Navigation: Jump to content areas:


Pro Quality. Fan Perspective.
Login-facebook
Around SBN: Fighters React to Nick Diaz's Positive Drug Test

Brandon Vera vs. Jon 'Bones' Jones on March 21

Photo

Courtesy of Brandon Vera's twitter:

just found out I'm firing Jon Bones Jones on March 21st in Denver Colorado. hope u heard it here first!!!!

Well, it certainly didn't take long for Vera to land a new opponent in the wake of Antonio Rogerio Nogueira's injury.

I've often said that the five men in the UFC I would keep Jon Jones away from at this stage in his development are Lyoto Machida (for obvious reasons), Shogun Rua (for obvious reasons), Antonio Rogerio Nogueira (obvious again), Keith Jardine (awkward style presents a major risk and you look ugly fighting him) and Brandon Vera.

Jones' length is obviously still an asset but against Vera it will be less so, not to mention that Vera has top notch Muay Thai skills.  Maybe he doesn't always let those skills show but they are there and when he does share them with the world, he is very dangerous.  It's not that I am confident Vera wins this fight, but it is much more of a challenge than I think many people will understand at first glance.

Comment 266 comments  |  1 recs  | 

Do you like this story?

Comments

Display:

Man

No more breaks for Vera. I hope he responds the right way and puts on a show. This is an amazing fight.

"I’m sorry. I didn’t drink last night, so I’m not funny today."
-Sakuraba

by Blackout612 on Dec 16, 2009 1:27 AM EST reply actions  

That would be amazing, but we’ll have to see how long it takes him to rehab and return.

"I’m sorry. I didn’t drink last night, so I’m not funny today."
-Sakuraba

by Blackout612 on Dec 16, 2009 1:40 AM EST up reply actions  

Bones heal predictably.

The problem with the ankle is all the soft tissue that usually has to fail first in order for the bones to break.

I like using semi-colons; they make me feel smart.

by Llewdor on Dec 16, 2009 1:21 PM EST up reply actions  

Also depends on which bone/bones are broken. The “ankle” isn’t a specific element. It would likely take longer to heal a fractured calcaneus or talus than the inferior portion of the tibia or fibula.

by mictlantechutli on Dec 16, 2009 6:02 PM EST up reply actions  

Yeah, if you blast out the ligamenture

as well as fracture both distal ends of the tibia and fibula, you might never compete athletically again, regardless of the ‘recovery’ timetable.

Ankles are tricksy, because of all the ligaments and bones that comprise the ‘ankle.’

There is no such thing as innocence, only degrees of guilt.

by misterjonez on Dec 16, 2009 6:36 PM EST up reply actions  

First, HT to seth_points ( http://www.bloodyelbow.com/2009/12/16/1202811/brandon-vera-vs-jon-jones-on-march)

So the rumored 111 card thus far (card subject to change due to injuries, disease, infections and hangnails) is
GSP/Hardy
Bones/Vera
Alves/Almeida
__________________

by Lynchman on Dec 16, 2009 1:27 AM EST reply actions  

I think this may main event the next UFN- 111 is on March 27th.

"He hit like a bitch."

by SMC on Dec 16, 2009 1:28 AM EST up reply actions  

thought someone said March 21 was a UFN

We're just a million little gods causin' rain storms, turning every good thing to rust.

by Anthony Pace on Dec 16, 2009 1:29 AM EST up reply actions  

You are correct. It does not matter as most of them will get hurt long before March comes around.

by Lynchman on Dec 16, 2009 1:30 AM EST up reply actions   1 recs

March 31, lead-in to TUF 11.

by Swordslasher on Dec 16, 2009 2:13 AM EST up reply actions  

Unless it really is March 21 on a Sunday as the first card on VS. I don’t see why they would suddenly change the day with a different network, and they usually have a lead-in for TUF, so it makes the most sense that he hit a 2 instead of a 3.

by Swordslasher on Dec 16, 2009 2:18 AM EST up reply actions  

I think Jones is going to maul Vera. I haven’t been impressed with Vera at all since his move down to LHW. Vera just doesn’t seem to wanna pull the trigger and that can be dangerous against Bones.

I wonder if this will be a must win fight for Vera.

"I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me" - Philippians 4:13

by Noah'sArk on Dec 16, 2009 1:29 AM EST reply actions  

Vera’s issues aren’t his skills, but his head. He couldn’t pounce on a wounded Couture – he moved into guard and laid there.
What threat does that mentality posses? Bones looked brutal against Hamill – if he comes out ablaze again, Vera is in real danger.

Ever tried. Ever failed. No matter. Try Again. Fail again. Fail better. -Samuel Beckett

by Scott C. Broussard on Dec 16, 2009 1:30 AM EST reply actions  

yeah Vera is like a ferrari being driven buy a fukin tight ass accountant.

by mmalogic on Dec 16, 2009 2:05 AM EST up reply actions  

I think he was over agressive after he knocked down Couture. He tried to finish him right away, but it would be smarter to let Randy get up and finish him on the feet: head kick would be very appropriate…

by dancingChicken on Dec 16, 2009 5:31 AM EST up reply actions  

A man just can’t get a break from MMA news long enough to watch Unforgiven.

Editor - BloodyElbow.com - SBNation's mixed martial arts headquarters.
MMA Editor - SBNation.com

by Brent Brookhouse on Dec 16, 2009 1:30 AM EST reply actions  

haha, Great movie

"I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me" - Philippians 4:13

by Noah'sArk on Dec 16, 2009 1:31 AM EST up reply actions  

Love that movie. One of my all time top 10 westerns.

by John Nash on Dec 16, 2009 1:33 AM EST via mobile up reply actions  

You like ten westerns?

"I’m sorry. I didn’t drink last night, so I’m not funny today."
-Sakuraba

by Blackout612 on Dec 16, 2009 1:34 AM EST up reply actions  

Let alone

could anyone possibly like 10 westerns more than Unforgiven?

I dislike Matt Hughes. Shogun beat him like a dirty horse.

by MonkeyCHops on Dec 16, 2009 1:36 AM EST up reply actions  

The Man with No Name Trilogy, The Outlaw Josey Wales (most underrated Eastwood movie ever), Once Upon a Time in the West, High Plains Drifter, The Searchers, Magnificent Seven…

We're just a million little gods causin' rain storms, turning every good thing to rust.

by Anthony Pace on Dec 16, 2009 1:40 AM EST up reply actions  

The Outlaw Josey Wales

Is the greatest libertarian movie ever. But both movies and politics have nothing to do with this thread so I apoligize.

by Neil Manich on Dec 16, 2009 1:43 AM EST up reply actions  

A Mule for Sister Sara

Is a good one. But “The Good the Bad and The Ugly” is just straight up good I don’t care how popular it is.

Also, Tombstone is the shiznit. Have you ever seen the Wild Ones? Whoa, now there’s a Western.

by Dooda on Dec 16, 2009 1:53 AM EST up reply actions  

Tombstone was good, but Dennis Quaid is still the best Doc Holliday.

Bolts from the Blue // "I have got to be the most boring GM in the league." - A.J. Smith
Bloody Elbow // "I win again. Engrish is my bitch." - Steven Zucconi

by Richard Wade on Dec 16, 2009 12:40 PM EST up reply actions  

I'm a popularist, I guess.

Val Kilmer’s Doc Holliday was timeless. A totally different take on the character, and it worked beautifully. The climax of his character’s arc in the grove with Ringo is classic.

There is no such thing as innocence, only degrees of guilt.

by misterjonez on Dec 16, 2009 6:35 PM EST up reply actions  

The Outlaw Josey Wales is my favorite Clint Eastwood movie, with Unforgiven and High Plains Drifter being close behind.

by Kwisatz Haderach on Dec 16, 2009 1:53 AM EST up reply actions  

Josey Wales is a gold mine for one-liners

“You gonna pull those pistols or whistle Dixie?”

When the salesman tries to sell him that all-purpose tonic stuff, Josey spits tobacco juice him and is like, “What does it do for stains?”

We're just a million little gods causin' rain storms, turning every good thing to rust.

by Anthony Pace on Dec 16, 2009 2:04 AM EST up reply actions  

So you know that my words of death are true, and so you may see that, my words of life are also true. Or something close to that…but “I’m scared’a dyin’ Josey” used to get quoted by myself and friends of mine if someone was acting cowardly.

by Kwisatz Haderach on Dec 16, 2009 2:20 AM EST up reply actions  

Here is my fav.

Boy: “Sure wish we had time to bury them fellas Josey”

Josey Wales: “To hell with them fellas, buzzards gotta eat same as worms.”

by The Nard Dawg on Dec 16, 2009 7:39 AM EST up reply actions  

Lotta great movies. A truly underrated genre.

"I see him beating Anderson Silva. I see him picking him apart. Him at a 131 years old...(trails off)." - Tito Ortiz on Vitor Belfort at Affliction:DOR

by Rundownloser on Dec 16, 2009 2:33 AM EST up reply actions  

Tombstone...

