With back-to-back wins, Josh Koscheck is blazing a path back to the top of the 170-pound division since a disappointing unanimous decision loss to Georges St. Pierre at UFC 74: “Respect” last year.
In fact, it’s that loss that has motivated him to become a better fighter, pushing him to train harder and fight smarter.
So far so good — he has topped both Dustin Hazelett and Chris Lytle in different albeit equally impressive fashion. However, he won’t be satisfied until he gets the one thing that has alluded the NCAA collegiate wrestling champion:
A UFC title.
Koscheck is not used to losing. So he doesn’t care where, when or at what weight class it happens. He just wants it to happen … soon. And he seems hellbent on achieving that ultimate goal, regardless of the toll it takes on him.
We recently caught up with Josh after his unanimous decision win over Lytle at UFC 86: “Jackson vs. Griffin” earlier this month, discussing everything from who he wants to fight next to what he is sharing with his training partner, Jon Fitch, as he helps him prepare for the man who he can’t wait to get his hands on one more time — St. Pierre.
In fact, he says he’ll fight St. Pierre five times (and win) if that’s what it takes to one day wear UFC gold. He also says he’ll sacrifice and shed 15 pounds to compete against BJ Penn at 155 pounds if it means he gets his title shot.
Whatever it takes.
Here’s our discussion:
MMAmania.com: So let’s start off by saying congrats on the big win over Chris Lytle. That turned out to be quite a blood-soaked battle. I wouldn’t be surprised if you’re still finding his blood on you.
Josh Koscheck: [Laughs]. Thanks, man. I had to take like three showers and even then it was still everywhere. It turned my hair pink.
MMAmania.com: That was a tough fight because a lot of people sleep on Lytle — he’s very dangerous and very resilient. In fact, he’s never really been stopped other than a few cuts.
Josh Koscheck: Yeah, that’s what I was worried about when I was approached about the fight. He’s never really been stopped. I was a little more worried about this fight going in than some of the others actually because he’s good on the feet, great with submissions — has some tricky stuff. But we put together a great gameplan thanks to Javier Mendez and the other coaches at American Kickboxing Academy. Javier was pounding it in my head for three months leading up to the fight. In fact, he printed out Chris Lytle’s boxing record and made me stick it in the visor of my car so I would see it everyday and have that constant reminder that I was not going to trade punches all night with this guy. I just followed it to a tee and got the victory.
MMAmania.com: Are you surprised that the fight wasn’t stopped because of all the blood?
Josh Koscheck: I thought it should have been stopped. There was a lot of damage. At one point I knew he couldn’t see because his eyes were closed with the blood rushing into them. But then again if it were me I wouldn’t want the referee to stop the fight so hats off to Chris for hanging in there. I know I always tell the referees before my fights not to step in. If I’m in trouble I’ll tap.
MMAmania.com: So you actually approach the referees before your fights and tell them not to stop your fights?
Josh Koscheck: Yes, I always tell them to let me fight as long as I can. If I get hurt or am in a bad position I know that I am a trained professional that has the skills to protect myself and battle back and get out of trouble. Maybe Lytle said the same thing to the official … I have no idea.
MMAmania.com: Well, Yves Lavigne reffed that bout, who I consider one of the best in the business in terms of letting fighters battle back.
Josh Koscheck: He does a great job. He’s a good referee. All officials should be there to just monitor the situations and not have a hand in the outcome of the fights. So in that respect he does a good job.
MMAmania.com: During this pre-fight ritual that you just mentioned, do you ever think to yourself, “Damn, why does this guy have to ref my fight?” Is there one guy out there who you don’t want in there with you?
Josh Koscheck: As of right now I think everyone who officiates for the UFC has done a great job. It’s not easy at all. My fear is just that one of my fights gets stopped too soon. That’s why I always tell them, “Hey, if I get whacked so hard and I’m seeing stars don’t stop my fight. I don’t care if I’m on queer street just let me continue.” I’ll find a way out of trouble and I reinforce that every time I compete.
MMAmania.com: Is this something you just started doing recently because of situations like Brandon Vera or is this something you have always done?
Josh Koscheck: I’ve always done it. Even “Big” John McCarthy used to joke that he knew I was never going to tap after the loss to Drew Fickett. I guess I thought I could make it to the bell even though I didn’t. But I wouldn’t have known that unless I got choked out so I’m glad the ref didn’t step in. If I’m in an armbar I’d rather it break while I’m trying to escape or I’d rather go to sleep trying to get out of a choke. That’s to me a much better way of going out than a referee coming in and stopping it prematurely.
MMAmania.com: Ok, let’s move on. Before the fight you caused a little bit of a stir, saying you’d be willing to go down and fight BJ Penn if it was for a title. What was that all about?
Josh Koscheck: Let’s just get one thing clear: It’s not because I don’t think I can beat Georges St. Pierre or because my training partner Jon Fitch might win the belt. People have been saying those things ever since that article appeared. It’s not true. I will beat Georges St. Pierre — mark my words … it’s just a matter of time. The truth of the matter is that I want to become a world champion. It doesn’t matter if it’s at 170, 185 or even 155. If the opportunity is there and BJ Penn needs someone to fight at 155 I’ll be that guy. I don’t care. I want to be a world champion. That’s my goal and that’s the reason I fight. Right now my goal is still to become the 170 pound champion. But if an opportunity arises I would take it, especially if the money was right.
MMAmania.com: You look like a raisin already when you tip the scales at 170. It looks like you’ve been sucked dry. Can you even make 155?
Josh Koscheck: In wrestling I actually made 153 pounds. And when I was walking around then I was only about 174 pounds. I didn’t cut that much weight in college. I was big and strong and walked around super lean at 174 all the time.
