Quote of the Day: Kyle Maynard Reaffirms His Ability
by Luke Thomas on Apr 22, 2009 5:12 PM EDT
in MMA News
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"You know, without going into too much of my game plan, I am never going to be an Ernesto Hoost-level kickboxer; I assure you of that. But one of the biggest misnomers I have seen is that people think I can't strike. I got arms that end right above my elbow and I have had an over 400-pound butterfly press. I assure you can strike (and) I can defend myself. As far as the grappling goes, I got my blue belt about two years ago and I'm training with a world champion, Paul Creighton, whose fought BJ Penn. So, as far as conditioning goes, I think I've got the upper hand. I'm fighting in a bigger weight class than I have ever competed in before, but I still feel pretty healthy. You know, in high school I wrestled at 103 (pounds) and this fight is going to be at 135. I have been able to put on the weight as efficiently as I could without losing too much speed and mobility. So, I feel confident. The cards are there for me to go out and have a pretty awesome performance ... I think that one of advantage I have is that I have got the ability to prepare for (his opponent) in any different situation and he really doesn't have a clue what I am going to bring to the fight."
-- Kyle Maynard, discussing his upcoming MMA debut under amateur rules in Alabama with AOL Fanhouse.
I suppose there is some sort of adapted system, but traditionally blue belts in jiu-jitsu have to master a wide range of chokes, grips, passes and other forms of control that all involve the gi. Eddie Bravo has a no-gi belt system and perhaps others do as well, but unless Maynard is pulling off lapel and Ezekial chokes he should qualify that blue belt somewhat.
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They should have him fight Anderson Silva so that he doesn’t get hurt.
by mythbuster on Apr 22, 2009 3:31 PM EDT reply actions 2 recs
Keep refining it, that joke will be funny at some point!
by Chris Nelson on Apr 22, 2009 3:32 PM EDT up reply actions
(This came out meaner than I intended. I’m just busting yr ballz.)
by Chris Nelson on Apr 22, 2009 3:51 PM EDT up reply actions
Are you contending that you have a conscience? lol
Arguing on the internet is like being in the special olympics, even when you win you are still retarded.
GEEZUS
Why would any athletic commission let him fight MMA? Blue belt in jiu jitsu? I’m sorry dude, but that’s just fucking sad and a big joke. I still don’t like the idea of this. Other guy Via Head kick rd 1
He is in the "downed position"
making a head kick illegal.
Contributing Editor - BloodyElbow.com - SBNation's mixed martial arts headquarters.
http://CurseOfRonKarkovice.blogspot.com/
by Brent Brookhouse on Apr 22, 2009 4:06 PM EDT up reply actions
Wow Brent, I did not expect that from you! lol
Arguing on the internet is like being in the special olympics, even when you win you are still retarded.
No...
I’m serious…we had the conversation in the past. It’s the truth. Because of his limbs he is always in the downed position. There was also a rule in one of the states he wanted to compete in an amateur fight in that strikes to a downed opponent are illegal entirely. So in that state (and forgive me for not remembering where) it would be impossible for his opponent to strike him and most submissions are also impossible as he doesn’t have the limbs guys are used to working against.
Contributing Editor - BloodyElbow.com - SBNation's mixed martial arts headquarters.
http://CurseOfRonKarkovice.blogspot.com/
by Brent Brookhouse on Apr 22, 2009 4:08 PM EDT up reply actions
Oh, nevermind.
That would have been funny though.
Arguing on the internet is like being in the special olympics, even when you win you are still retarded.
To be clear...
by “we had the conversation” I mean me and other community members…not me and Kyle
Contributing Editor - BloodyElbow.com - SBNation's mixed martial arts headquarters.
http://CurseOfRonKarkovice.blogspot.com/
by Brent Brookhouse on Apr 22, 2009 4:11 PM EDT up reply actions
I have not...
Contributing Editor - BloodyElbow.com - SBNation's mixed martial arts headquarters.
http://CurseOfRonKarkovice.blogspot.com/
by Brent Brookhouse on Apr 22, 2009 4:12 PM EDT up reply actions
have you seen him wrestle? I don’t see how you couldn’t get a pin by just putting your hand on his chest and holding him down on the ground
Yeah...it's pretty amazing to watch honestly...let me get you a video...1 sec
Contributing Editor - BloodyElbow.com - SBNation's mixed martial arts headquarters.
http://CurseOfRonKarkovice.blogspot.com/
by Brent Brookhouse on Apr 22, 2009 4:14 PM EDT up reply actions
here's a highlight vid
I don’t like the idea of the guy fighting…just to be clear. I’m just pointing out facts here and there…
Contributing Editor - BloodyElbow.com - SBNation's mixed martial arts headquarters.
http://CurseOfRonKarkovice.blogspot.com/
by Brent Brookhouse on Apr 22, 2009 4:17 PM EDT up reply actions
So what happens if his opponent just keeps pushing
his head down like the first guy did? This is just sad.
Arguing on the internet is like being in the special olympics, even when you win you are still retarded.
Right. The wrestling is cool,
even though it looks like every one of his opponents are just trying to push him off like they would their little brother. But the striking is what makes this silly.
Arguing on the internet is like being in the special olympics, even when you win you are still retarded.
First the dude is fast with a real low center of gravity. Opponent is not able to kick or punch his head. Arms are long enough to punch that low so that leaves pretty much kicks. Kicks make you really easy to takedown. Once your down Maynard shines.
You can’t take and keep his back because his limbs aren’t there for you to keep him from turning which he does lightning fast.