…etc. There are a ton of great westerns

Editor - BloodyElbow.com - SBNation's mixed martial arts headquarters.
MMA Editor - SBNation.com

by Brent Brookhouse on Dec 16, 2009 2:43 AM EST up reply actions  

back to the future 3

by mmalogic on Dec 16, 2009 2:55 AM EST up reply actions  

See, this is why no one takes you seriously…

(I kid)

Not that I condone facism or any ism for that matter. Isms are in my opinion, not good. A person shouldn't believe in an ism, he should believe in himself.

I quote John Lennon, "I don't believe in Beatles, I just believe in me". Good point there, after all he was the walrus. I could be the walrus. Wouldn't change the fact I have to bum rides off of people.

by Sam Cupitt on Dec 16, 2009 3:39 AM EST up reply actions  

You pansies need to get out of the house and watch a real movie like “new moon”. That Brit will bitch slap Clint Eastwood any day of the week and twice on sunday.

by mmalogic on Dec 16, 2009 3:43 AM EST up reply actions   2 recs

Team Jacob I hope

by John Nash on Dec 16, 2009 3:46 AM EST via mobile up reply actions  

This

is awesome.

There is no such thing as innocence, only degrees of guilt.

by misterjonez on Dec 16, 2009 5:24 AM EST up reply actions  

I’d possibly pay to see that actually

"The greatest enemy will hide in the last place you would ever look." - Revolver

by flyingkneetoface on Dec 16, 2009 5:25 AM EST up reply actions  

Only if I knew that Blade wins.

And by wins, I mean thoroughly demolishes every single one of those emo punks in as excruciating fashion possible, and then eats CoCo Puffs while sporting that savage, fang-filled grin. All of this to a soundtrack consisting primarily of Rick James efforts.

Then yeah, I’d pay to watch it.

There is no such thing as innocence, only degrees of guilt.

by misterjonez on Dec 16, 2009 5:31 AM EST up reply actions  

dunno

new moon seems pretty emo to me – but i haven’t watched it.

by rainmaker6 on Dec 16, 2009 6:36 AM EST up reply actions  

you watched it?

minus 50 cred points for you sir!! ;-)

by soxrule!35 on Dec 16, 2009 9:29 AM EST up reply actions  

Are you outing yourself as a Twilight fan?

Ever tried. Ever failed. No matter. Try Again. Fail again. Fail better. -Samuel Beckett

by Scott C. Broussard on Dec 16, 2009 3:10 PM EST up reply actions  

no..not at all.. (but Ashley Greene is hot)

but I was forced to watch it with my mom when I visited her in San Francisco… haha.. :)

by Anton Tabuena on Dec 16, 2009 8:03 PM EST up reply actions  

HAHAHA

That is so great. I know a few chicks that need to see that this is how the series will end..

"I’m sorry. I didn’t drink last night, so I’m not funny today."
-Sakuraba

by Blackout612 on Dec 16, 2009 12:25 PM EST up reply actions  

The way the series ends is pretty amazing already.

I dislike Matt Hughes. Shogun beat him like a dirty horse.

by MonkeyCHops on Dec 16, 2009 5:21 PM EST up reply actions  

Haha

I hope that was sarcastic, and you really didn’t read the book. haha :D

by Anton Tabuena on Dec 16, 2009 8:06 PM EST up reply actions  

The series ends by being set on fire. At least that is the way I’ve seen several twilight books end.

Guillotine.

by iiowyn on Dec 16, 2009 10:03 PM EST up reply actions  

Tag Team Alice and Team Victoria!

by Kwisatz Haderach on Dec 16, 2009 4:35 PM EST up reply actions  

No High Noon?

Bolts from the Blue // "I have got to be the most boring GM in the league." - A.J. Smith
Bloody Elbow // "I win again. Engrish is my bitch." - Steven Zucconi

by Richard Wade on Dec 16, 2009 12:39 PM EST up reply actions  

DUDE! Not even top 50. Maybe not even top 100. Besides the ones Mr. Downey mentions, you can reach way back to the 30s if you try, and he didn’t even touch on Sam Peckinpah…

THE WILD BUNCH, Ride the High Country, Pat Garrett and Billy the Kid, McCabe and Mrs. Miller, Shane, Winchester 73, Stagecoach, Red River, Seven Men From Now, Johnny Guitar, The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance,

I see the Not The Face has already covered a lot of this…

by some schmuck in texas on Dec 16, 2009 5:50 AM EST up reply actions  

I do. In no particular order:

01) The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly
02) Unforgiven
03) A Fistful of Dollars
04) For a Few Dollars More
05) Once Upon a Time in the West
06) High Noon
07) The Proposition (yes, that’s a Western, just set in the Outback)
08) Blazing Saddles
09) Wild Bunch
10) Little Big Man

This is overlooking non-traditional westerns like Mad Max films, Kurosawa films, Firefly, No Country for Old Men, Lone Star, etc.

Ever tried. Ever failed. No matter. Try Again. Fail again. Fail better. -Samuel Beckett

by Scott C. Broussard on Dec 16, 2009 1:42 AM EST up reply actions  

Old or southern?

"I’m sorry. I didn’t drink last night, so I’m not funny today."
-Sakuraba

by Blackout612 on Dec 16, 2009 1:43 AM EST up reply actions  

Am I old or southern, you mean?

I’m from Louisiana and almost 23. I have no affiliation with the Wild West, cowboys, country music, or anything of the sort.
I just like the idea of a place with no inherent social conventions, allowing the characters to impose their will on it.

Ever tried. Ever failed. No matter. Try Again. Fail again. Fail better. -Samuel Beckett

by Scott C. Broussard on Dec 16, 2009 1:49 AM EST up reply actions  

Like the moon

I dislike Matt Hughes. Shogun beat him like a dirty horse.

by MonkeyCHops on Dec 16, 2009 1:50 AM EST up reply actions  

Southern

This is my favorite western:

"I’m sorry. I didn’t drink last night, so I’m not funny today."
-Sakuraba

by Blackout612 on Dec 16, 2009 1:50 AM EST up reply actions  

That is an awesome film! I saw it ages ago randomly on TV and could never remember the name of it until I saw that! Cheers.

by Gentleman on Dec 16, 2009 8:58 AM EST up reply actions  

You are a gentleman and a scholar

I’ve been waiting for someone to reply and tell me how awesome a movie it is. I absolutely love that film..

"I’m sorry. I didn’t drink last night, so I’m not funny today."
-Sakuraba

by Blackout612 on Dec 16, 2009 12:27 PM EST up reply actions  

Black Tiger is a masterpiece of queer cinema.

by John Nash on Dec 16, 2009 12:53 PM EST up reply actions  

GBU is simply one of the best films ever. I can’t put Unforgiven that high, even though it was a really great movie. For pure narrative, Once Upon a Time in the West is hard to beat

We're just a million little gods causin' rain storms, turning every good thing to rust.

by Anthony Pace on Dec 16, 2009 1:49 AM EST up reply actions  

Ha - there's no order to that list save whatever popped into my head that I liked.

Interestingly, there’s a film version of Blood Meridian in the pipeline.

Ever tried. Ever failed. No matter. Try Again. Fail again. Fail better. -Samuel Beckett

by Scott C. Broussard on Dec 16, 2009 1:51 AM EST up reply actions  

Oh my god, I’d never heard of any effort to make Blood Meridian. Amazing book. Only Terrence Malick could direct that, though maybe you’d need a surrealist horror movie director come to think of it. Dario Argento?

by Kwisatz Haderach on Dec 16, 2009 1:57 AM EST up reply actions  

Malick would be awesome, but he’s probably chasing something else right now. You’d need a similar director – Argento wouldn’t get the tone right. Watch The Proposition – it gets the perfect atmosphere for a Blood Meridian-style film, that same bleak, moody environment scorched by sun & blood. Incidentally, it’s director just did The Road, another McCarthy novel.

Ever tried. Ever failed. No matter. Try Again. Fail again. Fail better. -Samuel Beckett

by Scott C. Broussard on Dec 16, 2009 2:03 AM EST up reply actions  

Yeah, I’ve seen the Proposition, and loved it. The horror movie thing was just a joke. I’d love Blood Meridian to evoke the Proposition, with a bit of High Plains Drifter. Hillcoat is really talented at the dark, grimy stuff. Blood Meridian has so many weird, nightmare moments though. The Comanches in the garb of the clowns, bride, etc. that they’ve killed. The scene where the judge saves the gang by showing them the recipe for gunpowder. The preacher’s tent scene early on. So many really deeply haunted moments. Have you seen Apocalypto? Maybe Mel Gibson is the man for the job.

by Kwisatz Haderach on Dec 16, 2009 2:09 AM EST up reply actions  

Directs action as well as anyone also. And a guy who can handle a completely visual film where dialogue is scarce. He’s a hell of an actor too. Some rather unfortunate sides to him as well, to put it mildly.

by Kwisatz Haderach on Dec 16, 2009 2:28 AM EST up reply actions  

i actually meant what i said, and agree with you, too…

but i was totally quoting Imaginationland, lol

We're just a million little gods causin' rain storms, turning every good thing to rust.

by Anthony Pace on Dec 16, 2009 2:30 AM EST up reply actions  

I thought I felt something go over my head.

by Kwisatz Haderach on Dec 16, 2009 2:30 AM EST up reply actions  

haha

I think Ridley Scott is an interesting choice, also. the preview for his new Robin Hood adaptation looks fantastic

We're just a million little gods causin' rain storms, turning every good thing to rust.

by Anthony Pace on Dec 16, 2009 2:33 AM EST up reply actions  

“See here boys, it’s like Blade Runner, but in the past, in the Old West, but everyone is bloodthirsty and evil, no androids of course, but either way it’s gonna be awesome!” Actually I think Ridley Scott might be interesting, and I like his stuff a lot, but he has a very technical and clear style. Not sure if he could handle all the messed up, circles of hell fever dream elements in Blood Meridian. Haven’t seen the Robin Hood preview, but I’ll check it out.

by Kwisatz Haderach on Dec 16, 2009 2:39 AM EST up reply actions  

He nailed it in Black Hawk Down.

by Dooda on Dec 16, 2009 6:00 PM EST up reply actions  

Rec'd for South Park reference.