MMAmania.com: What do you walk around at right now?
Josh Koscheck: I’m close to 190 pounds right now.
MMAmania.com: That’s a big cut.
Josh Koscheck: Yeah, it is. I’d have to change my whole lifestyle. I’d have to change my eating habits, I’d have to run seven days a week and do whatever it takes. It’s just a matter of dedication and I believe I could make 155. There’s no question about it. Again, I just want to win a title … I don’t care what I have to do or who I have to fight.
MMAmania.com: Does that include your buddy, Jon Fitch, if he beats St. Pierre on August 9?
Josh Koscheck: If Fitch wins the title then that is a great problem to have. We would probably do it if he had the title and I was next in line. We’d have a great opportunity to make some good money together and that what friends do — help each other out.
MMAmania.com: Let’s stick with the whole weight class issue for a minute here because you’re not the only one willing to move around. BJ has made it known that he intends to fight the winner of the fight between St. Pierre and Fitch later this year perhaps as soon as New Year’s Eve. Does that piss you off?
Josh Koscheck: Yeah that pisses me off. The last two times he fought at welterweight he lost. He’s 0-2 at 170 since he came back …
MMAmania.com: This would also be his third crack at the welterweight title.
Josh Koscheck: Listen, I like BJ Penn a lot. He’s actually one of my good friends. He is the UFC 155-pound champion and one of the most exciting fighters in the world. The UFC probably sees this as a great opportunity to put on another great pay-per-view for the fans. It is what it is. And at the end of the day if BJ does come back up to our division then it’s good for the sport and good for the rest of the guys at 170 who want to fight the best. He gets a lot of respect from me — he’s a phenomenal person and even better athlete — even though I might not agree with the decision for my own personal reasons. So if the UFC wants to do that then that’s their business. I’m just here to make money and one day become a world champion. My time will come no matter what happens.
MMAmania.com: So what’s more important to you: Fighting the best, being a champion or making money?
Josh Koscheck: They all go hand-in-hand. You don’t really get one without the other. If you’re the champion you’re constantly fighting the best and making good money. All three of them are important to me. But at the end of the day I want to fight the best guys in the world. You can’t have one without the other.
MMAmania.com: Even with the loss to St. Pierre you are still considered a top contender, especially after rebounding with big wins over Dustin Hazelett and Lytle. After several years with the organization, how does it finally feel to be paid like a top contender?
Josh Koscheck: [Long pause and then laughs]. We’re not going to answer that question.
MMAmania.com: It’s a matter of public record. You got $10,000 for your loss to St. Pierre and then $70,000 for your win over Lytle. That’s a massive — and well deserved — bump.
Josh Koscheck: What do you mean, man, I was rich when I lost to St. Pierre!
MMAmania.com: Not according to the Nevada State Athletic Commission.
Josh Koscheck: Listen, I have a good contract now. The UFC has treated and continues to treat me well. If I keep winning I’ll keep making more and more money. When I’m done fighting I want to have enough money socked away where I can do what I want without having to worry about anything. It’s important that I provide for me and for my family.
MMAmania.com: So that [Lytle] was your second fight on the new deal?
Josh Koscheck: No, it was my first.
MMAmania.com: How many more are left then before your next raise?
Josh Koscheck: Three more fights.
MMAmania.com: Did you buy yourself any new toys with the big paycheck?
Josh Koscheck: No, no new toys. Just saving it all for a rainy day. Putting it in the bank.
MMAmania.com: For what … a wedding ring?
Josh Koscheck: [Laughs] What?
MMAmania.com: Well we passed along news recently that your good friend Chuck Liddell just popped the question. And these things usually happen in twos or three so I figured I’d ask.
Josh Koscheck: Not right now. I’ve got too much going on. I want to become a world champion. And right now that’s my focus.
MMAmania.com: What kind of toll does your career have on a relationship?
Josh Koscheck: I think that all depends on who you have. I’m fortunate enough to have a girl who supports me and supports what I do. She’s just getting her career started like me, so we’re both focusing on our careers right now. It’s all good. I have someone who I can relate to about what it takes to be number one so for me it’s a good thing. I’ve got a great support system around me — my family, her family, my management team, my training partners and coaches at AKA. It’s a good situation for me right now.
MMAmania.com: Is she a fight fan … can she watch you fight?
Josh Koscheck: Oh yeah, totally, she loves it. Like I said, she’s a big supporter along with everyone else I just mentioned. And if I didn’t have that support it’d be a much harder road to the top.
MMAmania.com: Do you know who you are fighting next or when?
Josh Koscheck: No clue. And that’s fine for now. My goal is to get Fitch ready for St. Pierre. That’ll keep me fresh and ready for when the UFC comes calling.
MMAmania.com: There are a lot of guys tied up right now with other fights: Karo Parisyan, Thiago Alves, Diego Sanchez and some of the other top fighters in the division are either booked or injured. So if Joe Silva calls you up and asks you to give him a name what would you say?
Josh Koscheck: That’s unrealistic because Joe Silva has never called me.
MMAmania.com: OK then, Bob Cook calls you and tells you to pick.
Josh Koscheck: I don’t know. I just want to fight someone who makes sense and gets me closer to a title shot.
MMAmania.com: Is that possibly St. Pierre if Fitch wins … all things considered?
Josh Koscheck: You mean when Fitch beats St. Pierre, which I think he will? Yeah, why not. I’m dying to do a rematch with Georges. I don’t care if I have to fight him five times as long as it helps me get closer to that belt. It doesn’t matter to me because I know now that I can beat Georges. I don’t think I was totally ready for our first fight and I think it will go totally different the next time.
