I really hope that Jon Fitch got a nice raise when he signed the extension. Up until recently, I know that has had to bounce at a local bar to make ends meet, don’t know if he still has been over the past 6 months or so. Fitch has proven himself to be a Top 5 WW for years and years to come.

Pay the man.

That works. Would rather see Fitch face someone else. Karo is scared.

so fitch is taking a step backwards? i know Gono isn’t bad and ill be pulling for him, but his only ufc win so far is over “the barn cat”

Hopefully he gets his title shot after he destroys Gono.

dude how is the ufc gonna do this, they have karo, fitch with both having consecutive wins over some stiff competition fitch on a longer streak but karo deserved a shot a long time ago, then hughes, koshcheck, diego, serra but only because his champ, gsp fuck then up and coming omg 170lbs has to be one of the best weight classes ever either one of those guys fighting each other is a good headliner for a main event

According to an article MMAmania posted a few weeks ago Karo is just sitting back and waiting for GSP vs Serra because he said he’s guarenteed the winner so he won’t fight Fitch and risk losing the title shot should Fitch beat him. SO I would think as long as Fitch wins vs Gono he’ll get the shot after Karo.

Wow..Isn’t Fitch on a lose-lose situation here, if he wins it only extends his unbeaten streak, but if he loses he goes down the ladder. But he’s gotta fight and keep his momentum. I’m pretty sure thats why he took this fight.

Well, I guess we should all be mad at Karo. 7 of his last 8 wins are decisions, and now he won’t give the fans an exciting fight and go for Fitch. He said he would play it safe a while ago, but he also bullshittedly said that he would fight anyone.

So we’re going to see Jon Fitch get a tune-up fight which is so lame considering how much the internet has been on the guy’s jock, that’s supposed to get you bigger and better opponents. Fighting Gono will just further confuse people like ViolentMike, who insist that “Fitch has proven himself to be a Top 5 WW for years and years to come”. So Diego sucks according to most of you, but if you beat him you must be the next title contender, and must stay at the top for years? Makes no sense. I’ll be laughing if GSP vs. Fitch ever does take place cause it’s a joke. It really is. Fitch is worse than GSP at everything. I personally think Diego would have a better shot at GSP, (still not a very good one) because Diego would most likely have at least one advantage: his Jiu-Jitsu.

Kinda sucks for Fitch, but nobody can say Karo doesnt deserve a title shot. We’ll see the Fitch vs Karo fight after GSP beats them both

Fitch is great and all but I would love to see Gono make a mark at WW since he has fought at MW and LHW I believe

DJ Gozma

Fitch deserves better.

by the way….good job mmamania, by making it look like fitch vs. bozo the asian clown

[quote comment="260803"]Well, I guess we should all be mad at Karo. 7 of his last 8 wins are decisions, and now he won’t give the fans an exciting fight and go for Fitch. He said he would play it safe a while ago, but he also bullshittedly said that he would fight anyone.

So we’re going to see Jon Fitch get a tune-up fight which is so lame considering how much the internet has been on the guy’s jock, that’s supposed to get you bigger and better opponents. Fighting Gono will just further confuse people like ViolentMike, who insist that “Fitch has proven himself to be a Top 5 WW for years and years to come”. So Diego sucks according to most of you, but if you beat him you must be the next title contender, and must stay at the top for years? Makes no sense. I’ll be laughing if GSP vs. Fitch ever does take place cause it’s a joke. It really is. Fitch is worse than GSP at everything. I personally think Diego would have a better shot at GSP, (still not a very good one) because Diego would most likely have at least one advantage: his Jiu-Jitsu.[/quote]
I don’t care for Karo’s attitude or personality, but you can’t say that guy doesn’t have great fights every time out just because he doesn’t finish. I can’t blame the guy for sitting out until his title shot, seeing as how he got screwed out of one a couple years ago. As far as Fitch goes, he has a pretty good list of skins on his wall. Most people on here think Sanchez is a weirdo, but about everyone agrees he’s a hell of a fighter, and a win over him means something. He should win this fight, and an 8-0 record should definitely give him a title shot. Just because you think he doesn’t match up with GSP, assuming that GSP is the champ he would face, doesn’t mean the fight shouldn’t happen.

WW division has some great fights this year.
GSP vs. Serra
Champ vs. Karo
Serra vs. Hughes
Champ vs. Fitch

I’m probably missing some.

[quote comment="260801"]Wow..Isn’t Fitch on a lose-lose situation here, if he wins it only extends his unbeaten streak, but if he loses he goes down the ladder. But he’s gotta fight and keep his momentum. I’m pretty sure thats why he took this fight.[/quote]

And the money rolling in. Bottom line is these guys have to fight for a living. If Karo won’t step up, he has to fight someone else.

Fitch is the man, and I can not wait until he meets GSP.

