I was rummaging through some old papers I had stored away and I came across some old poems I had written over the past 10 years or so. But the one interesting item I found is actually not poetry at all but the recollection of a dream.
I recall writing this passage immediately after waking up one morning. Rather than writing out the details of the dream... it was as if I was doing automatic writing. The words just flowed and I put pen to paper. It's still surreal and dream-like (to me, at least... but only because I remember the dream... lol)
Hope you enjoy it.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
The Believer
"I believe that was a Chinese proverb." she exclaimed after yet another nonsensical statement. "She" was a middle aged black woman with a weathered countenance giving her almost an elderly look. Her hair was tied back so tight that her hair opened up resembling a mini afro about half the size of her head. Despite the age on her face, her afro-puff showed few signs of age as only a few gray hairs were visible.
"Those Jehovah's Witnesses don't know a thing, but they good in my book because at least they believe in God and the Good Book." She tilted her head back partly in laughter but also to keep her horn-rimmed glasses from falling off her nose. The sunlight peeking through the bus window gleamed off of the silver house key dangling from the hoop earring on her right ear.
"Oh, Judge Brennan B. Oh, the biggest mistake you made was when you took my baby girl from me." Shaking her head, she raised her hand to her mouth. With a delighted sigh, she savored what was left of the glazed donut she held in her hand. "Oprah can keep her chicken wings in her trailer. Maya is the one I want to meet. Oh sista Angelou. You are my hero."
That last sweet bite of donut was washed down with water. She wiped her mouth with a flimsy piece of wax paper. "I believe I wouldn't be here were it not for my holy water" she proclaimed with donut crumbs flying in awkward arcs from her mouth. "Not like that Renee Washington! Everyone loved her. Never minding the fact that she was a PROSTITUTE. The whore had it coming to her."
She turned around and stared me in the eye. "You know what I mean, sonny?" There was a flash of momentary sanity in her gaze that compelled me to reply with a nod. She let out a laugh that woke me from my hypnotized state.
"I know YOU know what I mean, Mr. Bus Driver Man!" she yelled as she turned back around in her seat.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
And then I woke up.
I probably could add some more details to this and touch it up a bit but this was what I had on paper and I wanted to stay true to the original work. Maybe one day when I'm feeling... inspired.. I'll fix it up and maybe add to the story.
I hope to see you back here soon. Until next time, faithful reader....
Saturday, November 29, 2008
Tuesday, November 25, 2008
Crazy text
Hey all,
So a few days ago, I received what has to be one of the strangest text messages I ever had the pleasure of reading (and responding to). Below is the transcript with excess and, at times, unnecessary commentary:
----------------------------------------------------
Unknown # (6:17 PM): Are u paying the daycare or I am being left paying it. It's the bitch bitchin
[Clearly, I was taken aback as I have no children - that I'm aware of - so I clearly had to diffuse the situation quickly without seeming like the idiot that didn't care about paying for the daycare expense of his kids. Either that or just ignore it... but I couldn't do that. This woman needs to know that I'm not the guy she thinks I am. Then again, why am I assuming it's a girl texting? How sexist of me.]
Me (6:23 PM): I don't know who u are and I don't know this #. I suspect your msg was not meant for me.
[This seemed like the best option for a reply. But I wish I had been able to come up with such a 'clever' and thoughtful response in less than 6 minutes. I'm losing my touch.]
Unknown # (6:27 PM): I am the mother of your kids. Don't worry we don't know you either.
[AW CRAP!!! Exactly what I was trying to avoid. I could see the venom oozing off the phone as I read this reply. I had tried to make her realize that she sent the message to the wrong person without having her interpret it as her man trying to skirt his responsibility - and thus upsetting her further. Instead, I got the EXACT reaction I was hoping to avoid. *sigh* What to do now? Let her cool off or reply immediately?]
Unknown # (6:29 PM): Sorry so sorry you're right wrong number truly sorry.
[THANK GOD!!! She figured it out without me replying and making her even more upset. *WHEW* wow... I hope she can get in touch with her baby daddy and get her $$]
Me (6:30 PM): No problem. I completely understand. Good luck.
[Eh... I figured I should reply and let her know it was no big deal... for me that is. It's still a big deal to her.]