MMAmania.com: What have you taken from that experience and that loss and given to Fitch in training to help him prepare for St. Pierre?
Josh Koscheck: There’s actually a couple of things. Jon has the ability to scramble real well. He’s also a lot better than me of getting back to his feet when he’s put on his back. When I’m training with Fitch I have a very hard time holding him down. Those two things will help him tremendously in this fight. He’ll be able to get up to his feet and create scrambles if Georges takes him down.
MMAmania.com: I’ve met Fitch and Georges both and Fitch just seems a lot bigger. You’ve had your hands on both. Is there a size difference there that could be a factor?
Josh Koscheck: Fitch is a much taller fighter. He might even be a little stronger. He’s a grinder. That’s totally different than Georges who is an explosive athlete. It’s a total contrast in styles. I’ll use a wrestling analogy: Oklahoma State guys are always known to be super athletic. And then you have the Iowa guys who just grind you out and are relentless. So if the Oklahoma State guy doesn’t strike early then the Iowa wrestler usually breaks him in the later rounds. That’s how I see this fight going down. Georges is Oklahoma State and Fitch is Iowa. Georges may win the first two rounds, but I know for a fact that if this goes the distance Jon will likely be the better fighter in the later rounds.
MMAmania.com: I’ve actually been saying something similar ever since this fight was announced. If it’s a three-round fight I’d give the advantage to St. Pierre. But the five rounds seems to favor Fitch. He seems like a slow starter who gets going as the fight wears on.
Josh Koscheck: Realistically, Fitch isn’t a slow starter. He just fights at the same pace from bell to bell. He paces himself real well. So when fights hit the third round he might look a little better but he’s actually the same as he was in the first round. His opponents are the ones who usually tire and fade later in the fights, which makes Jon look sharp because he’s still fighting at the same tempo. That’s a huge advantage for him in any fight, especially a five rounder.
MMAmania.com: So then what’s your prediction for the fight between St. Pierre and Fitch?
Josh Koscheck: Fitch. He has all the tools. Georges now just seems like a wrestler who wants to takedown his opponents and beat them up on the ground. Fitch is a Brazilian jiu-jitsu black belt, he’s a great scrambler and he can get to his feet fast. He can also avoid submissions and take this fight into the later rounds. It’s definitely going to be a good fight.
MMAmania.com: So … Fitch by decision?
Josh Koscheck: I don’t know. Anything can happen. It’s just to hard to predict in this sport. I just think that Fitch will somehow win the fight.
MMAmania.com: Fair enough. It’s also fair to say that you have evolved remarkably as a fighter since your stint on the Ultimate Fighter. I know we’ve talked about that quite a bit throughout our various conversations. One thing I never asked, however, is whether or not you have any regrets.
Josh Koscheck: Regrets?
MMAmania.com: Yeah, like running the garden hose on Chris Leben when he was sleeping outside.
Josh Koscheck: [Laughs]. I see. I think most of us were young an immature on that show. We also had no idea at the time that it would explode like it did. We’ve all grown up since then for the most part. I can guarantee if we all went back on that show it would be totally different. We’d all have different opinions, personalities and other good stuff.
MMAmania.com: You might actually be on to something. The Ultimate Fighter: “The Reunion.” Any interest?
Josh Koscheck: [Laughs] Not really. Maybe of the money was right but probably not.
MMAmania.com: At least now you get to break stuff without it costing you anything.
Josh Koscheck: Yeah, right? These guys trash the houses every season. We had to pay for all the damages we caused out of our own pockets when our season was over. They should reimburse me that money!
MMAmania.com: How much did you have to cough up?
Josh Koscheck: I think it was like $2,000 or something like that, which was a lot of money at that time.
MMAmania.com: What was that for?
Josh Koscheck: It was after the whole Leben situation — he broke the window and the door. And me, him and Bobby [Southworth] had to split the bill for the repairs.
MMAmania.com: Damn. Ok man. That was a little off track. Anyway, we’ve taken a lot of your time tonight. We really appreciate it. Thanks as always. We wish you the best going forward. Any last words for our readers out there?
Josh Koscheck: Yeah, thanks to everyone who supports me. Thanks to MMAmania.com — you guys are great. Tell everyone to head over to MAR Clothing and buy some gear. We’ve got some really cool stuff over there.
124 Comments »
For Once, no real comment, not a big koscheck fan. he tries not to be so one dimensional, and I respect that, but in the long run, he’s not going to win any type of title (except maybe worst hair) in the UFC!
Yea, he only has wins in his career over diego (yea he was hurt big deal), hazlette, lytle, goulett and other respectable fighters. His only loss aside from gsp was to drew fickett and he was clearly winning that fite but got caught at the end. He went the distance with gsp and yes he got beat but he went the distance, something that nobody besides bj has done in three years. He mite not be ready for a title reign yet but he’s never been knocked out in his career, has world class wrestling and good striking skills to go with it. I think one or two more wins and he deserves a title shot to prove everyone wrong. for his next fite i’d like to see him take on Swick even though they’re teammates.
I agree, even in text, Kos sounds a d_ck.
Unless the elite XC change their name to ‘Ewe F C’ then Kos has no chance holding a UFC belt.
Great Interview Mania, but GOD how I F’in hate Koschek!
Auto is right, he sounds like a D_ck even in Text. THis guy is dillusional if he thinks that he will ever beat GSP. Fitch might, but Kos will never. GSP is younger and is no where near his prime (wow thats a scary thought)…as Kos gets better so will GSP….Kos u will never hold any title in the UFC, and BJ would make u look silly at any weight that u want!
all this evolved as a fighter stuff is over rated. Yes he has some submissions and sub defense, but I still think he is Garbage standing. He has pretty good high Kicks, put his hands are still a joke…with that stupid wild, looping, over hand right!