[quote comment="260782"]According to an article MMAmania posted a few weeks ago Karo is just sitting back and waiting for GSP vs Serra because he said he’s guarenteed the winner so he won’t fight Fitch and risk losing the title shot should Fitch beat him. SO I would think as long as Fitch wins vs Gono he’ll get the shot after Karo.[/quote]

Dude its four months until the GSP-Serra fight, wait another 4-6months and then the Karo vs Champ fight. Give the winner another 4-6months. There is no way I see Fitch being allowed to wait that long.

should be entertaining at least

this is gonna be an entertaining one. i can see Fitch winning via being bigger and stronger

[quote comment="260744"]I really hope that Jon Fitch got a nice raise when he signed the extension. Up until recently, I know that has had to bounce at a local bar to make ends meet, don’t know if he still has been over the past 6 months or so. Fitch has proven himself to be a Top 5 WW for years and years to come.

Pay the man.[/quote]

I hear ya VM! Show Fitch the money…that dude deserves it. Happy to hear his contract is extended. ViolentMike: did they really extend Hendo’s contract to another 5 fights? That would be great.

Now onto this fight….lets be honest…this is a BS fight that should not even be happening. Fitch has earned the right to face top competition and Gomo just isnt the guy. We all have Karo to thank for having to sit through this one sided beating that Fitch will put on Gono. I commend Fitch, who deserves a title shot, for not just sitting back and waiting for a title shot to be available. While Karo plans on waiting til like August to face the winner of GSP/Serra.

Y is Karo even ahead of Fitch for a title shot. I like Karo, but Fitch would put a hurting on him. Dana needs to step in here and make Karo fight Fitch for a number 1 contender match. If Karo is next in line for a crack at a title it would mean that Fitch wont get his title shot until December of next year…which is BS…..Dana needs to take away Karo’s title shot, and y not? he did it to Arlovski…..Karo should have to face Fitch to earn a title shot….Dana needs to scratch the Gono fight and just tell Karo that if he wants a title shot he is gonna have to beat John Fitch, who will prove to be GSP only competition in the division!

How does Karo deserve a shot after getting owned by Diego. Who then got his ass handed to him buy GSP.

[quote comment="260782"]According to an article MMAmania posted a few weeks ago Karo is just sitting back and waiting for GSP vs Serra because he said he’s guarenteed the winner so he won’t fight Fitch and risk losing the title shot should Fitch beat him. SO I would think as long as Fitch wins vs Gono he’ll get the shot after Karo.[/quote]
It sounds like the UFC has promised a lot of things to Karo! I don’t believe they are going to give a title shot to Karo over Fitch until I see that it has been booked. Is Karo even ranked? Just because at one time he was offered a title fight does not mean he is “guaranteed” another one. He is truly afraid to fight Jon Fitch. Props to Fitch for fighting anyone and kicking their ass. He’s been beating anyone they put in front of him! I’ll believe it when the UFC says it.

Something is wrong with the Audio on my computer. Can any one tell me wht that whole Emerson Arrest mess was all about?

[quote comment="260877"][quote comment="260744"]I really hope that Jon Fitch got a nice raise when he signed the extension. Up until recently, I know that has had to bounce at a local bar to make ends meet, don’t know if he still has been over the past 6 months or so. Fitch has proven himself to be a Top 5 WW for years and years to come.

Pay the man.[/quote]

I hear ya VM! Show Fitch the money…that dude deserves it. Happy to hear his contract is extended. ViolentMike: did they really extend Hendo’s contract to another 5 fights? That would be great.

Now onto this fight….lets be honest…this is a BS fight that should not even be happening. Fitch has earned the right to face top competition and Gomo just isnt the guy. We all have Karo to thank for having to sit through this one sided beating that Fitch will put on Gono. I commend Fitch, who deserves a title shot, for not just sitting back and waiting for a title shot to be available. While Karo plans on waiting til like August to face the winner of GSP/Serra.

Y is Karo even ahead of Fitch for a title shot. I like Karo, but Fitch would put a hurting on him. Dana needs to step in here and make Karo fight Fitch for a number 1 contender match. If Karo is next in line for a crack at a title it would mean that Fitch wont get his title shot until December of next year…which is BS…..Dana needs to take away Karo’s title shot, and y not? he did it to Arlovski…..Karo should have to face Fitch to earn a title shot….Dana needs to scratch the Gono fight and just tell Karo that if he wants a title shot he is gonna have to beat John Fitch, who will prove to be GSP only competition in the division![/quote]

I agree wit both of you guys.

[quote comment="260829"]by the way….good job mmamania, by making it look like fitch vs. bozo the asian clown[/quote]

I take it you never seen Gono fight in PRIDE before? He has about a 15 minute ring entrance, filled with dancing, lip synching and costumes. The Prince Naseem of Japan.

[quote post="4466"]I hear ya VM! Show Fitch the money…that dude deserves it. Happy to hear his contract is extended. ViolentMike: did they really extend Hendo’s contract to another 5 fights? That would be great.[/quote]

John, I’m looking for the link right now. It wasn’t long, but it had GREAT Hendo information – He wanted to fight at MW to unify the belts the whole time. He was basically saying that he didn’t want to cut back down to 185 for contract negotiation purposes. Remember what some people on here were saying when Hendo said he didn’t want to fight at MW anymore? People were saying that everyone has a price. If the UFC offers him enough money, he’ll have to take the fight.

