Roundtable: 2014 End of Year UFC Champion Predictions

Roundtable: 2014 End of Year UFC Champion Predictions

by Chris Houten - @mrhouts, Tommy Strong - @strong_tea, Ben Heather - @benheather, Sam Heard - @SamHeard_

As we start a new year Kingdom MMA are taking a look in to the future with all of our magical crystal balls to predict who will be the champions in the UFC on the 1st January 2015. Once you have read our thoughts on each weight class, let us know if you agree with them and if not who you think will be champion.


FLYWEIGHT

Chris Houten: Demetrious Johnson
Possibly the easiest division to predict in all of the UFC, I generally don't see anyone touching Johnson at the moment. He is sharper than everyone else in the division, quicker than everyone else in the division, a better boxer than everyone else in the division and one of the best wrestlers at 125 as well. 

Tommy Strong:  Demetrious Johnson
Mighty Mouse has shown over the last year he's a cut above the current crop of fighters in the flyweight division, with three title defences in 2013 beating John Dodson, John Moraga and recently a stunning KO over Joseph Benavidez. Though it was Dodson who gave DJ his toughest fight to date, his speed and power gave Johnson real trouble.  But he still found a way to win.

With the arrival of Brad Pickett to the division, who is 1 of 2 people to beat Johnson, it shall be very interesting if they get to face each other again.

Though I predict DJ still being the champion by the end of 2014.

Ben Heather: Demetrious Johnson
Simply put Demetrious Johnson is the best flyweight on the planet!! He has already beat the top contenders in the division and I don't see him being troubled this year. I would love to say Brad Pickett could be champion, but at the minute he is still an unknown having not fought in the flyweight division yet, so I will stick with Mighty Mouse.

Sam Heard: Demetrious Johnson
No one imagined that Mighty Mouse had the power to put away long time #1 contender Joseph Benavidez, let alone in the first round. Johnson has now seen off the division’s top competition in style and I believe he should be able to continue his reign in 2014. His confidence must be sky-high. 


BANTAMWEIGHT

Chris Houten: Renan Barao
2014 will be the biggest year in bantamweight history, with Renan Barao taking on Dominick Cruz in a champion vs champion unification bout. While I wouldn't be surprise if Cruz comes out on top, I think Barao might be too much for Cruz who hasn't fought in over 2 years.

Tommy Strong: Renan Barao
It'll be over 2 years since Dominick last fought back in October 2011 defeating Demetrious Johnson to retain his Bantamweight title. It will be interesting to see if the time out with the ACL injury will take its toll on Cruz or make him a better fighter for the time off. Facing Renan Barao in February will be a very interesting fight, and Barao the current holder of the bantamweight interim title has all the tools and more to get his hands on the title.

Ben Heather: Urijah Faber
Man, Urijah Faber has to be one of the best fighters in the UFC to never hold a title. He wins every fight he has that isn't for a title but I think once Barao vs Cruz has unified the division, Faber will get his chance to get revenge against whoever is champion, a chance I feel he will come good on.

Sam Heard: Urijah Faber
Like a fine wine, Faber just keeps getting better and better with age. I thought his last fight against McDonald would be a difficult test for him but Faber was unchallenged as he picked up another submission win. Though he has already lost to Barao, that fight was very close and Faber seems to be the more improved since the two last fought (assuming of course that Barao beats Cruz).

 
FEATHERWEIGHT

Chris Houten: Jose Aldo
While it wouldn't surprise me if Aldo beats Lamas and commits to a move up to 155, I personally don't think it will come until the end of the year. I don't see anyone at 145 troubling Aldo.

Tommy Strong: Jose Aldo
I'll keep this very short and sweet! Jose Aldo is a beast for this weight. The only way I see Aldo not holding this title is if he decides to move up to Lightweight for new challenges!

Ben Heather: Cub Swanson
This is my most risky pick. The reason I have picked Cub gives away my next pick. I think Jose Aldo will vacate his title and move up to Lightweight in 2014 leaving a stacked division chance to move forward and the first fight to make should be Cub vs Chad Mendes in a rematch to decide the vacated title. I think Cub will get the better of that fight and become the next Featherweight champion.

Sam Heard: Jose Aldo
Even with an injured foot in his last fight against the Korean Zombie Aldo looked as good as ever. This year his biggest test will be the inevitable rematch against Chad Mendes whom he already overcame once in the very first round. Though knockout-machine-Mendes has looked vastly improved, I still believe the Featherweight division will be Aldo-town in 2014.


LIGHTWEIGHT

Chris Houten: Khabib Numagamedov
The lightweight division is a bit of a mess right now with 3 fighters in the division who can lay claim to being the number one contender - TJ Grant as was meant to fight for the title at UFC 164, Josh Thompson who was also meant to fight for it at UFC on FOX 9, and Gilbert Melendez who Dana White claimed was the number 1 contender after his epic battle with Diego Sanchez at 166.

So where does Khabib Nurmagomedov fit into all of this? Simple, with Pettis out injured the division will have to continue to fight each other. Sure it will take a lot for Numagamedov to get the title shot, but I expect Benson Henderson to beat Josh Thompson, knocking Thompson out of contention. I feel Grant may struggle with ring rust on his return. That would only leave Melendez who is rumoured to be fighting Nurmagomedov in the first quarter of the year. With a win over Melendez, Nurmagomedov would become no. 1 contender.

Tommy Strong: Benson Henderson
"Showtime" Pettis showed that his first win over then current lightweight champion Benson Henderson wasn't a fluke by defeating him via first round armbar! This division is stacked with talent, and on any given day we could see 3 or 4 different champions.

This is one of the hardest for me to try and predict, I'm sticking my neck on the line here: and the new Lightweight Champion: Benson Henderson.