Koscheck f*ckin’ sucks!!!
Last time I checked he was a top 5 welterweight. And since your not, I take it that you suck even worse. Stop hating.
He is not a top 5 welterweight!
GSP
fitch
Sheilds
Alves
Diego
Yes Diego is better. Kos not doing any Damage to a half dead Diego sanchez was pathetic. If BJ penn fights someone
that is sick as a dog from a bad staph infection, do u really think the fight is going to a decision.
Kos biggest win of his life is a LIE!!! I am not some Diego sanchez nuthugger, I just tell it like it is….Diego thought he had to retire previous to that fight, thats how Ill he was, and Kos did nothing! We know why Diego did’nt do anything in that fight, but whats Kos’s excuse?
His 2 best and legit wins are against Hazlett (very young) and Lytle (impressive win)…Doesnt sound like a Resume of a top 10 fighter to me.
I am going to make a statement and I am not saying it cause I cant stand the guy, this is real talk:
Kos is a great wrestler, but is the most OVER RATED MMA fighter in the UFC….
I am not so sure that he could beat Hazlett if they were to fight again. That fight was Hazletts 1st fight against a big name, and I am sure he was nervous as all hell. Even in a loss, Hazlett learned thatr he truly belonged,k and I would give him a great chance at beating Kos if they were to fight again.
Me and PhilQNY spent about half hour on the Phone the other day just talking about that fight along with the future of Hazlett, and I honestly feel that Hazlett will be a UFC champion in a couple of years. He is young as hell (I think 22, 23 tops)
Correction: Doesnt sound like a resume of a top 5 welterweight to me. I do think he is top 10, just not top 5
as much as you’ve been all over me lately John, great post! couldn’t have said it better myself. By the way, I took a shot at you today, and apologize. I just got sick of you calling my unbiased opinions hating! I’m not hating anyone, and never claimed to always be right. just well informed and open minded. peace out guys gotta go to work!
John, your so far off it’s pathetic!!!!! Your letting hate for some guy snow your Opinion. Just an FYI, fighter fight injured and hurt all the time. It’s part of the game, and game the Dirty San lost. There first fight (TUF) was close as hell and you know Kos has gotten way way better. Dirty didn’t even look good in his last fight, (OVER RATEd) he is waaaaay to frantic…Dirty is NOT a top 10 fighter at 170. I bet you anything he loses his next fight!!!!!! Get the hell off his NUTs.
put Kos against sanchez now, it goes to sanchez easy!!! NO excuses, he beat diego last time! difference is, sanchez will get a title shot long befor kos. the only person I would rather see not get a shot is Karo!
there is a difference between fighting injured and fighting ill, u pathetic Donkey!
I hate Diego I am not even a fan of his, so WTF r u talking about? On his nuts? I hate him just as much as I hate on Kos! I cant wait to see my boy Alves Destroy him, but I still dont think kos can beat Diego…THats why I want to see it a rubber match between Diego and Kos!
He’s top 5 per Sherdog, mmaweekly, bloody elbow, fight magazine etc…
Why the heIl would a fighter want to fight another fighter he just beat 14 months ago 30 to 27 every round, and he lost AGAIN 5 months later (I don’t care if he is 5 feet working on 6 feet ill, either don’t take the fight or deal with the percussions) …and that’s the bottom line. Bluh Bluh that all you 2 are saying…you both think your right all the time and no one else should disagree, I have one word for that Rampage. While I’m on the topic of you two…Kevin likes to agree with John, (he thinks it make him sounds smarter (not the case)). John I give you respect sometimes but your no right all the time…deal with it. There are a lot of other people that’s been coming here long before u2…way back when it was call U FCm@n ia…and UF C J#nki& was better (m@ nia you kick J@ nk&e’s ass now). My final words, I wish you would have never found this site Kevin (you talk to much, and only 10% of your stuff is worth reading) and John continue to do what you do, just an FYI: you’re not always right!!! Oh BTW…Donkey John!!!! Are we playing poker or cant you handle someone disagree with you?
My comments are Pending…most likely won’t go through.
you 2 crack me up!!!
Hey Fresno, just shut the f*ck up! i don’t care about what your opinion is about Kos. All I know is that he sux! And John’s right, he ain’t a top 5, it’s just some website that you’ve seen, but accdg to my expert opinion, he’s not a top 5!…And your grammar’s lousy. You should type “YOU’RE[short cut for you are] instead of “YOUR”!. Hope you’re not American or British ‘cuz you bring disgrace to the english language!
Ok, first of all, Kos sounds like Tito, only after the money. Second, BFD, for someone who’s been visiting this site since it was ufcmania.com, you’d think you’d learn how fights are scored. You can’t win every round 30-27. Also, Diego isn’t a drummer, it’s reprecussions, not percussions. And fighting the same fighter in a 14 month period is not at all unheard of in mma. GSP vs. Serra. Franklin vs. Silva. And I’m sure the list could go on. So chill with your ‘bluh bluh’ talk, learn some mma and learn how to type.
Kos will never hold a belt. Kos beat BJ? GSP? Anderson Silva? He’s dreaming. Neither him nor Hughes could finish Lytle and if Kos fights GSP again he’ll get handled again like Hughes did. And for him to talk smack about BJ being 0-2 at 170 since he came back, BJ had a broken rib against Hughes and lost a very close decision to GSP. Kos is nowhere near deserving of a title shot, top fighters, or more money.
BNF: U called me pathetic, so I called u a pathetic Donky…..Sounds fair to me!
