UFC 129 Results: Can Nick Diaz Salvage GSP's Damaged Brand?

by Nate Wilcox on May 2, 2011 4:00 PM EDT in UFC Analysis

Georges St. Pierre won his fifth consecutive decision victory over Jake Shields at UFC 129 in front of a sold out Rogers Centre in Toronto, Ontario. Although he won the fight via unanimous decision, his thirty round unbeaten streak was broken and, more importantly, his reputation as a supremely entertaining fighter is in tatters.

Whereas once fans were clamoring for a GSP vs UFC middleweight champ Anderson Silva superfight, now that fight is losing steam due to GSP's less than dynamic string of performances.

Yes, GSP did take some brutal eye pokes that left him without vision in his left eye for hours after the fight, but MMA fans are fickle and unsympathetic.

GSP's coach Greg Jackson told Sherdog:

"If you're sitting at home and you've never really been poked in the eye and had somebody of Jake Shields' level come after you and try to knock your block off, its hard to understand what that means. He was just off a little bit on some of those big shots and I feel like if he would have had both eyes, he would have landed those shots and he would have done a lot more damage."

"Jake Shields is a phenomenal fighter. I'm not sure where people get this idea that Jake Shields is like this punching bag."

Ben Fowlkes makes the case that GSP's brand is seriously damaged:

Quick, name the last GSP fight that you'd actually like to sit down and watch again. Be honest. His last four fights were impressive displays of dominance, but I'd rather not spend the half-hour to relive any one of them. Like it or not, in a sport where you make money based primarily on how many people want to see you fight, that matters.

Fowlkes also argued that only one opponent can make GSP's next fight something fans want to see: Nick Diaz. Leland Roling started the chorus right here at BE.

And according to SBNation's Luke Thomas, Nick Diaz wants that fight too:

A question was posed from a Brazilian journalist to UFC President Dana White about the future prospects of George St. Pierre vs. Anderson Silva. The nature of the question doesn't matter. White's response mirrored other recent statements on the matter. Namely, the fight's never been discussed by the parties as a serious possibility and there's still other fights available for both Silva and GSP in their respective weight classes.

That's when I heard Nick Diaz quietly say as if to suggest "why not me?" the following simple statement: "I want to fight George St. Pierre."

Jason Probst makes the case that Diaz, and only Diaz can make GSP a powerful draw again:

Diaz is never going to be more red-hot. After dispatching Paul Daley April, Diaz's stock is at an all-time high. The time to put him in against GSP is now. Are you going to wait for him to make a defense against, say, Tyron Woodley, or some other wrestler that might give Diaz's stock a hit with a boring fight or even a loss? Diaz is perfect, right now, and GSP is badly in need of a viable challenger.

Diaz has the right style to bring excitement. Let's face it -- nobody in MMA is going to outwrestle St. Pierre, not at 170 pounds. Thus far, in his second reign as champion, GSP has picked apart challengers coming in on the wings of a dream: that they would be able to plant him on the mat, backed up by modest striking. Josh Koscheck, the best banger of the bunch, never landed more than a glancing blow or two. GSP manipulates distance and angles masterfully. Diaz violates all that and would force confrontations. His high-volume style would, for once, possibly take the play away from GSP on the feet and force him into exchanges or to shoot for takedowns. Diaz's defensive guard and incredible resilience would serve him well here. He might get wrestled and controlled positionally, but at the beginning of each round, he would be right back up pressing and pushing ahead, tossing punches and cusses and scowls. Diaz is as durable as anyone in the game, and he never quits. He would either force GSP to beat him down or risk another five-round snoozer, at which point public consensus would be well-justified to pack GSP's bags for 185.

Diaz sells -- something the welterweight title definitely needs. GSP has summarily scuttled the marketability of all his top contenders. It would be a difficult proposition to sell rematches against Fitch or Penn; ironically, both were injured and their rematch will not happen, which clears the welterweight title road for the time being. Alves is only slightly more marketable because he can bang, but he has a tough assignment in Rick Story at UFC 130. No guarantee there. It is getting to the point where any GSP defense against anyone not named Nick Diaz would have to be paired with another title bout -- like UFC 129 -- to make it viable.

UFC co-owner and executive grand pooba Lorenzo Fertitta tweeted about the possibilities Saturday night:

Overwhelming response for GSP/DIAZ interesting. In NYC now working in what you all know.less than a minute ago via Twitter for BlackBerry® Favorite Retweet ReplyLorenzo Fertitta
lorenzofertitta

UFC President Dana White addressed the issues blocking the fight at the press conference:

"I imagine I could do whatever I wanted to do if I really wanted to, but we have a contract with Showtime and [Diaz is] a Showtime fighter. I don't know, we're going to have to see how this whole thing works out. That's an interesting fight.

"I can do what I want to do."

He spoke to Ariel Helwani (transcription via Fight Opinion) further about Diaz:

DANA WHITE: "Yeah, there's always going to be fights out there at 170 that are interesting, there's going to be new guys coming up, you know, Nick Diaz is out there..."
ARIEL HELWANI: "But can you make that fight?"
DANA WHITE: "Um... can I make that fight? We'll see what happens."
ARIEL HELWANI: "But he says he wants to go box first. What is the likelihood of him boxing before ever fighting back in the UFC?"
DANA WHITE: "Well, he fights for Strikeforce, you know, he's a Strikeforce champion. He wants to box. I'm going to go to Stockton this week and talk to him."

Diaz' manager and head trainer Cesar Gracie spoke to MMA Mania's Brian Hemminger about the possibilities of making the fight (transcribed by Fight Opinion):

"I don't know how bad is GSP's eye, is he going to take six months off? And then why couldn't Nick box and then go fight GSP, for example, that kind of scenario. Now, if the eye if not a really big problem and they want the next fight for GSP five months from now to be Nick Diaz, I mean obviously Nick would be, uh... he would be delaying quite a contract, a money-making contract in boxing so how would that, is he going to give up that all that money... I mean there's so many questions right now and really the only (people) that has the answers to it are, you know, Dana White and Lorenzo Fertitta, so I'm very much looking forward to meeting with those guys. Lorenzo's a guy that I truly like the guy and Dana is a good guy, too, you know, a good businessman and we're going to tell him our concerns and hopefully they have some answers for us and we're waiting just like you guys."

The negotiations will be a very big test of Zuffa's relationship with Showtime and whether or not they intend to build on the Strikeforce relationship with the premium cable channel now that they've bought Strikeforce. If They can somehow book GSP vs Nick Diaz this year and do it in such a way that it's a win/win for Zuffa and for Showtime, truly anything will be possible in the new MMA landscape.

If they can't, one would have to question the utility of the acquisition as anything but a way to gain greater control of the marketplace and drive fighter pay down.

After the jump, more UFC 129 news, analysis and results from Bloody Elbow.

Tweet Comment 134 comments | 0 recs |

Do you like this story?

Comments

It'll be another boring 5 round takedown fest dec win for GSP.