Ben Heather: Jose Aldo 
As I said before I see Aldo moving up in weight. However I do not only think he will move up in weight but I think he will then get his shot and begin his reign over the lightweight division. This will lead to a lot of big fights at lightweight which will be great fun for all of us fans.

Sam Heard: Gilbert Melendez
The UFC’s most talented division’s title picture will be put on hold as champion Antony Pettis is out injured until mid-2014. Melendez, in my opinion, already did enough to earn championship gold with his (incorrect) split-decision loss to Bendo; this adversity should reinforce his determination to get another title shot with a different outcome.


WELTERWEIGHT

Chris Houten: Carlos Condit
While Johny Hendricks vs Robbie Lawler will see one of them crowned champion I don't expect either to hold the belt at the end if the year. While it really wouldn't surprise me to see Nick Diaz make a comeback in 2014 to fight for the belt, which I feel he could win. I actually expect Carlos Condit to be the champion of the welterweight division at the end of 2014.

With the retirement of GSP, Condit is the most well rounded fighter in the division. I expect Hendricks to beat Lawler to become champ, only to lose the title to Condit before the years out, with Condit picking up where he left off in round 3 of their first fight.

Tommy Strong: Johny Hendricks
With the devastating news that GSP will be taking an indefinite leave of absence. The UFC have announced that Johny Hendricks will take on Tom Lawler to decide who will become the new champion.

I'm pinning my hopes of Hendricks taking the win and holding the title he deserved in a controversial loss to GSP.  Again, this is another division that it wouldn't surprise me if it changed hands a couple of times this year.

If Hendricks can win the title, I think for 2014 he has the skills and power to hold onto the belt.

Ben Heather: Carlos ConditAt UFC 171 Hendricks will become the new welterweight champion. That same night Condit will get chance for a rematch when he wins the number 1 contender fight. Later in 2014 the two will meet and over 5 rounds I think Condit will be able to get his wish and not just be called interim champ but the undisputed welterweight champion.

Sam Heard: Carlos Condit
The likely winner of the vacant belt has got to be Hendricks. However, had his match against Carlos Condit been a five-round fight I firmly believe Condit would have won as he clearly had more left in the tank. Therefore if he gets a title shot I think he’ll get the W over Bigg Rigg. He first has to overcome Tyron Woodley which is no small task but if anyone can do it its Carlos.


MIDDLEWEIGHT

Chris Houten: Lyoto Machida
The middleweight division is by far the most intriguing going into 2014, with at least 4 or 5 fighters who could potentially be champion at the end of year. Regardless some of the fans thoughts, Chris Weidman is a worthy champion, and although he faces a tough test in Vitor Belfort, I expect Weidman to pass the test.

With a big win over Mousasi, I feel Machida could earn a shot as the middleweight title, and I think he has the skills to dethrone Weidman. Machida is a far better striker that Weidman and I think Chris Weidman would struggle to take Machida down. It really wouldn't surprise me either if Machida, knocked out Chris Weidman.

Tommy Strong: Vitor Belfort
Whatever you say about Weidman, he's champion and deserves to be. Beating Silva not once, but twice is no mean feat. With Silva going to be out for some time, and no word if he will return.

Up next for Weidman is Vitor Belfort, this In my opinion is an even harder test than Silva. Vitor has 3 knockouts in 2013 with victories over top ranked fighters, Michael Bisping, Luke Rockhold and then the granite chinned Dan Henderson.

If this fights takes place in Brazil then Vitor has to be a firm favourite. I hope this happens in Las Vegas so we get to see a 'clean' Belfort and not one that has an advantage of being able to use TRT.

Ben Heather: Vitor Belfort
Even with his title fight against Weidman being in Vegas I think Belfort will pass all the required drugs tests. After all, we have just seen Antonio Silva fail a drugs test and if Vitor was still abusing the system he would have failed a test by now. I think Vitor's rise will continue and he will become a ufc champion again in 2014.

Sam Heard: Vitor Belfort
There is something preventing me jumping on the Weidman bandwagon and I don’t believe he will be the champion this time next year. Belfort had the best year of any fighter in 2013, consistently making some of the best fighters in the world look subpar. His hyper-aggressive style is probably as different a match-up to Silva as is humanly possible and I believe he can overwhelm Weidman.


LIGHT-HEAVYWEIGHT

Chris Houten: Jon Jones 
With injuries to Pettis and Velasquez,  GSP retiring, and Anderson Silva out for at least a year if not for good, I expect 2014 to a busy year for Jon Jones, who the UFC will look to push in absence of some of the promotions stars. I expect Jones to run though his next opponent, Glover Texeria, and should be able to make the adjustment to beat Gustafsson.

I expect Daniel Cormier to provide Jones with his biggest challenge this year, but I think Jones wins this one also before committing to a move to heavyweight.

Tommy Strong: Jon Jones   
Jon Jones had the toughest fight of his career when he fought Alexander Gustafsson back in September winning via UD, which many thought was a very close fight and our fight of the year! Next up for Jones is the heavily hyped Glover Teixeira at UFC 172 in April. Glover known for his power and submissions will be up against it facing bones who has a reach and height advantage.

This one was a little easier for me to predict - Jones remains Champion.

Ben Heather: Jon Jones 
This is the easiest choice out of every division. Jon Jones is the pound 4 pound best fighter in the world and will still hold both that title and his UFC belt come this time next year.

Sam Heard: Daniel Cormier
DC will be making his overdue debut into the 205lb division this year and I believe that if he takes well to the weight-cut he possesses the tools to dethrone the current p4p #1 Jon Jones. DC’s Olympic-class wrestling is supplemented by his decent striking and athleticism. A win over Rashad who has himself looked fantastic of late should be enough to get him a title shot.