U say Diego shouldnt fight Kos because Kos dominated winning the fight 30-27…r u kidding me, that is the worst argument that I have heard all day. So he won every round, all that means is he landed 1 punch ion each round to Diego’s zero. Neither did any damage. Diego’s excuse is very understandable….whats Kos’s excuse?
another terrible argument of yours is that u say Die3go shouldnt have taken the fight when he was ill? THink about that for a second. Diego got ill at the last minute and THat was a co-main event, props to Diego for STILL L FIGHTING on is deathbed because think of all the fans that bought tickets to see that fighjt as a main event. how bad would it suck if the main event was scratched a couple days before.
Think Harder and come up with some actually valid points before debating me!
Hey john…I’m with you on the Hazelett bandwagon. What do you think about Hazelett taking on the winner of the Cummo/Barn Cat fight? I’d really like to see Hazelett and the Barn Cat go at it. They have the same body type, age, and skill set for the most part. I think Hazelett is a little further ahead of the game but not by much. I really hope we get to see Cummo/McCrory cause I’m a big fan of both of these guys and I’m not sure who to cheer for.
Hey john thats not BNF its BFD bro.
BY Bad, BNW! thanks JV
Buster I agree that I would love to see Hazlett fight the Barn Cat. THe Barncat is another underrated welterweight. THere body types are the same and it would make for a great match up.
My only concern is that the Barncat is still relatively unknown, while Hazlett is gaining momentum and increasing his fan base in the past year so Hazlett might be above fighting the Barncat at this point in time. Either way it would make for an incredible match up that I would love to see and both Barncat and McLovin have very bright futures in the uFC
Correction: my bad BNF, BFD is the Donkey! lol
I don’t think your supposed to fall after delivering a high kick.
I am trying to give him some credit, even though I hate his guts. For a guy training out of American Kickboxing Academy, i think his stand up still blows!
man bfd, is that you Josh? I also came here when it was ufcmania, woopdy doo right. calm down buddy, read my posts and you’d realize they are opinion. you don’t have to agree or disagree. I’m not always right! As far as agreeing with John. I guess in some instances I do, and others I don’t. You’re a funny guy though!
“equally impressive fashion” I guess laying on your opponent for 15 minutes is impressive :/
WEll I would like to know who did interview because there dead wrong about FITCH will take it If it goes 2 decsion. I like Kos, I just don’t think he has what it takes to become champ.
TOO MANY THINGS…. he (koscheck) WILL NOT win against either BJ PENN nor GSP. no matter if you lose, or gain weight, you’ll never win UFC gold. sucks, but it’s true.
I dislike Ko’s just like everyone else, but he can and will beat Sanchez again.
ONCE AGAIN KROSCHICK SHOWS JUST HOW LITTLE HE UNDERSTANDS ABOUT THE TALENT GSP HAS IN HIS TOOLBELT…. GSP WILL NEVER LOSE TO A FIGHTER WITH THE SUBSKILLS OF KROSCHICK!! KEEP DREAMING BITCH!!
hey linx, I put that list up for you in 2 different comment sections. nap time guys, check in in 90 or so! peace! You guys are on me today, and I love it, read the list of works and write down dec 6, manny beats deLahoya!
would you be willing to make a bet on that?
I’ll be betting around 5 mexican guys paychecks (anywhere from 1000-2000 each). Manny will be smaller, but unlike in mexico, the bull wins this fight!
Kevin:
I hope you seen my post in the previous thread.
I’m hurt that you suggested I put you down
lol
sorry I implied that auto, I was just as surprised considering I like you…except for the smileys, but it’s your thing…no matter how gay it is! just kidding..
I never have put anyone down on here, not one. I’m a mix between stinky fingers and John.
I’ll have a laugh but will also have a serious discussion.
Just don’t ignore me again or my wife will find you lol
What smileys?
lol nice auto
walk where I walk, see what I see, man I welcome u all to Cashville 10 a key B_tch…
BUT U CANT DO IT LIKE ME!!!! LMAO…teasin Auto!
You lost me after walk lol
I’m from the UK remember, not got a clue what you just said you yanker lol
John, can you enlighten me as to how Kevin got his name?
He is in the huff with me today
Auto, I bet roy that affliction wouldn’t do 25,000 ppv buys. I knew they would, but was making a point that Fedor (while the best HW ever) isn’t a draw in the U.S.
Thanks Kevin
How long you got the name for??
Fedor probably gained a lot of new fans after that fight.
Pretty silly bet as they would have surpassed 25000 solely on the other fights, voiding your point.
At least you don’t have the name I had lol
Thanks for the response Kevin
25000 would have been surpassed solely on the draw of the other fights, which kind of voids your point.
How long do you have the name?
For some reason my posts aren’t being displayed.
I have posted a response twice Kevin to no avail
Thanks Mania or should I say Mamma Mia
lol
Auto, I was just posting Lyrics of a stupid rap song…wasnt even funny!
Great interview mania. I like Kos, he has matured as a fighter and as a person. How can you not like this guy, he real as it gets. He tells you exactly what everyone thinks. Good stuff.
Agreed… Sometime people fall into the hype of a fighter trying to make a name and think they will always be like that. It gets old hearing about how “one sided” he is… He’s changed a lot and will destroy an Alves or Karo.
I cannot stand that freaking Blanket. Kos will never beat GSP. Kos could win a title if GSP wasn’t there but I still think it’s unlikely.
BJ penn would crush Kos. 2nd round TKO.
Yaaay. Mania himself is doing an interview!
In your second comment, when speaking of Lytle, it says “he’s never really been stopped other than a few submissions and cuts”
Lytle has never been submitted, nor stopped via KO.
“Hey, if I get whacked so hard and I’m seeing stars don’t stop my fight. I don’t care if I’m on queer street just let me continue.” I’ll find a way out of trouble and I reinforce that every time I compete.
