in the fourth round. Jung kicked things off by proving himself to be the superior grappler, scoring a couple of really nice takedowns and doing damage on the ground in the first two rounds.

The second round was an especially thrilling frame. In one incredible sequence, Jung hurt Poirier on the feet, causing Poirier to drive in for a double leg takedown. Jung somersaulted through the takedown and wound up in mount. He ultimately scored some near submissions in the frame, but Poirier stayed safe enough to survive.

Jung slowed a bit in the third, allowing Poirier to try to mount a comeback. He landed several big striking exchanges, and started finding his range throughout the five minute frame. It appeared to be a turning of the tide, but Jung had other ideas heading into the championship rounds.

After cracking Poirier with a big punch that backed him up early in the fourth round, Jung delivered a flying knee that dropped Poirier to the ground. He then locked in the D'Arce choke and rolled through, with Poirier going out before he could tap.

With that finish, Jung now has a win by twister submission, a seven second knockout, and a FOTY worthy fourth round D'Arce choke in his last three fights. depending on how long he's willing to wait, he's very likely to face the winner of UFC 149's Jose Aldo vs. Erik Koch Featherweight Championship bout.

UFC on Fuel 3 Results: Amir Sadollah takes split decision over Jorge Lopez

Tue, 15 May 2012 21:35:40 PST

By: Jamie Penick, MMATorch Editor-in-Chief

For some reason, the welterweight bout between Amir Sadollah and Jorge Lopez was given co-main event booking on Tuesday's UFC on Fuel 3 card, and after a very uninspired 15-minute fight, Sadollah took home a split decision win.

There wasn't much to the fight from either fighter's end, as it was contested mostly in the clinch with a few spurts on the ground and on their feet. Still, neither fighter established much offense, at least not enough to take a clear decision on the cards, and two of the judges decided Sadollah had edged two of the rounds.

Sadollah bounced back from a loss to Duane Ludwig, while Lopez has now lost two straight decisions in the UFC.

UFC on Fuel 3 Results: Donald Cerrone toys with Jeremy Stephens for three rounds, earns impressive decision win

Tue, 15 May 2012 21:10:48 PST

By: Jamie Penick, MMATorch Editor-in-Chief

Donald Cerrone was well on his way to establishing himself as one of the top tier lightweights in the UFC in 2011 before feeding into the trash talk of Nate Diaz and losing a decision at UFC 141. However, he appears to have learned from that poor showing, as he dominated Jeremy Stephens on Tuesday night at UFC on Fuel 3 to earn a unanimous decision victory.

Stephens has been a long time veteran of the UFC, this being his 14th bout inside the Octagon, but he was rendered essentially inept for 15 minutes against "The Cowboy."

Cerrone started with leg kicks early and often, and as the first round wore on, and his respect for Stephens' attack began to wane, Cerrone started clowning around in the cage. He danced, he threw vicious combinations when Stephens least expected it, and he battered Stephens' lead leg with more and more kicks.

This attack continued through to the final horn, with Cerrone barely suffering a scratch in the bout. It was perhaps the most one-sided striking performance of his career, and against a longtime UFC vet in Stephens it was one of his most impressive as well.

He's now won five fights in six UFC appearances, and will look to get back into the conversation of elite UFC lightweights sooner rather than later. Stephens dropped to an even 7-7 in the Octagon with the loss.

Penick's Analysis: Even though it was essentially 15 minutes of Cerrone toying with Stephens, that may have been the most impressive thing he's done. Making it look that easy against a talented veteran was fascinating to watch, and had that version of Cerrone showed up in Las Vegas in December, it would have been a much more difficult fight for Nate Diaz. With Anthony Pettis needing an opponent for September, Cerrone seems like a very suitable option after that performance.

UFC on Fuel 3 Results: Yves Jabouin decimates Jeff Hougland in unanimous decision win

Tue, 15 May 2012 20:30:50 PST

By: Jamie Penick, MMATorch Editor-in-Chief

Yves Jabouin delivered a 15-minute beating to an outmatched Jeff Hougland at UFC on Fuel 3 on Tuesday night, taking a dominant unanimous decision in a fight that should have been stopped on a couple of occasions.

Jabouin's speed and striking advantage were at play throughout the fight, and it was nearly over in the first round when he dropped Hougland with a spinning back kick to the gut. The referee looked about to step in, but backed off at the last second. Jabouin landed some ground and pound but Hougland regained his bearings.

The same thing happened in the third round when Jabouin dropped Hougland again. Hougland ultimately recovered, and survived to the end of the fight, but it was a completely one-sided fight.

The win was Jabouin's third straight since a loss in his UFC debut. For Hougland, this loss snapped a nine-fight winning streak dating back almost nine years.

UFC on Fuel 3 Results: Igor Pokrajac edges Fabio Maldonado by decision

Tue, 15 May 2012 20:05:31 PST

By: Jamie Penick, MMATorch Editor-in-Chief

Igor Pokrajac and Fabio Maldonado engaged in an all out brawl on Tuesday night at UFC on Fuel 3, with Pokrajac ultimately emerging victorious with a somewhat controversial unanimous decision win.

Pokrajac scored an early takedown in the first round and did a little bit of damage, but after Maldonado got back to his feet he peppered Pokrajac with punches to the head and body against the cage. The next two rounds saw both fighters exchanging vicious blows against the cage; Maldonado with his punches and combinations to the head and body, Pokrajac with knees to the body and head.

Judges ultimately gave Pokrajac's offense more weight for at least two of three rounds, with one judge giving him all three frames. Pokrajac has won three in a row, and four of his last five, while Maldonado has lost another questionable decision in a row.

UFC on Fuel 3 Results: Tom Lawlor knocks Jason MacDonald out in the first round

Tue, 15 May 2012 19:25:01 PST

By: Jamie Penick, MMATorch Editor-in-Chief

After losing three of his last four fights, "Filthy" Tom Lawlor picked up a much needed win on Tuesday at UFC on Fuel 3 in Virginia, knocking out Jason MacDonald in just 50 seconds.