The best fight to make is GSP Silva at Cowboys stadium. =P

Mike Goldberg: "You know Joe, When Matt and his brother Mark Hughes were growing up, they would pound each other behind the barn."

by xFenixKnightx on May 2, 2011 4:11 PM EDT reply actions 1 recs

LOL

Like that wouldn’t be a 5 round wrestling decision for Georges?

by kreally on May 2, 2011 4:13 PM EDT up reply actions

I think Anderson has a better chance of catching GSP

On the feet or with a sub than Diaz.

Mike Goldberg: "You know Joe, When Matt and his brother Mark Hughes were growing up, they would pound each other behind the barn."

by xFenixKnightx on May 2, 2011 4:27 PM EDT up reply actions

No way Silva would kill him.

by Tats16 on May 2, 2011 4:51 PM EDT up reply actions

Silva is much bigger than GSP

Chael Sonnen is 3 inches taller and 20 lbs bigger that GSP, that matters if you’re talking about taking someone down

Turning Bat Shit into BatMan for 27 yrs

http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/sports_blog/2011/04/ufc-middleweight-champion-silva-like-water.html

by warren305 on May 2, 2011 7:45 PM EDT up reply actions

Yea but let’s not kid ourselves that Anderson would be competitive in the wrestling with GSP.

by p123 on May 2, 2011 8:40 PM EDT up reply actions

Yea but let’s not kid ourselves that St Pierre would be competitive in the striking game with Silva.

Jonny Bench called.

by Sterling Archer on May 2, 2011 8:47 PM EDT up reply actions

I surely wouldn’t. Whoever suggested that?

by p123 on May 2, 2011 8:47 PM EDT up reply actions

Just making a point where i felt it was needed, not a personal attack of your mma IQ, im aware you know whats up

Jonny Bench called.

by Sterling Archer on May 2, 2011 8:49 PM EDT up reply actions

Oh ok gotcha… Honestly Im thinking GSP is going to have trouble with Diaz striking, let along Silva’s almighty striking.

I’m trying to figure out how GSP threat of takedown is going to play a factor. I know with Diaz, he is less likely to give a shit, and will probably just continue to bull rush him forcing GSP to take him down, and more or less trying to force the brawl like he always does…

With Silva though, and the way he uses his distance and length, GSP is going to have to work much harder to close the distance. I wonder what kind of approach Silva is going to take though.. Do you play it safe, and only get off as much as you can? Or do you take risks, and try to hit GSP with something hard in the exchanges?

Either way, GSP vs Diaz/Silva is going to well worth my money.

by p123 on May 2, 2011 8:55 PM EDT up reply actions

the way i see it

diaz vs gsp would be a much better fight to watch. silva has a phenomenal guard, and has submitted dangerous wrestlers consistently. lutter, henderson, sonnen… if gsp gets him there, does he REALLY want to be there? i cant remember the last legit jitz guy gsp has thrown to the ground and kept there. and on the feet is an even worse idea. i think gsp gets matrix’d and thats that. diaz interests me, i think diaz would be successful in the vulgar mind games, the stuff kos was trying to do but failed at so miserably. im not saying gsp would be completely submerged in it, but enough to rattle his cage. the in fight shit talking and taunting diaz does is second to none. i think diaz may get gsp to fight with more emotion then he wants and get into heated exchanges…. not saying its a guarantee, but it if far form out of the question. awesomeness on the horizon in my book with either fight. i will say this, any gsp fight they book next that isnt against diaz or silva would be failtastic

Jonny Bench called.

by Sterling Archer on May 2, 2011 9:02 PM EDT up reply actions

Yea I can get behind that. With Silva’s length, it could be quite a problem. And GSP although has a high level of sub defense, with that kind of difference in size, and the sheer ferocity of Silva, I definitely wouldn’t take GSP as the favorite. I do find that fight very interesting at 177 though, but honestly, I don’t think it’s a given that Silva makes it through Okami. Okami stylistically should be able to match up with Silva with his length / wrestling / sub defense, but that Silva is just ferocious. Can’t wait to watch that either…

Yes, the mind games in Diaz/GSP would be great, DIaz challenging GSP to come to the dark side ( where he would get killed ) , and Greg Jackson getting all Obi One Kanobi… I really look forward to hear Jackson’s advice mid rounds for GSP fights for some reason…

by p123 on May 2, 2011 9:11 PM EDT up reply actions

I just don’t see GSP closing the distance on Anderson with any level of ease. And if he gets a hold of him I don’t see him repeatedly taking down and keeping down a much bigger man. Silva may not be a great or even good wrestler, but he’s been grappling long enough not to let a guy who’s naturally 20-30 lbs smaller than him hold him down.

Turning Bat Shit into BatMan for 27 yrs

http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/sports_blog/2011/04/ufc-middleweight-champion-silva-like-water.html

by warren305 on May 2, 2011 11:10 PM EDT up reply actions

Silva may not be a great or even good wrestler, but he’s been grappling long enough not to let a guy who’s naturally 20-30 lbs smaller than him hold him down.

What do you mean by “naturally 20-30 pounds smaller”? Walking around weight? Completely irrelevant. Weight class? Also irrelevant.

The only weight metric that really matters here is in-cage weight which, considering GSP enters the cage for his WW fights at about the same weight Anderson enters the cage for his MW fights, is a non-issue…

"Life is tough, but it's tougher if you're stupid." -John Wayne
Death before dishonor, drinks before lunch.

by The American Ronin on May 2, 2011 11:53 PM EDT up reply actions

By that logic, I guess Jon Jones holds no size advantage over Ryan Bader. I think you’re kidding yourself if you think GSP can do what Sonnen did to Silva for four rounds. Chael Sonnen is the size of a Rashad Evans.

Turning Bat Shit into BatMan for 27 yrs

http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/sports_blog/2011/04/ufc-middleweight-champion-silva-like-water.html

by warren305 on May 3, 2011 1:26 AM EDT up reply actions

Jones has a huge reach, and strength advantage, as well as a significant height, quickness, speed and skill advantage over Bader, although the 2 were very close in weight.

Sonnen was 207 in the cage against Anderson as a MW (and Rashad is a very small LHW who could easily make MW), while the heaviest I can recall GSP being as a WW is 192-195. However, because Anderson does not appreciably cut weight they will be roughly equal weights should they fight.

GSP is a superior MMA Wrestler to Sonnen, he will do fine.

"Life is tough, but it's tougher if you're stupid." -John Wayne
Death before dishonor, drinks before lunch.

by The American Ronin on May 3, 2011 4:08 AM EDT up reply actions

Well GSP will be just as heavy as SIlva come fight night, not to mention that Silva simply does not have the skills to be able to get up. He is no scrambler, and GSP top control is def good enough to keep the Spider put…

20-30 lbs naturally is a big misconception as well, getting fat should not count in a point like that..

by p123 on May 3, 2011 12:15 AM EDT up reply actions

Anderson Silva is a natural 6’2 200lb+ man. GSP is at best a very muscular 5’10 180lb+ man. If you don’t think natural size and frame makes a difference, I don’t know what to tell you about weight classes in boxing, wrestling and MMA over the past century.