HEAVYWEIGHT

Chris Houten: Cain Velasquez 
I predicted earlier in the week in My Bold Predictions for 2014 that I don't expect to see Velasquez fight this year and I'm sticking to it. The champions injury seems pretty bad, and Velasquez has a history of delayed recoveries. Should Velasquez return to the octagon this year however, I do rather fancy Werdum's chances against Velasquez, should Werdum beat Travis Browne.

Tommy Strong: Cain Velasquez
Cain has surprised me since his defeat to JDS. After that defeat, I didn't think we would see him get even better. With two stunning and brutal victories in his rematches to JDS no one in the division will be relishing the prospect of fighting the Mexican.

Cain was due to fight Fabricio Werdum at UFC 172, though was forced to pull out due to an injury. With JDS unlikely to get a rematch anytime soon, and maybe the only fighter that could possibly give him a tough fight is his training partner (Daniel Cormier) and he is moving down to light heavyweight. I Think Cain will hold onto the belt for at least another year or two. But as we all know in the heavyweight division, it only takes one punch for things to change!!  

Ben Heather: Cain Velasquez
I don't see Cain fighting in 2014. I think his injury is worse than the UFC have let on. So therefore he will still be the champ.

However, in his absence I think a interim champ will be crowned and that man is Travis Browne. Whether it be against Werdum or somebody else I see his great run of form carrying on in to 2014.

If Cain is back I think Browne will get a shot at Cain but Cain gets the win in that fight to keep his title.

Sam Heard: Cain Velasquez
Perhaps the most stable champion in the entire UFC. The Mexican was steps ahead of JDS at UFC 166; the second best heavyweight is himself head and shoulders better than the rest of the heavyweight competition so this demonstrates just how good Cain is. The likelihood is his first test of the year will be Werdum who I am not massively impressed by.
 

STRAWWEIGHT (WOMEN)

Chris Houten: Carla Esparza
A lot of people are gunning for Jo Jo Calderwood to win TUF 20 and go on to be the Strawweight champion. I do see her doing particularly well, however I feel Carla Esparza has the wrestling background to neutralise the striking of Calderwood, gain top position and grind out a decision, should the two meet at some stage in the tournament. 

Tommy Strong: Carla Esparza
With the announcement of the UFC introducing a new women's 115b strawweight division, TUF 20 ( 'TheUltimate Fighter') will have a new look this year, with the winner of the show being crowned the new champion of the division.

I really can't wait for this. They have shown since the arrival of the bantamweights, they belong here and brought new excitement to the fans.

With 11 of the 16 cast named, we are yet to know who the other 5 might be. Of the 11 named, we are in for a real treat with the likes of Carla Esparza, Claudia Gadelha, Felice Herrig to name a few. We might even see the first British fighter crowned as a UFC champion in Joanne Calderwood.

In the end though, I think Carla Esparza has the tools to become the first Womens 115lb champ.

Ben Heather: Joanne Calderwood
Whoever wins the TUF 20 series will be the champ at the end of the year and I think Jojo is the British hope the UFC has needed to bring home a championship title. She is certainly a top contender and with a bit of luck in the house we could see her have that belt placed around her waist by the end of the year.

Sam Heard: Carla EsparzaArguably one of the harder classes to call as we can’t predict how the inhabitants of the all-new strawweight division will fair on the big stage that is the UFC. However, the former Invicta Strawweight champion looked comfortable at the top, dispatching an array of world-class opponents so she is the most prudent pick to be the champion come year’s end


BANTAMWEIGHT (WOMEN)

Chris Houten: Cat Zingano 
2014 is going to be the busiest and toughest year to date for current champion Ronda Rousey. Up first for Rousey is fellow Olympian Sara McMann who should provide a stern test for Rousey but one which I think she will pass. Waiting in the wings though are the winner of Davis vs Eye and Cat Zingano.

Having watched every fight Rousey has had as a pro I still feel she has flaws in her striking - particularly her defense, and I expect someone to be able to take advantage of these flaws awfully soon. 

Rousey is open to be hit and if Zingano catches her the same way she did Tate, it will be game over.

Tommy Strong: Ronda Rousey
Love her or hate her, Ronda is great for the UFC and MMA in general. If not for her, maybe we still wouldn't see women's mma within the UFC. The women have brought a breath of fresh air to the UFC and long may it continue.

Ronda is coming off a spectacular victory over her arch enemy Miesha Tait last Saturday via her trademark armbar. Great to see her back in action so soon, with the announcement straight after the fight that Ronda would face Sarah McMann a former Silver Medallist at the 2004 summer Olympics. If anyone can withstand Ronda's take downs it surely has to be Mcmann?

Though Sarah hasn't fought the calibre Ronda has, and not been in the spotlight with all the attention like Ronda. If Mcmann can't beat Ronda, I fear unless we see Cyborg fight, the title will be hers for as long as she wishes. 

Ben Heather: Ronda Rousey
I see Rousey defending her title a few times in the year and adding some more arms to her collection. UFC 170 will certainly be her toughest test to date though as McMann may be able to defend her incredible take downs.

Sam Heard: Ronda Rousey
After her recent victory at UFC 168 it would take a bold man to predict the end of the Rousey-era in 2014. Despite losing her streak of first-round victories, Rousey’s grappling and judo throws looked awesome against Tate. Although her striking still clearly isn’t world-class, I believe her amazing ground game will be enough to keep her on top.

Kingdom MMA Awards 2013: KO of the Year

Kingdom MMA KO of the Year Award 2013: Vitor Belfort
by Chris Houten - @mrhouts

Everyone loves a great knockout, and 2013 was full of them.