MacDonald, who himself had lost two of three coming into the event, attempted to bring the fight to the ground early. However, Lawlor stuffed the attempt, then connected on a perfect punch to the jaw of MacDonald that hurt him badly. A follow-up to the back of the ear sent MacDonald to the ground, and one more punch later, the fight was stopped.

It was Lawlor's first win since a decision over Patrick Cote in October of 2010. MacDonald has now been stopped in the first round in consecutive fights, and has lost three of four since returning to the UFC.

UFC on Fuel 3 results: Brad Tavares takes decision over Dongi Yang in foul-laden bout

Tue, 15 May 2012 19:10:38 PST

By: Jamie Penick, MMATorch Editor-in-Chief

An ugly, foul-laden fight between Brad Tavares and Dongi Yang ended with Tavares' hand raised on Tuesday at UFC on Fuel 3 in Fairfax, Va., as he took a unanimous decision with scores of 29-28 across the board.

The accidental illegal blows landed early for both, as each fighter poked an eye of the other. Tavares' was so bad he had trouble with it the rest of the fight, but lied to cageside doctors saying that he could see in order to keep the fight going.

The slow back and forth continued for 15 minutes, though it would be halted again when Tavares landed a low blow on Yang in the final frame. Ultimately, Tavares squeaked out two rounds on each of the judges' scorecards for the win.

UFC on Fuel 3 Results: Cody McKenzie submits Marcus LeVesseur with first round guillotine

Tue, 15 May 2012 18:20:58 PST

By: Jamie Penick, MMATorch Editor-in-Chief

Minnesota's Marcus LeVesseur started off strong in his UFC debut against Cody McKenzie on Tuesday night, but a mental mistake led to another guillotine choke win for the Alaskan at UFC on Fuel 3.

LeVesseur took McKenzie down almost immediately, but the fight came back to the feet quickly. LeVesseur then dropped McKenzie with some strikes against the cage, but then followed him to the ground. After attempting to pass and work from the top, LeVesseur sat in McKenzie's guard and McKenzie slowly locked in the guillotine choke. He rolled it over, and LeVesseur was forced to tap.

The loss was LeVesseur's first since 2010, and snapped a three fight winning streak. For McKenzie, the win halted a two fight losing skid inside the Octagon.

UFC on Fuel 3 Results: T.J. Grant shines in decision win over Carlo Prater in Virginia

Tue, 15 May 2012 18:05:57 PST

By: Jamie Penick, MMATorch Editor-in-Chief

T.J. Grant put on an MMA clinic against Carlo Prater at UFC on Fuel 3 on Tuesday night, controlling every aspect of the fight through 15 minutes to earn a unanimous decision.

Grant was comfortable striking with Prater throughout, but he shined against the Brazilian jiu jitsu black belt on the ground, scoring takedowns, passing, and attacking for submissions. He nearly finished the fight at the horn as he snatched a late armbar, but Prater was saved by the end of the fight.

Grant has now won two straight in the lightweight division, and looks very impressive in that weight class. Prater technically is 1-1 now in his UFC run after a DQ win in his debut in January.

UFC on Fuel 3 Results: Rafael dos Anjos blitzes Kamal Shalorus, scores first round submission

Tue, 15 May 2012 17:40:40 PST

By: Jamie Penick, MMATorch Editor-in-Chief

After going his first nine career fights without a loss, Kamal Shalorus has now lost three straight fights, and they've all come by stoppage. The most recent came on Tuesday night at UFC on Fuel 3, where Rafael dos Anjos made quick work of him.

Dos Anjos knocked him down with a huge head kick, and after getting warned about strikes to the back of the head, he switched up to the submission attack. Shalorus attempted to defend the sub attempt, but dos Anjos trapped his arm and locked it on, forcing the stoppage just 40 seconds into the fight.

Dos Anjos is now 2-1 since returning from a nearly year long layoff last summer, and he bounced back from a split decision loss to Gleison Tibau in his last outing with this win.

UFC on Fuel 3 Results: Johnny Eduardo keeps Jeff Curran winless in the Octagon with unanimous decision victory

Tue, 15 May 2012 17:35:19 PST

By: Jamie Penick, MMATorch Editor-in-Chief

33-year-old Brazilian bantamweight Johnny Eduardo kept longtime MMA vet Jeff Curran winless in the UFC on Tuesday night, utilizing a vicious and constant leg kick attack to earn a unanimous decision win at UFC on Fuel 3.

Curran attempted to go strike for strike with Eduardo through all three rounds of the fight, but couldn't get the range figured out until the final frame. That left him open to leg kick after leg kick from Eduardo in the first two rounds, damaging his lead leg and rendering his attempts at offense ineffective.

"Big Frog" did come back strong in the third, but it was too little too late after dropping the first two frames. He's now winless in his last six fights under the Zuffa banner, and is 0-3 in the Octagon. Eduardo now has his first win in the UFC after losing his UFC debut last August by decision against Raphael Assuncao.

UFC on Fuel 3 Results: Francisco Rivera dominates Alex Soto en route to decision win

Tue, 15 May 2012 17:05:34 PST

By: Jamie Penick, MMATorch Editor-in-Chief

Francisco Rivera made a successful return to the UFC on Tuesday night, dominating the striking game against Alex Soto at UFC on Fuel 3 in Fairfax, Va.

Rivera battered Soto with big strikes early and often en route to a unanimous decision win, but to his credit Soto continued fighting on for the entirety of the 15 minute bout despite taking some major punishment.

The one-sided performance came despite Rivera entering on short notice, but he handed Soto his second straight loss inside the Octagon.