[quote post="4466"]I hear ya VM! Show Fitch the money…that dude deserves it. Happy to hear his contract is extended. ViolentMike: did they really extend Hendo’s contract to another 5 fights? That would be great.[/quote]

Here ya go John. Its the third story down: http://blogs.chron.com/fighting/

Hendo signing a 5 fight extension is definitely news worthy! Mania *cough*cough* LOL

Also John, did you happen to catch that link I posted yesterday of Hendo’s first ever pro mma fight, in Brazil Open Fight ‘97?

[quote post="4466"]Fighting Gono will just further confuse people like ViolentMike, who insist that “Fitch has proven himself to be a Top 5 WW for years and years to come”. [/quote]

You got me Skankalicious! I’ll be the first to admit that I am biased towards Dan Henderson and Jon Fitch = they are my favorite fighters.

[quote comment="260857"]Fitch is the man, and I can not wait until he meets GSP.[/quote]

That will be one hell of a match. Fitch is an animal and should destroy Gono. I think Fitch will take out Karo as well. Karo isn’t a walk in the park, but Fitch is on a roll and he’s got a lot of talent. He’s good now, but I can’t wait to see how he is come time for his title shot. Fitch and GSP has the potential for a fight of the year nomination.

[quote post="4466"]Hendo signing a 5 fight extension is definitely news worthy! Mania *cough*cough* LOL[/quote]

You and John need to open those eyes:

http://mmamania.com/2008/01/07/ufc-quick-quote-dan-henderson-set-to-kick-ass-against-anderson-silva-at-ufc-82/

Waste of a fight for Fitch. Violent Mike, do you have a man crush on Hendo…damn.

at first I thought that was the freak from tap out.gotta love hang overs.

[quote comment="260803"]Well, I guess we should all be mad at Karo. 7 of his last 8 wins are decisions, and now he won’t give the fans an exciting fight and go for Fitch. He said he would play it safe a while ago, but he also bullshittedly said that he would fight anyone.

So we’re going to see Jon Fitch get a tune-up fight which is so lame considering how much the internet has been on the guy’s jock, that’s supposed to get you bigger and better opponents. Fighting Gono will just further confuse people like ViolentMike, who insist that “Fitch has proven himself to be a Top 5 WW for years and years to come”. So Diego sucks according to most of you, but if you beat him you must be the next title contender, and must stay at the top for years? Makes no sense. I’ll be laughing if GSP vs. Fitch ever does take place cause it’s a joke. It really is. Fitch is worse than GSP at everything. I personally think Diego would have a better shot at GSP, (still not a very good one) because Diego would most likely have at least one advantage: his Jiu-Jitsu.[/quote]

Wow, did you watch MMA in 2007? No one’s going to argue that GSP is a beast, but you act like the guy is invincible. If GSP/Serra, Forrest/Rua or Liddell/Jardine didn’t open your eyes, I’m not sure what will.

AKA and Fitgh have asked UFC and pushed for a fight with Karo to the point of Jon asking for it after defeating an opponent in the octagon last year while interviewing with Joe Rogan. The point is that even though Jon wants to beat his ass since he is one of the few top ten WW competetors worth fighting before hitting Hughes or GSP; if Karo is afraid to fight him or has some other BS excuse then its just not going to happen. As Jon mentioned in an earlier interview; eventually UFC won’t let these people hide any more and they’ll be forced to fight him! Jon would beat the hell out of Karo and Karo knows it. Notice the love handles on the fat new Karo during his last fight against a nameless competitor whom he had trouble with??? The facts speak for themselves.

[quote comment="260745"]That works. Would rather see Fitch face someone else. Karo is scared.[/quote]

i think he maybe. but i at the same time i can understand why karo doesnt wanna take a chance at losing a title shot soon. karo is dick and i hate him but his fights are always good and never disspointing.

I can’t wait until GSP vs Jon Fitch, that should be sometime here in the near future.

Ak Gono is a GREAT fighter. This is the biggest fight of Fitch’s career (even bigger then Sanchez.) Karo vs Fitch would be a great fight, but Karo has a bit of publicity right now with his douchebaggery on the show, the UFC is gonna use that to bolster a big fight with someone the likes of GSP.

“dude how is the ufc gonna do this, they have karo, fitch with both having consecutive wins over some stiff competition fitch on a longer streak but karo deserved a shot a long time ago, then hughes, koshcheck, diego, serra but only because his champ, gsp fuck then up and coming omg 170lbs has to be one of the best weight classes ever either one of those guys fighting each other is a good headliner for a main event”

what does this even say? anyone?

“dear god please let serra beat gsp again, I know it was a miracle the first time but is it too much to ask for another? I need a real shot at the title and I know I can beat serra, thank you lord” karo parisyan

I saw Gono fight on the undercard at UFC 78. He looked pretty darn good! I think he’ll give Fitch a great fight.

[quote comment="260996"]Ak Gono is a GREAT fighter. This is the biggest fight of Fitch’s career (even bigger then Sanchez.)

LOL!

[quote comment="260803"]Well, I guess we should all be mad at Karo. 7 of his last 8 wins are decisions, and now he won’t give the fans an exciting fight and go for Fitch. He said he would play it safe a while ago, but he also bullshittedly said that he would fight anyone.