From Mark Hunt’s jaw-breaking knockout of Stephan Struve, to Emanuel Newton’s spinning back fist KO of Mo Lawal, to Paul Daley’s uppercut finish of Romario Manoel da Silva, 2013 has been a beauty. But in the year of the head kick KO, Kingdom MMA’s knock out of the year goes to Vitor Belfort, for his spinning heel kick knockout of Luke Rockhold.

There was some great kick Knockouts in 2013, with Chinzo Michada returning to the cage with a devastating flying knee, and Uriah Hall knocking out Adam Cella with a spinning hook kick but none of these knock out were as impressive as Belfort’s due to the quality of Belfort’s opponent.

Luke Rockhold entered the UFC as the last Strikeforce middleweight champion, and as so was billed as a contender for the UFC Middleweight title. In less than 3 minutes Belfort shattered Rockhold’s UFC title aspirations and ensured Rockhold would be a highlight real forever.

Thanks for that Belfort, we enjoyed it very much!

Kingdom MMA 2013 Awards: Male Fighter of the Year

Kingdom MMA Male Fighter of the Year Award 2013: Vitor Belfort

by Ben Heather - @benheather

2013 has been a great year for MMA, so many fighters have upped their game and the quality level of MMA has improved so much at all levels. The European shows such as Cage Warriors and BAMMA have put on great shows and the fighters abilities constantly improve with every event. Then you look at the UFC and look at the level of the fighters now to those a few years ago. Its no comparison, the guys now are incredible athletes and have put on a brilliant year of fighting for us all to enjoy and now we have the hard task of picking just one fighter to call Male fighter of the year.

Anthony Pettis became the lightweight champion, Johny Hendricks believes he deserves to be UFC Welterweight champion and Chris Weidman has twice defeated Anderson Silva. Alexander Gustafsson also pushed Jon Jones all the way but couldn't quite pull off the upset but certainly put on the performance of his life. All in all it has been a great year.

The main contenders for the award were.
Vitor Belfort who rebounded from losing to Jon Jones in his last fight of 2012 to come through three fights in 2013 and finish all of them with head kicks. Next up for Vitor is a title fight with Chris Weidman in 2014.

Demetrious Johnson has dominated his division fighting the best contenders in the division and improving with every single fight. First he easily defeated John Dodson by Unanimous Decision and then he put away top contenders John Moraga and Joseph Benevidez.

But it was clear that this year there could only be one winner and that man was Vitor Belfort.

Vitor Belfort has had possibly the best year of his MMA career which is very impressive as Belfort is now 36. Belfort is always surrounded by controversy whenever he fights due to his continued use of TRT and his previous failed drugs test. However, he is using TRT within the legal limits and until it is banned (I hope) can continue to. After all, the skills he has shown this year and the fighters he has beaten can not all be down to him using TRT.

In three fights in the octagon this year Vitor Belfort has put away Michael Bisping, Luke Rockhold and Dan Henderson and has done it in 10 minutes 17 seconds combined. To be able to finish the calibre of fighters he has finished in the method he has is truly amazing. He went in to both the Bisping and the Rockhold fight as the underdog even though both of those fights were in his home country.

The highlight of his year has to be the spinning back kick knockout of Luke Rockhold. The timing was perfect and the skill required to do the move was simply jaw dropping. Which is why we awarded the Knockout our Knockout of 2013.

Vitor then got revenge over Dan Henderson after losing the first fight between the pair when they fought in Pride in October 2006. This time Vitor knocked Henderson out for the first time in his 40 fight career.

People may call him a cheat or argue that he shouldn't be allowed to use TRT but the fact is he is allowed at the minute and based on his performances we award him the Kingdom MMA Male Fighter of Year 2013.

UFC Fight Night 32: Belfort vs Henderson Predictions

UFC Fight Night 32: Belfort vs Henderson Predictions

With Tim Kennedy's knock out, Alexis Davis' masterclass, and James Krause nether region (take that how you will) still fresh in our mind, The UFC is back already, and this time from Goiania, Brazil with UFC Fight Night 32: Belfort vs Henderson.

Kingdom MMA writer Jack Broadey (Twitter @j3cK_b) and Tommy Strong (Twitter @strong_tea) give you their predictions for the event which is sure to be a cracker!

Vitor Belfort vs Dan Henderson:
Strong: A fight between 2 of my least favourite fighters in the UFC. Not because of their fighting style, but because they both use TRT, but thats for another discussion.

I'm still trying to work out why this fight is happening? Belfort coming into the fight with stunning wins over Michael Bisping and Luke Rockhold at Middleweight, I'm struggling to see why he would move up in weight to take on someone very dangerous like Henderson.

Henderson though is in the twilight of his career, now 43 and coming off 2 very close losses to Machida and Rashad Evans, a loss here would surely see the end of his UFC career.

Im torn between who to pick. Can Vitor knock Hendo out? I don't think so. Can Vitor have the cardio for 5 rounds? I don't think so... 

Prediction: Vitor Belfort - Submission RD 3

Broadey: All I'm seeing is people not only completely write Dan Henderson off but totally underestimate him too. Belfort has looked amazing lately finishing fights with one shot or the infamous "Belfort Blitz." Henderson just doesn't get knocked out, by anybody. If we see a KO in this fight I feel it's likely to come from Hendo's right hand as Belfort rushes in. Neither man is renowned for there gas tank but Hendo also has a huge advantage there should the fight go deep. Belfort may well submit Henderson if this turns into a wrestling match.