Dana White attacks criticism of ratings decline for UFC on Fox 3, lambasts reporter Dave Meltzer [UPDATED]

Tue, 15 May 2012 16:25:10 PST

By: Jamie Penick, MMATorch Editor-in-Chief

Dana White isn't happy with the reaction from MMA media regarding the ratings for the UFC on Fox 3 event on May 5. In a new video blog post on Monday night, he showed a pre-recorded rant that would have been used on Fuel TV's "UFC Tonight" program, but with the UFC on Fuel 3 card on Tuesday that show is off for the week. In said rant, he went off on one writer in particular, Dave Meltzer of The Wrestling Observer, and formerly of Yahoo! Sports.

While he focused part of his rant on giving figures as to why the show was successful, he ripped into Meltzer over an article he wrote on the subject that essentially stated that the UFC and Fox were "blowing it" with how low the show drew. His criticisms led to the following from White:

"Dave Meltzer wrote this huge story, a doom and gloom story about how the UFC and Fox are blowing this thing, because of the numbers that came out," White began. "First of foremost, Dave, you know I like you, I respect you, but you just lost your job at Yahoo!; and you want to give us business advice? I'm actually writing a story next week that I'm gonna put out, about all the things I think you could have done to keep your job at Yahoo!. That story's coming out next week Dave, you might wanna read it, OK?"

White then put his own spin on the numbers from the event, urging everyone to "do their homework" before reacting so negatively. He stated that the Fox broadcast was the #1 program in all of the UFC's key male demos, and while it was beaten in total viewers by Shark Tank and NCIS that night, both programs saw a majority of their viewership come from viewers 50 and older.

Additionally, White said the broadcast outperformed the NBA Playoffs across the board. Furthermore, he said that television viewership as a whole was down 10 million viewers from the first Fox show the UFC put on. Meaning, 10 million less viewers were at home watching any form of television. He placed that on it being Cinco de Mayo and the opening of The Avengers, which had the biggest opening weekend in movie history.

Because of all that, he decried the "doom and gloom" reports, especially that of Meltzer's, and ripped into any thought of negativity on the numbers. Check out the full rant below:

Video URL: http://youtu.be/pnDHwXwIK1g

Penick's Analysis: There is one key fact that draws much of the criticism to the UFC on Fox 3 ratings: it was the lowest rated MMA event on network TV ever, behind EliteXC and Strikeforce's offerings. Of course there are reasons for that. Ten million less people watching TV that night was absolutely going to hurt the ratings. Cinco de Mayo may have taken a lot of their demographic out of the house. Same with The Avengers. But claiming "total victory" with no concern over a massive decline in viewership is ignoring part of the problem.

Yes, ten million less people were at home that night watching TV, but guess what? The UFC didn't put forth the type of main event to make any of those ten million stay home. That's a very real part of the issue. Yes, Nate Diaz vs. Jim Miller was a great fight, and hardcore fans absolutely expected it to be, but the UFC was going to get them to watch regardless. They didn't have a fight that drew in the casual fan in droves; they didn't have the type of fight that made people say, "oh, I know The Avengers is out, I know it's Cinco de Mayo, I know there's other stuff on TV, but I HAVE to see that fight!" Simply put, the UFC wasn't "must see TV" on May 5 with the card they provided, not for the masses. While that doesn't mean the end of the world for the UFC on Fox, it should be at least somewhat concerning to see such a steep decline. Instead, White went on the attack.

And to address his attack on Meltzer regarding Yahoo!, it's not as if Meltzer was "fired" from Yahoo! because of a lack of quality or for his abilities in the realm of business advice. His Wrestling Observer newsletter has been a highly successful venture for decades. Yahoo! decided not put as much of their resources into covering MMA as they had been doing, and decided not to pay Meltzer what he would have rightfully felt he was owed. And in the time since Meltzer has left, the CEO that made those decisions at Yahoo! has lost his job as well. It's not something that has any bearing on the situation, but White uses it here as an attack. This was another in a long line of reactionary responses from White that distorts things on this front, while ignoring some of the reason why criticism is being levied in the first place.

UPDATE: MMATorch received some more accurate figures from an industry source regarding the UFC on Fox 3 card, so here's the "homework" White was looking for:

The UFC's broadcast did win the key male demos on BROADCAST television that night, but they were outdrawn by ESPN's Sportscenter and three different NBA games on cable television in the men 18-49 demo and men 18-34 demo. In fact, a game between the Memphis Grizzlies and the Los Angeles Clippers doubled the UFC's rating in the men 18-34 demographic (3.45 to 1.6).

Additionally, in terms of overall viewers, five programs on broadcast television that night outdrew the UFC on Fox broadcast, with the aforementioned Shark Tank and NCIS: LA being joined by the ABC Saturday Movie, Crime Time Saturday, and 48 Hours Mystery. During the day, 21 programs on cable outdrew the 2.4 million in average viewership the UFC on Fox card brought in on network television. That included two NBA playoff games on ESPN and TNT, respectively, ten airings of Spongebob Squarepants and three of The Big Bang Theory on TBS.

Also, to address White's point about the HUT levels, i.e., the number of people home watching television: viewership was down by 8.9 million viewers overall, not the ten million White stated. That accounted for a 13% decrease in overall television viewers from the November Fox debut. However, the UFC's household rating was down 53% from the November event, so that HUT level reasoning can only go so far.

So there are the simple facts regarding the issues of contention White laid out during this rant.

Fedor Emelianenko says June 21 bout with Pedro Rizzo may be his last

Tue, 15 May 2012 15:55:21 PST

By: Jamie Penick, MMATorch Editor-in-Chief

Fedor Emelianenko returns to his home country of Russia next month to take on former UFC Heavyweight Title contender Pedro Rizzo in Moscow. The fight is his third since his release from Strikeforce last summer, and according to Russian new outlet RIA Novosti, it may be his final fight.

"I think it's time to call it a day," Emelianenko told the outlet. "This fight may be my last one. I have been learning from Pedro's fights and have a lot of respect for him. He is a fighter of a great maturity, beating many of the strongest."