That was pretty funny, M. Night Shyamalan, Jason Bay, and Mel Gibson in sequence.

There is no such thing as innocence, only degrees of guilt.

by misterjonez on Dec 16, 2009 3:30 AM EST up reply actions  

Just wondering if you’ve read much Cormac McCarthy. All the Pretty Horses was alright, but disappointing. Would love to see the Crossing done well.

by Kwisatz Haderach on Dec 16, 2009 2:03 AM EST up reply actions  

I’ve read Blood Meridian, The Road, and Child of God. Tried to read Suttree, but school got in the way.

Ever tried. Ever failed. No matter. Try Again. Fail again. Fail better. -Samuel Beckett

by Scott C. Broussard on Dec 16, 2009 2:07 AM EST up reply actions  

from what I’ve seen of the road it seems like they’ve changed the story to make the “apocolypse” or whatever be caused by natural disasters/global warming.

much prefer the nuclear holocaust angle

We're just a million little gods causin' rain storms, turning every good thing to rust.

by Anthony Pace on Dec 16, 2009 2:10 AM EST up reply actions  

They don’t. Its left unexplained as it should be.

by Neil Manich on Dec 16, 2009 2:17 AM EST up reply actions  

it’s been a while since i read the book, but i remember all the clocks stopping at a certain time and a white flash of light. and the setting reeks of nuclear winter.

you’re right though, it’s all innuendo

We're just a million little gods causin' rain storms, turning every good thing to rust.

by Anthony Pace on Dec 16, 2009 2:19 AM EST up reply actions  

*talkin about the movie

We're just a million little gods causin' rain storms, turning every good thing to rust.

by Anthony Pace on Dec 16, 2009 2:10 AM EST up reply actions  

Let's see someone make the Outer Dark

And I love Blood Meridian but there is no way they do that book justice. They screwed up the Road for god’s sake. And I blame mostly Harvey for that.

by John Nash on Dec 16, 2009 2:09 AM EST via mobile up reply actions  

Yeah, good luck with Child of God as well. I can’t see them pulling off Blood Meridian either. Without the style and language of the book to drive it, it probably wouldn’t work unless someone like Terrance Malick, Terry Gilliam, or Mel Gibson just made it their life’s work.

by Kwisatz Haderach on Dec 16, 2009 2:13 AM EST up reply actions  

Deja Vu...

I was just telling my mostly-uninterested girlfriend that Outer Dark and Child of God would never be made on the big screen because of the subject matter…too bad

by beeran on Dec 16, 2009 10:36 AM EST up reply actions  

APH great book, not good movie. The Crossing was awesome but dammit if that ending didn’t haunt me all to Hell. I hated it in a loving sort of genius way.

by Dooda on Dec 16, 2009 6:01 PM EST up reply actions  

Yeah that’s pretty much how I feel after every McCarthy novel, but they’re just amazing. Cities of the Plain fell a bit flatter than the others, but still great, with just the most haunted ending of almost anything I’ve ever read. But the Crossing was definitely the one that meant the most to me. But Blood Meridian is just astounding…one of a handful of “greatest books of all time.”

by Kwisatz Haderach on Dec 16, 2009 6:06 PM EST up reply actions  

I’m gonna have to read blood meridian then. I haven’t read that one for some reason. The Crossing is a tad overrated, but still good. No Country was a damned good movie, and I couldn’t believe how true to the book they were. Some of the soliloquies were verbatim.

by Dooda on Dec 16, 2009 7:19 PM EST up reply actions  

The Cohen’s did a superb job with No Country. I can watch that again and again. Blood Meridian, is really dark, strange, just one epic nightmare. The prose is really heightened and rich, Biblical really, as compared to the Border Trilogy for example. So you’ll probably either agree with me, or hate it :)

by Kwisatz Haderach on Dec 16, 2009 7:30 PM EST up reply actions  

Does Blazing Saddles count?

The only thing Jon Jones does better than Matt Hamill is hear.
(And smash faces)

by ufc4 on Dec 16, 2009 1:52 AM EST via mobile up reply actions  

It’s a Western Comedy – don’t see why it shouldn’t.

Ever tried. Ever failed. No matter. Try Again. Fail again. Fail better. -Samuel Beckett

by Scott C. Broussard on Dec 16, 2009 1:54 AM EST up reply actions  

If your counting Blazing Saddles, I’m counting The Three Amigos.

by brad23 on Dec 16, 2009 7:38 PM EST up reply actions  

Kudos for rec’ing The Proposition. Awesome movie, and thoroughly creepy Nick Cave score.

by Kwisatz Haderach on Dec 16, 2009 1:54 AM EST up reply actions  

The Proposition made me want to scratch my eyeballs out. i couldn’t understand how anyone could’ve liked that movie. Wild Bunch is oft overlooked. No Tombstone?

by Dooda on Dec 16, 2009 1:55 AM EST up reply actions  

Never seen it, actually.

Ever tried. Ever failed. No matter. Try Again. Fail again. Fail better. -Samuel Beckett

by Scott C. Broussard on Dec 16, 2009 1:58 AM EST up reply actions  

Tombstone’s a treat man. See it! I mean if you want to. Don’t want to be pushy.

by Dooda on Dec 16, 2009 2:00 AM EST up reply actions  

The best of the non-traditional: Bring Me the Head of Alfredo Garcia.

by John Nash on Dec 16, 2009 2:02 AM EST via mobile up reply actions  

LOVE THAT MOVIE!!!

Ever tried. Ever failed. No matter. Try Again. Fail again. Fail better. -Samuel Beckett

by Scott C. Broussard on Dec 16, 2009 2:04 AM EST up reply actions  

The Proposition is sweeeeeeet

The best western of this decade, for my money, was Open Range. That movie does not get near enough props. Costner and Duvall killed it and the gunfight finale, holy mother of shit is that awesome.

Bad Left Hook
"If bulls**t was poetry, Ray 'Boom Boom' Mancini's name would be Shakespeare." -- Dennis Rappaport

by Scott Christ on Dec 16, 2009 2:48 AM EST up reply actions  

also

The Three Burials of Melquiades Estrada was also one of my favorites of the decade (non-trad category), and unless I missed it I didn’t see that one mentioned here either.

Bad Left Hook
"If bulls**t was poetry, Ray 'Boom Boom' Mancini's name would be Shakespeare." -- Dennis Rappaport

by Scott Christ on Dec 16, 2009 2:50 AM EST up reply actions  

Dammit! Forgot that one. Good catch. Played at my campus cinema for $2.

Ever tried. Ever failed. No matter. Try Again. Fail again. Fail better. -Samuel Beckett

by Scott C. Broussard on Dec 16, 2009 2:51 AM EST up reply actions  

Also, we've all somehow forgotten Butch & Sundance

We're just a million little gods causin' rain storms, turning every good thing to rust.

by Anthony Pace on Dec 16, 2009 2:51 AM EST up reply actions  

Nooooooooo!!! Cannot forget BC&SK!!!

Ever tried. Ever failed. No matter. Try Again. Fail again. Fail better. -Samuel Beckett

by Scott C. Broussard on Dec 16, 2009 2:52 AM EST up reply actions  

It’s on my honorable mention list with The Good, The Bad & The Ugly, The Tall T, Blazing Saddled, The Shooting, The Proposition and High Plaines Drifter.

by John Nash on Dec 16, 2009 2:57 AM EST via mobile up reply actions  

El Topo & The Holy Mountain

I mean, if they mean anything at all, they are westerns, right? They confused me…

Ever tried. Ever failed. No matter. Try Again. Fail again. Fail better. -Samuel Beckett

by Scott C. Broussard on Dec 16, 2009 3:01 AM EST up reply actions  

more good stuff from the decade

Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford

We're just a million little gods causin' rain storms, turning every good thing to rust.

by Anthony Pace on Dec 16, 2009 2:52 AM EST up reply actions  

I have that on my DVD shelf but still have not watched it. I have no idea why. Actually I’ve got nothing to do as we speak. Fuck it, it’s go time.