So we’re going to see Jon Fitch get a tune-up fight which is so lame considering how much the internet has been on the guy’s jock, that’s supposed to get you bigger and better opponents. Fighting Gono will just further confuse people like ViolentMike, who insist that “Fitch has proven himself to be a Top 5 WW for years and years to come”. So Diego sucks according to most of you, but if you beat him you must be the next title contender, and must stay at the top for years? Makes no sense. I’ll be laughing if GSP vs. Fitch ever does take place cause it’s a joke. It really is. Fitch is worse than GSP at everything. I personally think Diego would have a better shot at GSP, (still not a very good one) because Diego would most likely have at least one advantage: his Jiu-Jitsu.[/quote]
you blame karo for waiting to get his title shot? c’mon man you would do the exact same thing. And to say Diego has better Jiu Jitsu than GSP is absolutely absurd. Diego has great JJ no doubt, but GSP is by far the best JJ guy in the division. I would love to see Diego put hughes in a kimura and then transition to an armbar to finish, but it will never happen because Diego is nowhere close to his level.

Well Fitch definently needs more fights like this befoer getting into some real heat with top contendars, I wanna see him do well, but he just ain’t ready yet.

I love how everyone thinks that this is a step down for fitch. I think this is Fitch’s toughest fight yet. I think that this is a #1 contender fight pretty much. Maybe b/c of Gono’s lack of UFC exposure he would have to fight Karo if he wins. I am really looking forward to this fight though.

Fitch has got to be the biggest WW around. Does anyone know what weight he walks around at? Mania, any idea?

[quote comment="261182"]Fitch has got to be the biggest WW around. Does anyone know what weight he walks around at? Mania, any idea?[/quote]

He’s big. I’d say around 200-210.

whoever says Karo is scared can go do some thinking. no smart fighter would take a fight with fitch while already being promised a title shot 7 months down the line. risking everything and dont forget about the pay. champs get paid 5 times more plus all the ppv cuts than even the number one contenders.wouldn’t you do the same?

Gono is a tough dude. This is not a walk in the park for Fitch although I think Fitch takes it.

[quote comment="261183"][quote comment="261182"]Fitch has got to be the biggest WW around. Does anyone know what weight he walks around at? Mania, any idea?[/quote]

He’s big. I’d say around 200-210.[/quote]

Really? That’s unbelievable. So how much does he lose in the last 5 days I wonder. I think Matt Hughes said he can make 170 weighing 185 five days out. I’ve been looking up how they make the weight. One other question, do they use diuretics. It would be less than ideal, health wise and performance wise but it could be the difference between making weight and not. Are they allowed? I hope not.

“Ak Gono is a GREAT fighter. This is the biggest fight of Fitch’s career (even bigger then Sanchez.) Karo vs Fitch would be a great fight, but Karo has a bit of publicity right now with his douchebaggery on the show, the UFC is gonna use that to bolster a big fight with someone the likes of GSP.”

Luppers is correct about Gono. If you guys dont know how good he is then you really dont know shit about fighting. I fight the best guys in the world, FUCK titles, FUCK fighting popular guys just to pad a record. I have and will always fight the toughest opponent available. I fight for me, Im the one who has to look back at what I did with my career.

Fitch

[quote comment="261218"][quote comment="261183"][quote comment="261182"]Fitch has got to be the biggest WW around. Does anyone know what weight he walks around at? Mania, any idea?[/quote]

He’s big. I’d say around 200-210.[/quote]

Really? That’s unbelievable. So how much does he lose in the last 5 days I wonder. I think Matt Hughes said he can make 170 weighing 185 five days out. I’ve been looking up how they make the weight. One other question, do they use diuretics. It would be less than ideal, health wise and performance wise but it could be the difference between making weight and not. Are they allowed? I hope not.[/quote]

Fitch has been wrestling for lord knows how long — he’s more than likely used to it. He also has had a tough time making weight his last few trips to the scale. Fitch has fought at light heavyweight. Most of these guys have teammates, trainers and nutritionists who help them prior to fights. Diuretics? No idea. Ask Thiago Alves.

[quote comment="261220"]“Ak Gono is a GREAT fighter. This is the biggest fight of Fitch’s career (even bigger then Sanchez.) Karo vs Fitch would be a great fight, but Karo has a bit of publicity right now with his douchebaggery on the show, the UFC is gonna use that to bolster a big fight with someone the likes of GSP.”

Luppers is correct about Gono. If you guys dont know how good he is then you really dont know shit about fighting. I fight the best guys in the world, FUCK titles, FUCK fighting popular guys just to pad a record. I have and will always fight the toughest opponent available. I fight for me, Im the one who has to look back at what I did with my career.

Fitch[/quote]

I love it when that happens. Luppers wins something.

fitch submission 2nd round

yeah, give this guy the money and fame he deserves. It’s recognition time for this man. I still wanted to see Karo and Fitch badly.

I think Fitch is over-rated. Most of his fights were against 2nd tiered fighters…then he beats Sanchez only by split decision…and now he’s suppose to be this awesome fighter who has a chance against GSP. No way!