Rizzo returns to action in this fight for the first time since a win over Ken Shamrock in the summer of 2010. The 15-year MMA vet spent five years in the UFC, competing for the title on two occasions. Since leaving the UFC on a two fight winning streak in 2003, Rizzo has fought just nine times, going 5-4 in those bouts, and suffering brutal knockout losses to Sergei Kharitonov, Roman Zentsov, Josh Barnett, and Gilbert Yvel. However, he's unbeaten in his last three fights.

Emelinanenko rebounded from three straight losses in Strikeforce by defeating Jeff Monson in Moscow last fall. He followed that up with a win over Olympic Judoka Satoshi Ishii on New Year's Eve.

Penick's Analysis: If Emelianenko calls it a close following the bout on June 21, it will bring to an end the career of historically the greatest heavyweight fighter in the sport's young history. Though he faltered in the tail end of his run, losing three straight in Strikeforce, he still held a ten year unbeaten run, and is easily the greatest fighter to never compete in the UFC. If he decides to call it a career, few will argue with the decision, especially with a very limited pool of opposition outside of the UFC and little likelihood of him entering the Octagon. It will mean a great career goes out on a whimper, but nonetheless it was a great career.

ROUNDTABLE: Predictions for UFC on Fuel 3 main event between Dustin Poirier and "The Korean Zombie" Chan Sung Jung

Tue, 15 May 2012 14:10:42 PST

Predict the outcome of Tuesday's UFC on Fuel 3 main event between Dustin Poirier and The Korean Zombie. Who wins and how? Also, should that winner get the next title shot after Erik Koch.

RICH HANSEN, MMATORCH COLUMNIST

I think Poirier is going to win. I think he's going to make it look easy, and I think it's either going to be a choke or a convincing decision that even the Virginia Athletic Commission won't be able to screw up. After this fight, there's no questions that Poirier should be next for Erik Koch (or Aldo, I suppose).

FRANK HYDEN, MMATORCH CONTRIBUTOR

I'd love to go with the man who has one of the coolest nicknames in sports, The Korean Zombie, but I got to favor Poirier slightly in this fight. It should be a very good fight, and I think Poirier pulls off a submission victory. And yes, I would be good with the winner of this fight receiving the next title shot. It makes sense to me.

BRAD WALKER, MMATORCH COLUMNIST

I really feel like we're going to see Poirier continue his streak and put the Zombie to sleep. Both of these guys are very talented individuals who can finish a fight in the blink of an eye, but in this matchup it's going to be the one who strikes first taking home a win. Jung is dangerous in ways his weight class isn't accustomed to, and Poirier is an absolute mastodon with the momentum he has on his side. I just dont see Jung making it to the final bell one way or the other so I'll say Poirier via TKO sometime after round three.

ANWAR PEREZ, MMATORCH COLUMNIST

I think this is a great opportunity for both The Korean Zombie and Poirier. As the main event of any card (even on Fuel where many fans may not have the opportunity to see it) provides the chance to make a big splash in the division. I definitely see the winner getting a title shot after Koch no doubt. I see The Korean Zombie putting a nice striking display and taking out Poirier in the second round. TKO via strikes.

ERIC HOBAUGH, MMATORCH CONTRIBUTOR

The Korean Zombie is in my mind one of the toughest fighters in his weight class. His kick boxing and BJJ make him a serious threat at 145. He is coming off wins against Leonard Garcia and Mark Hominick. Dustin Poirier is on a five fight win streak. He has not been against the same level of competition as the Zombie, but five in a row is impressive and four of those wins are in the UFC. Poirier's BJJ is really good, but he is not as strong on the feet as the Zombie. Even if Poirier can get this fight to the ground, the Zombie has a good enough ground game to win. I think the difference in this fight will be the Zombie's advantage with his striking. I believe that the he will win this fight by decision with his ability to keep the fight standing and out-strike Poirier. I think whoever wins this fight should get the next title shot after Erik Koch.

ALEX WILLIAMS, MMATORCH CONTRIBUTOR

Dustin Poirier decisions The Korean Zombie. I'll have several fighters ranked above the winner of this bout who deserve a title shot first. At the top of that heap is Hatsu Hioki (assuming he defeats Ricardo Lamas).

DAN MOORE, MMATORCH UK CONTRIBUTOR

With my limited expertise at predicting the outcome of main event fights, I was tempted to send in a response full of questions marks only. This is probably the most difficult fight to predict and my choice keeps changing by the hour. Poirier has improved considerably since he beat the heavily favored Josh Grispi at UFC 125. Although the level of his opponents on this winning streak haven't been truly challenging, he deserves recognition for what he's achieved thus far.

Chan Sung Jung has looked awesome in his last two fights, ending both in spectacular fashion, and he will present a phenomenal challenge for Poirier. Look both can win this fight by any method they want, and I'd be very surprised if it isn't Fight of the Night. My crystal ball says The Korean Zombie will win by TKO later in the fight, however my crystal ball has been wrong pretty much every time i've ever used it so don't put any money on that outcome!

UFC 148's Chael Sonnen likely to appear on NSAC's May 21 meeting regarding TUE application for TRT

Tue, 15 May 2012 13:35:17 PST

By: Jamie Penick, MMATorch Editor-in-Chief

Chael Sonnen's participation in the UFC 148 main event may not be as cut and dry a proposition as it appeared at first blush. With his Middleweight Championship rematch with Anderson Silva moving from Brazil to Las Vegas, Sonnen's testosterone use is going to come under further scrutiny.

According to a report from MMAJunkie.com, Sonnen has officially applied for a therapeutic use exemption with the Nevada State Athletic Commission for his use of testosterone replacement therapy. With that application, which was submitted two weeks ago, Sonnen may be put on the NSAC's May 21 docket to answer some questions regarding his application.