Unknown # (6:37 PM): Thanks I need it. :)
['Nuff said]
----------------------------------------------------
Lesson learned:
The next time you find yourself with a random text message from an unknown number, it may not hurt to reply and give some encouragement to those in need.
'til next time faithful reader...
So a few days ago, I received what has to be one of the strangest text messages I ever had the pleasure of reading (and responding to). Below is the transcript with excess and, at times, unnecessary commentary:
----------------------------------------------------
Unknown # (6:17 PM): Are u paying the daycare or I am being left paying it. It's the bitch bitchin
[Clearly, I was taken aback as I have no children - that I'm aware of - so I clearly had to diffuse the situation quickly without seeming like the idiot that didn't care about paying for the daycare expense of his kids. Either that or just ignore it... but I couldn't do that. This woman needs to know that I'm not the guy she thinks I am. Then again, why am I assuming it's a girl texting? How sexist of me.]
Me (6:23 PM): I don't know who u are and I don't know this #. I suspect your msg was not meant for me.
[This seemed like the best option for a reply. But I wish I had been able to come up with such a 'clever' and thoughtful response in less than 6 minutes. I'm losing my touch.]
Unknown # (6:27 PM): I am the mother of your kids. Don't worry we don't know you either.
[AW CRAP!!! Exactly what I was trying to avoid. I could see the venom oozing off the phone as I read this reply. I had tried to make her realize that she sent the message to the wrong person without having her interpret it as her man trying to skirt his responsibility - and thus upsetting her further. Instead, I got the EXACT reaction I was hoping to avoid. *sigh* What to do now? Let her cool off or reply immediately?]
Unknown # (6:29 PM): Sorry so sorry you're right wrong number truly sorry.
[THANK GOD!!! She figured it out without me replying and making her even more upset. *WHEW* wow... I hope she can get in touch with her baby daddy and get her $$]
Me (6:30 PM): No problem. I completely understand. Good luck.
[Eh... I figured I should reply and let her know it was no big deal... for me that is. It's still a big deal to her.]
Unknown # (6:37 PM): Thanks I need it. :)
['Nuff said]
----------------------------------------------------
Lesson learned:
The next time you find yourself with a random text message from an unknown number, it may not hurt to reply and give some encouragement to those in need.
'til next time faithful reader...
Tuesday, November 18, 2008
Calling all Facebook addicts
I thought some of you may enjoy this one... Consider this a stall tactic until my next post. ENJOY!
Why we’re no longer friends on Facebook.
Hi. This is awkward. Well, awkward for you anyhow. You might have noticed that I recently terminated our friendship on Facebook. Please try not to be too upset. This decision is by no means a reflection on you or on the validity of your thoughts, feelings, and posted items. I’m just really, really tired of hearing about them. The reasons for your termination include the following:
* Status updates that could apply to every single person on Facebook. Really, you hate Monday? You’re glad it’s Friday? You’re looking forward to the long weekend? Well somebody alert the goddam media.
* Using your status updates solely as a vehicle to promote your website, consulting company or crocheted cat sweater store on Etsy. Violation will be considered particularly flagrant if accompanied by a sleazy headshot and words like “Deals” or “Opportunity.”
* Gratuitous banality.
* Overuse of exclamation points and/or emoticons. If you need them to tell me how! happy! you are!!!!!! you should probably just work on becoming a more effective writer :) !!!
* Missing the irony
* The sincere belief that song lyrics express your unique emotions
* Repeatedly harassing me about your lil green patch. I do not want to know about the size and/or color of your patch.
* Posting things everyone has already seen, fifteen times, more than a week after we saw it. What? Sarah Palin made an ass of herself with Katie Couric? Well let me get right on THAT.
* I never actually liked you anyway.
Please note that the above list of Facebook Friend Violations (FFV) is not intended to be exhaustive and that we reserve the right to terminate friendships for any reason and without prior notice. Kthx.
[The above entry was "Borrowed" from http://urbzen.com/]
Why we’re no longer friends on Facebook.
Hi. This is awkward. Well, awkward for you anyhow. You might have noticed that I recently terminated our friendship on Facebook. Please try not to be too upset. This decision is by no means a reflection on you or on the validity of your thoughts, feelings, and posted items. I’m just really, really tired of hearing about them. The reasons for your termination include the following:
* Status updates that could apply to every single person on Facebook. Really, you hate Monday? You’re glad it’s Friday? You’re looking forward to the long weekend? Well somebody alert the goddam media.
