Gary Shaw: Kimbo Slice is the Biggest Star in MMA

by Luke Thomas on May 16, 2008 10:31 AM EDT in MMA News

The show where this interview took place is on the local CBS talker (WJFK) and it's called "Big O & Dukes" . I'll be on at noon today to set the record straight. I'm a HUGE fan of their show, but they're getting misleading information.

Slice is obviously a star and the buzz surrounding him at the moment is probably greater than any other fighter. But from a global perspective, one could make the case that Hidehiko Yoshida or even Denis Kang are more popular (this is another debate for another time). What's most important, though, is that we understand what's surrounding Slice is mystique, not superstardom. This isn't boxing. MMA fighters cannot pad their records with easy fights for very long without tarnishing their reputation. You have to face the best and if you don't, the best will make you pay for it. Just ask Tito Oritz. His loss to Liddell at UFC 47 merely added insult to injury.

Slice has potential, but until he's routinely proven himself against top competition, he is no star. The problem with mystique is that it can be shattered. If Slice were to lose in any of his next few fights - or worse, be finished - that mystique would be shattered. Liddell lost twice in a row and is still Liddell. Slice does not have that kind of reputation equity upon which to draw.

So, tune in to Big O & Dukes today at noon to hear more. You can listen live by going to the WJFK website and clicking "Listen Live".

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Comments

Re: Gary Shaw: Kimbo Slice

You're right, I like Kimbo too and he's got tonnes of potential, but a lost to Thompson would completely wreck his image as an MMA fighter. Actually, that would be pretty funny. I don't mean any ill will towards Kimbo, and I'm pretty sure Kimbo would win, but if Thompson can somehow knock Kimbo out... wow. What I wouldn't give to see Gary Shaw's reaction.

by pud333 on May 15, 2008 8:54 PM EDT reply actions

Kimbo is a fragile golden egg

They’re in a tough spot with Kimbo, like Luke says, he’s gotten so big so fast without being tested in the ring that they have a lot to lose if Kimbo loses.
I also think that the blog buzz bitching about Kimbo fighting cans will eventually percolate out to the mainstream. He has 2 more fights against sub-par competition at most before that starts to catch up with him.

by Kid Nate on May 16, 2008 10:47 AM EDT reply actions

Kimbo losing would crush EliteXC.

by Tha Realness on May 16, 2008 11:26 AM EDT reply actions

Kaitlin Young gives me an idea

How about taking him to small grappling meets/tourneys? After his fight with Jimmy, just focus on his ground game for three months or so and then go to some smaller meets in Miami or LA? slip him in last minute* against anyone they can find in his weight class?

I dunno too much about the grappling circuit, but it seems like the only way to get him some ground experience without risking a main event defeat.

Any thoughts?

- promoters of events might not make money off his name through tickets, but DVDs could have him on the cover. Just trying to think if this is practical or not.

by asa on May 16, 2008 4:39 PM EDT reply actions