Bad Left Hook
"If bulls**t was poetry, Ray 'Boom Boom' Mancini's name would be Shakespeare." -- Dennis Rappaport

by Scott Christ on Dec 16, 2009 2:58 AM EST up reply actions  

good decision

Casey Affleck is great

We're just a million little gods causin' rain storms, turning every good thing to rust.

by Anthony Pace on Dec 16, 2009 3:17 AM EST up reply actions  

Yes he was. Very good movie.

Bad Left Hook
"If bulls**t was poetry, Ray 'Boom Boom' Mancini's name would be Shakespeare." -- Dennis Rappaport

by Scott Christ on Dec 16, 2009 5:51 AM EST up reply actions  

Lots of overacting in that movie. The drama felt a little too cooked to be honest. And there just wasn’t much action at all. I know you don’t have to have tons of action, but that movie rubbed me the wrong way.

by Dooda on Dec 16, 2009 5:56 PM EST up reply actions  

The only reason to watch it is for Casey Affleck's performance.

If you can’t get between his ears while you’re watching it, it’s seriously going to suck hard.

There is no such thing as innocence, only degrees of guilt.

by misterjonez on Dec 16, 2009 6:32 PM EST up reply actions  

vistas, man... vistas.

We're just a million little gods causin' rain storms, turning every good thing to rust.

by Anthony Pace on Dec 16, 2009 6:42 PM EST up reply actions  

I thought the final act and post-script really saved the movie and made it “very good” rather than kinda clunky but enjoyable for a Western fan. But the “awkward moments” really bothered the hell out of me. Sam Rockwell’s Charley Ford might have been the stupidest man to ever live. Jesse should have shot everyone he talked to within 12 seconds really.

Bad Left Hook
"If bulls**t was poetry, Ray 'Boom Boom' Mancini's name would be Shakespeare." -- Dennis Rappaport

by Scott Christ on Dec 16, 2009 10:49 PM EST up reply actions  

Why is no one talking about “The Long Riders” am I the only person that liked that movie?? I always thought it was the best Jesse James movie out, maybe I’m just partial being from around Russellville MO……………..

by The Nard Dawg on Dec 16, 2009 7:42 AM EST up reply actions  

I have a top 10 Samurai Film List

Of course Kurosawa has 4 or 5 of the spots (and The Hidden Fortress isn’t one of them)

by John Nash on Dec 16, 2009 2:04 AM EST via mobile up reply actions  

Please share the list...

Ever tried. Ever failed. No matter. Try Again. Fail again. Fail better. -Samuel Beckett

by Scott C. Broussard on Dec 16, 2009 2:08 AM EST up reply actions  

1) Ran
2) yojimbo
3) Zatoichi (the Blind Swordsman)
4) Rashomon
5) Throne of Blood
6) Samurai III
7) The Twilight Samurai
8) Sword of Doom
9) The Great Melee
10) The Seven Samurai

by John Nash on Dec 16, 2009 2:21 AM EST via mobile up reply actions  

Good list. How’s about Harakiri, the Hidden Blade and Twilight Samurai. God help me I even loved the Last Samurai. Or Dances with Samurai, as it’s also called. The Samurai Trilogy of Musashi’s early life is pretty damned great as well.

by Kwisatz Haderach on Dec 16, 2009 3:01 AM EST up reply actions  

God help me I even loved the Last Samurai

You are not alone. Ken Watanabe was fantastic.

by woomikee on Dec 16, 2009 10:04 AM EST up reply actions  

He was AMAZING in that. Sanada as the sword master was just awesome as well. The fan dance before the last battle was so perfect.

by Kwisatz Haderach on Dec 16, 2009 4:33 PM EST up reply actions  

Watanabe is the man.

Guillotine.

by iiowyn on Dec 16, 2009 10:15 PM EST up reply actions  

More people need to see Love and Honor

But yeah, I noticed those others missing, too. Particularly Harakiri.

"I’m sorry. I didn’t drink last night, so I’m not funny today."
-Sakuraba

by Blackout612 on Dec 16, 2009 12:28 PM EST up reply actions  

Bushi no ichibun, Kiru (Rebel Samurai), Samurai Assassin and Seppuku (particularly Seppuku) are awesome, but didn’t make my list today. Tomorrow they might creep back in.

by John Nash on Dec 16, 2009 1:01 PM EST up reply actions  

I sort of liked the blind samurai series.

by Dooda on Dec 16, 2009 5:57 PM EST up reply actions  

Those were amazing. I love the Japanese take on series. Beats the hell out of static characters for eight years. How about you just change scenarios and timelines for the characters instead? Much more interesting.

There is no such thing as innocence, only degrees of guilt.

by misterjonez on Dec 16, 2009 6:31 PM EST up reply actions  

My bad, you’ve got Twilight Samurai on there, and Sword of Doom! Yus!

by Kwisatz Haderach on Dec 16, 2009 3:19 AM EST up reply actions  

There are some current samurai movies out there distributed by Dragon Dynasty. I liked Curse of the Golden Flower and The Empress and Her Warriors was pretty good. Even though it was fantasy martial arts/samurai, I enjoyed The Promise. Akira Kurosawa is the best director out there though. Ran is easily number one for me as well as far as samurai films.

by chrisbboy82 on Dec 16, 2009 3:26 AM EST up reply actions  

What about The Challenge,

starring Scott Glenn? I loved that movie growing up, and haven’t seen it since…so maybe it sucked hard, but my memories are all good ones.

There is no such thing as innocence, only degrees of guilt.

by misterjonez on Dec 16, 2009 3:34 AM EST up reply actions  

Throne of Blood is one of the best movies I've ever seen

Macbeth done samurai style? Sign me up!

"(Brock Lesnar) is never in good spirits and he's not in good spirits now." - Dana White

by duck on Dec 16, 2009 6:52 AM EST up reply actions  

I'm more on board with that

I’m not much of a western guy and I also don’t like movies that take place on water for more than half of the duration. Seven Samurai? Harakiri? Love and Honor? Ran? The Hidden Blade?

"I’m sorry. I didn’t drink last night, so I’m not funny today."
-Sakuraba

by Blackout612 on Dec 16, 2009 2:13 AM EST up reply actions  

I have notoriously low bars in movie taste but,

I quite enjoyed Sukiyaki Western Django.

Guillotine.

by iiowyn on Dec 16, 2009 10:16 PM EST up reply actions  

Here it is

The official Top 10 Western List in no particular order (subject to change):

1) The Unforgiven
2) The Wild Bunch
3) Once Upon a Time in the West
4) Ride the High Country
5) Fort Massacre
6) The Ox-Bow Incident
7) My Darling Clementine
8) The Searchers
9) Seven Men From Now
10) McCabe & Ms. Miller

by John Nash on Dec 16, 2009 2:00 AM EST via mobile up reply actions  

Do you mean The Unforgiven (1960, John Houston) or Unforgiven (1992, Clint Eastwood)?

Ever tried. Ever failed. No matter. Try Again. Fail again. Fail better. -Samuel Beckett

by Scott C. Broussard on Dec 16, 2009 2:05 AM EST up reply actions  

The one with Eastwood not Lancaster.

by John Nash on Dec 16, 2009 2:11 AM EST via mobile up reply actions  

Dead Man is great although its not a typical western.

by DamnSevern on Dec 16, 2009 3:03 AM EST up reply actions  

Near whiplash from being bummed about Minotoro, to being completely pumped for this fight. Hope Jonny Bones destroys Vera. And yes, Unforgiven rules. “It’s a hell of a thing killin’ a man. You take away everything he’s got, and everything he’s gonna have.”

by Kwisatz Haderach on Dec 16, 2009 1:34 AM EST up reply actions  

That might be an appropriate quote concerning this Vera/Jones fight

"I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me" - Philippians 4:13

by Noah'sArk on Dec 16, 2009 1:36 AM EST up reply actions   1 recs

nice.

We're just a million little gods causin' rain storms, turning every good thing to rust.

by Anthony Pace on Dec 16, 2009 1:41 AM EST up reply actions  

Exactly. That’s what I’m hoping for. Metaphorically speaking of course. Vera’s got a wife at home he’s gotta provide…hmm.

by Kwisatz Haderach on Dec 16, 2009 1:46 AM EST up reply actions  

Unfortunately for him the wife might be a better fighter.

The only thing Jon Jones does better than Matt Hamill is hear.
(And smash faces)

by ufc4 on Dec 16, 2009 1:49 AM EST via mobile up reply actions  

So happy...

We’re talking about MMA again after the Western lovefest above…

"Death, so called, is a thing which makes men weep, And yet a third of life is passed in sleep."
- Lord Byron

by MyFightWiffaCheeto on Dec 16, 2009 1:36 PM EST up reply actions  

we all have it comin’, kid

by woooburn on Dec 16, 2009 1:37 AM EST up reply actions  

Hilarious to me that you just mention Unforgiven, and the entire thread becomes a debate about Westerns. It’s fun here at Bloody Elbow.

by Kwisatz Haderach on Dec 16, 2009 2:14 AM EST up reply actions  

Funnier still that no one is stopping it, but it’s nice that we can digress a little bit without getting whapped with a ruler. Normally we have to save such things for Night Crew where anything goes.