Turning Bat Shit into BatMan for 27 yrs

http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/sports_blog/2011/04/ufc-middleweight-champion-silva-like-water.html

by warren305 on May 3, 2011 1:19 AM EDT up reply actions

Anderson in peak condition is 185-192 in the cage as a MW. GSP in peak condition has been as heavy as 192-195 in the cage as a WW. What they weigh in essentially the offseason is meaningless.

"Life is tough, but it's tougher if you're stupid." -John Wayne
Death before dishonor, drinks before lunch.

by The American Ronin on May 3, 2011 4:09 AM EDT up reply actions

Holding Silva down won't be a problem

The short muscular guys (e.g. Alves) are the hard ones to keep down. Silva is lanky, so his frame will provide good leverage for the guy on top.

Silva hasn’t really shown any hip escapes, sweeps, etc. I think GSP can avoid getting submitted, too.

The big unknown, IMO, is getting Silva down regularly without getting KO’d. Sonnen did it, but maybe the rib injury had something to do with that. Maybe in a rematch Sonnen gets clobbered. Maybe Silva will improved his takedown defense by the time GSP faces him. GSP also sets up his takedowns with striking, rather than driving through incoming strikes like Sonnen does, so the takedowns depend on how much Silva cares about GSP’s strikes.

I think the vegas odds are pretty accurate. Silva is the favorite, but not a huge one.

by paythefighters on May 3, 2011 2:16 PM EDT up reply actions

Chael is only 14 lbs bigger in the cage and has less reach

And no, that won’t matter in taking Silva down.

What does matter is Sonnen is willing to take huge blows during his shot and takedown transitions. We don’t know if GSP will.

There’s also the Seagal factor now :)

by paythefighters on May 5, 2011 7:10 AM EDT up reply actions

So either Diaz v GSP happens or the whole merger was a ploy to drive down pay?

This is the discussion I had with Ryan on the Happy Hour: if Zuffa owns Strikeforce and the UFC, why not simply cut Diaz from one and sign him to the other? If his contract is with Strikeforce (as opposed to Showtime), what’s preventing that from happening?

When a true genius appears in the world, you may know him by this sign, that the dunces are in a confederacy against him. - Jonathan Swift
Editor, HeadKickLegend.com
Contributor for CagesideSeats.com and Bloody Elbow Radio
Still Subo at Fightlinker.com

by Derek Suboticki on May 2, 2011 4:11 PM EDT reply actions

seems like Showtime would be pretty pissed

if Strikeforce suddenly “cut” their biggest current star.

Follow me on Twitter @KidNate

by Nate Wilcox on May 2, 2011 4:15 PM EDT up reply actions

And?

Who gives a shit what makes them happy or doesn’t? The Strikeforce contract says SF is obligated to provide shows for a certain amount of time. Doesn’t say the shows have to be good. Doesn’t say that Nick Diaz has to be on the roster. Doesn’t say anything about the roster at all.

Showtime showed me during Diaz/Daley that a) they’re going to insist on full control over production and b) they’re happy to try to manipulate public opinion against the UFC’s current stance. Why would, should, does or will Zuffa give a damn about making them happy beyond fulfilling the barest of contractually mandated minimums?

by Derek Suboticki on May 2, 2011 4:26 PM EDT up reply actions

Doesn't Zuffa at least need to make it seem as if they want Strikeforce to succeed?

I’ m definitely talking out of turn here, but I understood one of the conditions of the purchase was that Zuffa had to continue operating Strikeforce in good faith.

If they were to cut a champ from Strikeforce in order to book him for the UFC, that would seem like a direct conflict of interest.

by Schwizzles on May 2, 2011 4:32 PM EDT up reply actions

There are no turns at Bloody Elbow

I didn’t see that condition anywhere. It’s an awfully subjective term.

by Derek Suboticki on May 2, 2011 4:33 PM EDT up reply actions

When used like that, the phrase means "I'm not as well-versed in the subject as you guys."

And then God created Saturn ... and he liked it, so he put a ring on it.
SaberCats Examiner | SB Nation Bay Area | Niners Nation | Twitter

by James Brady on May 2, 2011 4:37 PM EDT up reply actions

Thank you Derek

I was insinuating that I don’t know dick about contract law or mergers and acquisitions so I really shouldn’t be citing such. I’m totally comfortable with getting chatty on this wonderful site.

What I meant was, I understood that in order for the purchase to be finalized, Zuffa needs to prove that they intend to purchase this company for the purpose of making it successful, not tanking it and salvaging the parts. Though, surely many M&As do just that on a regular basis.

by Schwizzles on May 2, 2011 4:38 PM EDT up reply actions

What I meant was, I understood that in order for the purchase to be finalized, Zuffa needs to prove that they intend to purchase this company for the purpose of making it successful, not tanking it and salvaging the parts. Though, surely many M&As do just that on a regular basis.

Showtime is one of the few private entities who might have standing to file suit on antitrust grounds. Dana can talk tough about being able to do whatever he wants until the cows come home, but this fight doesn’t get made without Showtime’s direct involvement or sincere behind the scenes blessings.

"Life is tough, but it's tougher if you're stupid." -John Wayne
Death before dishonor, drinks before lunch.

by The American Ronin on May 2, 2011 11:59 PM EDT up reply actions

Shouldn't be too hard to figure something out

Prelims on Showtime…a Showtime-UFC-Card or sth like that. The UFC has much to offer for them. And if SHO tells them to eff off, they can still try and just steal Diaz away.

To save me some time on 25% of all threads, here's the universal answer to the Fedor-debate: Fedor is the most accomplished MMA fighter ever. That is a fact. If he still is the best fighter at this point in time is up for debate.

by KGNLuc on May 3, 2011 3:02 PM EDT up reply actions

well if Zuffa

wants to keep the option of airing fights on Showtime/CBS open they might want to play ball.
I don’t expect them to because I believe their interest is in keeping the sport at a spike tv/ppv level and not breaking into the mainstream.

Follow me on Twitter @KidNate

by Nate Wilcox on May 2, 2011 4:33 PM EDT up reply actions

I don't think they'll do it

For the same reasons they haven’t before: because it doesn’t make sense for them to give up control over production or match making.

by Derek Suboticki on May 2, 2011 4:35 PM EDT up reply actions

I'm sure Gus Johnson/Frank Shamrock isn't going to be a deal breaker

Seriously guys if it makes money it makes sense and UFC on CBS/Showtime makes a helluva lot more money and more sense than UFC on Spike/Ion/Versus, Spike who is actually pissing off the UFC

by mortarz on May 2, 2011 4:37 PM EDT up reply actions

Forza/SF has a deal that runs thru 2014. They would be cutting off their nose to spite their face if they piss off SHO this early in the game. It’s ridiculous to even consider it. They can get creative and make a deal withou burning the bridge on a contract that has three years left.