Is Fitch gonna give GSP a solid run? yes or no?

[quote comment="261274"]Is Fitch gonna give GSP a solid run? yes or no?[/quote]

Well Jon Fitch is a bad matchup for most guys. Problem is though I’m not sure I see anywhere where he has an advantage over GSP skill wise. He’s bigger and probably a little stronger I reckon.

He could well be the number 2 welterweight around at the moment.

I checked back over some of the old interviews. Yes Fitch is a huge WW.

UFCmania.com: Yeah, you’re a big dude for 170. How the hell do you maintain that weight?

Jon Fitch: I walk around at about 190. When I was hurt and couldn’t train and my girlfriend was feeding me real good, I got up to about 205. I’ve been as heavy as 217. And, I used to fight at 184. But, a big reason for that is I used to lift weights and drink a lot of beer— I can put on some serious mass. Now, I don’t lift weights anymore and I don’t drink as much — I just strength train. I’ve replaced heavy lifting with technique. I’m still strong as hell for 170.

Don’t get me wrong, I can still use some weight training. I saw a few pictures of my chicken legs against Hironaka and couldn’t help but chuckle. They looked pretty bad.

[quote comment="261272"]I think Fitch is over-rated. Most of his fights were against 2nd tiered fighters…then he beats Sanchez only by split decision…and now he’s suppose to be this awesome fighter who has a chance against GSP. No way![/quote]

I wouldn’t give him a great chance against GSP either. But I wouldn’t give anyone a great chance against GSP. But let it be known that the fact that the Fitch Sanchez fight went to a split decision was complete bs. Should have been a UD win for Fitch.

[quote comment="261236"][quote comment="261218"][quote comment="261183"][quote comment="261182"]Fitch has got to be the biggest WW around. Does anyone know what weight he walks around at? Mania, any idea?[/quote]

He’s big. I’d say around 200-210.[/quote]

Really? That’s unbelievable. So how much does he lose in the last 5 days I wonder. I think Matt Hughes said he can make 170 weighing 185 five days out. I’ve been looking up how they make the weight. One other question, do they use diuretics. It would be less than ideal, health wise and performance wise but it could be the difference between making weight and not. Are they allowed? I hope not.[/quote]

Fitch has been wrestling for lord knows how long — he’s more than likely used to it. He also has had a tough time making weight his last few trips to the scale. Fitch has fought at light heavyweight. Most of these guys have teammates, trainers and nutritionists who help them prior to fights. Diuretics? No idea. Ask Thiago Alves.[/quote]

He walks around about 190-195.

I am actually pretty excited about this fight. Both Gono and John Fitch are big dudes. Gono has had some light heavy weight fights, so I do not think John Fitch will be able to over power him the way he did Sanchez. I do believe Fitch will win though just because his wrestlting is outstanding and it may be to much for Gono, anything can happen in MMA though and it should be a great fight. I have also been wanting to see Gono fight again really bad after seeing him on the Yarrenoka show prancing around in a white suit in Misakis entourage.

[quote comment="260754"]Hopefully he gets his title shot after he destroys Gono.[/quote]

Don’t want to be rude here but since when a win over Gono gets u a title SHOT!!! that’s lala land.

Dana and Rogan are gonna need a lot of imagination to hype this fight..

prediction: Gono upset win, arm bar 1st round!

ps: Did the REAL “Fitch” just posted on this blog????
I’m still a newcomer on mmamania so I’m kind of starstruck!!!
Anyway I still think this fight is a good setup for an upset.
Japanese fighters are long due for a breakthrough.

[quote post="4466"]I’ve been as heavy as 217. And, I used to fight at 184. But, a big reason for that is I used to lift weights and drink a lot of beer— I can put on some serious mass. [/quote]

Ha Fitch has just gone up a notch in my book… thats all i do, lift weights and drink beer.

Gono has got a lot of talent but always seems to let himself down against the real top tier of MMA. Losses to Shogun, Hendo and Kang highlight that either he isn’t in the top division or looses his head under the pressure.

Fitch by G&P in the 2nd.

[quote post="4466"]ps: Did the REAL “Fitch” just posted on this blog????[/quote]

Yes.

[quote comment="260901"][quote comment="260829"]by the way….good job mmamania, by making it look like fitch vs. bozo the asian clown[/quote]

I take it you never seen Gono fight in PRIDE before? He has about a 15 minute ring entrance, filled with dancing, lip synching and costumes. The Prince Naseem of Japan.

[quote post="4466"]I hear ya VM! Show Fitch the money…that dude deserves it. Happy to hear his contract is extended. ViolentMike: did they really extend Hendo’s contract to another 5 fights? That would be great.[/quote]

John, I’m looking for the link right now. It wasn’t long, but it had GREAT Hendo information – He wanted to fight at MW to unify the belts the whole time. He was basically saying that he didn’t want to cut back down to 185 for contract negotiation purposes. Remember what some people on here were saying when Hendo said he didn’t want to fight at MW anymore? People were saying that everyone has a price. If the UFC offers him enough money, he’ll have to take the fight.[/quote]

Thanks for the info buddy………Hendo played it smart. Hendo seems to be business savy as well, which is good because he plans on managing other fighters careers when he retires. Very happy the UFC re signed Hendo…… They prety much had to, Hendo is a WILDCARD…On any given night he can beat any fighter in any division….but he can make a dent at both LHW and MW…..Hendo will fight his ass off for you against anyone…..I would have been so pissed if the UFC didnt re sign him!