* Using your status updates solely as a vehicle to promote your website, consulting company or crocheted cat sweater store on Etsy. Violation will be considered particularly flagrant if accompanied by a sleazy headshot and words like “Deals” or “Opportunity.”
* Gratuitous banality.
* Overuse of exclamation points and/or emoticons. If you need them to tell me how! happy! you are!!!!!! you should probably just work on becoming a more effective writer :) !!!
* Missing the irony
* The sincere belief that song lyrics express your unique emotions
* Repeatedly harassing me about your lil green patch. I do not want to know about the size and/or color of your patch.
* Posting things everyone has already seen, fifteen times, more than a week after we saw it. What? Sarah Palin made an ass of herself with Katie Couric? Well let me get right on THAT.
* I never actually liked you anyway.
Please note that the above list of Facebook Friend Violations (FFV) is not intended to be exhaustive and that we reserve the right to terminate friendships for any reason and without prior notice. Kthx.
[The above entry was "Borrowed" from http://urbzen.com/]
Saturday, November 15, 2008
UFC 91 Preview (and why YOU should care)
Welcome Ladies and Gentleman,
UFC 91 is scheduled for tonight at 10PM (EST) on PPV. The main event of the evening will feature the return of Randy "The Natural" Couture v Brock Lesnar for Couture's Heavyweight championship belt.
(My apologies to any hardcore MMA fans who will be reading this post as most of this is old news to you. But scroll down if you're only here for the predictions.)
I won't bore you with the details of the past year's developments so I will give you the abridged recap of the past year or so in the UFC's heavyweight division: Randy Couture was the UFC champion last year. During a contract dispute between he and the UFC, the promotion crowns an interim champ while things with Randy got sorted out (for better or worse). The interim champ, Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira ("Big Nog") was scheduled to defend his belt against Frank Mir after the conclusion of this season's The Ultimate Fighter on Spike TV. During the taping of TUF, Randy and the UFC settled their differences which did not allow for the scheduling of a title unification bout between Big Nog and Randy. The opponent chosen by the UFC for Randy's belt was Brock Lesnar.
Why Brock?
(1) $ - This is a big money match up between two recognizable names. There are so many ways this bout can be promoted (and analyzed): wrestler v. wrestler (not to be confused with pro wrestler); experience v. youth; small heavyweight v huge heavyweight; champ with a year long layoff v challenger who has recently competed. No matter how you slice it, this main event has the making of a blockbuster.
(2) Vendetta - Many have said that Dana White (UFC President) saw this as a "punishment" match for Randy after what he put the company through. Though vindictive, it is reasonable to say that they lose nothing if Randy loses the belt to Brock. It would reinvigorate the heavyweight division which has been somewhat neglected the past few years. The UFC would also be able to expect good returns of future Randy Couture main events because people live "The Natural".
(3) No one else? - There are several heavyweights in the division now but the ones that have been in the UFC for a while have not had impressive performances while those heavyweights that joined over the past several months have made huge strides towards what will eventually be a title shot (if they continue to win). But NONE of them have the physique and instant recognition that Lesnar does.
Though an Mixed Martial Arts (MMA, for short) neophyte, Lesnar has a lot of crossover appeal from his days in the WWE. Let's not forget that he does have a legitimate base for MMA with his background as as NCAA wrestling champ. Make no mistake. Brock Lesnar, according to many, does not deserve a title shot after only being 2-1 in his short MMA career. This is still a business and the UFC is striking while the iron is hot.
This PPV event has the potential to be a transcendental moment for MMA. It could put MMA firmly in the American sports landscape and people will start seeing it as another combat sport on par with boxing (if not better than boxing). Tonight could be the start of a new way of thinking about MMA. The American consciousness could begin to shift away from seeing MMA as simply a modern version of the Bloodsport movies and underground (and illegal) MMA groups that existed in the 80's and early 90's. This change in paradigm is critical for mainstream acceptance of MMA. And though the UFC is the leader of the MMA movement, we cannot forget that it is simply the big fish in the pond. Much like MLB dominates professional baseball while the minor league system and independent baseball leagues still manage to survive. Other promotions like Affliction, Strikeforce, and WEC will aid the UFC in this movement but it won't be easy and acceptance of the sport will not take place overnight... but tonight's event will come close to being an overnight coup.