Last time I checked, Kos was BORN on Queer St.
Yeah I knew that. Not sure how the submissions thing got in there. Thanks.
“In fact, he says he’ll fight St. Pierre five times (and win) if that’s what it takes to one day where UFC gold.”
Might change the where to wear.
Yeah, I think that’s the address of his hairdresser.
lol PW you always have a quick one stored away
Great Interview!!!
Even though I can’t stand Kos, I must admit that he has actually been growing on me. JUST a little. I just hated him SO much during TUF 1.
TUF The ReUnion LOL. That’s a good one, I never even thought about that!
In an EliteXC thread, a couple people were saying that Sheilds is not Top 5 in the WW division. However, every ranking has Josh Koscheck in the Top 5 of the division. IMO, there is NO WAY that Kos can be ranked higher than Sheilds.
By the sounds of it, Kos would not take back a thing that he did back on TUF. That surprises me. The guy wonders why he has so many “haters” yet he acts like he did nothing out of the norm on TUF. That was pretty much the only incident of pure hazing that took place (besides Leben pissing on Thacker’s bed, but that’s another story).
Kos and Leben should fight in a catch weight match, or have Kos simply move up to MW. I think that the two of them HAVE to fight at a real UFC event. Leben can try and beat the apology out of him, because by the sounds of it, it isn’t coming any time soon.
I’ve always thought Leben could maybe make 170 if he really pushed it.Any idea what weight he walks around at?
no way that Kos could beat Jake Sheilds…N freakin way!
Well i’m sure Kos would keep that fight standing.He would’nt want any part of Jake on the ground and i’m pretty sure Jake would’nt be able to take Kos down.Question is who has the better stand-up.
Jake! Kos’s stand up is still pathetic. He has a good high kick but thats about it. His punches are still amatuer at best, I mean seriously, has he ever even landed that stupid, wild, looping, overhand right? This whole, he has evolves so much, is just an over rated line used by Rogan…It not all that accurate IMO. Has he gotten better since his stint on TUF? Absolutely! TRhere would be something wrong if he hasnt improved… Everytime he has faced a top level striker, he was dominated standing, or quickly took the fight to the ground. he actually justr admitted my point, when he talked about his gameplan for the Lytle fight. GSP picked him apart standing up. I will never forget those superman punch foillowed by Leg kick combos that GSP was blasting him with over and over through out the fight.
Tell him to keep his mouth closed about BJ, cause BJ will whoop dat ass, at any WEIGHT!
john answered that question for you! shields would destroy Kos!
Kevin: Maybe my hate for the guy is clouding my judgement how do u honestly see Kos’s stand up right now?
average at best. he’s over rated, I wasn’t kidding, I would have rathered heard from AKA’s own matt major than KOS. He won’t fight Fitch ant ways (and would have no chance! can’t go to MW, he’d get hurt and BJ would mame him at LW. Start eating josh…oh wait Lesner is a better wrestler…sorry!
I feel that his high kick is good. Low kicks and body kicks are nothing special. His hands are still WEAK! And he doesnt even tuck his chin when he fights. I often still see him fighting with his head straight up ion the air, sooner than later someone is going to catch him on the chin and put that troll doll haired wanna be to sleep!
VM-
LOL. Dude, that is some serious hate for Kos.
BTW-Off Topic
I saw the replay to the Vera/Reese and Goran/Gouivea (sp?) fights this weekend.
Goran was getting his lunch handed to him until that lucky grazing punch to Gouivea.
Vera looked terrible.
How about Goran vs. Vera?
Talk about fireworks…
not a bad match up
fitch will defeat gsp
Mania:
Great interview under the circumstances.
It sounded like you were drawing blood from a stone sometimes, like he was on the defensive all the time.
What’s your thoughts on how it went???
Nah, he’s a good guy. Perhaps something was lost in translation into text. He wasn’t that defensive. We were having a good time.
good interview, and we all know you can’t call him a douche or you won’t be getting top interviews anymore, leave the douche bag comments to us!
He’s the furthest thing from a douche. He’s a good guy.
yeah, sure he is. I would’ve rathered an interview with that tall lanky black dude that was on tap out. Forgot his name!
matt major!
Maybe he is a good guy, albeit dillusional: -
Josh Koscheck: Let’s just get one thing clear: It’s not because I don’t think I can beat Georges St. Pierre or because my training partner Jon Fitch might win the belt. People have been saying those things ever since that article appeared. It’s not true. I will beat Georges St. Pierre — mark my words … it’s just a matter of time. The truth of the matter is that I want to become a world champion. It doesn’t matter if it’s at 170, 185 or even 155. If the opportunity is there and BJ Penn needs someone to fight at 155 I’ll be that guy. I don’t care. I want to be a world champion. That’s my goal and that’s the reason I fight. Right now my goal is still to become the 170 pound champion. But if an opportunity arises I would take it, especially if the money was right
Nuff said lol
The furthest thing from a douche would be a fresh, clean vag.
PW, that settled it. Kos is a recently douched cleaned up vag.
“The Ultimate Fighter: Reunion”.. Now that would be fckn crazy!!
man, that was a great interview, Mania. way to push him on the money questions. I could learn a thing or two.
adam: why didnt you do the interview? I thought you were the interview guy around here? was it because you had already interviewed him?
I live in Philadelphia, and if you guys need someone to interview Eddie Alvarez…Let me know, I would love to interview him!
Hey Mania..you grinded that interview to Kos..nice work. Tuf questions..deserve tuf answers.