Mark my words I GUARANTEE FITCH WILL NOT BEAT GSP, Ill give him Gono.

[quote comment="260907"][quote post="4466"]I hear ya VM! Show Fitch the money…that dude deserves it. Happy to hear his contract is extended. ViolentMike: did they really extend Hendo’s contract to another 5 fights? That would be great.[/quote]

Here ya go John. Its the third story down: http://blogs.chron.com/fighting/

Hendo signing a 5 fight extension is definitely news worthy! Mania *cough*cough* LOL

Also John, did you happen to catch that link I posted yesterday of Hendo’s first ever pro mma fight, in Brazil Open Fight ‘97?[/quote]

VM thanks buddy..I missed that post, but I did catch the link of Hendo’s 1st fight….he looked like a young lad….good sh*t VM!

Karo DOES deserve a title shot. His fights are rarely boring despite going to decisions. When he fought GSP in the prelims he caught GSP in a backwards body lock and for a second it looked as if GSP would tapout. Karo ended up getting beat up, but that has everything to do with conditioning–not skill.

[quote comment="260932"][quote post="4466"]Hendo signing a 5 fight extension is definitely news worthy! Mania *cough*cough* LOL[/quote]

You and John need to open those eyes:

http://mmamania.com/2008/01/07/ufc-quick-quote-dan-henderson-set-to-kick-ass-against-anderson-silva-at-ufc-82//quote

LOL, Mania, the article linked from that thread is where I had read it, and where I referred John.

Was that sentence in bold about the extension there when the thread was first posted?

[quote comment="260935"]Waste of a fight for Fitch. Violent Mike, do you have a man crush on Hendo…damn.[/quote]

Yes, that’s why I always post here about how great is butt looks in his shorts… (Sarcasm…) NO, OF COURSE I DON’T HAVE A CRUSH ON HIM, he is simply my favorite fighter.

[quote post="4466"]but GSP is by far the best JJ guy in the division. [/quote]

GSP is the best fighter in the WW division, and the most well-rounded. HOWEVER, he is not the best BJJ guy in the division. Serra is above him (of course), and so are several other fighters, including Dustin “McLovin” Hazelett.

[quote comment="261220"]“Ak Gono is a GREAT fighter. This is the biggest fight of Fitch’s career (even bigger then Sanchez.) Karo vs Fitch would be a great fight, but Karo has a bit of publicity right now with his douchebaggery on the show, the UFC is gonna use that to bolster a big fight with someone the likes of GSP.”

Luppers is correct about Gono. If you guys dont know how good he is then you really dont know shit about fighting. I fight the best guys in the world, FUCK titles, FUCK fighting popular guys just to pad a record. I have and will always fight the toughest opponent available. I fight for me, Im the one who has to look back at what I did with my career.

Fitch[/quote]

You tell ‘em Fitch! But the problem is that most US fans, especially the newer ones, do not know about most of the stars from PRIDE. They just see Gono’s record at 28-12-7 and think that he is just some can. But like you said, that is not the case at all. Gono fought at MW and LHW in PRIDE (most PRIDE fighters didn’t cut wieght, so that’s why they look small when the come to the UFC staying in same wieght class). But Gono is playing it smart, and cutting the weight now that he is in the UFC.

Of Gono’s losses, only 4 of them have come since the year 2000. And who did he lose to? Dan Henderson (the man at MW and LHW), Dennis Kang (a Top 10 MW), and Shogun (the most feared LHW until the Griffin fight). Not bad for a WW!

But on the real, Karo is scared to fight you. Sure he had a title shot years ago, but got hurt. Well since then, not only has he not been able to finish anyone (well Nick Thompson but that’s besides the point), but he also suffered a loss. Meanwhile, you haven’t lost, and you defeated the fighter that beat Karo. I heard your management team was really pushing for a fight with Karo, and deservedly so, in a #1 contender fight.

I REALLY loved your response. However the only statement that I wasn’t impressed with was “F*CK titles”. I believe that it should be every MMA fighters dream to become the UFC champ. Not only for the glory and recognition and proving it to yourself, but also for the financial benefits that come with being champ.

I wish you good luck in your fight, and look forward to seeing you fight for the title by the end of 2008 – provided the WW champs can stay healthy.

-ViolentMike

PS – I really hope the UFC payed you what you’re worth in your 3 fight extension. Good call on only signing for 3 fights, because after 3 fights, you can potentially be the WW champ.

[quote post="4466"]Fighting Gono will just further confuse people like ViolentMike, who insist that “Fitch has proven himself to be a Top 5 WW for years and years to come”. [/quote]

You got me Skankalicious! I’ll be the first to admit that I am biased towards Dan Henderson and Jon Fitch = they are my favorite fighters.