Prediction: Dan Henderson - Unanimous Decision

Cezar Ferreira vs Daniel Sarafian:
Strong: Really looking forward to this fight. Both were scheduled to meet in the Brazil TUF final before Sarafian had to pull out due to an injury. Ferreira went onto beat the replacement and the man Sarafian beat in the semi finals Sergio Moraes via unanimous decision and win the TUF Middleweight tournament.

I think size might be the difference here, I really like Sarafian and wouldn't be surprised to see him win, though I have to go with Cezar Ferreira.

Prediction: Cezar Ferreira - Unanimous Decision

Broadey: We finally get to see the TUF Brazil finale. Safarian hasn't impressed me at all so far whilst the injury hit Ferreira has looked mightily impressive in his limited appearances so far. Cesar has way to much power in his hands for Safarian and he will stand and trade.

Prediction: Cezar Ferreira - TKO RD 2

Rafael Cavalcante vs Igor Pokrajac:
Strong: All of Rafael 11 wins have come via KO and his losses come to think of that, though Igor just isn't in the same league for me, having lost his last 3 fights I only see one winner here!

Prediction: Rafael Cavalcante - KO RD1 (Banker of the Night)

Broadey: Pokrajak has no business at all being on a main card never mind the 3rd main fight. He's lost 3 in a row and that should have been 4. He's tough and doesn't often get beatdown but he doesn't impose himself in fights. Cavalcante is very much hit and miss himself. Losing 2 of his last 4 with a win being chalked off after a drugs ban. He has motivational issues which makes him kind of hard to predict. If he turns up in the right frame of mind he should win this fight.

Prediction: Rafael Cavalcante - Unanimous Decision 

Paulo Thiago vs Brandon Thatch
Strong: This welterweight fight really has me interested, merely to see Brandon Thatch back in action again! His stunning debut knocking out Justin Edwards inside the 1st round was very impressive! Having won 10 fights inside the first round via KO or submission (1 loss) he may have to wait a little longer to get the job done on Thiago.

Thiago isn't the force he once was, though will be a good test for Thatch to see where he is in the division. Thiago doesn't possess the striking ability of Thatch or knock out power so will have to try and work some magic on the mat.

Prediction: Brandon Thatch - TKO RD 2

Broadey: This is a very fun fight. Thatch entered the UFC with a ton of hype and duly delivered and outstanding KO on debut. Thiago has been there and done it all, he's a whole different league to the competition Thatch has so far faced. Thiago generally only loses to the top guys in the division. Thatch will put himself in that mix after he knocks Thiago out.

Prediction: Brandon Thatch - TKO RD 1

Santiago Ponzinibbio vs Ryan LeFlare
Strong: Not going to lie here, I don't know much about Santiago if anything at all, but I know how good LeFlare is at grappling, takedowns and top position! I always back a man who can control a fight on the floor over a striker.

Prediction: LeFlare - TKO RD 2

Broadey: I don't know much Ponzinibbio other than he beat some descent competition on the way to the final of Tuf Brazil 2 including the eventual winner Santos before having to pull out due to injury. LaFlare is a huge Welterweight but very inexperienced. That could be a factor fighting in Brazil against a huge crowd favourite here. Benny Alloway took him the distance in a close fight so I won't expect fireworks here.

Prediction: Ponzinibbio - Unanimous Decision

Rony Jason vs Jeremy Stephens:
Strong: Not normally I like to pick the favourites for each fight, though I'm struggling to pick against Rony Jason here. Jeremy Stephens made his featherweight debut in May this year where he defeated Estevan Payan in dominating fashion via UD. But can he raise his game even further?

Rony Jason is a joy to watch at times , if he can get Stephens to the ground I fancy him pulling off a submission win. Though is the fight stays on the feet this could a very bad night for Rony.

Prediction: Jeremy Stephens - Unanimous Decision (Although not really comfortable about this pick)

Broadey: Jeremy Stephens although predominantly a striker is good everywhere but Jason is excellent everywhere - his one isn't close.

Prediction: Rony Jason - Submission RD 1 

UFC Fight Night 32: Belfort vs Henderson - UK Betting Odds

UFC Fight Night 32: Belfort vs Henderson - UK Betting Odds

With UFC Fight for the Troops 3 still fresh in our mind the UFC is back this time with UFC Fight Night 32 and as always there is a chance to make some money! We team up with partners William Hill to bring those who fancy a little flutter the latest clear cut, betting odds - Good Luck, and don't miss out on your free £25 bet below!

Preliminary Card
4/5 Jose Maria Tome v Dustin Ortiz 10/11 
17/20 Adriano Martins v Daron Cruickshank 17/20
4/9 Thiago Tavares v Justin Salas 13/8
13/8 Thiago Perpetuo v Omari Akhmedov 4/9 
17/20 Godofredo Pepey v Sam Sicilia 17/20

Main Card
1/2 Rony Jason v Jeremy Stephens 8/5 
6/5 Santiago Ponzinbibio v Ryan LaFlare 4/6
9/4 Paulo Thiago v Brandon Thatch 1/3
4/11 Rafael Cavalcante v Igor Pokrajac 21/10  
4/6 Cezar Ferreira v Daniel Sarafian 6/5
4/9 Vitor Belfort v Dan Henderson 7/4

*Blue denotes Favourite

Belfort vs Henderson set for UFC Fight Night 32

Vitor Belfort agrees Dan Henderson rematch

by Jack Broadey @J3cK_b

Vitor Belfort has not seemed to need Joe Silva's help in matching him recently. He's gone from calling out Chris Weidman, on to Chael Sonnen and finally settled on a Dan Henderson rematch.

Logically the fight makes no sense. He didn't want to fight Tim Kennedy as he wasn't ranked in the top 10. He didn't want Sonnen as he wanted a shot at Weidman's Middleweight belt. As soon as Sonnen found a matchup with Wanderlei Silva he suddenly became interested again. In short Belfort is a hard man to read. If the reason for avoiding the Kennedy fight was fair and logical the Henderson fight should surely fall under the same banner.