I’m all for letting him fight at least. I bet he gets a pretty impressive record. After some videos get around of him fighting I’m sure there will be some loses, but in the mean time I’m all for it.
Brent...
So how would one win against this guy? Pure decision?
by poundnground on Apr 22, 2009 10:50 PM EDT up reply actions
you could gnp him or choke him out...
Contributing Editor - BloodyElbow.com - SBNation's mixed martial arts headquarters.
http://CurseOfRonKarkovice.blogspot.com/
by Brent Brookhouse on Apr 23, 2009 8:46 AM EDT up reply actions
It's not commissioned
He’s been turned down by commissioned states. Bama doesn’t have one.
I poop rainbows.
There are amateur rules though...
Contributing Editor - BloodyElbow.com - SBNation's mixed martial arts headquarters.
http://CurseOfRonKarkovice.blogspot.com/
by Brent Brookhouse on Apr 22, 2009 4:14 PM EDT up reply actions
I know.,..
I’m just saying…some people confuse no commission with no rules
Contributing Editor - BloodyElbow.com - SBNation's mixed martial arts headquarters.
http://CurseOfRonKarkovice.blogspot.com/
by Brent Brookhouse on Apr 22, 2009 4:16 PM EDT up reply actions
hahaha thats a good one
I have got to see the video of his fight, it has to happen, someone has to put this on the net. I don’t like this fight because I don’t understand how he does it but who are we to say he cant try. He obviously is working with a camp and I cant see anyone who is a trainer putting their reputation on the line if its a complete freak show. The guy obviously has something going on.
What does it mean when it says amateur rules, are there different rules in amateur fights?
This is just an awful idea.
I would bomb any athletic commission that lets this kid fight.
by Derek Suboticki on Apr 22, 2009 3:36 PM EDT reply actions
Why's that?
So long as both parties give informed consent, I don’t see why they should be stopped. I don’t like the idea, but the only way we’ll know for certain is if he gets brutalized in the amateur bout. Who knows, maybe he’ll be really great, stranger things have happened (Serra>GSP). If anything, it’s a lose-lose situation for the guy fighting him.
Ever tried. Ever failed. No matter. Try Again. Fail again. Fail better. -Samuel Beckett
by Scott C. Broussard on Apr 22, 2009 3:54 PM EDT up reply actions
True,
but WHEN is brutalized, how is this going to look for MMA? Do you think it will be a black mark? I understand the consent, but some people are not going to care & just be repulsed that it happened at all.
Arguing on the internet is like being in the special olympics, even when you win you are still retarded.
Alright,
but it is still going to turn people off if this guy gets killed or just held down and tickled until he taps from peeing his pants.
Arguing on the internet is like being in the special olympics, even when you win you are still retarded.
If people are smart, they’ll treat it the same way people treat wheelchair basketball and the like – it’s not the sport’s fault so much as the competitor’s handicap. If they want to set up a paralympic MMA, cool, but hopefully they’ll realize that even though Kyle wants to be treated as an equal, but in fighting, he is not. (I know that sounds dickish to say, but it’s true)
Ever tried. Ever failed. No matter. Try Again. Fail again. Fail better. -Samuel Beckett
by Scott C. Broussard on Apr 22, 2009 4:03 PM EDT up reply actions
That would be fine, but he is not fighting another handicapped person,
is he?
Arguing on the internet is like being in the special olympics, even when you win you are still retarded.
What type of handicap are we talking about here?
by a tommy point on Apr 22, 2009 7:01 PM EDT up reply actions
Isn't this in Alabama
I thought they didn’t even have an Athletic Commission, which is why its happening there.
by Gunslinger20 on Apr 22, 2009 4:13 PM EDT up reply actions
Sorry man
I must have missed the part where you already said that, my bad.
by Gunslinger20 on Apr 22, 2009 4:16 PM EDT up reply actions
Off Topic but...
This guy becoming great would be MUCH stranger than Serra knocking GSP loopy…. I’m often surprised how often the online community is so fickle, and disrespectful of fighters who’ve worked so diligently at becoming competent at the sport. Regardless of how awesome you think GSP is, Matt Serra is no scrub, and has competed and faired well with some high level competition. He’s got some good wins, was the first American given a Black Belt under Renzo, has a successful school, and has displayed pretty good skills (in official fights, grappling, and TUF performances alike). To say his marquee win is more fluke than a limbless fighter becoming great in MMA is in really bad taste, imo.
This guy is going to get a taste of equality… in the form of a high… er… low kick to the dome.
Bad idea on his part, but I’m all for letting people do as they will with their bodies. If he’s able to pull it off and wins the match I’m okay with admitting my mistake. But I don’t see how he can make it out of the first minute. Unless the amateur rules don’t allow head kicks. There’s too much power behind a low kick for him to effectively block it and keep his head.
Seriously I thought his blue belt was a joke until I saw that he moves in and out of mount with like no effort at all without legs to slow him down but I can’t believe that guy tried to triangle him how did he think he was gonna be able to keep that arm in
Yeah, but what happens if just gets thrown
out of the ring WWE style?
Arguing on the internet is like being in the special olympics, even when you win you are still retarded.
haha or if someone did that old school bully move where they put there hand on his head so he couldn’t punch them
Would that be considered octagon or ring control
if his opponent did that?
Arguing on the internet is like being in the special olympics, even when you win you are still retarded.