"I’m sorry. I didn’t drink last night, so I’m not funny today."
-Sakuraba

by Blackout612 on Dec 16, 2009 2:15 AM EST up reply actions  

So long as it’s not politics are religion, I don’t think anyone really cares. We’ve discussed DnD, music, what-have-you.
I love the variety and intelligence with which we can do this. It’s why I keep coming back.

Ever tried. Ever failed. No matter. Try Again. Fail again. Fail better. -Samuel Beckett

by Scott C. Broussard on Dec 16, 2009 2:18 AM EST up reply actions  

Oh yeah, and original 1st edition Gary Gygax D&D.

by John Nash on Dec 16, 2009 2:33 AM EST via mobile up reply actions  

2nd Ed., while representing the largest expansion phase of their market exposure, was the most convoluted mess I’ve ever played.

And I’m a serious nerd.

There is no such thing as innocence, only degrees of guilt.

by misterjonez on Dec 16, 2009 3:36 AM EST up reply actions  

I am going to take your lunch money now.

by John Nash on Dec 16, 2009 1:02 PM EST up reply actions  

That particular move never worked, lol.

Also wrestled at 168lbs, and while I wasn’t any good technically, I could legit bench 310 in HS ;)

The other nerds kinda came to me for protection. And it always worked.

There is no such thing as innocence, only degrees of guilt.

by misterjonez on Dec 16, 2009 6:27 PM EST up reply actions  

I went with the show-them-you’re-crazy method. After too much taunting, I attacked one of them with dissecting scissors. The teachers even covered for me. Never had a problem after that…

Ever tried. Ever failed. No matter. Try Again. Fail again. Fail better. -Samuel Beckett

by Scott C. Broussard on Dec 16, 2009 6:37 PM EST up reply actions  

I have a buddy who used a similar technique,

although he never actually had to do anything. He LOOKS like Dexter feels.

There is no such thing as innocence, only degrees of guilt.

by misterjonez on Dec 16, 2009 6:39 PM EST up reply actions  

I wish I had the luxury. I’m a menacing 5’3 105lbs and was the target by all the jocks, so any shit I talked I had to back up. Thankfully, there was just that one time that needed it.

Ever tried. Ever failed. No matter. Try Again. Fail again. Fail better. -Samuel Beckett

by Scott C. Broussard on Dec 16, 2009 6:50 PM EST up reply actions  

It's funny, but first impressions

last the longest. Good on you getting the word out.

There is no such thing as innocence, only degrees of guilt.

by misterjonez on Dec 16, 2009 6:52 PM EST up reply actions  

I actually take that back.

Technically I was solid, probably even good enough to be varsity for a AAAA school, but I never really got it through my head that this was a FIGHT. I always thought of it more like a sport, which is why I sucked.

If I’d realized it was controlled mortal combat, I would have been better. Not a state champ or anything, but I’d have gone and competed there.

There is no such thing as innocence, only degrees of guilt.

by misterjonez on Dec 16, 2009 6:42 PM EST up reply actions  

Something I'll rarely admit publicly--

I used to get down with Rifts/Robotech/Palladium when I was a teenager.

"I’m sorry. I didn’t drink last night, so I’m not funny today."
-Sakuraba

by Blackout612 on Dec 16, 2009 12:30 PM EST up reply actions  

Wait, huh?

You aren’t still ‘getting down’ with them now? WHAT’S WRONG WITH YOU, MAN!?!

Seriously though, the MMO genre has gone to absolute hell online. Paper & pencil RPG’s are still the best way to go. I must’ve spent $3-4k on Rifts/Palladium when I was playing hard in high school, and that’s about a third of my D&D collection.

This, of course, was before affordable laptops and Limewire.

There is no such thing as innocence, only degrees of guilt.

by misterjonez on Dec 16, 2009 6:29 PM EST up reply actions  

Dark Sun is coming back!

Guillotine.

by iiowyn on Dec 16, 2009 10:18 PM EST up reply actions  

I should warn you people there are a couple of thing you shouldn’t get me started on:
genre movies
golden age and silver age comics
Evolutionary Psychology
and way too many historical events and/or periods to list

by John Nash on Dec 16, 2009 2:32 AM EST via mobile up reply actions  

Now I want to breach every one of those topics…

Ever tried. Ever failed. No matter. Try Again. Fail again. Fail better. -Samuel Beckett

by Scott C. Broussard on Dec 16, 2009 2:33 AM EST up reply actions  

I think we need to start a separate forum. I’ll totally do it.

"I’m sorry. I didn’t drink last night, so I’m not funny today."
-Sakuraba

by Blackout612 on Dec 16, 2009 12:30 PM EST up reply actions  

If you do it, I’ll totally join in.

Ever tried. Ever failed. No matter. Try Again. Fail again. Fail better. -Samuel Beckett

by Scott C. Broussard on Dec 16, 2009 3:12 PM EST up reply actions  

Totally

"I’m sorry. I didn’t drink last night, so I’m not funny today."
-Sakuraba

by Blackout612 on Dec 16, 2009 5:41 PM EST up reply actions  

genre movies

Bromances. go ahead and try me.

We're just a million little gods causin' rain storms, turning every good thing to rust.

by Anthony Pace on Dec 16, 2009 2:36 AM EST up reply actions  

If you don’t have “Some Like it Hot” and “Midnight Run” your list is incomplete.

by John Nash on Dec 16, 2009 2:53 AM EST via mobile up reply actions  

It also helps...

when it’s late as shit and the only staffer awake is finishing a movie it took him 5 hours to get through because of various distractions.

Editor - BloodyElbow.com - SBNation's mixed martial arts headquarters.
MMA Editor - SBNation.com

by Brent Brookhouse on Dec 16, 2009 2:47 AM EST up reply actions  

Are you saying otherwise we couldn’t have had our fun?

Ever tried. Ever failed. No matter. Try Again. Fail again. Fail better. -Samuel Beckett

by Scott C. Broussard on Dec 16, 2009 2:48 AM EST up reply actions  

There’s more news now too with Mir/Carwin for ya

"I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me" - Philippians 4:13

by Noah'sArk on Dec 16, 2009 2:48 AM EST up reply actions  

Top 10 Boxing Movies

To keep this combat related and call it quits. In no particular order:

1) Body & Soul
2) The Set-up
3) Fat City
4) Raging Bull
5) The Harder They Fall
6) Hard Times
7) Million Dollar Baby
8) Diggstown
9) The Boxer
10) Rocky

by John Nash on Dec 16, 2009 3:08 AM EST via mobile up reply actions  

was looking for The Hurricane myself

We're just a million little gods causin' rain storms, turning every good thing to rust.

by Anthony Pace on Dec 16, 2009 3:32 AM EST up reply actions  

I'm with you

Some people think new=bad. Not saying nottheface does, but a lot of people do..

"I’m sorry. I didn’t drink last night, so I’m not funny today."
-Sakuraba

by Blackout612 on Dec 16, 2009 12:31 PM EST up reply actions  

That movie was excellent.

Bolts from the Blue // "I have got to be the most boring GM in the league." - A.J. Smith
Bloody Elbow // "I win again. Engrish is my bitch." - Steven Zucconi

by Richard Wade on Dec 16, 2009 12:52 PM EST up reply actions  

Cinderella Man was OK, but I thought it was overloaded with too much nostalgia and sentimentality.
And the Hurricane is serious undermined by the revelation of Dan Hedaya being solely responsible for having him imprisoned. How can you make a movie about racial inequality in our justice system and then reveal that one bad cop was responsible? That means there is nothing wrong with our system, only with this cop.

If you haven’t seen Fat City, The Set-Up, and The Harder They Fall I ask that you do. You won’t be asking why they’re on my list afterwards.

by John Nash on Dec 16, 2009 1:07 PM EST up reply actions  

You just shot an unarmed man!!

Well, he should’ve armed himself.

or somethign like that. My favorite part of the movie.

by soxrule!35 on Dec 16, 2009 9:36 AM EST up reply actions  

i hope the match is stipulated that if ever Vera loses(i hope not) he get’s cut by the UFC,

"I' Always Look Tired, I Play Possum" - Mark "The Hammer" Coleman

by awesome21 on Dec 16, 2009 1:31 AM EST reply actions  

fighting. lol….

Vera, correcting himself- apparently saying he was ‘firing’ Jones was a mistake. Good.

"He hit like a bitch."

by SMC on Dec 16, 2009 1:37 AM EST reply actions  

I thought it was some awesome slang I’m unaware of. Like he’s gonna shoot him out of a cannon or something.

"I’m sorry. I didn’t drink last night, so I’m not funny today."
-Sakuraba

by Blackout612 on Dec 16, 2009 1:40 AM EST up reply actions  

Vera’s a dangerous man when he puts it all together, but his recent fights make me doubt he’s going to come into this fight with the mindset he needs to beat an animal like Jones. I’ll take a Jones TKO in the second.