With all that said... time for predictions. Many thanks to Jorge who has taken the time to provide his insight on tonight's card. My comments and prediction will follow his:
UNDERCARD--
Matt Brown v. Ryan Thomas -
Well, At this point I'll have to go for Brown. He definitely showed he had determination and skill during the show. His bout with Sadollah was a true war and there's no shame in losing the the guy that won the whole thing. I don't really know much about Thomas except that he has been in a winning streak in smaller mid-west organizations. Although Brown just lost to Kim via decision, I think he will "welcome" Thomas into the UFC and show him the difference between the farm leagues and the big time show.
[I agree with J on this one. A rude welcoming is in store for Thomas. Though I don't think he'll be a pushover. I expect a decision for Brown]
Mark Bocek v. Alvin Robinson -
Bocek is great on the ground, but Robinson is sick in the ground. He has great transitions and I think he will overwhelm Bocek. Bocek is coming off two loses to [Frankie] Edgar and [Mac] Danzig, while Robinson has a loss against KenFlo. They both have something to prove, but I think Robinson will pull it off.
[Again I concur with J, but I suspect it'll be more due to experience edge Robinson has. However, expect Bocek to get some chances to finish the fight. Robinson by TKO - a little G'n'P in the 2nd round]
Jeremy Stephens v. Rafael Dos Anjos -
Stephens has been around and he had a nice winning streak until he faced Spencer Fisher. Although I think this will be a good match, Dos Anjos has better BJJ. He also has more high profile fights, albeit in Japan without a cage. I say Dos Anjos.
[My gut is telling me to go with Stephens even though my brain is screaming dos Anjos. Cage experience trumps impact debut once again tonight. Unanimous decision for Stephens despite a good showing for Gracie Fusion's dos Anjos]
Jorge Gurgel v. Aaron Riley -
Riley is virtual unknown that has been in a lot of fights but never wins against any B class or above fighter. Gurgel is a guy that in my opinion should stick to coaching because with his skills he should be finishing dudes instead of eating a lot of punches and losing decisions. I go with Riley on principle, although Gurgel will most likely submit him in the 2nd.
[I told J earlier, I want to root for Gurgel and I'm all for the "make the fight exciting by trading punches with your opponent" but he just doesn't have the striking chops to keep standing. If Gurgel can mix in some takedowns and sub attempts then MAYBE he can grind out a decision victory but I suspect his ego and misplaced pride will get in the way of a proper gameplan. Riley is 3-3 in his last 6 fights but the losses came to Ryan Shultz, Eddie Alvarez, and Spencer Fisher. Not a bad list. Gurgel wouldn't fare much better against those 3. Riley by decision - Gurgel's too good to be subbed and something tells me Riley won't be able to finish it with his striking.]
MAIN CARD--
Dustin Hazelett v. Tamdan McCroy - Tamdam who? Hazelett is still a C level, maybe B level fighter, but he's way better that a guy that gets along with his size. I McLovin via Sub.
[HAHA McCrory who? Yeah yeah he may get no love but McLovin may have his hands full. If it was a battle of nicknames Hazelett's got it hands down-McLovin' vs. The Barn Cat?? No contest, folks!!!- but Hazelett has faced better competition which should give him the edge. Could be a sleeper fight of the night if other major bouts end quickly. McLovin by a super-sweet RNC in the 3rd.]
Demian Maia v. Nate Quarry -
I respect Maia a lot. I think his BJJ is first class and he can definitely scrap. However, Quarry is the man, and he's always improving. Maia has not been dominant in any of the fights I've seen and I think Quarry is going to inflict too much damage even on the ground. I think Quarry has enough sub defense to keep Maia at bay and continue to inflict damage. The rock via TKO strikes.
[Maia has 3 consecutive Submission of the Night honors. And we had to wait nearly 7 months to see Quarry after the embarrassing showing by Starnes. I think this may make Quarry vulnerable in the early going but once he settles in I think he'll be tough to beat. If Maia can slap a sub on early then it may be lights out for Nate but I'm giving this to Quarry as Maia hasn't faced anyone that has as good standup as Quarry. Quarry by KO in the 2nd]
Gabriel Gonzaga v. Josh Hendricks - GG wins via anything he wants to do. Hendricks is in his twilight and this should be a walk in the park for GG. Now Hendricks does hit hard and is a solid wrestler so GG does need to avoid showing off and he has to watch his cardio specially if this goes to the later rounds. I say GG via.. duh... sub.