Ugarte: You despise me, don't you?
Rick: If I gave you any thought I probably would.

by memitim on May 2, 2011 6:55 PM EDT via mobile up reply actions

Wouldn’t it make sense to make a bit of a trade to keep both parties happy? BJ Penn doesn’t have a huge fight waiting for him in the UFC, send him to fight Gil on Showtime in exchange for Nick fighting GSP. Melendez v Penn would probably do better numbers than Diaz v Woodley, and the UFC gets a monster main event with GSP v Diaz. Win win.

by Dpez71 on May 2, 2011 5:05 PM EDT up reply actions

Yea that would be a great idea. 1 time deals

Penn for Diaz would be a nice swap and Machida as well because he’s doesn’t seem to have anything lined up in the future for a bout with Mousasi. SF sends over Jacare and Diaz on 1 time deals.

by mortarz on May 2, 2011 5:14 PM EDT up reply actions

This is the kind of thinking that makes sense. Personally I think it should be a champ for a champ. Send the UFC LW champ to SF to face Gil and settle that once and for all.

Ugarte: You despise me, don't you?
Rick: If I gave you any thought I probably would.

by memitim on May 2, 2011 6:58 PM EDT via mobile up reply actions

That will never happen.

by Derek Suboticki on May 2, 2011 7:15 PM EDT up reply actions

Sure it can.

Ugarte: You despise me, don't you?
Rick: If I gave you any thought I probably would.

by memitim on May 2, 2011 7:28 PM EDT via mobile up reply actions

"Can" and "will" are different words.

The UFC can co-promote. The UFC will never co-promote.

by Derek Suboticki on May 2, 2011 7:42 PM EDT up reply actions

It’s not co-promotion. They are the same company. Didn’t you hear? To say never is just silly considering everything we have witnessed.

Ugarte: You despise me, don't you?
Rick: If I gave you any thought I probably would.

by memitim on May 2, 2011 7:45 PM EDT up reply actions

I think White has already stated...

…they will not co-promote with Strikeforce even now. However, they don’t necessarily need to. They could just send one of their fighters and let it be all Strikeforce. They’d never send their champion though, for he might lose to a SF fighter. Never ever. Ever.

by KGNLuc on May 3, 2011 3:06 PM EDT up reply actions

They can and have copromoted events. Barely over a year ago.

UFC Presents WEC 48.

They cannibalized the branding to put it on a different cable network (The Promotion, Aldo versus Faber FC) and then held a PPV featuring Dana White appearances, Bruce Buffer’s debut as ring announcer in The Promotion, and the classic Goldy and Rogan commentary booth. Did you watch that card?

"Someone is WRONG on the internet. What do you want me to do? LEAVE? Then they'll keep being wrong!"
-Randall Munroe

by pdl on May 2, 2011 8:10 PM EDT up reply actions

How many UFC fighters were on the card?

Was Faber coming over from the UFC to beat up Aldo>

Dear audio diary: Today I may have accidentally registered myself as a sex offender! WHAT IS WRONG WITH MY LIFE
- T-Rex

by sitnam90 on May 2, 2011 8:43 PM EDT up reply actions

It's not the same thing.

Co-promotion involves fighters from one promotion fighting fighters from another. That PPV was all WEC and presented that way simply due to contract qualms with Spike and Versus.

by Derek Suboticki on May 2, 2011 9:49 PM EDT up reply actions

It was two promotions co-branding an entertainment product.

Reed Harris was the official promoter but Dana White did a ton of media and hype for it, including showing up at the event as an on screen endorsement. By definition, they co-promoted it as a co-branded product. You said they never would, but they have a recent instance of it. It’s not out of the question that they will work around the edges of Strikeforce/Showtime contracts to make something happen, they hire a scary legal team for a reason.

"Someone is WRONG on the internet. What do you want me to do? LEAVE? Then they'll keep being wrong!"
-Randall Munroe

by pdl on May 2, 2011 10:06 PM EDT up reply actions

I highly doubt the UFC wants to turn one of them into a paper champion

Say they send Edgar over to fight Gil and he loses… are the titles on the line? Does the winner keep both? Is it just a one time thing and they both keep their respective titles? That creates one hell of a headache.

"To me, the function and duty of a quality human being is the sincere and honest development of one's potential." - Bruce Lee

by Genki Sudo's Choreographer on May 3, 2011 1:49 PM EDT up reply actions

That seems to be under the assumption that SF and UFC are on even terms. There not. Diaz for Penn, is a good fair deal, and hell, that is probably SF getting the better end of it. UFC Contenders have much more star quality, than even SF champions…

by p123 on May 2, 2011 8:44 PM EDT up reply actions

It will be another boring 5 round takedown fest dec win for GSP.

The best fight to make is GSP Silva at Cowboys stadium. =P

Mike Goldberg: "You know Joe, When Matt and his brother Mark Hughes were growing up, they would pound each other behind the barn."

by xFenixKnightx on May 2, 2011 4:12 PM EDT reply actions

you said that once, anything else you’d like to add.. maybe something posative?

by Simon West on May 2, 2011 4:17 PM EDT up reply actions 4 recs

Sorry, Chrome browser is acting up. =/

I’d like to see Diaz/GSP, dont get me wrong. I just think that 99% of the time it goes the way I said.

Mike Goldberg: "You know Joe, When Matt and his brother Mark Hughes were growing up, they would pound each other behind the barn."

by xFenixKnightx on May 2, 2011 4:32 PM EDT up reply actions

WE HEARD YOU!

by ZapRowsdower on May 2, 2011 5:16 PM EDT up reply actions

Make it happen. The fans have a voice, and Zuffa does listen. I know there are obstacles but I bet it gets done

by dpk875 on May 2, 2011 4:12 PM EDT reply actions

I think Diaz would bring some heat for sure...

but as for the fight itself, I’m not so sure. Diaz has always had trouble with wrestlers, and there’s been no occasion for him to show us that things have changed.

"You son of a bitch, give me my plunger back."
- welterweight contender Josh Koscheck

by Rainer Lee on May 2, 2011 4:14 PM EDT reply actions 1 recs

Diaz doesn't always win against wrestlers

but he lets them know that they were in a fight. GSP will have to go to war against a guy like Diaz who doesn’t have an ounce of respect for anything his opponents do in the cage. The guy stood and traded with Lawler when he was a monster, and didn’t even pretend to try and take down Daley. He knocked out both. He went to the ground with Cyborg, a BJJ black belt, and tapped him. He swept and reversed Diego over and over in that hilariously fun fight, and even though he lost, he didn’t just give away the win. That’s the key here. Win or lose, we know that Nick will make GSP fight him.

"Someone is WRONG on the internet. What do you want me to do? LEAVE? Then they'll keep being wrong!"
-Randall Munroe

by pdl on May 2, 2011 4:16 PM EDT up reply actions 2 recs

He would force GSP to work on the ground

Not that GSP will do Lay-And-Pray, but I expect some good ground action.