Without pain, without sacrifice, we would have nothing.

by lowellthehammer on Dec 16, 2009 1:41 AM EST reply actions  

Its an interesting match in the sense

That Jon Jones is basically the same fighter that Vera was when he busted onto the scene. Great Greco, top notch striking (though stylistically they are different) and ridiculous amounts of potential. They both carried the hopes and dreams of thousands of fanboys. This is Jon Jones’ chance to destroy his failed role model and show he is bound for greater things. Its his chance to symbolically defeat his fears. Obviously this is all bullshit, but I think its kind of funny.

by Neil Manich on Dec 16, 2009 1:46 AM EST reply actions  

Can I brag about calling this one even though it took a shattered Lil Nog ankle for it to
come about?

The only thing Jon Jones does better than Matt Hamill is hear.
(And smash faces)

by ufc4 on Dec 16, 2009 1:48 AM EST via mobile reply actions  

If you can brag, so can I ;)

This matchup makes a lot of sense, inasmuch as it launches Jones up the ladder and provides a legitimate physical adversary for him. We’ll get a better look at how well he’s polishing the technical side of his game, and we’ll also see how his awkward style presents to Vera.

Great matchup, but deadly like the article sez.

There is no such thing as innocence, only degrees of guilt.

by misterjonez on Dec 16, 2009 3:39 AM EST up reply actions  

Looks like the post has been deleted?

by rabrown on Dec 16, 2009 1:50 AM EST reply actions  

He probably wasn’t supposed to say anything yet, Shane Carwin got in trouble for doing the same thing on his Twitter.

The only thing Jon Jones does better than Matt Hamill is hear.
(And smash faces)

by ufc4 on Dec 16, 2009 1:53 AM EST via mobile up reply actions  

I posted this on the fanshot, but I’m guessing this one will get more eyes.

Unless I can’t use a calendar correctly, March 21, 2010 is a Sunday. The UFC never has fights on a Sunday.

Second, is he says he is fighting in Denver. So far (according to the schedule on Junkie), the UFC is scheduled is: 108 (Jan. 2) in Vegas, UFN 20 (Jan. 11) in Virginia, 109 (Feb. 6) in Vegas, 110 (Feb. 21) in Australia, 111 (March 27) in New Jersey, 112 (April 10) in Abu Dhabi, 113 (May 1) in Montreal, and 114 (may 29) in Vegas. (all those are according to the schedule at Junkie)

It’s completely possible that they throw in another UFN somewhere in there, but the 21 never lands on a Saturday until August. Maybe he leaked another UFN in Denver that hasn’t been announced?

by Swordslasher on Dec 16, 2009 1:53 AM EST reply actions  

April 21 is a Wednesday, and they sometimes hold a UFN on Wednesdays. Maybe that is what he meant.

by Swordslasher on Dec 16, 2009 1:54 AM EST up reply actions  

Yeah

Lead in to next seasons TUF.

"I’m sorry. I didn’t drink last night, so I’m not funny today."
-Sakuraba

by Blackout612 on Dec 16, 2009 1:54 AM EST up reply actions  

Nice catch! According to Junkie, the debut for TUF 11 is March 31, which is on a Wednesday. Is he drunk twittering? With the “firing” and the “21”, he is either bad with a computer, or having a few late night drinks.

by Swordslasher on Dec 16, 2009 2:03 AM EST up reply actions  

Most likely a fight night that hasn’t been announced yet.

The only thing Jon Jones does better than Matt Hamill is hear.
(And smash faces)

by ufc4 on Dec 16, 2009 1:54 AM EST via mobile up reply actions  

After what Bones did to hamill in less than five minutes… He’s a tough pill to swallow for anyone.

by mmalogic on Dec 16, 2009 2:03 AM EST reply actions  

Yeah I don’t think it’s too soon for Bones/Vera at all. I’d thought Hamill would be a solid step up for Jon, but he just destroyed him. Vera’s a good challenge for him, and this should be a hell of a fun fight to watch. Thought Minotoro deserved someone like Forrest, or maybe Franklin. I’d like him to be poised for a rematch with Shogun, regardless of who wins Machida/Rua II, as long as Lil Nog wins his next one.

by Kwisatz Haderach on Dec 16, 2009 2:44 AM EST up reply actions  

Jones vs. Hamill was a physical mismatch,

but stylistically and technically, it was solid. I think what we learned from that fight is that Jones isn’t just batshit crazy with his strikes, and that he knows exactly how to utilize that ridiculous reach of his in a striking game.

He’s obviously got a lot more polishing to do in the stand-up, but that’s part of what makes him so intriguing. Dude’s gonna humiliate a lot of people in his career.

There is no such thing as innocence, only degrees of guilt.

by misterjonez on Dec 16, 2009 3:42 AM EST up reply actions  

Great fight for Bones. He sort of wins either way, as a loss sets him back slightly but he needs more fights before he gets into the top 5 of the division anyways. Vera on the other hand needs to win badly. Should be a good fight.

by Dooda on Dec 16, 2009 2:05 AM EST reply actions  

Great fight. I actually did not like the Rogerio vs Vera matchup because Rogerio was coming off a big win, and looking like a beast with that KO over Cane, while Vera was coming off a loss (even though it was controversial). Now, you have two fighters both coming off of controversial losses, and both trying to break into that upper-tier of Light Heavyweight. As far as momentum goes, Bones has much more momentum and has just looked better and better after every fight, while Vera has been in limbo where he seems to have all the tools to get to the top, but can’t put it all together.

by chrisbboy82 on Dec 16, 2009 2:07 AM EST reply actions  

Cant say i see Jones losing this one. I think he can do everything Couture did plus actually do damage.

by Rabbit915 on Dec 16, 2009 2:12 AM EST reply actions  

Vera deleted that tweet..

he probably got a call from the UFC guys for announcing it too early. haha :)

by Anton Tabuena on Dec 16, 2009 2:17 AM EST reply actions  

Carwin has a new opponent now too...

I just saw something on MMALinker that Shane Carwin sent out an email through his fanclub that he has a new opponent and details would be coming soon

"I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me" - Philippians 4:13

by Noah'sArk on Dec 16, 2009 2:18 AM EST reply actions  

I would say that’s a pretty safe bet. At least I hope it is. It’s the only logical matchup for either at this point

"I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me" - Philippians 4:13

by Noah'sArk on Dec 16, 2009 2:24 AM EST up reply actions  

I'll be puttin some money on Vera...

since it seems like Jones will be a heavy favorite. I think Vera is a tougher test than most will acknowledge (due to his tentativeness). I believe he’s going to make Jon a bit uncomfortable on his feet, and Vera also has pretty good Greco… Jones is a lot of what people want Vera to be (with a bit more flashy wrestling)…. Vera likely has better BJJ, and an edge in technical striking… Jones is more aggressive, and creative, as well as having a high level of adaptability Good match making by the UFC…

I honestly hope that Coker’s crew can steer clear of the bad luck… As it stands they can throw some pretty solid cards together a few times a year, but if they were to suffer a fraction of these injuries, it would be tough to recover… The UFC will stand to come back strong whenever this passes… for now I’m glad they have enough talent to still make compelling matches.

I'm like PacMan fightin you silly kids... throw ya Hatton the ring, and get knocked outlike Ricky did.
lol.

by Loot on Dec 16, 2009 2:22 AM EST reply actions  

Thomson, IMO

respectfully

"I fight because I can’t sing, I can’t dance, and it beats working all day. Now ask me a question that doesn’t sound so fucking stupid." – Phil Baroni

by midwestbred on Dec 16, 2009 6:09 AM EST up reply actions  

I don’t think Vera’s striking is more technical. Jones has a better jab and thai clinch from a technical perspective.

by Michael Rome on Dec 16, 2009 2:48 AM EST up reply actions  

I'd say that Vera is more polished,

but his striking game is nowhere near as dynamic and fluid as Jones’. Much more straight-forward combinations and approach overall.

There is no such thing as innocence, only degrees of guilt.

by misterjonez on Dec 16, 2009 3:44 AM EST up reply actions  

I think we need to take it another step further, actually

Vera is more specialized. I think that’s the appropriate term. He has exceptional muay thai, but I actually consider Jon Jones one of the most technical fighters in all of MMA, due to his use of so many various arts and maneuvers in concert. People have the misconception that he’s simply out there flailing around, when in truth, he’s performing some remarkable and highly technical strikes, guard passes and throws.

"I’m sorry. I didn’t drink last night, so I’m not funny today."
-Sakuraba

by Blackout612 on Dec 16, 2009 12:34 PM EST up reply actions  

I'll go along with that, I think.

Specialized is a better way to put it than I’ve been coming up with. Vera only uses certain techniques and maneuvers because he’s trying so hard to minimize downside, whereas Jones is comfortable (or cocky) enough in assessing the downside that he includes the flashy, seemingly wild maneuvers and therefore catches his opponents off-guard.

Wouidn’t be stunned to see someone come in with the perfect counter-attack strategy, pick one of his moves, and tag him but good. On the other hand, I expect the strap on his waist inside of two years.