Go up one more comment...
from the one you were replying to and you’ll see a youtube link
Contributing Editor - BloodyElbow.com - SBNation's mixed martial arts headquarters.
http://CurseOfRonKarkovice.blogspot.com/
by Brent Brookhouse on Apr 22, 2009 4:23 PM EDT up reply actions
I can’t believe his opponent was unable to get out of the arm triangle. I don’t care how strong the guy is.
We know he will not be getting penalized for grabbing their gloves.
Arguing on the internet is like being in the special olympics, even when you win you are still retarded.
I just see this along the lines of the Japanese
“freak show” promotions. It is cool that he is getting to do what he wants, but it is hard to give it any credibility at all.
Arguing on the internet is like being in the special olympics, even when you win you are still retarded.
This is a horrible idea.....
This kid is going to get brutalized. I don’t care how good you are in BJJ or wrestling. If you don’t have hands or legs you are going to get bashed in the face in MMA and possibly put into a coma.
This is so sad in my eyes. Am I the only person who sees how sick this is?
"A lie gets halfway around the world before the truth has a chance to get its pants on." - Sir Winston Churchill
believe me, i see why everyone's skeptical...
i first thought he would get manhandled in wrestling and thought it was a joke. no ability to post on the mat, no ability to peel off grips, takedowns would be extremely limited. then i saw him wrestle. the kid has amazing adaptability.
I’ve honestly been flabbergasted at the way almost the entire MMA community has absolutely shit on Maynard upon hearing “amputee in MMA,” making juvenile and uninformed comments without doing any sort of research, watching tape of him in wrestling/grappling, etc. It’s ridiculous. I’m not saying he has a future in the UFC, but if he (and his instructors – it’s not like he’s doing this all on his own) believes he has a legitimate shot at winning an amateur match, I think the least we can do is give the benefit of the doubt to a guy who’s already overcome tremendous obstacles in his life.
by Chris Nelson on Apr 22, 2009 4:28 PM EDT up reply actions 7 recs
Rec'd
He knows the risks, he’s training for them, so why not?
Ever tried. Ever failed. No matter. Try Again. Fail again. Fail better. -Samuel Beckett
by Scott C. Broussard on Apr 22, 2009 4:29 PM EDT up reply actions
I give him props for the wrestling even though
every opponent I have seen him face just seems intent on pushing him off without mounting any offense at all, but why is he trying MMA where the obvious question is how will he strike or defend strikes?
Arguing on the internet is like being in the special olympics, even when you win you are still retarded.
I imagine a shell type defense from strikes..
although I guess it’ll be more of a “just keep moving” approach if he ends up on his back. He also has enough arms that he can strike with them.
Contributing Editor - BloodyElbow.com - SBNation's mixed martial arts headquarters.
http://CurseOfRonKarkovice.blogspot.com/
by Brent Brookhouse on Apr 22, 2009 4:33 PM EDT up reply actions
Even by the description you gave about how you think
he will do it, how does that sound? I mean come on. If this guy ends up KTFO’d a lot of people are going to go apeshit & blame MMA for this.
Arguing on the internet is like being in the special olympics, even when you win you are still retarded.
I have no clue.
I have a feeling his plan is to be on top. I don’t know what the hell is going to happen. It’s a really, REALLY weird situation
Contributing Editor - BloodyElbow.com - SBNation's mixed martial arts headquarters.
http://CurseOfRonKarkovice.blogspot.com/
by Brent Brookhouse on Apr 22, 2009 4:37 PM EDT up reply actions
His plan may be to be on top,
but unless his opponent is unable to wrestle at all this is going to end up looking like that first fighter on the vid you posted. With Maynard hanging on this guys leg while he jumps around the ring trying to get him off. If everything goes perfectly, I still do not see how he accomplishes any strikes at all or can truly pull off a sub against someone who is actually trying.
Arguing on the internet is like being in the special olympics, even when you win you are still retarded.
My biggest issue is...
that the opponent can NOT train to fight him and honestly he has a huge advantage. I guess a one time amateur fight is one thing. But you can’t get ready for a guy who you can’t use most of your techniques on or even start to prepare for.
Contributing Editor - BloodyElbow.com - SBNation's mixed martial arts headquarters.
http://CurseOfRonKarkovice.blogspot.com/
by Brent Brookhouse on Apr 22, 2009 4:31 PM EDT up reply actions
I think he has both extreme advantages and disadvantages in the bout. I agree with Nelson and others who say that he should be able to if he wants, however, I feel that the opponent in question really is put in a very tough position.
"I see him beating Anderson Silva. I see him picking him apart. Him at a 131 years old...(trails off)." - Tito on Belfort at Affliction:DOR
by Rundownloser on Apr 22, 2009 4:35 PM EDT up reply actions
The basic strategy would seem to be keep your distance and use lots of low kicks to limit his mobility. I don’t see how he’ll get a takedown – wrestling is a grappling sport, so the whole point is to go to the ground, but how do you shoot on a standing guy when you have no real leverage? Just stay on your feet. When he’s tired and bruised from kicks, dive into his guard fist-first and batter with elbows.
Ever tried. Ever failed. No matter. Try Again. Fail again. Fail better. -Samuel Beckett
by Scott C. Broussard on Apr 22, 2009 4:39 PM EDT up reply actions
They can only kick him to the body...
and there are no elbows on the ground.
Just to continue setting the rules for the fight clear
Contributing Editor - BloodyElbow.com - SBNation's mixed martial arts headquarters.
http://CurseOfRonKarkovice.blogspot.com/
by Brent Brookhouse on Apr 22, 2009 4:44 PM EDT up reply actions
I knew about the no-head-kick (standard stuff – if they were legal I’d be completely against this fight), but I wasn’t sure about the elbows. So side mount & hammerfists?