I think GSP would dominate Diaz but it wouldn’t be boring to say the least. Otherwise Condit doesn’t have Diaz’s skillset (he has his entertainment skillset) and the current welterweight contenders the UFC has are too one-dimensional and/or not remotely close to GSP’s level.

GSP would blast Diego….but Sanchez would win because he goes forward a lot.

"If I had a dollar for every brain you don't have, I'd have one dollar." - Squidward Tentacles

by SSreporters on May 2, 2011 4:19 PM EDT up reply actions

GSP would blast Diego….but Sanchez would win because he goes forward a lot.

No. Diego would get frustrated like the first round of the Kampmann fight, will be taken down, and will be beat up.

Dear audio diary: Today I may have accidentally registered myself as a sex offender! WHAT IS WRONG WITH MY LIFE
- T-Rex

by sitnam90 on May 2, 2011 8:45 PM EDT up reply actions

That's true

I keep thinking of something like DHK vs. Nate Diaz. I know Nick is better, but St. Pierre is better than DHK, as well, and so I can’t help but mentally prepare myself for a similar performance writ large.

"You son of a bitch, give me my plunger back."
- welterweight contender Josh Koscheck

by Rainer Lee on May 2, 2011 4:28 PM EDT up reply actions

diaz vs stun gun was pretty fun from what I remember.

by Tats16 on May 2, 2011 5:04 PM EDT up reply actions

It was fun

Stun Gun’s next fight might be against Josh P.

"If I had a dollar for every brain you don't have, I'd have one dollar." - Squidward Tentacles

by SSreporters on May 2, 2011 5:07 PM EDT up reply actions

I hope it goes like DHKvsDIAZ

with 2 more rds Nate would have finished him……….Seriously though i believe it will be a tough fight for both.Nick has good elbows off his back and his sweeps and subs are very very solid.Hope he winsss

"Don't be Scared ,Homie!!!"-Nick Diaz As you are,I once was-As I am, you will be

by diazfan on May 2, 2011 9:04 PM EDT up reply actions

I didn’t think that DHK/Diaz was especially thrilling, but the prospect of an extra two rounds does indeed put an interesting wrinkle in the whole thing. And hey, all misgivings aside, I’d watch it, and be totally excited over it.

"You son of a bitch, give me my plunger back."
- welterweight contender Josh Koscheck

by Rainer Lee on May 3, 2011 1:51 AM EDT up reply actions

Damaged brand is hyperbolic

If you want to say his brand is in tatters, then say that about Anderson Silva, who took part in three really bad title fights against completely overmatched opposition.

"If I had a dollar for every brain you don't have, I'd have one dollar." - Squidward Tentacles

by SSreporters on May 2, 2011 4:20 PM EDT reply actions 5 recs

Hardly

You conveniently leave out that epic performance against a primed Forest Griffin during that run. Also that Maia fight wasn’t boring. Just a poor show of class.

by mortarz on May 2, 2011 4:23 PM EDT up reply actions

It's boring and frustrating to watch a man run around the cage taunting you

Yes I left out the Griffin fight out on purpose to point out that Silva has had arguably a similar stretch of TITLE FIGHTS where fans were in uproar and then Sonnen came along and now he’s the usual exciting mofo we know him as.

GSP’s “boring” fights are probably Hardy and Shields. And both of them have a common theme with Cote, Maia, and Leites in that all of them are essentially one-dimensional. Shields can’t win standing (Maia and Leites) and Hardy can’t go to the ground (Cote). Only a GSP-hater or an extremely blinded fan would believe that either of those guys had a legitimate shot of beating him.

Give him his version of Chael Sonnen.

"If I had a dollar for every brain you don't have, I'd have one dollar." - Squidward Tentacles

by SSreporters on May 2, 2011 4:49 PM EDT up reply actions

He was taunting you?

I thought he was taunting Maia.

Don't believe a word I say, I don't train BJJ.
I blog at TangleBones - you should follow me on Twitter here.
If you like it, you should put a rec on it.

by jemaleddin on May 2, 2011 4:50 PM EDT up reply actions

I assumed Maia's body for rounds 3-5

"If I had a dollar for every brain you don't have, I'd have one dollar." - Squidward Tentacles

by SSreporters on May 2, 2011 4:51 PM EDT up reply actions

So it was your idea to throw strikes while being on the knees?

".He still has a ground game that seems heavily dependent on lying still and hoping that his opponent won't notice his very kimura-able arm..."

by dancingChicken on May 2, 2011 4:54 PM EDT up reply actions

No one said I was cut out for fighting

I actually had Osama Bin Laden in full mount put I repeatedly punched his beard.

"If I had a dollar for every brain you don't have, I'd have one dollar." - Squidward Tentacles

by SSreporters on May 2, 2011 4:55 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs

Silva at least had a couple of destructions at Light Heavyweight to break those up

As to Fowlkes question, the last GSP fight off the top of my head I’d go back and watch would be either Penn or Hughes.

Cageside Seats on SBNation
Twitter @cagesideseats
Catch Wrestling United

by KJ Gould on May 2, 2011 4:24 PM EDT up reply actions

I actually really liked his fight with Fitch. That it went to a decision masks the fact that it was an explosive performance designed to put Fitch out.

"You son of a bitch, give me my plunger back."
- welterweight contender Josh Koscheck

by Rainer Lee on May 2, 2011 4:27 PM EDT up reply actions

yeah that was a brutal performance

Follow me on Twitter @KidNate

by Nate Wilcox on May 2, 2011 5:00 PM EDT up reply actions

I think GSP’s performance against Fitch has earned the most points of any fight on fightmetric. That fight was awesome.

by Tedd Welch on May 2, 2011 6:37 PM EDT up reply actions

See, I remember it being a one sided mauling

And at the time a little bothered at how brutally one sided it was. Yeah I know, Combat sports by their nature can be brutal, but we also expect corners to look out for their fighter as well and at the time I felt Fitch was at the least borderline in having his corner step in.

Cageside Seats on SBNation
Twitter @cagesideseats
Catch Wrestling United

by KJ Gould on May 3, 2011 3:43 PM EDT up reply actions

The end of the fight when GSP went on his knees and embraced Fitch made the mismatch all worth it.

FYI, that was also the fight where GSP took the most damage (prior to UFC 129’s eye poke).

by paythefighters on May 5, 2011 7:19 AM EDT up reply actions

Plus Maia was battered as was Thales after their fights

Unlike GSP’s Shields or Hardy

I’m not resting until I’m officially Anderson Silva status.- Jon "Bones" Jones

by AfroSamurai on May 2, 2011 4:28 PM EDT up reply actions

i’d watch the 25 minute soul destruction of Kos every day and twice on Sunday.
Lorenzo needs to work with Sho/CBS and make this the co-promotion that could never happen. GSP vs Diaz and Gil vs Edgar/Maynard winner and 2 other fights.