There is no such thing as innocence, only degrees of guilt.

by misterjonez on Dec 16, 2009 6:16 PM EST up reply actions  

Who’s wrestling is better between the two.

by The Bronzeville Bully on Dec 16, 2009 5:08 AM EST up reply actions  

It’s hard to say. Jones has better credentials, but Vera is very game in the greco department, which is where Jones excels. Vera was able to stifle Couture at 105, but then again he was also playing defense the entire fight against the fence, so it’s not like he was really winning the wrestling match either.

Jones thoroughly outwrestled O’Brien and Hamill, which was very impressive. I also think his active work as a wrestling coach with up and comers keeps his wrestling technique strong. If it becomes a wrestling match I’ve got Jones.

Should be an interesting fight. Parts of Vera’s game are more technical, but really he’s just a lot more traditional. Nothing he throws is really a big surprise, so I guess it seems more polished or technical. But if you look at the actual striking techniques—the jabs, the spin kicks, the elbows, the knees in the clinch—Jon Jones is very, very technical. He’s got a different and unique style, but he’s very technical. The same is true with his wrestling. He busts out throws you never see, but his technique on them is perfect.

by Michael Rome on Dec 16, 2009 5:43 AM EST up reply actions  

Effortless front kicks to the face

are always interesting to watch, and I think it says something about Jones’ confidence in his striking abilities more than anything.

You’re probably right about him being more technical that most people give him credit, but personally I’ve always thought of his style as extremely technical, but it looks so awkward for so many reasons that it’ll be awhile before he comes off as A. Silva v2.0. Even while he looks clunky, he’ll be scoring big with his dynamic and unpredictable style.

And I’ve got him in the wrestling department all the way. Vera is too timid these days, and GR wrestling is all about driving your opponent 100% of the time. Jones should dominate him there, as well as everywhere else. But it’ll be fun to watch!

There is no such thing as innocence, only degrees of guilt.

by misterjonez on Dec 16, 2009 6:33 AM EST up reply actions  

It’s gonna be a while before we see Jones become Anderson 2.0 if ever… American camps are behind in the striking game.

Anderson is right when he says they are 2 years ahead of the curve.

It looks like Anderson, Machida, Vitor are like Royce Gracie back in the day where guys who have no clue what they are doing.

by mmalogic on Dec 16, 2009 7:51 AM EST up reply actions  

That’s strange, since Shogun outstruck Machida and solved his style, and since Belfort trains at an American gym with Thompkins.

by Hardcharger on Dec 16, 2009 9:51 AM EST up reply actions  

Shogun is kryptonite to Machida's Superman.

There’s just no other way I can put it. That fight was as difficult of a fight as Machida will ever have in the UFC. A fast, powerful and accurate striker who has the ability to close distance a number of ways in the striking game is always going to be able to put pressure on Lyoto’s in/out style.

Lyoto absolutely mauls anyone else in the LHW picture right now, and there are plenty of wrestlers who will still give Shogun fits. I still think Machida is a significantly better fighter, but Shogun will make another very interesting matchup. I’d be surprised if Machida doesn’t make some big steps forward in their next fight, but I wouldn’t be shocked to see Shogun come out and do essentially the same thing with a few subtle variations and put on another fireworks display.

There is no such thing as innocence, only degrees of guilt.

by misterjonez on Dec 16, 2009 6:13 PM EST up reply actions  

Another thing is Shogun's MT

From what I’ve heard, and don’t quote me on this, Muay Thai evolved as a sort of antidote to other disciplines. Couple that with his twist on it, which I guess may be the most violent Muay Thai this side of Badr Hari, and he gives Machida fits in every fight.

While his MT is a great neutralizer against Machida, I think GnP can be the nail in the coffin.

We're just a million little gods causin' rain storms, turning every good thing to rust.

by Anthony Pace on Dec 16, 2009 6:47 PM EST up reply actions  

Muay Thai is, as you say, a neutralizer.

The clinch position is a perfect example of this. If Manny Pacquiao is allowed to dart in and out on you, you’re going to lose. Period. But if you grab him in a clinch, a far less gifted and powerful fighter can put him underground in a matter of a few seconds.

And I agree about GnP. He hasn’t shown anything to indicate that this has been addressed in any significant fashion. Meaning, a reasonable wrestler can probably demolish him.

There is no such thing as innocence, only degrees of guilt.

by misterjonez on Dec 16, 2009 6:54 PM EST up reply actions  

Jones front kick didn’t bring much comment since it didn’t land, but his height, speed and reach make that a hell of a weapon. In MMA I’ve yet to see a really quick, hard, fully extended front head kick land. That’s some dangerous shit Jones’ has, like a punt to the head. Without the twisting of the head and spine to absorb some of a blow, a guy can get really hurt catching one of those. I thought Jones might break Bonnar’s neck with the speed of that suplex he landed. Watching Jones fight is like watching a superhero figuring out his powers. There’s liable to be some casualties along the way…

by Kwisatz Haderach on Dec 16, 2009 4:51 PM EST up reply actions  

“Watching Jones fight is like watching a superhero figuring out his powers.”

Well put.

by brad23 on Dec 16, 2009 7:42 PM EST up reply actions  

I disagree. Jones has trouble with putting combinations together. In fight with Gusmao he was throwing arm punches! It’s not a surprise because he’s pretty new to striking, but I don’t count his flashy moves as technical striking. When people attent their first MT classes they throw knees and head kicks, because it is easy relatively easy to do, but footwork, proper punch, punch/kick combinations is what you need to work a lot (and Vera is good at it)

Although with Jones long reach, he can get away with many things…

by dancingChicken on Dec 16, 2009 5:54 AM EST up reply actions  

good call

I just was talking to a buddy the other day about this. sometimes when we analyze past fights we dont take into account for the fights at high altitude , and the smaller cage venues. my friend was like “they dont have different size cages” and then we watched the last fight night.. cage was at least 4 ft or 6ft smaller in diameter to a ppv.

I remember one ufc card a while back that everyone seemed to gas on…. cant remeber which one

by waldog on Dec 16, 2009 9:18 AM EST up reply actions  

i was thinking the same about the similarities too

jones’s body type seems very similar to the spiders + he has all the wrestling..

but you said his disadvantage in your post. He has been training for 1/12 years striking while anderson has been training striking for his whole life. thats a lot of catching up to do.

by waldog on Dec 16, 2009 10:55 AM EST up reply actions  

I hate this

Dana was positively gushing over Minneapolis and they haven’t said word one about coming back since he did on the vlog when they were departing.

"I’m sorry. I didn’t drink last night, so I’m not funny today."
-Sakuraba

by Blackout612 on Dec 16, 2009 12:35 PM EST up reply actions  

according to mmajunkie…Shane Carwin vs. Frank Mir in the works for interim heavyweight title at UFC 111 in March

by DamnSevern on Dec 16, 2009 2:44 AM EST reply actions  

Beat me to it. Just saw it. This is awesome news!

"I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me" - Philippians 4:13

by Noah'sArk on Dec 16, 2009 2:46 AM EST up reply actions  

ya especially considering I live in nyc and will be going to this event.

by DamnSevern on Dec 16, 2009 2:46 AM EST up reply actions  

Man I’m so jealous of you DamnSevern! Hope you have a great time!

"I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me" - Philippians 4:13

by Noah'sArk on Dec 16, 2009 2:47 AM EST up reply actions  

Wow

I didnt realize it was in Jersey. Definitely going to this one.

by jafotinatos on Dec 16, 2009 3:00 AM EST up reply actions  

my guess is they make the match, and then at the end of january they find out Brock’s status and determine whether it’s for the interim title or not.

by Michael Rome on Dec 16, 2009 2:49 AM EST up reply actions  

That’s probably wise. If it is for the interim title, 111 is going to be huge buy

"I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me" - Philippians 4:13

by Noah'sArk on Dec 16, 2009 2:51 AM EST up reply actions  

Junkie is jumping the gun on the interim title.

by Michael Rome on Dec 16, 2009 2:52 AM EST reply actions  

Frank Mir, Shane Carwin Likely to Face Off For Interim UFC Title at UFC 111

12/16/2009 2:31 AM ET By Mike Chiappetta

by DamnSevern on Dec 16, 2009 2:55 AM EST up reply actions  

Mir beat Nog for the interim, and if he beats Carwin, he’ll have another interim, presumably to face Brock for the full belt.
Is he not allowed to be the sole HW champ anymore?