Ever tried. Ever failed. No matter. Try Again. Fail again. Fail better. -Samuel Beckett
by Scott C. Broussard on Apr 22, 2009 4:46 PM EDT up reply actions
Yeah...
I do wonder about the body kick thing but I have a feeling it will be hard to body kick because of the way in which he moves around on all fours. Hard to make sure you aren’t going to catch the head with the kick
Contributing Editor - BloodyElbow.com - SBNation's mixed martial arts headquarters.
http://CurseOfRonKarkovice.blogspot.com/
by Brent Brookhouse on Apr 22, 2009 4:47 PM EDT up reply actions
Front kicks
You’ve gotta think he’s going to scramble a lot and try to move around on his arms to avoid front kicks. I imagine if he tries to stay upright, those would be dangerously effective. I should probably study up and actually watch a video of him wrestling to get a better idea of how I think the fight will go.
I poop rainbows.
Have someone chase you around the gym on hands and knees and try to kick them, I guess. Wear LOTS of padding when first trying this, obviously.
I feel bad for trying to figure out how to beat up an quadriplegic. I need some of those “scruples” thingies…
Ever tried. Ever failed. No matter. Try Again. Fail again. Fail better. -Samuel Beckett
by Scott C. Broussard on Apr 22, 2009 4:53 PM EDT up reply actions
That's it!
I am calling Maynard by DQ for kicks to a downed opponent.
Arguing on the internet is like being in the special olympics, even when you win you are still retarded.
"Hammerfists"
another bad joke
Arguing on the internet is like being in the special olympics, even when you win you are still retarded.
I completely agree. I think the Opponent is at the biggest disadvantage. Along with having to eliminate the strikes and subs, think about the change in stance the opponent has to have with Kyle being so low; that just further plays into Kyle’s strength of wrestling. Kyle in his natural element (should be) > opponent in awkward stance and limited rules (along with no experience with someone of Kyle’s stature). I disagree with this fight for a plethora of reasons, but more power to him and to his opponent. They both are very courageous in taking this amateur fight.
by CliChe Guevara on Apr 22, 2009 6:14 PM EDT up reply actions
I’m not saying he hasn’t overcome a lot of obstacles but I think his opponents are put in an unfair place competing against him and watching his tapes it’s obvious he’s quite capable of competing in grappling/wrestling but in a sport with striking? He’s a quadruple amputee and I’m not saying any of this to “shit” on the guy I’ve been a nurse for 5 years and have seen people who had a lot better not doing half the stuff he is but if his trainers and whoever is behind him on this I gotta kinda question if they have his best interest at heart
Just to be clear, I wasn’t talking about you or anyone commenting on this post in particular. Just the general vibe I’ve seen when the topic is discussed on blogs/boards in general, and even when it’s been discussed on BE before.
And yeah, to be honest, I’ve been so wrapped up Maynard not getting a fair shake that I didn’t really even consider what’s going to be going through his opponent’s head in training and the fight itself. It sounds like they’ve got someone who knows what he’s getting into, though, and a few fighters lined up in case he backs out. I’m really interested to see how this goes.
by Chris Nelson on Apr 22, 2009 4:40 PM EDT up reply actions
I understand and a story like this is always gonna attract jokes and naysayers but I didn’t think anyone really crossed the line on this post and there were some legitimate questions brought up. No hard feelinings I hope Bloodyelbow is still the best MMA site around
There were a few pretty bad jokes...
early in the thread. I think Chris is just saying that the guy has overcome a lot…you can disagree with him fighting but don’t turn him into a punchline (not that you did…just in general for everyone)
Contributing Editor - BloodyElbow.com - SBNation's mixed martial arts headquarters.
http://CurseOfRonKarkovice.blogspot.com/
by Brent Brookhouse on Apr 22, 2009 4:46 PM EDT up reply actions
I could not resist throwing a couple in,
but I tried to keep them decent. I noticed they are not there any more, lol
Arguing on the internet is like being in the special olympics, even when you win you are still retarded.
Nothing too bad happened really...
it’s more of a tone control I guess. In the past we let the harmless stuff go and eventually someone comes along and everything goes to hell. You know how it is on the internet
Contributing Editor - BloodyElbow.com - SBNation's mixed martial arts headquarters.
http://CurseOfRonKarkovice.blogspot.com/
by Brent Brookhouse on Apr 22, 2009 4:51 PM EDT up reply actions
I have very little self control so....
Arguing on the internet is like being in the special olympics, even when you win you are still retarded.
it’s more of a tone control I guess.
Yep, that’s all.
It’s a controversial topic and the post is on the top of the site, just didn’t want things to get out of hand.
by Chris Nelson on Apr 22, 2009 5:00 PM EDT up reply actions
rec'd
let’s give him a chance. we can judge all we want afterwards.
Alright, fine.
But if he ends up KTFO’d….
Arguing on the internet is like being in the special olympics, even when you win you are still retarded.
Anyone can get KTFO'd in an MMA bout.
But if his opponent wins by some means which involves exploiting his disability, I’ll be the first one to say I was wrong.
by Chris Nelson on Apr 22, 2009 5:14 PM EDT up reply actions
That is what I meant.
Not just that act alone, but if it is because of what we have been discussing & he offers no defense for his opponents striking this is going to be bad.
Arguing on the internet is like being in the special olympics, even when you win you are still retarded.
Wouldn’t “punching him” be exploiting his disabilities because he can’t block well?