"There are no atheists in foxholes" isn't an argument against atheism, it's an argument against foxholes. ~James Morrow
"There is a fine line between fishing and just standing on the shore like an idiot."-Steven Wright

by F'n Clownshoes on May 2, 2011 4:28 PM EDT up reply actions

Fowlkes Question

Is the height of irrelevancy. It’s a non-issue. Sports live in the moment. The vast majority of fans don’t go back and watch anything. It’s on to the next one…

The MMA Encyclopedia:Now on Kindle!

by Jonathan Snowden on May 2, 2011 5:03 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs

Exactly

The Chicago/Vancouver game 7 OT win was fantastic.

But if it is ever on TV again I wont be able to change the channel fast enough.

by captainStevo on May 2, 2011 5:20 PM EDT up reply actions

You don't think it's a little different when it comes to fights?

I mean, I re-watch them quite often, but maybe we’re talking about two different kinds of fans.

"You son of a bitch, give me my plunger back."
- welterweight contender Josh Koscheck

by Rainer Lee on May 3, 2011 1:54 AM EDT up reply actions

Yeah I go back and rewatch fights as well. If Bendo/Pettis, GSP/Trigg, Anderson/Griffin, Anderson/Franklin, hell even Anderson/Jorge Rivera etc. just so happened to be on the tube, I’d gladly watch it, but yeah different fans I suppose.

Anderson Silva, Edson Barboza, Jose Aldo, Charles Oliveira, Thiago Alves = Muay Thai wrecking machines!

by SentientAndroid on May 3, 2011 10:20 AM EDT up reply actions

I think it has some merit

If you have to stop to think which was the last GSP fight you enjoyed watching that in itself says something about your perception of him. Anderson Silva front kicking Belfort into unconsciousness, that’s water cooler talk. So was his come back from behind win over Sonnen, his destruction of Griffin and so on. When was the last time St Pierre put on a performance that had people buzzing rather then complaining?

Cageside Seats on SBNation
Twitter @cagesideseats
Catch Wrestling United

by KJ Gould on May 3, 2011 3:41 PM EDT up reply actions

Pssssh

Please.

Learn JiuJitsu, it's fun.

by RolloTomasi on May 2, 2011 4:27 PM EDT up reply actions 6 recs

Man, that last kick just looks awful.

See how he had to punch him again after Vitor got tired and fell down? What a loser. A true champion would have had him out cold without the follow-up. And why did it take him so long in the round to do it? It’s like he thought he was fighting someone with punching power or something.

Oh, and he had to knock down Forrest 3 times to finish him off. Forrest! Who has Forrest ever beaten? Reality star. Psh.

The Sonnen fight was the most pathetic display I’ve ever seen. Oh, congratulations, you came back against a roid monster who’s good at the one skill you’re lacking in after getting your face beaten in for 4 1/2 rounds while you had a rib injury? Big deal. If you wanted to show us heart, you should’ve ripped Sonnen’s out of his chest and thrown it at the camera!

by gzl5000 on May 2, 2011 5:09 PM EDT up reply actions 6 recs

Silva received an outpouring of praise for submitting the most submission prone title contender the UFC has seen in years with a rib injury that was known well before the fight.

GSP received endless criticism – not to mention lies about him not trying to finish – for not finishing the #6 P4P fighter (who was only finished once 10 years ago) with a eye blinded in the middle of the fight.

Good for you for putting Silva haters in their place, but there is a HUGE disconnect here when it comes to determining what hurts/helps a fighters brand.

by paythefighters on May 5, 2011 7:49 AM EDT up reply actions

finally

someone points this out.

i paid for maia and leites fights and i had written him off.

gsp is going through a similar phase. that’s not to make excuse for him, just to say that fickle mma fans should remember that sometimes you can’t look dominant every single time out.

silva has had his boring fights too, and he didn’t have an eye injury to explain them.

by Clifford J on May 2, 2011 4:48 PM EDT up reply actions

I don’t think it’s similar phase at all. GSP is facing a string of defensive fighters that got their title shots 90% through positional control, and fought GSP thinking, “forget winning, I’ll just try surviving and not looking bad”. Silva simply didn’t try for large stretches of time in those fights.

The solution is the same, though: get a worthy opponent. It’s sad that Fitch was denied the rematch for so long when he was such a warrior in his title fight.

by paythefighters on May 5, 2011 7:56 AM EDT up reply actions

Silva didn’t have much brand to begin with.

".He still has a ground game that seems heavily dependent on lying still and hoping that his opponent won't notice his very kimura-able arm..."

by dancingChicken on May 2, 2011 4:56 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs

My thoughts exactly

What brand?

"Run and tweet THAT, homeboy."

by TheFilt on May 2, 2011 7:45 PM EDT up reply actions

Diaz vs GSP on CBS

Cageside Seats on SBNation
Twitter @cagesideseats
Catch Wrestling United

by KJ Gould on May 2, 2011 4:23 PM EDT reply actions 7 recs

That would be epic actually

by mortarz on May 2, 2011 4:23 PM EDT up reply actions

huge!!!!

"Many have the will to win. Few have to will to prepare to win."

" A black belt only covers 2 inches of your ass. The rest is up to you." - Royce Gracie
"Wanderlei eventually got to his feet and stalked Fujita like a Japanese octopus in an all-female prison." - Sean Baby Cracked.com

by the-gentle-way on May 2, 2011 4:27 PM EDT via mobile up reply actions

i actually could see that happening

i think the ufc is waiting to sign a big deal with espn/abc and drop spike. to do that they’ll need to showcase how huge a zuffa promoted event could be on a network in primetime

if they set it up for december and it blows up, the bidding war would be huge

"I have smoked weed with alot of UFC champions" - Joe Rogan
"Você ta fudido. Se vai levar muita porrada, ta ligado?" - Anderson Silva

by milk72 on May 2, 2011 4:27 PM EDT up reply actions

Not sure CBS is such a big Diaz fan after Nashville

If they’re going to blackball Mayhem, they should at least be consistent.

by Derek Suboticki on May 2, 2011 4:27 PM EDT up reply actions

Are we really putting Diaz and Mayhem in the same class?

Mayhem’s last fight before the Brawl on CBS wasn’t even televised. Their respective value to showtime/cbs isn’t even close.

by mortarz on May 2, 2011 4:31 PM EDT up reply actions

I’m certain CBS would love to be in the GSP business even if it means inviting Diaz back.

by nastyem on May 2, 2011 4:51 PM EDT up reply actions

Diaz has been part of great ratings on Showtime

That’s what matters most. Mayhem wasn’t a champion and an easy sacrificial lamb.

Cageside Seats on SBNation
Twitter @cagesideseats
Catch Wrestling United

by KJ Gould on May 3, 2011 3:46 PM EDT up reply actions

was just logging on to post this

why the hell not?

if you’re worried about it being a 5 round wrestlefest, put cung le as the co-main event vs. a can

by Clifford J on May 2, 2011 4:44 PM EDT up reply actions

I don’t know if the mainstream tv thing is ever going to work man. It just doesn’t make sense to do it at this time, and hell it might not ever make sense. MMA as a niche sport, might never develop the kind of fans that cause the megabucks from tv to come flowing in. PPV is a smart route to go for this kind of sport, which has this kind of cap to it…

by p123 on May 2, 2011 8:57 PM EDT up reply actions

NFL lockout has networks looking for content to fill the void

I don’t think they’re that bothered where it comes from as long as they can get ratings and therefore up the price of advertising to maximise revenue.