Sonnen's TRT use came to the forefront in conjunction with a positive test for an elevated T/E ratio out of his first fight with Anderson Silva in 2010. It was at his hearing with the CSAC that he revealed his TRT use, with his family doctor in toe as the one who diagnosed him with hypogonadism.

Now, for the first time, he may actually be put under the lens. He's claimed he needs the testosterone in order to function, and the NSAC's TUE process will now be scrutinized as well in conjunction with this.

Penick's Analysis: If they clear him for TRT, things will move forward as planned for UFC 148, and Sonnen's long saga with this testosterone issue may come to a close. That said, if they do clear him for TRT, depending on how comprehensive they look into it, the NSAC could come under fire as well. This is going to be a very interesting and touchy issue in the next month, and could potentially put the UFC 148 main event in jeopardy yet again.

[Chael Sonnen art by Grant Gould (c) MMATorch.com]

UFC's Roy Nelson says "it pays to cheat" in MMA, looking at out of pocket drug testing

Tue, 15 May 2012 12:30:22 PST

By: Jamie Penick, MMATorch Editor-in-Chief

With several high profile cases of testosterone use in the sport of mixed martial arts, reform of the drug testing process in the sport has been called for on many fronts. To this point, the UFC has held to the maxim that it's not an issue, and that this is "the most tested sport" in the world. But even if they don't want to embrace any new processes, it doesn't mean all of their fighters will follow suit.

Heavyweight Roy Nelson, who is competing at UFC 146 later this month in a bout against Dave "PeeWee" Herman, isn't happy with the rash of PED users in the sport, and is looking at some out of pocket options for his future fights where drug testing is concerned.

"I think in our business I guess it pays to cheat," Nelson said in an interview with VigilanteMMA. "From who I know and everybody who follows it, um yeah... it pays to cheat. I was talking to a couple people and a lot of us - at least myself - I go to VADA (Voluntary Anti Doping Association) and start doing that voluntarily; and then my opponents are going to have to do the same to even out the playing field. I think Floyd Mayweather said it best, 'if you want to be the best, you must test.'"

Nelson isn't using it to single anyone out in general, but says it's something that all fighters should go ahead with if they're truly clean athletes.

"I don't think it's about calling people out," Nelson said. "It's actually just putting your money where your mouth is. Whoever I fight probably after this next fight, I think I'll just set it up and if I have to pay out of my own pocket to make it happen. I'll do the gesture that the UFC won't."

Penick's Analysis: This is a position that's surely not going to sit well with everyone in the UFC, and with him laying it out as "I'll do the gesture the UFC won't," he's definitely sending a message. How that message is received remains to be seen, but it's an admirable stance he's taking. VADA is a voluntary program, but if more fighters begin taking part in it that's the type of thing that could potentially lead to a shift in the UFC's mindset on this front. Regardless, Nelson is making a very solid statement here, and we'll have to see if he follows through on that going forward.

Nick Diaz, attorney pleased with precedent set against NSAC despite denial of injunction request

Tue, 15 May 2012 12:00:37 PST

By: Jamie Penick, MMATorch Editor-in-Chief

Nick Diaz failed in his attempt to get an injunction on his temporary suspension on Monday. However, in a statement released by his attorney Ross Goodman on Judge Rob Bare's decision, they are claiming at least partial victory in setting a precedent for the future with the Nevada State Athletic Commission. Here's the statement from Goodman:

"At today’s hearing of Nick Diaz’s motion for a preliminary injunction, District Court Judge Rob Bare clarified that the NSAC, like all other administrative agencies in Nevada, is required to comply with the law.

By failing to hold a final disciplinary hearing within 45 days of suspending Mr. Diaz’s license, the NSAC violated Diaz’s due process rights under NRS 233B. The Judge entirely rejected the NSAC’s claim that it is entitled to suspend fighters indefinitely pending a final hearing.

Judge Bare further held, as Ross C. Goodman argued, that if the NSAC imposes a “temporary suspension” on a fighter, the NSAC is legally required to hold a final disciplinary hearing within 45 days.

If the NSAC had not committed to setting Diaz’s final disciplinary hearing for Monday, May 21, 2012 – which the NSAC only agreed to do the last business day before today’s hearing – then, Judge Bare unequivocally and repeatedly stated, he would have ordered the NSAC to do so within 7 to 10 days.

Likewise, Judge Bare clarified that all fighters are entitled to the protection of the statutory 45 day time limit. The Judge rejected the NSAC’s suggestion that fighters are required attend the temporary suspension hearing in order to qualify for such protection. He rejected the NSAC’s position that Diaz lost the right to dispute the temporary suspension by electing not to attend the February 22, 2012 temporary suspension hearing.

Mr. Diaz is pleased to have obtained a valuable precedent for the benefit of all fighters licensed in Nevada."

Diaz's disciplinary hearing will indeed finally be conducted by the NSAC on May 21, but NSAC executive director Keith Kizer, along with the Nevada Attorney General, has rebuked Diaz's claims every step of the way. As he's a repeat offender with this, the NSAC may very well suspend him a full year when all is said and done.

Penick's Analysis: Yes, Goodman's case here in regards to the NSAC's timetable for hearings had some merit, and that played with this particular judge. However, when it comes to the discipline itself, it's going to come back to the NSAC and their own system, which has come under scrutiny and has been questioned by Goodman and Diaz for the last several months. When they're the ones making the decision here, it's hard to be optimistic about Diaz's chances with his case, especially with how long this has dragged out. It doesn't sit right at all that Diaz is facing a year for the inactive compound of marijuana being in his system, yet Alistair Overeem was just denied a license for nine months for injecting himself with a dangerous mix of drugs that included testosterone, but it's the difference between a first time drug failure and being a repeat offender.