Nice interview…
wow i really didn’t think that after they trash the house they have to pay it back out of their own pockets..Seem’s very pathetic on behalf of UFC to make these guyz who are just about starting their career to make em pay when they have billions in the bank… but as for koscheck.. he’ll lose 5 if he fought gsp 5 x
are you serious Ricky, if you trash you moms basement, won’t she make you pay to fix it? These guys (while yes they are bored) need to focus on the training and opportunity they have been given, and less time on drinking and ruining a nice home!
Kevin: I agree, but to some degree its Dana’s fault! Eliminate the Booze from the house, instead of stockinbg the house with every liquor known to man!
and give the guys a TV and some video games. I understand no telephones and Internet because fighters might leak info about the show to family or the public, and it could spoil the show when it airs, but at least give these guys a TV and a few video games. If they do that, I guarentee half of the BS from the show would be eliminated!
The other day, me and Phil were talking and I suggested, instead of holding up fighters for the dumb reality show, why not let Goldy and Rogan be the coaches? Rogan is skilled, but Goldy doesnt know anythiung, so they can each bring in Big time trainers to be on the staffs to train the kids.
I dont need fighters as coaches to hype up future match ups.
I dont think that was the policy after TUF 1, which is the reason he joked about getting reimbursed.
you’re right mania, they are implementing that after last season. and good save saying he’s not a douche. even tim sylvia has won over a few fans, only a real top notch dick, like Kos, can’t do that.
they don’t have to pay for damages anymore, not since the show took off.
They pretty much encourage them to trash the house now. It makes for good filler in the middle part of the season when the show lags.
both WRONG they have already said, and been reported that starting with the nog/mir season they will have to reimburse any thrashing to the house. I agree by the way!
The first season they were made to pay for their damages. After the success of the show, including the “drama” portions that people found entertaining UFC (or possibly Spike for their ratings) told fighters they could wreck the place. This has been confirmed in several interviews with TUF cast members. It has gotten to the point of being out of hand now that Dana had to put an end to it and said that again in the upcoming season, “You break it, you buy it.”
I don’t think Kos has what it takes to be a UFC champion, unless its at 155 after BJ moves up to 170. He could probably take anyone else at 155 but not BJ. The fact that Diego took his back immediately after getting taken down, proves that although Kos’s wrestling is world class, his ground work isn’t well rounded enough. I also think that if him and Diego meet in a rubber match, that Diego takes it. He’s come a long way since then, and I think he fights a smarter fight 3rd time. Whatever happens, it should be interesting.
On a personal level, I think Kos personifies the term, “ass clown”. His showboating after the 2nd Diego fight showed that he in fact HASN’T grown up much since TUF 1, especially because that was a pitifully boring fight. He was acting like a 6 year old after that fight. In fact, if he wasn’t such an idiot, he might not have been booed after his destruction of Chris Lytle. That was an amazing performance, and just because of his attitude, people still booed him. I will never root for him again, and if he fights GSP again, I hope GSP KTFO’s him.
he might beat a few people at 155, but not anyone who matters, sherk, penn, florian, those guys would murder him
I think he could take Flo (by decision), and Sherk would be questionable. Other than that, I think he could lay and pray on anyone at 155.
I’d like to see him fight the winner of Thiago Alves vs. Diego Sanchez. I think it’ll be Thiago.
yea, theres a long line for title shot anyways. might as well make a line for #1 contender. I wanted him to bodly call out 1 of those guys because everybody still think his win over Diego wasn’t legit.
It certainly wasn’t exciting, but it was legit. He put together a game plan to be the first to beat Diego, and it worked.
hahah ill beat gsp 5 times ….whats drug is this kid doing someone pop his head and tell him hes a c list fighter…. for the rest of his life
I freaking hate Koz and his stupid hair.
Rob Dib
http://www.break-your-face.com
I know Kos has a lot of haters out there. And as a Leben fan, I admit that I was never a Kos fan. But I had the chance to interview him in person a while back, and he totally changed my opinion of him. He’s a very nice guy and doesn’t come across in person as the cocky dude a lot of his critics think he is.
Ever since meeting him, it’s really hard not to root for the guy. We all have our favorite fighters, along with guys we love to hate. I think Kos gets the short end of the stick more often than not. Just saying.
I have to agree. He made his enemies on the TUF show, but come on guys – try getting stuck in a house with a bunch of guys and nothing to do.
He’s one of those guys that are stuck with it though. I don’t see people changing their minds about him, even though he’s acted much better. He’s been pigeon holed and he’s stuck with it.
Do you remember how happy he was when Spider Silva TKO’d Leben? The camera panned to him and he looked like a ten-year-old who just scored a whole bag of candy bars on Halloween night.
Mania,
When are you doing the next monthly post count???
It would be interesting to see what the count is nowadays.
they stopped that after everyone tooled on john 3 or 4 months ago…thank god, I spend way too much time on this site. lol
That would be Eluded, not Alluded…
kos has the meanest TD’s in the sport next to Brock. looked like those guys got hit by a car. he’s the only 1 to ever put GSP on his back. sherdog rankings has him at top3. i’d put him below alves and shields though. plus we need a diego rematch. that last diego fight didn’t count.
I have always liked Kos. I really don’t get why so many people hate on him. The show was what it was…big deal, that was years ago. He is a great fighter, very entertaining, and yes, occasionally a little cocky, but it is refreshing to see fighters who have personality (ala Rampage, Karo, Penn, etc.) even if there is some attitude and cockiness mixed in. How many people thought Ali was too cocky back in his day?
Bro, a personality is different than being delusional and arrogant. Keep dreaming if you think you are gonna beat GSP.
Rampage – complete jokester, no one every take him seriously cause he’s just crazy.