Cageside Seats on SBNation
Twitter @cagesideseats
Catch Wrestling United

by KJ Gould on May 3, 2011 3:48 PM EDT up reply actions

Sorry, potential NFL lockout I mean

Whatever the current situation is.

Cageside Seats on SBNation
Twitter @cagesideseats
Catch Wrestling United

by KJ Gould on May 3, 2011 3:48 PM EDT up reply actions

I think GSPs brand is not damaged. People that had no idea who Shields is probably thought “Wow this nobody is giving GSP trouble, GSP must not be that good.”

But I saw it as “Shields is a beast and if GSP stopped throwing that stupid over hand right and started utilizing better straight punches, he would be doing a lot better.”

Diaz will bring an epic amount of shit talking to a GSP match up, so it will be interesting to see how GSP replies to Diaz’s vigorous insults. I think it’s one of the few relevant fights left for GSP. Make it so.

It's just a world, it's just a life.

by DirtyML on May 2, 2011 4:26 PM EDT reply actions

Diaz would be GSP's Sonnen

That’s what GSP really needs – a trash talker who can make a fight seem competitive, followed by a GSP finish.

At this point, why not put GSP up against some lesser guys and let him cut loose? This giving him tough, boring competition is not working well for the UFC or GSP.

"Very broken in his right hand is Martin Kampmann"

"This is the internet: you either have soul-stopping power or you’re a pillow-fisted pansy. There is no middle ground." - woomikee

by outlander78 on May 2, 2011 4:34 PM EDT up reply actions

Man, I missed the "l" in "salvage" when I first read the title...

But no: Nick Diaz isn’t a big enough star to save GSP’s brand. In addition to being an easy fight for GSP (settle down, Stocktonites), he just doesn’t have the name recognition. (Except among hardcore fans.)

Don't believe a word I say, I don't train BJJ.
I blog at TangleBones - you should follow me on Twitter here.
If you like it, you should put a rec on it.

by jemaleddin on May 2, 2011 4:34 PM EDT reply actions

If GSP’s brand is damaged that tells me fans want to see him knock people out more than they care who his competition is.

If GSP knocks out an upstart, newbie or never-was, the casual fans will see the KO first, the mismatch second (if at all).

"Very broken in his right hand is Martin Kampmann"

"This is the internet: you either have soul-stopping power or you’re a pillow-fisted pansy. There is no middle ground." - woomikee

by outlander78 on May 2, 2011 4:35 PM EDT up reply actions

GSP vs. Amir Sadollah!!!!!

Let’s do this!

"If I had a dollar for every brain you don't have, I'd have one dollar." - Squidward Tentacles

by SSreporters on May 2, 2011 4:59 PM EDT up reply actions

I bet you are kidding, but yeah, that’s the kind of fight I’m suggesting.

"Very broken in his right hand is Martin Kampmann"

"This is the internet: you either have soul-stopping power or you’re a pillow-fisted pansy. There is no middle ground." - woomikee

by outlander78 on May 2, 2011 5:09 PM EDT up reply actions

With the way Diaz gets cut

GSP would probably win by cut. A few hard elbows from top control would do it.

by pud333 on May 2, 2011 4:37 PM EDT via mobile reply actions

GSP's eye is definitely more afraid of Diaz open palm

than Nick’s eyebrow is of GSP’s elbow

by mortarz on May 2, 2011 4:41 PM EDT up reply actions

Diaz def. GSP via TKO (cut)

(Six months later)

Diaz fails post-fight drug test, tests positive for marijuana.

"If I had a dollar for every brain you don't have, I'd have one dollar." - Squidward Tentacles

by SSreporters on May 2, 2011 4:50 PM EDT up reply actions

did GSP's brand take a hit? Sure i don't think anyone can deny that, but it doesn't need to be "salvaged"

As far as Ben Fowlkes question, id rewatch the Fitch, BJ, and Koscheck fights any day of the week. This last one was without a doubt the worst one, and even thou the alves one was interesting, not much happened after he tore his groin.

by darkotto23 on May 2, 2011 4:51 PM EDT reply actions

GSP vs. Fitch was awesome

And GSP did get cut in that fight. I mean, it was irrelevant because Fitch got crushed worse.

"If I had a dollar for every brain you don't have, I'd have one dollar." - Squidward Tentacles

by SSreporters on May 2, 2011 4:52 PM EDT up reply actions

To answer Fowlkes’s question, I would watch either of GSP’s last two fights again. A man intensely focused on achieving perfection is not boring.

by Finian1 on May 2, 2011 4:53 PM EDT reply actions 1 recs

you must have a hard time falling asleep

by twiggy0 on May 2, 2011 8:27 PM EDT up reply actions

when you're in the P4P discussion

folks expect you to finish a guy every couple of years

by fontgangsta on May 2, 2011 5:07 PM EDT reply actions

This is very reminicient of the post UFC 97 atmosphere

Shields was GSP’s Thales fight. He simply did not feel threatened by the guy and he had no reason to go after him. It is quite obvious that his striking was nowhere as sharp as usual, and even after hurting Shields he never jumped on him. This all reminds me of the criticsm Anderson got after Leites. GSP will come back strong from this fight, and all this talk will end.

I still enjoy GSP and his style. I’d still rewatch his past fights. GSP-Koshceck 2 was an excellent show of skill, as war the Alves fight. But this fight, much like Anderson-Leites, is just awful

Dear audio diary: Today I may have accidentally registered myself as a sex offender! WHAT IS WRONG WITH MY LIFE
- T-Rex

by sitnam90 on May 2, 2011 5:58 PM EDT via mobile reply actions

Can't be a boring fight if it involves Diaz getting schooled

Would love to watch GSP destroy Diaz. I can’t believe that people think that Diaz has anything over GSP. Talking shit is about the only thing that he has over him.

People who don't have the patience for the technical aspect of MMA should think about getting into another sport. THIS ONE requires BRAINS.

by i_am_awesome_o on May 2, 2011 6:20 PM EDT reply actions

Oh God. I’m gonna be praying for a one-punch KO from Diaz the first 10 seconds of each round. The other 4:50 minutes I’ll sit in a corner and sob quietly.

by crazybones on May 2, 2011 6:36 PM EDT reply actions 1 recs

Why is it Champions are Scolded so much for fighting “safe”

Anderson went through a few fights where people were like OMG he sucks, fire him, etc… Now GSP has his brand Damaged because he won with 1 eye, Nonsense… GSP needs DIAZ like Silva needed Sonnen!