[Nick Diaz art by Grant Gould (c) MMATorch.com]

UFC ON FUEL TV 3 PREVIEW: Penick's main card breakdown and fight picks for "Poirier vs. 'The Korean Zombie'" event

Tue, 15 May 2012 11:30:39 PST

By: Jamie Penick, MMATorch Editor-in-Chief

The UFC returns to Fuel TV on Tuesday with their third dedicated fight card for the network. Tuesday's broadcast will air live from the Patriot Center in Fairfax, Va., headlined by the featherweight bout between Dustin Poirier and "The Korean Zombie" Chan Sung Jung. The three-hour broadcast features six fights, and here's what's on tap for the broadcast:

Dustin Poirier vs. "The Korean Zombie" Chan Sung Jung (Featherweight)

Since coming into the Zuffa fold in 2010, Chan Sung Jung has been a fan favorite due to a sometimes reckless fighting style, an ability to absorb punishment, and a penchant for having really fun fights. His sloppy debut brawl with Leonard Garcia in the WEC was one of the more exciting fights of 2010, and though he was robbed of a decision win, it left fans wanting more.

He suffered a head kick knockout against George Roop in his next fight, but then rebounded in a big way in 2011 with the first ever twister submission in his rematch with Garcia, and then his seven second KO of Mark Hominick.

Poirier hasn't been tested against top level opposition just yet, but at 23-years-old he's shown off an impressively well rounded game, and is also a very exciting fighter to watch.

Jung isn't afraid to stand and strike with an opponent, though his willingness to take punches to land could certainly lead him to trouble. That said, once on the ground he's got a very adept submission attack as well, with last year's Twister a prime example of that.

However, Poirier's striking is crisp and effective, and his ground game is very solid as well. This is a very entertaining matchup on paper, and should prove to be one on Tuesday as well. Though Jung is certainly capable of pulling off an upset, I don't trust his chin to hold up through a five round fight with Poirier. Poirier via TKO in the fourth round

Amir Sadollah vs. Jorge Lopez (Welterweight)

Sadollah - the season seven Ultimate Fighter who has spent his entire professional career inside the Octagon - looked like he had turned a corner in his skill set last March when he decimated DaMarques Johnson. However, in a lopsided decision loss to Duane Ludwig last August, he was brought back down a notch.

Lopez fights for the second time in the Octagon after suffering a decision loss to Justin Edwards in his organizational debut last September, leaving both fighters to enter this event off of lengthy layoffs.

Neither fighter is especially superior in any aspect of the game, as they've both got decent striking and solid grappling, which makes for a fairly even fight overall. If Sadollah hasn't learned from the loss to Ludwig, he may certainly find himself in a repeat of that performance, but he seems to bounce back fairly well from adversity, and I think he'll get back on track in this one. Sadollah via decision

Donald Cerrone vs. Jeremy Stephens (Lightweight)

In what may be the best fight on the card, Cerrone looks to bounce back from a momentum-killing loss to Nate Diaz in December and to reemerge as a contender in the lightweight division. Standing across from him is a very talented lightweight who has proven to be a pretty good barometer for talent in the division in Jeremy Stephens.

Stephens will never challenge for a title in the UFC, but he's got a ton of power in his strikes and has a good grappling game as well, making him a fairly well rounded threat. As a gatekeeper in the lightweight division, he's also more than capable of testing any fighter trying to break into the next level at 155 lbs.

The term "gatekeeper" isn't meant pejoratively here, either. He's been in some immensely close fights with several fighters, and he's capable of defeating most in the division, but a 7-6 record in the UFC will have him in that role indefinitely.

With that said, this is the type of fight he tends to lose in close fashion. Cerrone's never been stopped by strikes before, and he's been hit with some pretty big shots throughout his career. His striking is also much improved, and while his jiu jitsu game is pretty slick as well, it's his improvements in wrestling that helped him turn the corner from solid lightweight to potential title contender.

He got sucked into Nate Diaz's game in December, but the same thing won't happen against Stephens. If he fights intelligently, uses his reach, and picks his spots, he's got the length, height, and speed necessary to render Stephens ineffective during the fight. If he does that, this is his easy. Cerrone via decision

Yves Jabouin vs. Jeff Hougland (Bantamweight)

Jabouin's early career is littered with stoppage wins, and he's shown off his power on a few occasions in the WEC and UFC, but he lacks a stoppage victory in his 3-3 mark under the Zuffa umbrella.

Hougland, who was brought in as a late replacement, has gone unbeaten in nine fights over the last seven years, including a win in his UFC debut last July. However, while he presents a submission threat throughout the bout for Jabouin, the fact that he's a late replacement and hasn't fought in 10 months does work against him.

Ultimately, Jabouin has more experience on a big stage, and has won two straight, albeit by split decision. Still, he should have more than enough in the tank to avoid the attacks of Hougland, though an eye must be kept on the submission game of Hougland prior to the final horn. Jabouin via decision

Igor Pokrajac vs. Fabio Maldonado (Light Heavyweight)

Pokrajac is coming off of two stoppage wins over Todd Brown and Krzysztof Soszynski, but he's facing a decidedly more difficult striker in Fabio Maldonado here. However, Maldonado hasn't fought since a questionable decision loss to Kyle Kingsbury almost a year ago.

This is very likely going to be a fight contested entirely on the feet, and while Pokrajac has been impressive in his last two stoppage wins, Maldonado is a more dynamic puncher than either fighter he faced in those wins.

If Maldonado's cardio isn't completely negated by the year long layoff, I think he'll provide a varied attack that should wear Pokrajac down to a stoppage around the midpoint of the fight. Maldonado via TKO in the second round

Jason MacDonald vs. Tom Lawlor (Middleweight)

This fight features two immensely entertaining, yet woefully inconsistent fighters. Lawlor's entrances have become a part of his schtick, but he hasn't put together the regular success to bring the complete package.

MacDonald was brought back to the UFC in 2010 after a year and four fights outside of the organization, and promptly suffered an injury that kept him out a year. He returned with a submission win, only to lose once more in his last fight against Alan Belcher.