Ever tried. Ever failed. No matter. Try Again. Fail again. Fail better. -Samuel Beckett
by Scott C. Broussard on Apr 22, 2009 5:18 PM EDT up reply actions
I was thinking the same until I read the quote here.
Also, re: Maynard striking, supposedly he can use his elbows/stumps for offense pretty effectively.
by Chris Nelson on Apr 22, 2009 5:24 PM EDT up reply actions
My problem with that is yeah he’s blocking with the thickest part of his arm but how offensive can he really be blocking with one arm as he has to keep one of his arms on the floor to keep from being kicked in the face. Secondly he will have such a disadvantage with reach I don’t see how he could counterstrike or mount an offense of any kind. I agree that if he gets the fight to the ground he has his chance of winning but don’t see how he could if his opponent didn’t want the fight to go there.
I think being on his back would rule him grounded.
Ever tried. Ever failed. No matter. Try Again. Fail again. Fail better. -Samuel Beckett
by Scott C. Broussard on Apr 22, 2009 5:40 PM EDT up reply actions
What?
…how offensive can he really be blocking with one arm as he has to keep one of his arms on the floor to keep from being kicked in the face. [sic]
He’ll be perpetually grounded because he’ll always be either on his back or have his knees on the ground (I believe he’s amputated below the joint), therefore he can’t be kicked in the face.
Ever tried. Ever failed. No matter. Try Again. Fail again. Fail better. -Samuel Beckett
by Scott C. Broussard on Apr 22, 2009 5:45 PM EDT up reply actions
lol
Arguing on the internet is like being in the special olympics, even when you win you are still retarded.
Maybe not, but
it was still funny even it was unintentional.
Arguing on the internet is like being in the special olympics, even when you win you are still retarded.
Overcoming obstacles....
Is fantasitc. Two thumbs up for Kyle Maynard.
However, just because he has overcome obstacles and trained hard doesnt mean he should fight mma. If this guy gets hurt, there is going to be outrage. Should we then fall back on “Hey, we were just giving him the benefit of the doubt based on the fact that he has overcome so many obstacles?”
Thats a ridiculous statement Chris.
Read My Blog
"Life's tough, tougher if you're stupid."
by Brandon Jones on Apr 23, 2009 1:22 PM EDT up reply actions
How in the hell is he going to keep from getting punched in the head?
I’m all for overcoming barriers and whatnot, but sometimes there are things you just can’t do. If only this guy with amazing drive and heart had been born with BJ Penn’s natural gifts.
Keep firing Assholes!
Akiyama is the Japanese word for Sexify.
From Ariel Helwani's interview with the promoter for this fight:
Will there be any special rules implemented for him?
All the amateur MMA fights on this card will be held under the same rules, and that is when you are standing you can punch to the head and you can kick to the head. When you are grounded you can kick to the body, you can knee to the body, and you can punch to the face. Kyle will just choose to fight this fight as a downed opponent.
Will Kyle be wearing MMA gloves?
Yes. He is still trying to figure out exactly how he can do that right now.
Do you foresee that being a problem?
No, it won’t be a problem. He has got numerous ways to do it. That’s something his trainers have been trying to figure out.
Contributing Editor - BloodyElbow.com - SBNation's mixed martial arts headquarters.
http://CurseOfRonKarkovice.blogspot.com/
by Brent Brookhouse on Apr 22, 2009 4:13 PM EDT reply actions
Forgive me for going off topic, but will some of our smarter member go back to the Ref Project post and help me ID some refs from pictures.
Hey guys.
The tasteless jokes need to stop. If you can’t discuss this like an adult, go over to Sherdog.
Really? This guy is going to fight?
How is this going to even work? I know it may seem like this guy may have the disadvantage but….if you really think about it. The other guy is screwed! if he loses, he’ll never hear the end of it. If he wins, he’ll never hear the end of it because people will say it was unfair and that he should of taken it easier on the guy…not to mention if this guy comes with prosthetics and what not…how would you feel leg kicking some guys fake leg? or trying to arm bar a fake arm? Also you can count out armbars, knee bars…i guess you could pull off a kimura..but i dont know..this is all just outrageous…this guy does not belong in any sport of this magnitude.
No...
no prosthetic limbs and to be fair he is only fighting in an amateur fight. I agree that he shouldn’t be fighting and that it is really hard on the other guy. I just want to point out that this isn’t a pro fight.
Contributing Editor - BloodyElbow.com - SBNation's mixed martial arts headquarters.
http://CurseOfRonKarkovice.blogspot.com/
by Brent Brookhouse on Apr 22, 2009 4:20 PM EDT up reply actions
I got this surreal mental movie of him fighting with prosthetic limbs – the opponent goes for a submission and yanks the fake limb off to the horror of the onlookers.
Ever tried. Ever failed. No matter. Try Again. Fail again. Fail better. -Samuel Beckett
by Scott C. Broussard on Apr 22, 2009 4:40 PM EDT up reply actions
Since this is an amateur fight, does he know who he’s fighting (and visa versa for his opponent)? I don’t know how amateur matches work, and if you don’t get your opponent prior to the weigh-in’s, I can see how this could be problematic. I know that if I went expecting to fight a guy without any sort of similar condition and they matched me up with Maynard, I’d be a little pissed off.
"I see him beating Anderson Silva. I see him picking him apart. Him at a 131 years old...(trails off)." - Tito on Belfort at Affliction:DOR
You do know your opponent in advance...
Although the promoter is not releasing the name for fear of the other guy having to deal with pre-fight pressure:
Who will he be fighting?