The lives of all of us have been moulded largely by induction through suggestion.

by imapimp08 on May 2, 2011 6:39 PM EDT reply actions

I feel GSP vs Diaz ends up lookin a lot like GSP vs Hardy

Take downs and top control…..

by Robust23 on May 2, 2011 6:51 PM EDT reply actions

GSP wouldn’t be getting away with sloppy armbar attempts as easily.

Fitch is awesome, I don't care what you think...
Bones Jones, future greatest MMAist ever.

by zakkree on May 3, 2011 6:07 AM EDT up reply actions

Unless Showtime’s contract with Diaz allows him to fight MMA for other promotions, the UFC would have to pay them to release Diaz from his contract to fight on any other medium, than Showtime. They’re not just going to give an asset away to appease the UFC fans or UFC fans. Diaz was already talking about making more money before Strikeforce was even acquired and he keeps talking about it.

So, imo, the UFC would have to pay Showtime a premium and Diaz a premium, for that fight to happen.

Turning Bat Shit into BatMan for 27 yrs

http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/sports_blog/2011/04/ufc-middleweight-champion-silva-like-water.html

by warren305 on May 2, 2011 7:56 PM EDT reply actions

damaged brand, ROFL

by Rampage01 on May 2, 2011 9:12 PM EDT reply actions

i know somebody who has damaged his brand

gimme an R, gimme an A, gimme an S………..

by vicesquad26 on May 2, 2011 9:33 PM EDT up reply actions

This premise doesn't make any sense to me at all...

Diaz has boring-takedown fest written all over it and most other theoretically possible outcomes or scenarios seem hardly plausible. Where as the much larger and much more skilled Anderson will make GSP work. Even if GSP has to fight conservatively with takedowns to win such a fight, simply beating Silva would make him a hero to most MMA fans who for whatever reason compulsively root against The Spider.

No, this premise is off base entirely. What the UFC should do is book Diaz for the vacant WW title against BJ Penn(screw Fitch) and give us the super fight we want to see. If you want to save brands and sell PPVs, that does the most on all fronts. Why murder Diaz as a draw by having GSP rub his armpits all over him for a half hour?

Anyway, I think GSP’s credibility is more damaged with hardcore fans than mainstreamers. The Hooters where I was erupted with clapping and cheers when GSP’s name was read as the winner last night. No one was really complaining and I was surrounded by casual GSP homers. Talking to casual friends, most people are still pretty impressed with him actually. Considering the fight was mostly on it’s feet, GSP’s eye, and the fact he was winging big rights, I don’t think it scored that bad with average GSP PPV buyers. Especially compared to some of the other fights we’ve seen.

Contributor at Unintelligent Defense
Lead Blogger at Ninja's Place
"...just when you think you’ve produced your magnum opus, someone shows up and takes a giant shit in your mouth. In your mouth." - Anthony Pace
Don't eat B.L.T. sammaches

by Urijah Bieber on May 2, 2011 9:51 PM EDT reply actions

win win for GSP and Diaz

Diaz will make that much desired purse he wants, GSP will be able to utilize his dynamic MMA more effectively.

Yes, like it or not GSP’s MMA might not produce epic finishes, but he is one of the few fighters that brings all his tools together seamlessly.

I’m a big Diaz fan however, and will be rooting for him, unfortunately as we all know Nick has a huge problem differentiating fighting and winning, he has even said on several occasions on his decision losses that atleast he has won the fight, meaning he was the more effective striker.

I don’t know if Nick has enough time to work on his TDD and sprawling because he really will need it if he is going to face GSP.

Another worrisome outcome of this will be Nick being transfered to UFC, and him facing someone like Koscheck/Fitch, he could lose due to Wrestling again.

So if Nick has to face GSP they should arrange it so that they face each other once Nick enters the UFC, or his stock will definitely fold the moment he faces another wrestler and we all pleasantly find out during the fight that no, Nick hasn’t worked on his wrestling defense.

by elmojo on May 2, 2011 11:05 PM EDT reply actions

I still can't believe this whole boxing bullshit from Diaz.

He’s going to get paid maybe 30-40K to get punched in the face and knocked out by someone who is head and shoulders above him in that sport. As much as Diaz’s boxing is good for MMA, its almost Toughman quality when he’s trying to string punches together sometimes. He’ll get murdered by anyone relevant at 160, 168, or 175.

"A guy in Texas came up to me and told me ‘Frye you're not mixed martial arts, you're no holds barred’, and I said you're god damn right partner." ~ Don Frye

by sBruce24 on May 2, 2011 11:44 PM EDT reply actions

For me, the question is what comes after Diaz

I’m honestly not that interested in seeing GSP move to middleweight. I think the extra mass he’s been packing on recently has slowed him down enough already, and suspect that the GSP we get at 185 would look more unsteady and uncomfortable than he did last night. I’d rather Silva move up to light-heavyweight. As far as 170 goes, I don’t know. Pray that Story trounces Alves and makes a contender of himself, I guess.

"You son of a bitch, give me my plunger back."
- welterweight contender Josh Koscheck

by Rainer Lee on May 3, 2011 1:58 AM EDT reply actions

Don't worry, I think he will..

Pray that Story trounces Alves and makes a contender of himself, I guess.

"Life is tough, but it's tougher if you're stupid." -John Wayne
Death before dishonor, drinks before lunch.

by The American Ronin on May 3, 2011 4:26 AM EDT up reply actions

I’ve kind of got that feeling myself.

"You son of a bitch, give me my plunger back."
- welterweight contender Josh Koscheck

by Rainer Lee on May 3, 2011 4:44 AM EDT up reply actions

GSP wasn’t exactly blasting Shields out before the eye poke if i recall correctly. just winging that big overhand right trying to land what Hendo did and jump on him if he wobbled….GSP just isn’t a one shot big power puncher for the most part. his other knockdowns of guys were well-timed, rather than having a monstrous power right hand ala Hendo.

Gatti. Dekkers. Pele. Aoki. Kang. Vanderlei. Basillio. Harry Greb.

by theworldsoldestsport on May 3, 2011 2:05 AM EDT reply actions

would love to see

Diaz talking all kinds of shit to GSP at the beginning of each round and landing some bombs. I have been a GSP fan for years but Saturday night was the tipping point for me. I’m sick of him, officially. BORING. Yeah, yeah, I know he hurt his eye. What about round 2 where Shields’ legs buckled and GSP just “analyzed” the situation like a stockbroker looking at the NYSE numbers. I hope Diaz brings some fire out of GSP. I hope Diaz taunts him worse than Koscheck. And lord help GSP if he keeps throwing that telegraphed right against Diaz. His face will get lit the fuck up.

by Franklin Goodish on May 3, 2011 7:32 AM EDT reply actions

“If Anderson fights GSP, he will kill him.” he said "St Pierre fought out of rhythm and has no conditions to fight Anderson at all. Anderson is way better."

Vitor Belfort

Turning Bat Shit into BatMan for 27 yrs

http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/sports_blog/2011/04/ufc-middleweight-champion-silva-like-water.html

by warren305 on May 3, 2011 11:42 AM EDT reply actions