Ever tried. Ever failed. No matter. Try Again. Fail again. Fail better. -Samuel Beckett

by Scott C. Broussard on Dec 16, 2009 2:59 AM EST up reply actions  

I hate it when the UFC has an interim title only for the next match for the “interim” title holder to fight the actual champion. In Strikeforce, at least when Melendez beat Damm for the interim title, Melendez fought Ishida next. I’d hate for Mir vs Carwin to be for an interim title, yet the winners’ next fight be against Lesnar.

by chrisbboy82 on Dec 16, 2009 3:32 AM EST up reply actions  

Either way, I’m looking forward to 111 big time. Alves, Mir, Carwin, and GSP. Soounds good to me

"I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me" - Philippians 4:13

by Noah'sArk on Dec 16, 2009 2:53 AM EST reply actions  

ha

ppl checking this story in the morning will be surprised to find a heavy discussion on classic cinema

We're just a million little gods causin' rain storms, turning every good thing to rust.

by Anthony Pace on Dec 16, 2009 3:39 AM EST reply actions  

or

just heavy discussion period! i went to comment and saw there was already 160…

by cagefightonacid on Dec 16, 2009 4:50 AM EST via mobile up reply actions  

That was amazing

We went from Vera vs. Jones to a discussion on westerns, then to movies in general, then back to MMA in one comments section. Good work everyone

"The greatest enemy will hide in the last place you would ever look." - Revolver

by flyingkneetoface on Dec 16, 2009 5:10 AM EST reply actions  

on a non related (to westerns) note:

mmajunkie says the Vera vs Jones fight will be on March 31st and it will likely headline UFN 21..

by Anton Tabuena on Dec 16, 2009 5:15 AM EST reply actions  

Masively looking forward to this match, hope Vera doesn’t derail the Jones hype train. I think this will be close, but i feel like Jones will nail it with his reach, aggressiveness and super dynamic Greco throws. I don’t think that Vera will get tooled up but he will probably lose if it goes to decision just for not being aggressive enough. Hoping Jones doesn’t gas and it should be a win on his part.

by TheBeaves on Dec 16, 2009 8:50 AM EST reply actions  

Wow

I saw there were 176 comments for this fight announcement and thought,“what could everyone be talking about? Maybe I am missing something?” Turns out its all western cinema talk. Nice Job Brent.

by Nick Travaglini on Dec 16, 2009 8:51 AM EST reply actions  

OH NOO

man one of my favorite fighters in vera against a hometown(same high school) and hot prospect jon jones! I hate having to pick.. But I say VERA shows everyone what real striking is.. I see head movement,, disgusting body shots.. and finally a head kick ko in the 3 rd round. jones is gonna have to resort to wrestling in this case… and he isnt randy imo

by waldog on Dec 16, 2009 9:22 AM EST reply actions  

Of course he’s not Randy, but I think that will be his advantage because of being smaller and quicker and having a more unorthodox style both in wrestling and striking then Couture.

by Gentleman on Dec 16, 2009 9:28 AM EST up reply actions  

I think it’s a scary match up for anyone going up against Jones. I think he is the future of MMA. I like Vera a lot and I think he got screwed with his fight against Couture. Vera needs this win. He’ll have to come out and not be gun shy. If he doesn’t come out and attack then I think Jones will pick him apart. I love Jones but I think I’ll have to cheer for Vera because I don’t want to see him get another loss. He needs this win badly and I think he knows it.

Shut up, Tito.

by TruthSeeker1223 on Dec 16, 2009 10:07 AM EST up reply actions  

NO THE FUTURE OF mma is machida, and will be as long as He wants. HE is light yrs ahead of jones, and even if they fought 5 yrs from now, machida would make jones striking look LIKE rashad evans. There is no way to solve machidas karaTE, shogun came close, but i think machida will evolve to the next level again, and make even shogun look foolish. No way jones ever beats shogun either, his striking is to dynamic, ridiculous kick and punch combos and BJJ. Jones will never be a champion.

by dat on Dec 16, 2009 10:26 AM EST up reply actions  

just remember that Jones has only been training for a year and a half…. he’s a scary dude. Very talented and athletic. Machida is a great fighter but Shogun proved to us that he can be beat. Shogun should be the champion right now. I’m sure Machedia will improve from his fight with Shogun and come back with a better game plan to beat him.

Don’t see how you can say Jones won’t be able to strike with Shogun. I think you need to watch this kid more closely. He’s young and very talented. I respect your opinion and i’m not trying to be on the Jon Jones bandwagon but I can easily see him fallow in the footsteps of Anderson Silva. He reminds me of a younger Silva.

Shut up, Tito.

by TruthSeeker1223 on Dec 16, 2009 10:49 AM EST up reply actions  

as long as its standing i see vera winning

I think we will see in this fight the difference between a real striker and a up and comer.. again not to dismiss jones. But I think the difference in this fight will be vera’s insane head movement and counter striking. I think this will be the fight where we see jones’s standup isn’t as good as everyone thinks. Vera doesn’t need to change his gameplan at all.. just counter strike and defend the TD. I think we will finally see jone’s get frustrated now that the ufc is matching him up with a more well rounded fighter.

by waldog on Dec 16, 2009 10:14 AM EST reply actions  

completely agree, jones is no striker, all he did was use reach, and arm punches against hammil, he will be picked apart by vera, not to mention vera has the best kicking game as a LHW, as far as BJJ he is a black belt, and was an alternate on the olympic team in greco, so i dont give jones any advantage there. He basically neutralized randys wrerstling which is hard to do, considering randy held his own against brock. bad match up for jones, since vera also has great speed

by dat on Dec 16, 2009 10:30 AM EST up reply actions  

Nice, Much better fight for Jones then Lil Nog, I didn’t think he was ready for a guy like Lil Nog.

I think Vera is the best next step up for Jones and with a win, could see him fighting Lil Nog.

by Who is Ryoto on Dec 16, 2009 11:08 AM EST reply actions  

Jones wasn’t scheduled to fight Nog, Vera was.

The only thing Jon Jones does better than Matt Hamill is hear.
(And smash faces)

by ufc4 on Dec 17, 2009 12:30 AM EST up reply actions  

Ah yes you’re correct, My fault I meant to say people were talking about Jones vs Lil Nog and that would’ve been dumb but Vera is the next good step up.

by Who is Ryoto on Dec 17, 2009 7:35 AM EST up reply actions  

I’d really like it for Vera to make a comeback. He had the chance in the Couture fight, if only he had the killer instinct he had when he was still in HW. Im not sure who to choose between the two.. but im currently leaning more towards Bones.

Skadoosh!

by Jigs on Dec 16, 2009 11:23 AM EST reply actions  

This worries me.

I have not liked Jon Jones’ head movement in the past. I have feared that against a good striker with a decent reach Bones could be picked apart. Enter Brandon Vera to test Bones’ strike defense. This will be a major test and a risky fight for sure.

"Stop smiling you are about to be punched in the face !"

by Warhand on Dec 16, 2009 11:25 AM EST reply actions  

Vera is getting his walking papers after this one.

by goodbones on Dec 16, 2009 11:37 AM EST reply actions  

Vera is getting his ass kicked. Merry Christmas everyone!

Keep firing Assholes!

Fedor has accomplished nothing until he fights Kimbo.

by Ubernoober on Dec 16, 2009 11:42 AM EST reply actions  

I hope so

I just don’t think it is going to be that easy. Definitely a case where one fighter is on the way up and the other is on the way down. This fight will either stop both fighters from rising or falling or speed up the rise and fall.

"Stop smiling you are about to be punched in the face !"

by Warhand on Dec 16, 2009 11:50 AM EST up reply actions  

If Brandon Vera couldn’t take out the poor old slow moving Randy, or KO the very KOable Jardone, what the hell is Vera going to do to an absolute monster like Jones?

Jones is going to obliterate Vera, and he’s going to make it look easy.

Keep firing Assholes!

Fedor has accomplished nothing until he fights Kimbo.

by Ubernoober on Dec 16, 2009 11:52 AM EST up reply actions  

The Jones-Hamill fight isn’t completely over, it appears… http://www.mmaweekly.com/absolutenm/templates/dailynews.asp?articleid=10278&zoneid=13
Hopefully this does not become another Greasegate.

by Monday Morning Martial Artist on Dec 16, 2009 4:12 PM EST reply actions  

Yeah, that got reported about a week back. I hope it becomes a no contest.

"I’m sorry. I didn’t drink last night, so I’m not funny today."
-Sakuraba

by Blackout612 on Dec 16, 2009 5:42 PM EST up reply actions  

Comments For This Post Are Closed


User Tools

"I don't want to knock my opponent out. I want to hit him, step away and watch him hurt" - Joe Frazier

FanPosts

Community blog posts and discussion.

Recommended FanPosts

Favritegotevj9_small
An Open Letter to Nick Diaz
Tatum_small
Aristotle Knows Nick Diaz Didn't Cheat
Walshrun_small
5 Reasons I Hate MMA
Royce_09_small
Call To Nominate New Bloody Elbow Moderators
Obp_small
The Official BE UFC Drinking Game

Recent FanPosts

Logo_d__small
Roll a phat one for Nick Diaz
Cg_small
Perceptions Regarding Diaz v. Condit Decision Distorted by the Judging Chameleon
Cf_small
George Rush St. Pierre BJJ Coach Renzon Gracie Black belt John Danaher
Jules-winfield-7_small
In Defense of Nick Diaz
208730_10150164903466743_503301742_7348043_3232767_n_small
Top Five: Fights To Look Forward To
Bruce-lee-lats_small
Calling for Nick Diaz to be released makes no sense.
Afro_small
The UFC Has Been Spared Once Again...This Time by Carlos Condit

+ New FanPost All FanPosts >

MMA Rankings

USA Today / SB Nation Consensus MMA Rankings