Henderson is obviously a danger and we all know what he's capable of on a good day. Are those good days behind him now? He's not ranked at Middleweight or Light Heavyweight, he doesn't fight very often, he's lost two fights in a row and Belfort has already beaten him, albeit 7 years ago. The fight smacks of Belfort taking the biggest name available willing to travel to Brazil. He keeps saying he's not hiding in Brazil to get away with his TRT usage but the fights in Brazil keep coming. The longer fights like this one spring up the more questions will be asked.

From Dan Henderson's point of view it must of been an easy decision to make to accept the fight. From being on the cusp of a title shot to being on a two fight skid is an extreme in itself. Neither loss was particularly damaging, infact there is an argument Henderson could of got the nod in both the Machida and Evans fights. The fact he didn't puts him right to the back of the que and makes him irrelevant again. A win over a Vitor Belfort jacked up on TRT  in Brazil is quite possibly the best win Dan Henderson could get right now.

Belfort is the standout middleweight contender and should Henderson beat him he probably catapults himself into that one last title fight he desperately craves. A win for Belfort again does nothing for him realistically. He's expected to win. He has beat another unranked opponent and won't earn a title shot with a win. Matchmaking has been very curious with Belfort lately. It's almost as if they want him to lose as they have no idea what to do with him.

The rematch will headline UFC Fight Night 32 in Golania, Brazil on November 9th. No other contests have yet been announced.

Vitor Belfort vs Lyoto Machida?

Could we see a middleweight battle between the two Brazilians?

by Tommy Strong @strong_tea



Vitor Belfort's next middleweight challenge could very much be Lyoto Machida, which has been rumoured to be a co-main event at UFC 167.

Machida (19-4) who narrowly lost his last fight to Phil Davis only a couple of weeks ago in what some people saw as a controversial result would be making his Middleweight debut if the fight gets the go ahead.

Vitor (23-10) is only looking for big fights after recently turning down a fight with Tim Kennedy. Vitor is coming off back to back wins with stunning TKO victories over Michael Bisping and more recently a devastating spinning heel kick to knockout top contender Luke Rockhold.

Interestingly the fight could take place at the MGM Arena Las Vegas on November 16th where Belfort's TRT exemption probably wouldn't be given the all clear, forcing Belfort to train and fight all 'natural'.

Machida hasn't fought at middleweight before and would be a great addition to the division, especially now as his friend and training partner Anderson Silva no longer holds the belt. Though this may well change come December when Anderson faces Weidman in a much anticipated rematch!

UFC 167 will see Welterweight champion GeorgeSt-Pierre put his belt on the line when he faces Johny Hendricks.

Chael Sonnen was never the shy and retiring type

Chael Sonnen signs new contract and will drop to middleweight after fight against Shogun

by Jack Broadey @J3cK_b

The UFC has confirmed Chael Sonnen has signed a new deal, the deal will coincide with his return to the middleweight division.

Sonnen confirmed a 5 fight deal which will kick in after his August 17 fight with Shogun Rua which headlines the first UFC on Fox Sports 1 event. Sonnen also told of a move in his training camp to help with the drop back to middleweight. He has moved to California to train at Mark Munuz's 'Reign'.

With the former Middleweight and Light Heavyweight contender known to talk his way into several huge fights there is no shortage of opponents for him. Vitor Belfort is stuck in a bit of a no mans land at the minute and has asked for the fight at the massive end of year ppv on Dec 28th.

Wanderlei Silva is another possible opponent. First and foremost though Sonnen has to deal with a very tough opponent in Shogun Rua who certainly can't be taken lightly.

Roundtable: Kingdom MMA on Vitor Belfort

Kingdom MMA discuss Vitor Belfort

by Ben Heather @benheather

On Saturday night Vitor Belfort turned back the hands of time and put on yet another brilliant performance. This time he knocked out Luke Rockhold in the first round in the main event of UFC on FX 8.

This performance got some of the guys from Kingdom MMA thinking. Is this Belfort's best streak? Is he the legitimate number 1 contender at middleweight in the UFC? Should he be inducted in to the UFC Hall of Fame? Our thoughts on these questions will be revealed below.

Belfort has beat both Bisping and Rockhold in his last two fights, is this Belfort's best streak of his career?

Chris: Undoubtedly, if it was anyone else right now the UFC would be lining up the fight with the middleweight champion as soon as the winner of Silva vs Weidman was decided.

Jack: If we add in dominant wins over Akiyama and Johnson also in his middleweight run its hard to argue otherwise, four brutal finishes in a row over top competition. It's Belfort's most consistent run and for me this is the best steak of his career to date.

Ben: You would have to say yes. For anybody to beat the calibre of fighters he has lately in Bisping, in a fight that would have finally given him a title shot had he won and then Rockhold who had also been mentioned in title contention its a brilliant run. As Jack mentioned its not just that he won the fights but the manner he did it by winning them both with brutal KO's.

Is Belfort better than ever or is the lack of current contenders at Middleweight making him look better than he is?

Chris: The middleweight division is strong right now, but Belfort has looked simple awesome since his loss to Silva. He is on a 4 fight win streak at middleweight, railroading Akiyama, making easy work of a good quality opponent in Rumble Johnson, and giving us two of the best KO's in 2013 against Bisping and Rockhold. Oh, and along the way he gave arguably the best fighter in the world, Jon Jones,  his toughest test to date.