We already have an opponent, but as weird as it sounds, we decided not to release his name until the weigh-ins because it seems as if there is so much pressure being put on who is the guy that is going to fight Kyle. Who is the (expletive) that is going to hit Kyle in the face? We’ve decided to keep that under wraps, but we do have an opponent that is an amateur 135er that is going to fight. And we have two backups in case that opponent gets injured or cold feet.
Another bit of interesting info
Speaking of the Internet, the reception online to this Kyle’s amateur MMA debut has been lukewarm, at best. The main point of contention is, how is Kyle going to a) defend himself from punches or kicks b) win a fight if he doesn’t have the luxury of using full-length arms or legs? How does he plan to get around those obstacles?
Well, for defending himself, Kyle’s arms are long enough that they cover to the top of his head. So, Kyle can defend a strike to the head just as easy as me or you can defend a strike to the head. The difference is he is even more affective, because if you think about it, when you put your arm to cover your head, it’s usually your wrist and your forearm covering your face up, which is the thinnest piece of your arm. When he does it, all he has is his arm essentially to his elbow, which is the thickest part of your arm; it’s completely all muscle in his case. So he is holding up the thickest part of his arm to defend himself and cover his face. So, he has no problem defending against ground-and-pound. At the same time, he is going to be so strong at 135 pounds, that he is going to dominate his opponent. When he gets on top of his opponent and ground and pounds him, he hits so hard that I wouldn’t be surprised if he cracks a rib or two. I mean, the amount of force and strength that Kyle Maynard hits with is unbelievable.
As for kicking and knees, the fight will always be a downed fight, because whenever you have three points on the ground, you are a downed opponent. And he is going to choose to fight with three points on the ground. So, you cannot kick him in the face, but you still can kick him and knee him to the body. But he is so quick when he gets on the ground and comes after you that he is going to get his opponent down to the ground. That’s not going to be an issue at all.
I have been promoting fights for seven years now, and I think I do a pretty good job in Atlanta doing about seven or eight shows a year. I have promoted about 45 events matched over 500 fights, and I feel more confident putting Kyle in the cage than I putting your up-and-coming 0-0 amateur right now. We are getting so many fighters that are training in "Bob’s garage" or dad’s basement that don’t know what they are doing. You know, they watch "The Ultimate Fighter" and they think they are now a fighter. I mean, Kyle wrestled in high school; Kyle wrestled in college; Kyle has been doing jiu-jitsu and grappling tournaments for five or six years. April 25th has been something he has been planning on and training for five years.
Contributing Editor - BloodyElbow.com - SBNation's mixed martial arts headquarters.
http://CurseOfRonKarkovice.blogspot.com/
by Brent Brookhouse on Apr 22, 2009 4:35 PM EDT up reply actions
The bottom two paragraphs...
are supposed to be in the blockquote but dropped out…apologies for that one
Contributing Editor - BloodyElbow.com - SBNation's mixed martial arts headquarters.
http://CurseOfRonKarkovice.blogspot.com/
by Brent Brookhouse on Apr 22, 2009 4:36 PM EDT up reply actions
Thanks.
"I see him beating Anderson Silva. I see him picking him apart. Him at a 131 years old...(trails off)." - Tito on Belfort at Affliction:DOR
by Rundownloser on Apr 22, 2009 4:37 PM EDT up reply actions
Not to be the obvious one here...
but this kid is missing appendages…like he doesn’t have elbows and he is going to fight. Just think about that.
There is a wrestler at ASU
who fights with just one leg. Hes actually really good because he is able to carry much more muscle in his upper body than other fighters in his weight class and typically out muscles them. This guy seems to have a much thicker core. If he had arms and legs he would prob be 185. Thats a lot of power behind those nubs for a 135 guy.
That reminds me of a really funny thread that was on Sherdog a long while ago about how Houston Alexander had an unfair advantage because he donated his kidney (to his daughter by the way), so he could pack on more muscle than other fighters in his weight class. That one had me rolling.
"I see him beating Anderson Silva. I see him picking him apart. Him at a 131 years old...(trails off)." - Tito on Belfort at Affliction:DOR
by Rundownloser on Apr 22, 2009 4:44 PM EDT up reply actions
The power behind a punch comes from the forward motion of the fist being slingshot by the upper arm. Without the extra length on the arm-lever, he’s losing a lot of power – try throwing a baseball with a straight arm and then normally and see which one goes farther.
Ever tried. Ever failed. No matter. Try Again. Fail again. Fail better. -Samuel Beckett
by Scott C. Broussard on Apr 22, 2009 4:45 PM EDT up reply actions
What would stop an opponent from throwing a massive running soccer kick to the body.
One big advantage if that if he weighs the same he should be much much bigger and stronger.
I dislike Matt Hughes.
And if that lands Maynard may end up outside of the ring.
Arguing on the internet is like being in the special olympics, even when you win you are still retarded.
I’m guessing if someone was running at him to kick, he could scoot out of the way or flop to guard.
by Chris Nelson on Apr 22, 2009 4:48 PM EDT up reply actions
The guys wrestling is certainly interesting but if someone is defending by scooting and floping they should not be allowed to fight.
I dislike Matt Hughes.
Thales Leites?
Ever tried. Ever failed. No matter. Try Again. Fail again. Fail better. -Samuel Beckett
by Scott C. Broussard on Apr 22, 2009 4:54 PM EDT up reply actions
A slowball is pitched to you, you gotta take a swing.