Lawlor has some decent skills on the ground, but MacDonald's submission game will be on another level there. If Lawlor can keep things standing, he's got the advantage on the feet, but that's easier said than done. The big X factor in this fight is also MacDonald's cardio advantage, so there are just more things working in MacDonald's favor here. MacDonald via submission in the second round.

Nick Diaz denied injunction on suspension, disciplinary hearing with NSAC set for May 21

Mon, 14 May 2012 19:45:43 PST

By: Jamie Penick, MMATorch Editor-in-Chief

A Nevada judge denied Nick Diaz's request for an injunction of his temporary suspension by the Nevada State Athletic Commission on Monday, leaving his suspension in place at least through a May 21 disciplinary hearing with the NSAC.

Diaz filed suit late last month following the NSAC's decision not to hold his disciplinary hearing at their April 24 meeting. Diaz's lawyer, Ross Goodman, argued that Diaz's due process rights had been violated, and that the NSAC had no right to keep him under indefinite suspension without a disciplinary hearing.

While Judge Rob Bare commended Goodman's presentation of their complaint, and agreed with issues surrounding the time it has taken with no hearing on the disciplinary complaint, he ultimately denied the request for injunction. According to MMA Fight Corner on Twitter, who was in attendance in the courtroom on Monday, the judge suggested that the NSAC and fighters must put in writing any requests to extend the timetable for a hearing beyond 45 days from a temporary suspension.

With the denial of the injunction, Bare stated that Diaz's disciplinary hearing should be held on the 21st of this month. That means Diaz's attempt to get his suspension either reduced or dropped based on their arguments regarding marijuana metabolites and out of competition use will finally be heard.

Penick's Analysis: It now comes back to the merits of Diaz's case and whether the NSAC is at all willing to look at the statutes they have in place and reconsider whether being positive for marijuana metabolites - inactive for the psychoactive components of the drug - constitute an actual positive drug test. Diaz and Goodman have maintained their argument for some time, and will surely give a compelling presentation to the commission, but ultimately it will fall on the commissioners themselves to make a ruling, and that won't necessarily bode well for Diaz. The circus picks up again next week.

[Nick Diaz art by Grant Gould (c) MMATorch.com]

UFC on Fuel 3 Weigh-in Results

Mon, 14 May 2012 15:35:32 PST

By: Jamie Penick, MMATorch Editor-in-Chief

Weigh-ins took place this afternoon for tomorrow night's UFC on Fuel 3 event from Fairfax, Va. All fighters made weight for the event, and the official weights are below:

Main Card (Fuel TV)

Dustin Poirier (145) vs. Chan Sung Jung (145)
Jorge Lopez (171) vs. Amir Sadollah (171)
Donald Cerrone (155) vs. Jeremy Stephens (155)
Jeff Hougland (135) vs. Yves Jabouin (135)
Fabio Maldonado (205) vs. Igor Pokrajac (205)
Tom Lawlor (186) vs. Jason MacDonald (185)

Facebook Preliminary Card

Brad Tavares (185) vs. Dongi Yang (186)
Marcus LeVesseur (155) vs. Cody McKenzie (155)
T.J. Grant (155) vs. Carlo Prater (155)
Rafael Dos Anjos (156) vs. Kamal Shalorus (155)
Jeff Curran (135) vs. Johnny Eduardo (135)
Francisco Rivera (134) vs. Alex Soto (135)

Jon Fitch vs. Aaron Simpson heading to UFC on Fuel 4 this July

Mon, 14 May 2012 14:55:18 PST

By: Jamie Penick, MMATorch Editor-in-Chief

The long-rumored welterweight bout between Aaron Simpson and Jon Fitch now has a home, as Simpson posted on Twitter on Monday that the two will fight at UFC on Fuel 4 on July 11.

Simpson is making his welterweight debut in the fight, dropping from middleweight following a loss to Ronny Markes at UFC on Fuel 1 in February. That loss was just the third of his career, and brought his UFC mark to 6-3 overall.

Fitch hopes to rebound from his 12-second knockout loss to Johny Hendricks at UFC 141 in December. The perennial top welterweight suffered just his second loss in the UFC, and first since a decision loss in a title fight against Georges St-Pierre at UFC 87 in 2008.

UFC on Fuel 4 is expected to take place from the HP Pavilion in San Jose, Calif., headlined by a middleweight bout between Mark Munoz and Chris Weidman.

Penick's Analysis: It was only going to take one loss to see Fitch drop way down in the UFC's favor. He's gone from headlining a pay-per-view against B.J. Penn, to a main card loss on pay-per-view to a Fuel TV event. It's a quick regression, but not at all unexpected. It's a solid fight for a Fuel card, and this one is certainly shaping up to be stronger than tomorrow night's event in Fairfax, Va.

[Jon Fitch art by Cory Gould (c) MMATorch.com]

Phil Davis welcomes Chad Griggs to light heavyweight at UFC on Fox 4

Mon, 14 May 2012 14:35:16 PST

By: Jamie Penick, MMATorch Editor-in-Chief

In one of the oddest fights put together in recent memory, the UFC announced on Monday that Chad Griggs will drop down to the light heavyweight division, and will take on Phil Davis at UFC on Fox 4.

Griggs was bowled through by Travis Browne in his UFC debut last month at UFC 145, losing by first round arm triangle choke to snap a winning streak in Strikeforce.

Davis drops from a main event decision loss to Rashad Evans on the second UFC on Fox card to this fight. The loss to Evans was the first in his MMA career.

UFC on Fox 4 takes place on August 4 from the Staples Center in Los Angeles, Calif., headlined by the middleweight bout between Hector Lombard and Brian Stann.

Penick's Analysis: I just don't understand this booking at all. Griggs' claim to fame is wins over Bobby Lashley and Valentijn Overeem in Strikeforce. Phil Davis is one of the most accomplished amateur wrestlers on the UFC's roster and holds wins over two top 10 light heavyweights. This fight makes very little sense on the surface and isn't that interesting of a fight overall. I also don't see the UFC putting Griggs on Fox off the last loss he had, so Davis drops from a main event slot to a Fuel TV undercard more than likely. Just an odd, odd move on the UFC's part here.