Jack: As the old saying goes, you can only beat what's in front of you and beat them he certainly does. I think he's better than he's ever been and he's getting results. It's true there are a lack of contenders at middleweight at the minute and that's partly to do with Belfort kicking two legitimate contenders to the back of the queue.

Ben: I think that the Belfort of 2012/ 13 is better than ever, there is one fight that makes me think this and it was the one he lost to Jon Jones. Nobody has come close to beating Jones before the Belfort fight. Belfort proved in that fight that he has the ability to compete with the very best in the world and at Middleweight I only see Silva who is better than him.

Do you think Belfort is the next challenger to the UFC Middleweight belt?

Chris: I wrote in my UFC on FX8 predictions last week that Belfort deserved to be the number 1 contender based on performances, but how can you put a guy who is known to be on a performance enhancing drug in title fight... Especially when he's such a dick about it! Threatening to beat respected journalist up for asking about it is just ridiculous, and can you imagine if he became the champ.... he can't even get a license to fight in the fight capital of the world

Jack: Yes. He was humiliated in the 1st fight with Anderson Silva but he's comeback in the best possible way. No one else deserves the shot and you can sell a rematch. Who doesn't want to see it? It's fireworks and there's likely to be a KO of the year contender again.

Ben: Yes no doubt about it. Belfort has the best recent record at middleweight, excluding Anderson Silva. He has beat more top fighters than Chris Weidman who is getting his title shot in July and so in my opinion deserves his rematch. As Chris mentioned I think what he did in the post fight press conference by going on the attack when a journalist questioned him about TRT is completely unacceptable and not how a potential champion should be behaving.

Is Belfort a future UFC Hall of Famer? Or will the failed drugs test and TRT use overshadow his career?

Chris: With four KO's of the night, a Heavyweight tournament title, a light heavyweight title, and a host of impressive win, Belfort certainly deserves a place in the UFC hall of fame, I'd be disappointed if his recent issues with TRT saw Belfort miss out on the place he deserves, but I'd also totally understand if he was never to be included. 

Jack: I think you can say yes to both questions. There is no doubt in my mind Belfort will be in the hall of fame. I don't like the idea of fighters being inducted into the UFC hall of fame based on past wins in other organisations Mirko Crocop for example. Belfort deserves induction though. He won the light heavyweight championship nearly 10 years ago and 1st competed in the UFC 16 years ago. That he's still competing at the highest of levels is pretty amazing. Is TRT helping him to stay at that level? Probably and that will no doubt taint his resume as well.

Ben: I think yes he should definitely be in the UFC hall of fame. The problem Belfort has currently is that anytime an article is written about him or he takes part in a interview at some point you know the TRT question is going to be in there. However as it stands the UFC are happy to put him in fights knowing he is on TRT with his previous failed drugs test so on the same basis it shouldn't be held against him getting his deserved entry to the hall of fame.

UFC on FX 8 Main Card Predictions

Kingdom MMA: UFC on FX 8 Main Card Predictions

by Chris Houten @KingdomMMAChris, Tommy Strong @Strong_tea and Jack Broadey @J3cK_b

On Saturday night we will see a middleweight battle with potential title implications as Vitor Belfort and Luke Rockhold fight in Arena Jaragua in Jaragua do Sul, Santa Catarina, Brazil.

A lot of the talk before this fight has been about Vitor fighting again outside the USA and using TRT, something which if he was to fight in the USA probably would not be approved. On top of this both Luke Rockhold and Ronaldo 'Jacare' Souza make their UFC debuts and Chris Camozzi gets to test his skills against a top 10 ranked opponent for the first time, all in all it makes for an interesting night of fights.

Below you will find the predictions from some of the guys at Kingdom MMA for the main card.

Vitor Belfort (22-10) #2 MW vs Luke Rockhold (10-1) #5 MW

Jack: I see this being very similar to Belfort-Bisping. If it goes past the 1st round or 2nd Rockhold should take over and have the gas tank to win a comfortable decision. Can he stay away from the Vitor flurry though. I don't think he can. When Vitor lands he hurts you. When he hurts you he moves in for the kill.

Prediction: Belfort by TKO Round 2

Tommy: Just to say from the off, this event really isn't floating my boat! As I slap my face to keep myself awake, not just because of the lack of sleep from a new born child, but mostly due to the underwhelming card.

This is a massive step up for Luke, he hasn't fought anyone with the class of Belfort before. His last win was a decision win over Tim Kennedy, this will be like day and night in calibre of fighters. I was slightly amazed to see Luke being a slight favourite for this fight, I feel he has it all to do come Saturday night.

That being said, I written off a lot of ex-Strikeforce fighters before and they have made a massive impact in the UFC already. As much as i would like to see Belfort lose , I just don't see it. Belfort for me is better in pretty much every department, if Luke can keep it at range and wait for Belfort to tire he stands a chance, though that's easier said than done. Bisping tried the same tactics and ended up TKO'd.

Prediction: Belfort by KO Round 2

Chris: Is Vitor Belfort the best middleweight in the world right now? No, Anderson Silva is, but at this point it's really hard to argue against Vitor at number 2.

In his last 4 fights be destroyed Akiyama, submitted a solid opponent in Rumble Johnson, knocked out a top 5 middleweight in Michael Bisping and came the closest anyone has come to beating Jon Jones.

His opponent Luke Rockhold is an athletic guy and as a fighter he is pretty good at everything. While he holds a win over a fighter with a similar style as Belfort in Jacare, Belfort represents Rockhold's biggest test to date, and to win this fight he will need to stick and move, avoid the big shots and berserker style Belfort employs, and drag Belfort in to the later rounds...... All that while not letting the nerves of being in the main event in his UFC debut, or the crowd get to him.