Also, what you have you seen from Jon Fitch that would make you think otherwise? He has been pretty dominant in all of his UFC fights. Even when Black belt BJJ guys that specialize in chokes have his back for more than half a round, on multiple occasions (I.E. the Roan Carneiro fight).

[quote post="4466"]“dear god please let serra beat gsp again, I know it was a miracle the first time but is it too much to ask for another? I need a real shot at the title and I know I can beat serra, thank you lord” karo parisyan [/quote]
LMAO! Giving Karo a title shot before Fitch is ridiculous. You’re absolutely right that he’s pulling for Serra. Some guys want to fight the best, but he’s not one of them.

just watch karo and fitch might either fight eachother or get some easier fights like this one to set up their title matches down the line for this year after serra fights gsp but i see maybe karo getting the first crack at it

[quote comment="261220"]“Ak Gono is a GREAT fighter. This is the biggest fight of Fitch’s career (even bigger then Sanchez.) Karo vs Fitch would be a great fight, but Karo has a bit of publicity right now with his douchebaggery on the show, the UFC is gonna use that to bolster a big fight with someone the likes of GSP.”

Luppers is correct about Gono. If you guys dont know how good he is then you really dont know shit about fighting. I fight the best guys in the world, FUCK titles, FUCK fighting popular guys just to pad a record. I have and will always fight the toughest opponent available. I fight for me, Im the one who has to look back at what I did with my career.

Fitch[/quote]
Why did you turn down a fight with matt hughes then? I would love to see that fight, and feel it would be pretty close. Not sure what you could do against gsp, IMO he’s better than you in every aspect.

[quote comment="261623"]Mark my words I GUARANTEE FITCH WILL NOT BEAT GSP, Ill give him Gono.[/quote]

Really?? Oh wow, since you say so; I guess I won’t bother to watch! Just out of curiosity, what was your predictions for GSP/Serr or Chuck/Jardine?

Fitch looked good against Diego, but lets face it: KARO BEAT DIEGO! That fight clearly should have gone to karo despite his gassing in the third. He clearly won the first two rounds and limited diego’s last minute heroics to late in the 3rd round. Maybe you boneheads need to hear it one more time: KARO BEAT DIEGO!.

Karo over fitch via broken neck from a judo throw.

[quote comment="261814"][quote comment="261623"]Mark my words I GUARANTEE FITCH WILL NOT BEAT GSP, Ill give him Gono.[/quote]

Really?? Oh wow, since you say so; I guess I won’t bother to watch! Just out of curiosity, what was your predictions for GSP/Serr or Chuck/Jardine?[/quote]
I think gsp could beat both serra and fitch right now fairly easily, but its true anything can happen, no fighter is immune to getting ktfo even the great anderson silva, its just very likely thats all for gsp to beat fitch IMO.

[quote comment="260881"]How does Karo deserve a shot after getting owned by Diego. Who then got his ass handed to him buy GSP.[/quote]
I agree! Karo got beat down both times! Don’t forget about Diego! People may say he’s no good but both Fitch and Kos beat him and got instant contender status. Kos probably got the best result from beating Diego. He got to fight GSP for the number one contender spot. Fitch beats Diego and gets Gono for nothing! Karo by no means deserves a shot right now. They should of put him up against Kos or had Diego and Kos rematch then the winner could face Karo for a shot behind Fitch. For sure Fitch should next line before anyone else…..Especially Karo!

“Ak Gono is a GREAT fighter. This is the biggest fight of Fitch’s career (even bigger then Sanchez.) Karo vs Fitch would be a great fight, but Karo has a bit of publicity right now with his douchebaggery on the show, the UFC is gonna use that to bolster a big fight with someone the likes of GSP.”

“Luppers is correct about Gono. If you guys dont know how good he is then you really dont know shit about fighting. I fight the best guys in the world, FUCK titles, FUCK fighting popular guys just to pad a record. I have and will always fight the toughest opponent available. I fight for me, Im the one who has to look back at what I did with my career.

Fitch”

“Why did you turn down a fight with matt hughes then? I would love to see that fight, and feel it would be pretty close. Not sure what you could do against gsp, IMO he’s better than you in every aspect.”

I was offered the Hughes fight with less than 3 weeks to prepare. I had also already spent a lot of money for a trip to Vietnam to do some charity work. I wasnt in the U.S. at the time of those fights. I match up with GSP very well. Honestly most of you guys have no idea what I bring to the table as a fighter. I seriously doubt any of you have seen all of my UFC fights. I havent even seen all of them.

[quote comment="262110"]“Ak Gono is a GREAT fighter. This is the biggest fight of Fitch’s career (even bigger then Sanchez.) Karo vs Fitch would be a great fight, but Karo has a bit of publicity right now with his douchebaggery on the show, the UFC is gonna use that to bolster a big fight with someone the likes of GSP.”

“Luppers is correct about Gono. If you guys dont know how good he is then you really dont know shit about fighting. I fight the best guys in the world, FUCK titles, FUCK fighting popular guys just to pad a record. I have and will always fight the toughest opponent available. I fight for me, Im the one who has to look back at what I did with my career.