Ever tried. Ever failed. No matter. Try Again. Fail again. Fail better. -Samuel Beckett
by Scott C. Broussard on Apr 22, 2009 5:07 PM EDT up reply actions
I wonder how his opponent feels about this? Obviously he is ok with it or else he wouldn’t take the fight. Personally, I would just have a hard time trying to KO somebody with a disability like his without feeling like a complete douchebag.
www.mma-elite.com
His opponent is going to feel like A Rod coming to the plate in Fenway.
Arguing on the internet is like being in the special olympics, even when you win you are still retarded.
I'm against this whole thing
I think if he can’t be commissioned, that’s very telling. In fact, that’s enough for me to have someone step in and say this can’t happen. It seems abusive on some level. There are a million reasons I think this is a bad idea, from the fact that his opponent can’t train for his body type, if he ends up getting pounded on it’s going to look awful and it’s altogether just a train wreck waiting to happen. If body types of all sorts are acceptable in men’s MMA, as long as weights are met, should women be allowed to compete with men in lower weight classes as well? Has that ever been an issue? It’s something of a digression, but I’m having a little trouble equating this. I’ve done plenty of work at athletic events for disabled athletes (my older brother is disabled) and I’m against this to an increasing degree every day. I admire Kyle for his courage, his accomplishments in athletics and for the adversity he’s overcome in his life, but my aforementioned brother is bound to a wheelchair and he wouldn’t get commissioned to fight MMA either.
I poop rainbows.
Well said as I stated earlier I absolutely admire this guys heart but letting him compete somehow put’s him at an unfair advantage over his competition and puts him in serious danger. As I said earlier common injuries in mma like breaking ones arm blocking a kick would be absolutely devastating to him and I can’t help but question on whether his trainers actually believe in his skill or are trying to put on a side show. I think this is a case of someones heart writing a check that the rest of him can’t cash. By the way great point with women being able to compete against men.
If his first fight is a disaster, I’ll agree with you, but right now, prima facie, he already competes in a combat sport, knows the risks, and is mobile under his own power. I think he’s asking for an asswhipping but if Coleman and Shamrock can get licensed, I don’t see why Kyle should be stopped.
Ever tried. Ever failed. No matter. Try Again. Fail again. Fail better. -Samuel Beckett
by Scott C. Broussard on Apr 22, 2009 5:14 PM EDT up reply actions
There is no way you can compare Coleman and Shamrock to this guy and he competes in a non striking sport
Why not?
They’ve suffered years and years of brain trauma that has taken a visible toll on their faculties, yet they are still allowed to compete. Maynard has a physical disability but as yet hasn’t taken any serious damage in fighting. If he is demolished as a result of his handicap, then I say stop him from fighting again, but if it goes OK, let him continue.
Ever tried. Ever failed. No matter. Try Again. Fail again. Fail better. -Samuel Beckett
by Scott C. Broussard on Apr 22, 2009 5:25 PM EDT up reply actions
Coleman and Shamrock have been in a lot of fights this is true but are still deemed a sound state of mind by doctors and professionals this guy can’t get a license because it’s obvious that his handicap puts him at a disadvantage to his opponents and would lead to him being seriously injured. You wouldn’t let Ali get back in the ring would you?
I wouldn’t let Ali fight again, but because of brain damage, same reason I wouldn’t let Coleman and Shamrock fight, but allow Maynard. Philosophically speaking, I value the mind more than the body (cf Stephen Hawking), so that’s a bias I have when approaching this. When confronted with extreme mental disability vs physical disability, I’d sooner protect the former. Your mileage may vary…
Ever tried. Ever failed. No matter. Try Again. Fail again. Fail better. -Samuel Beckett
by Scott C. Broussard on Apr 22, 2009 5:39 PM EDT up reply actions
You wouldn’t let Coleman and Shamrock fight because of brain damage? as far as I know neither has had any serious brain damage. I understand your philosophical views and yeah it makes a great story that a quadruple amputee fights MMA but it just isn’t possible for him to be succesful at it. Your saying that we should judge on his first performance to see how well he will do but the more your not doing this guy any favors by encouraging him the fact is that he could get seriously hurt. It takes that one guy who doesn’t want to lose to an amputee to punt him in the face. Not only that but he’s exploiting the rules to compete.
Well
I don’t think those circumstances are laterally comparable, so I understand where drano is coming from. Plus, Coleman and Shamrock are commissioned when they fight and Maynard has been unable to.
I poop rainbows.
Even if he were to be commissioned, I wonder if he could pass the physical.
Ever tried. Ever failed. No matter. Try Again. Fail again. Fail better. -Samuel Beckett
by Scott C. Broussard on Apr 22, 2009 5:39 PM EDT up reply actions
I'm uneasy about this
I wouldn’t watch it if I could. There are people suggesting that a KO is a KO to anyone, but that’s emphatically untrue of this situation. If this kid gets split open or concussed, it’s going to draw the ire of national media. Why was this kid in a fight where striking is allowed? Who put on this card? Is this exploitation of a disabled individual for media/fan attention? I’m sure people are expecting that he’ll get a pat on the back if he gets laid out and we’ll all go on with life, but I feel really put off by the prospects that he gets GNP’d and the ref can’t pick out a good spot to put an end to it because his arms are still coming up and he’s trying to roll out. There is a road to an unpleasant ending in this bout and I worry that we’ll see it. Adversely, I don’t find it fair that his opponent can’t train for his skill set and body type, as previously mentioned. It’s a lose-lose in most any conceivable scenario beyond a decision. Even one road to disaster is one too many, as far as I’m concerned.
I poop rainbows.