That being said i think it will all be a little too much for Rockhold, and I like Belfort here. I think the quality he has produced recently has been overshadowed by his TRT use in recent fights, and he ends this fight early, much to the pleasure of the crowd.... And god.

Prediction: Belfort by TKO Round 2

Ronaldo 'Jacare' Souza (17-3-1) #8 MW vs Chris Camozzi (19-5)

Jack: This is a tough fight for Camozzi. Souza on paper is better wherever the fight goes. Look for Souza to make a name for himself and put himself into contention talks

Prediction: Souza by Submission Round 1

Tommy: Disappointed that Costa Philippou had to withdraw from the fight, this would've been a great match up with Souza. Now I feel its going to be a damp squid! Souza really impressed me with his win over Ed Herman back in January.

Camozzi isn't a fighter that impresses me and I thought he was lucky to get the decision win over Nick Ring in his last fight. Souza has excellent Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and vastly improved striking which will make it a bad night for Camozzi.

Prediction: Souza by Submission Round 3

Chris: I like to think a man is most dangerous when he has nothing to lose, which will be the case for Camozzi on Saturday night. He is fighting a BJJ legend in his homeland who is better in every department.

If Camozzi pulls off the upset fair play to him, and fair play to you if you get him at the general price of 9/2, but I see this one ending in an early night for Chris Camozzi.

Prediction: Souza by Submission Round 2

Rafael Dos Anjos (18-6) #10 LW vs Evan Dunham (14-3)

Tommy: I really like this match up, this could be FOTN. I'm really struggling to pick a winner in this fight. Both are very good fighters and I favour Rafael slightly especially if he can get the fight to the ground.
You know with Dunham, he will come to fight and it will take a good performance by Rafael to get the win.

I keep changing my mind over the outcome of this fight, but I will go with my head and and not my heart pick Dos Anjos to get a narrow win.

Prediction: Dos Anjos by Submission Round 3

Jack: Dunham is tough but he's a slow starter. Always picks it up and appears in exciting match ups. This should be no different. Dos Anjos is a gamer as well and I think he has enough about him to win at least 2 of the 3 rounds.

Prediction: Dos Anjos by Decision

Chris: Put your hands up if you don't this this will be fight of the night.... yeah, didn't think there would be any. As with every Evan Dunham fight this battle has war written all over it.

This fight is pretty much a pick em to be honest but I'm siding with Dos Anjos.

I have been impressed with the radical improvements he is making between fights, and I expect him to come out more aggressive (wouldn't you if you were fighting to the sound of 15k Brazilians chanting "Tu vai morrer") and keep Dunham on the back foot most of the fight.

Prediction: Dos Anjos by Unanimous Decision

Rafael Natal (15-4-1) vs Joao Zeferino (13-4)

Tommy: Zeferino (13-4) will be making his UFC debut this weekend and not knowing much (well anything) about him he's coming into the fight on the back off a 7 fight win streak, with 9 of his 13 of wins coming via submission.

Natal himself also has a impressive win percentage of submissions. 8 of his 15 wins coming via sub. So I expect we will have a stand up battle on our hands. In that case I'm picking Natal to get a stoppage with the knowledge I have on him.

Prediction: Natal by TKO Round 2

Jack: I don't know a whole deal about Zeferino. After a bit of research he has excellent BJJ. I haven't been impressed with Natal's ufc career to date. There could be a shock on the cards here.

Prediction: Zeferino by Submission Round 2

Chris: Like Jack I can't say I'm particularly blown away by Natal either, although I do think he is reasonably well rounded, and has the still set to stop take downs and avoid submission attempts from grappler Zeferino.

Prediction: Natal by Unanimous Decision

5 UFC fights to watch in the next 6 weeks

5 Fights To Look Out For In The Near Future

by Jack Broadey @J3cK_b

With a break in the UFC schedule I thought I would take a look at the fights upcoming with some maybe flying under the radar. We have been spoilt lately with UFC events the last few weekends. These are my 5 must watch fights that take place over the next 6 weeks and I have tried to avoid picking the obvious matches and main events. However some main events do deserve inclusion here.

1. Junior Dos Santos v Mark Hunt
For me the co main event of the heavyweight double bill at UFC 160 is the more intriguing fight. Can Mark Hunt's fairy tale rise back up the rankings continue? Can Dos Santos get back into contention after a brutal beatdown and losing his title last time out? It's going to be great whilst it lasts either way!

2.Antonio Nogueira v Fabricio Werdum
What has Nogueira got left in the tank? This kind of fight should suit him stylistically. His boxing ability means this almost certainly will end up as jiu jitsu battle. Is Werdum the real deal and the next title contender many think he is? The 2 BJJ experts go at it in Brazil in June.

3. Gray Maynard v TJ Grant
The winner of this fight will meet Benson Henderson for the chance to win Lightweight gold. Gray Maynard is always a solid contender at the top of the division and Grant has rose very quickly with a string of not only good wins but very good performances to go with them. Can he get past his biggest test to date to get that elusive title shot?

4. Vitor Belfort v Luke Rockhold
If Belfort keeps winning in the fashion he is the UFC can't keep denying him another title shot. He's running through top contenders. Rockhold comes over from Strikeforce as the last Middleweight champion. Can he defeat Belfort and set up his own title shot? It would be hard to argue against the winner being granted a title shot whoever that might be.

5. Rashad Evans v Dan Henderson
Lets face it both men are coming off hugely disappointing losses. Henderson was supposed to fight Jon Jones for the Light Heavyweight title and instead got injured. He lost to Lyoto Machida instead in a very boring fight. An unmotivated  Rashad Evans surprisingly lost to little Nog and that's what makes this fight so exciting. Both men badly need to get back into the win column if they have serious title aspirations. Who wants it more at this stage of their career?