[Phil Davis art by Grant Gould (c) MMATorch.com]

UFC on Fuel 3's Dustin Poirier expects to pick apart "The Korean Zombie" in main event bout

Mon, 14 May 2012 14:30:34 PST

By: Jamie Penick, MMATorch Editor-in-Chief

Dustin Poirier has been very impressive thus far in his UFC career. The 23-year-old won four straight fights inside the Octagon in a 13-month span, earning the first headlining fight of his young career, which comes tomorrow night on Fuel TV against "The Korean Zombie" Chan Sung Jung.

In his four fights in the UFC, Poirier dominated Josh Grispi and outworked Jason Young to decision wins, then submitted Pablo Garza and a late replacement for Erik Koch in Max Holloway in February. Those performances all moved Poirier into discussion for title contention despite his young age, but he's still not rushing that talk.

Instead, he's eying what should be an immensely entertaining fight with Jung, whose last two fights have seen him pull off the first ever twister submission in UFC history, then earn the second fastest knockout in UFC history over Mark Hominick in December. Suffice it to say, Poirier doesn't think Tuesday's main event will be going all five scheduled rounds.

"I don't think [this fight goes five rounds]," Poirier said in an interview with USA Today. "If it does, it'll be Fight of the Century. Somebody's probably going to get knocked out or submitted early. Whoever capitalizes on the first mistake, whoever lands that first big shot and sees the other person hurt."

"I think we both have the ability to do that. I think he's dangerous from every position and so am I. Who's going to go out there and make things happen? I'm ready to do that."

Poirier thinks he has an edge in the technique department when it comes to their respective striking games, though he realizes Jung is capable of delivering a technical performance. However, he's seen different styles from Jung in his last several fights, so he's not sure which opponent he's going to get come Tuesday night in Fairfax, Va.

"The seven-second knockout was a seven-second knockout. It was a hook-cross. So that's hard to say with [what changes he may have made]," Poirier said. "But the second [Leonard] Garcia fight, I saw a little more cautious fighter. Picked his shots a little bit more. Fought like a professional fighter. But then again, I saw he gets frustrated when Leonard wasn't engaging or pushing back. It seems like he doesn't like to fight from a distance. He likes to be in doing it the whole time. So I saw him get frustrated and brawl a little bit."

"But he has a professional kickboxing record... So he definitely has the technique. It's just he's a fighter and he likes to get in there and throw punches, so I think if he gets hit on the chin, it's going to go back to a brawl. We'll see what Zombie shows up that night. Is it going to be the technical one or is it going to be the brawler?"

Regardless of which version of his opponent shows up, Poirier remains confident in his abilities. He wasn't expecting Jung to get past Hominick in December due to the technical differences between the two; and while he was surprised by that outcome, he's not planning on letting the same thing happen to him.

"I was at my buddy's house watching the fight and I was saying, 'Hominick's about to pick this guy apart. Come watch this. It's going to be a kickboxing clinic.' I was excited," Poirier explained. "I couldn't believe my eyes. I definitely picked Hominick to just beat him up technical on the feet."

"That was December when he knocked out Hominick. His fight before that was when he did the twister. There's such big gaps. How much can you improve in that time period? Everybody's different."

"But I'm expecting to pick him apart."

If he manages to accomplish that on Tuesday night, it will make for another impressive win on his resume. If he continues to pull off performances along those lines, he'll get himself into a title fight sooner rather than later.

Penick's Analysis: This is almost assuredly going to be a blast to watch. Jung's not the most technical fighter, but he brings an exciting style into the cage and will not go down without leaving everything in the cage. Poirier is very likely the superior fighter in every aspect of the game, but even then it's important for him to show that in this fight. If he can pick Jung apart as he plans to do, it will make for another enjoyable performance out of him. If Jung makes it more difficult for him, it will make for an immensely exciting back and forth fight. Either way, this is a fight worth watching, so if you don't have Fuel, try to find a bar with DirecTV to have them turn the fights on!

UFC's James Wilks, winner of The Ultimate Fighter's ninth season, officially retires due to injuries

Mon, 14 May 2012 13:45:29 PST

By: Jamie Penick, MMATorch Editor-in-Chief

For most fighters who win the UFC's reality show The Ultimate Fighter, they can expect to have a lengthy career in the UFC provided they have a modicum of success inside the Octagon. There are exceptions to that, as in anything, but for the most part the winners of the show get a longer leash for getting fights.

Unfortunately for season nine winner James Wilks, he wasn't even able to consistently take advantage of those opportunities. The Team UK winner in the welterweight division only fought in the UFC four times, going 2-2 in those bouts, and now a rash of injuries throughout his UFC run have brought an end to his career entirely.

Wilks revealed his retirement officially on Twitter on Monday, letting fans know he's now simply focusing on coaching at his gym Lighting MMA. The 34-year old defeated DaMarques Johnson to win his season of the show, but he suffered losses to Matt Brown and Claude Patrick, with a win over Peter Sobotta sandwiched in between, in his next three fights. He was scheduled to return twice in 2011, with injuries taking him out of both fights.

He leaves the sport with a 7-4 overall record, and an unfortunately brief 16-month run in the UFC as one of its reality show winners.

Penick's Analysis: That's disappointing news. You never want to see athlete have their profession taken away from them because of injuries, but it's an unfortunate reality in all pro sports. If the injuries keep racking up like they did for Wilks, it becomes very difficult not only to recover, but to get back into an acceptable shape for whatever sport they're competing in. It's too bad he didn't have a chance to rebound from his two losses in three fights, or to try to follow up on the promise he showed through TUF's ninth season, but it's something that does happen in a sport as physical as MMA.