As a pure hypothetical, what if this kid ends up paralyzed in the cage due to him not being able to fully defend himself on a takedown attempt and is dunked on his head? Guess who gets the black eye. It’s not the kid or the guy who did it to him. It’s the sport as a whole. For the sport’s sake, this needs to not take place.
"A lie gets halfway around the world before the truth has a chance to get its pants on." - Sir Winston Churchill
by FlyByKnight on Apr 22, 2009 5:51 PM EDT reply actions 2 recs
Which also puts his opponent in a very bad position.
Do you take it easy on the guy, or go all out and risk crippling/killing him?
I do not see how his opponent
does not just spend the entire fight pushing him off while Maynard is holding onto his leg like your little brother.
Arguing on the internet is like being in the special olympics, even when you win you are still retarded.
Wrestling is one thing...
…but with strikes and subs on the table, I just wouldn’t feel comfortable watching him fight.
It’s certainly inspiring that he’s made it this far. And I wouldn’t want anyone to stop him from fighting if that’s what he wants to do.
So he's going to be considered a "downed opponent" all the time?
As stupid as this sounds how is that fair the other guy? I guess it won’t matter he can still blast him in the face.
What about weight classes? There are minimums aren’t there?
He's fighting at 135...
he’ll be every bit of that weight too…
Contributing Editor - BloodyElbow.com - SBNation's mixed martial arts headquarters.
http://CurseOfRonKarkovice.blogspot.com/
by Brent Brookhouse on Apr 22, 2009 8:09 PM EDT up reply actions
Tap Tap Tap. Nobody has mentioned the FACT that this guy cannot physically tap. I would refuse to officiate this fight, on the grounds that his only way out of a rear naked choke is passing out. How does the official know when to stop the sub? He cannot rely on facial expressions, verbal submission( ‘cause he’s choking), or flailing half limbs(not meant as an insult in any way). I commend and respect Kyle Maynard, but this should not happen. Too much at risk, for him, for everybody involved. Thats just my opinion.
he can tap with his arm...
his arms end just above where the elbow would be…he has enough arm to tap
Contributing Editor - BloodyElbow.com - SBNation's mixed martial arts headquarters.
http://CurseOfRonKarkovice.blogspot.com/
by Brent Brookhouse on Apr 23, 2009 8:47 AM EDT up reply actions
If you think you can can accurately interpret a tap, as opposed to grasping with the limb, then all the power to you. My point is that I don’t think it’s as clearcut a tap as you may think. I’ve never seen him grapple, so I’m simply speculating, but what would a tap look like from him? Could it be confused with grasping or flailing resulting in a confusing early stoppage for Maynards opponent? Picture him in a RNC, now picture him trying to grab tophand to escape. I’m just afraid, the officials unfamiliarity of his anatomy could work against him.
Anybody can tap with anypart of their body. The only thing he’s going to have problem with that he would need to tap to would be to strikes or neck choke/crank. He will have four limbs available to tap with. from what I’ve seen of his style I don’t see him getting choked either, he just moves way to quick, and he can very easily flip out of most chokes unless they are in real tight and a ref should be more than able to recognize when he really is caught.
I cant see him being able to pull of any gnp defense from his back…his lack of length would kill him there. Maynard’s very inspiring to a degree, but as the old quote goes “a good man has to know his limitations”…and if he doesnt some people who care about him need to step in. It seems like exploitation more than wanting to help him achieve his dream or giving him an opportunity.
So maybe one strategy for his opponent to practice like crazy is leg sweeps targeted at the typical opponent’s ankles. That way you can avoid kicking him the head for a DQ. Then, after numerous hours practicing the technique for this fight, he’ll have a new technique under his belt that no one is expecting in an MMA fight.
I’m trying to come up with a good technique for punching him in the head. You don’t want your hips anywhere near the guy from what I’ve seen in his grappling videos so you’d have to do something bent over and weird looking.
I wouldn’t take the fight.
After seeing the following video, I decided I would never question anything Kyle Maynard wants to do. A lot of people think of this guy just as a severely disabled individual and don’t stop to wonder what type of person he really is. I think this video gives a great glimpse into a truely remarkable human being.
http://journal.crossfit.com/2009/03/address-to-the-warrior-transition-batallion.tpl
I think Maynard is an example of what is right in America. A man born without elbows and knees can compete in combat sports (wrestling,MMA,grappling) and succeed.
Make fun of him about head kicks and arm bars but if he was my son I would be so proud of his will/drive/desire. He apparently doesn’t consider himself handicapped in anyway for that I commend him.
We should be asking ourselves if we as people would be strong enough to persevere thru everything Maynard has overcome. Life dealt him a bad hand and he hasn’t used it as an excuse to fail rather he is pushing himself to limits most of us never have.
by Riney on Apr 22, 2009 9:47 PM EDT reply actions 2 recs
100% Agree. And for the Blue Belt...
Kyle Maynard is an inspiration.
Paul Creighton is a Renzo Gracie Black Belt and very reputable. He does not give out the belts.
And these videoes show him training in Atlanta with The Hard Core Gym and American Top Team.
so for all the talk of his time at georgia (which isnt a d-1 wrestling school), what was his record? i cant find it.
i understand its inspiring and everything but this is a bloodsport. dont fool yourself. media attention is typicall negative towards it and putting some dude with no arms and legs in the ring doesnt bring the right kind of attention. if he gets koed or gets cut real bad its even worse. im sure they have someone they think is safe but this is the kind of thing that people where mma isnt legal will point to. just sayin.
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