Karo – arrogant yes, but news flash he sucks, if Koshcheck wants to be a top notch fighter Karo is the LAST person he should be modeling himself after.
BJ Penn – ridiculous so he is allowed to be a bit arrogant.
“In fact, he says he’ll fight St. Pierre five times (and win) if that’s what it takes to one day wear UFC gold.”
^^^ dream on, Josh.
Fitch has a chance against GSP or he wouldnt be fighting for the title, although i dont think he will win and he is hoping to much on his game plan…i think kos may be filling him with alot of hope to, fitch has a chance but i think GSP takes it and i think if Kos fights gsp 5 times he hurts his record with 5 more loses, not what he needs right now
Fitch is not fined tuned enough to beat GSP.
But anyone can pull a Serra.
Koscheck isn’t the best fighter; but he has, by far, the best mental focus of any WW in the UFC. He constantly focuses on being champion, whereas other fighters focus on being a better fighter, or improving their skill-sets, or the money, etc. You can be like Diego and “evolve”, but never make it to the top (which I don’t think Diego will). Or you can be like Koscheck and just want the belt more. Koscheck was an NCAA national champion, so he already has a champion’s mindset. It takes more than pure technical skill to get there.
Only time will tell, but I think Koscheck will be a champion in the UFC. I don’t think he’ll hold the title very long, but I think he wants the belt more than most.
Kos is a great fighter, very hard worker and dedicated.
I dont see why you guys rip on him, he gave GSP his toughest fight aside from BJ Penn.
If they fought again and Kos decided to use his wrestling more, he has a reasonable chance of beating GSP, I still think Kos has a wrestling edge over GSP, he just needs to be much more aggressive with it, instead of using it defensively.
I mean Kos has been wrestling since he was 5 YEARS OLD, he was a NATIONAL D-1 NCAA CHAMPION! His biggest problem is adapting his awesome wrestling to MMA, the takedown setups in MMA are different to wrestling, so he has to UNLEARN all those techniques first, before making his wrestling more MMA effective.
The reasons GSP is such a good MMAwrestler is because
a) He is fast and explosive
b) He is smart and a fast learner
c) He is not from a collegiate wrestling background, so he straight away learned Wrestling for MMA. He did not have to UNLEARN any “bad habits” you get from pure wrestling which are innefective and a waste of time for MMA e.g. 2-on-1s, Arm Drags, Wrestling stance.
Why do you think Kos was using his wrestling defensively? I think it is all the reasons you listed, on what makes GSP a great MMA wrestler.
I have never liked Kos from the TUF series. I think he is an arrogant prick. And Diego would definately beat him if they fought again. If he had any sort of pride he would see that was a hollow victory and want to fight Diego again just to shut everybody up. But he seems to be content with a victory over a 50% Diego. What also annoyed me with him is that he seemed to have the easier ride to the top of the division when he fought GSP. Diego definately had the tougher opponents working his way up the ladder.
IMO anyone who doesn’t tap and would let their arm break is a huge dumbass. Lets put my career on hold for 6 months while my arm heals.
KOS is a moron. He will never beat anyone worth a damn.
I agree, those “I’m too tough to tap” guys always make me laugh. I get the image of a squirrel trying to chew its leg off when I hear fighters say that.
LMAO squirrel…
Koscheck is the number 3 welterweight in the world, ranked by people who know what the fuck they are talking about!!!!
i think it’s funny that all you kos hater’s are here. if you guys hate kos so much then why are you guys reading this article??? dosn’t make sence to me
….I’d like to see you wannabe’s get in the ring with any of you and see if you’d be talking the shit you guys talk from your keyboards…
Kos, is that you?
Not quite…but he gets a bad rap that really isn’t warranted. But I guess you arm chair fighters believe everything you see on tv…TUF was an awful long time ago and I can see where people would dislike him based on that but I can tell you during the show he was an amateur fighter, he’s developed into a pro in the past 3 years. Too, why doesn’t anyone talk shit about Diego? Do you remember the weigh in’s? Now there is a retard you all should be booing….
Wow, I’ve never understood the hatred for Kos. I’ve always liked him and I think he could grab a title one day. He’s a great athlete that is putting together all the fundamentals. He’s got a great wrestling base which is where most champions start. The fact that he was a 4 time Division 1 All American wrestler puts his wresting skills up there with the best.
He’s shown marked improvement in his stand up since TUF. He’s won 7 out of his last fights, losing a DECISION to GSP… who some consider the best pound for pound fighter in the world. GSP didn’t crush him in my opinion. Sure, he did take him down a lot easier than even I thought he would, but it wasn’t like he got totally crushed or destroyed. I kind of felt like Kos largely avoided any major damage, however, GSP was the one with some big takedowns and stayed on top. But look, he was fighting GSP, who’s incredibly well rounded and well known for superior wrestling as well.
I think Kos is a work in progress and will be a serious contender in the coming years in either 170 or 155. Go Kos, keep training, keep doing your thing! Ignore the haters. Most don’t have the balls to do what you do anyway.
man so many people hate kos. on ultimate fighter season he acted like a dick and his fights were boring but since then he has shown the best improvment since that show. hes way better that diego now. i recon his next fight should be against either tiago alves or diego for a shot at the title.
you KOS haters will never change because you are stuck on being a hater. Chris pissed on someones bed and Kos sprayed water on him. get real, thats a good reason to be a hater. And god how long ago was that. You’ll never get to know KOS for the athlete that he is cause all you want to do is be a hater. Cocky, come on look at most of the fighters, you have to be cocky thats the fun of it and for entertainment. Ask Forrest Griffin the fought with a broken arm and won so go figure that he didn’t tap. And all the fighters are in it 4 the MONEY. that is there JOB.