Fitch”

“Why did you turn down a fight with matt hughes then? I would love to see that fight, and feel it would be pretty close. Not sure what you could do against gsp, IMO he’s better than you in every aspect.”

I was offered the Hughes fight with less than 3 weeks to prepare. I had also already spent a lot of money for a trip to Vietnam to do some charity work. I wasnt in the U.S. at the time of those fights. I match up with GSP very well. Honestly most of you guys have no idea what I bring to the table as a fighter. I seriously doubt any of you have seen all of my UFC fights. I havent even seen all of them.[/quote]
All I can go by is watching your fights which I’ve seen quite a few, I’ve seen most of your 7 fights in the ufc and also the jeff joslin fight where you had some difficulty but managed to win a split. I’ll be honest though most of the fights you were in I didn’t know who you were, but thought you did very well. Its a shame you won’t fight koscheck because I think that would be a very interesting fight as well as a fight with karo. I just watched your fight again with diego and thought the main advantage you had over him was strength and wrestling and thought it was a pretty close fight but you clearly won. Gsp will be a completely different fight and again I’m not sure what advantage you might have, maybe size but I think it’ll be a very entertaining fight.

Akihiro Gono vs Ivan Salaverry.

Didn’t Gono back-kick Ivan in the Gonoads?

http://www.mmalinker.com/index.php?mtype=sv&id=283&name=Ivan Salaverry

so I cant say that clown from tap out is a freak?ok if u say so douche.

I’m surprised Jon posts on this site… Maybe reading the opinions fuels the fire. In fighting emotion defeats intelligence every time; Karo maybe making a smart move but it leads to his downfall. Fitch Vs. Gono will be a great fight with Gono putting Fitch in several “close” submissions. But every Fitch fan knows you can’t choke him out, that’s one of his strengths. Gono will come out strong 1st round and be done in the 2nd, just like Roan

btw, Fitch is 6′0, maybe 6′1, and has leverage over every fighter in the class.

His accuracy in his striking is unrivaled. Not saying his power, but his accuracy, and that includes GSP, and anyone else.

Fitch is a better wrestler than GSP, and that’s an area GSP falls back on when things go bad for him. GSP is better at JJ, and his feet are better as well.

In the end, this is the fight we all want, no question, and I think come New Years weekend next year we’re going to see it.

THere’s no way Fitch renegotiated without the possibility of a title show in fight 3, so they give him a layup with Gono (even though it’s not one, but who is?), then another fighter for the right to fight GSP, after GSP fights Serra.

[quote comment="269339"]btw, Fitch is 6′0, maybe 6′1, and has leverage over every fighter in the class.

His accuracy in his striking is unrivaled. Not saying his power, but his accuracy, and that includes GSP, and anyone else.

Fitch is a better wrestler than GSP, and that’s an area GSP falls back on when things go bad for him. GSP is better at JJ, and his feet are better as well.

In the end, this is the fight we all want, no question, and I think come New Years weekend next year we’re going to see it.

THere’s no way Fitch renegotiated without the possibility of a title show in fight 3, so they give him a layup with Gono (even though it’s not one, but who is?), then another fighter for the right to fight GSP, after GSP fights Serra.[/quote]
How is fitch a better wrestler than gsp? Diego took him down a couple of times and I would bet my house diego doesn’t take down gsp. Gsp has very good reach for his height 76″ and he’s only 5′10 or so, ya fitch is a little taller but gsp’s reach is just as good if not better. Where does everyone get off on saying fitch is a better wrestler than gsp, by watching both of either fitches last two fights or gsp’s last two fights I really don’t know how you could come up with that conclusion. What ever, I totally disagree, and I’ll be proven right when these two guys eventually fight.

[quote comment="271821"][quote comment="269339"]btw, Fitch is 6′0, maybe 6′1, and has leverage over every fighter in the class.

His accuracy in his striking is unrivaled. Not saying his power, but his accuracy, and that includes GSP, and anyone else.

Fitch is a better wrestler than GSP, and that’s an area GSP falls back on when things go bad for him. GSP is better at JJ, and his feet are better as well.

In the end, this is the fight we all want, no question, and I think come New Years weekend next year we’re going to see it.

THere’s no way Fitch renegotiated without the possibility of a title show in fight 3, so they give him a layup with Gono (even though it’s not one, but who is?), then another fighter for the right to fight GSP, after GSP fights Serra.[/quote]
How is fitch a better wrestler than gsp? Diego took him down a couple of times and I would bet my house diego doesn’t take down gsp. Gsp has very good reach for his height 76″ and he’s only 5′10 or so, ya fitch is a little taller but gsp’s reach is just as good if not better. Where does everyone get off on saying fitch is a better wrestler than gsp, by watching both of either fitches last two fights or gsp’s last two fights I really don’t know how you could come up with that conclusion. What ever, I totally disagree, and I’ll be proven right when these two guys eventually fight.[/quote]
I agree with you Nathan for the most part. I think Fitch is an exceptional wrester, and would match with GSP well, I think he does well in every aspect except agasint submission specialists.