[I agree that this is a walk in the park for Napao. This is just a set-up for one of the better heavyweights to regain some recognition and maybe work his way up to a title shot. Napao by sub early 2nd -- possibly late in the first round.]
Kenny Florian v. Joe Stevenson -
Now this can be a really good fight, or a bore fest. Given the way KenFlo handled himself against Huerta we may see him bicycle around and picking shots from a distance. The worst thing Stevenson can do is engage in a stand-up battle. I think Kenflo can win this because he has better cardio and his way to slick for Stevenson to submit. I fear it may be a decision as KenFLo "evades" a la Machida and earns the judges votes on points. I hope I'm wrong and Stevenson pushes KenFlo to the cage takes him down and makes this a fight!
[I think the gameplan Jorge mentioned is correct but I think Stevenson's frustration will force Kenny to engage a little and that's where the fight will be won. Neither one has a major advantage on the ground and both have good cardio. I suspect this bout could have a quick end if one of these guys can get a couple of good shots in. Neither one has knockout power IMO and neither one has a glass jaw... but the one who can get the better of the mini-flurries will win this bout... by decision. Agree on possible fight of the night honors.]
Randy Couture v. Brock Lesnar -
Experience v Youth, Strategy v power, Skill v raw strength... we could go on all night. I'm worried about Lesnar's size, strength and explosiveness. I'm worried about Lesnar's hulking size and ability to hold people on the mat. I'm worried because this mastodon actually has footwork and will not be as easy a target to punch in the face. Finally I'm worried because Couture's greco clinch and dirty boxing may be simply shrugged off and nullified. I think Lesnar's main weakness is submission defense, unfortunately for Couure that means he has to tangle with Lesnar and possibly go to the ground. I think Couture can do it, I think he can frustrate Lesnar with strikes and leg kicks and get him on the mat, work a good mount and rain strikes on him. But in the end I'm worried about Lesnar doing what we all know he can do and put an exclamation point on Randy's career. I'll say Couture, because he has a real shot, but also because I'm hoping against hope.
[I don't want to repeat a lot of what has already been said but this is by far one of the toughest fights I've ever had to predict. There are just so many unknowns and what-ifs. Will Lesnar's size be a non-factor since Couture had large heavyweights in training camp? Will Randy's experience trump Lesnar's hunger to be champion? Will there be ring rust for "The Natural"? Will the "big game jitters" affect Brock? Ultimately, I think the fight is Brock's to lose. He runs on adrenaline and works well at feeding off of the crowd (probably picked up from his WWE days). If the fans back Randy, he'll play the "bad guy" role. If they root for him - unlikely - he'll get super pumped. If he lets the crowd get to him, his amplified adrenaline rush could cause him to break his gameplan or get a little too excited and make mistakes... which Randy could capitalize on. Couture is a master strategist and I am sure Randy will have a great gameplan. The question is whether he will be able to implement it. I feel that, for Lesnar, a loss at this stage of his career would do more for his development as an MMA fighter. But I've worked out all possibilities I could think of and I honestly cannot see Randy do anything to really beat Lesnar. If Couture loses, we could see him next against either dos Santos (who looked really good against Werdum last month) or Gonzaga if he wins tonight. There is the chance that Randy grinds out a decision victory. In the end, I think his layoff hurts him and Brock gets the win. I honestly don't know how. He won't be able to sub Randy, though I think he maybe able to overwhelm him with his size and wild striking. Ladies and gents, we will have a new heavyweight champion tonight... I think. lol.]
This should indeed be a good night for MMA.
I'll see you all back here tomorrow as I review how we did in our predictions.
- AG
UFC 91 is scheduled for tonight at 10PM (EST) on PPV. The main event of the evening will feature the return of Randy "The Natural" Couture v Brock Lesnar for Couture's Heavyweight championship belt.
(My apologies to any hardcore MMA fans who will be reading this post as most of this is old news to you. But scroll down if you're only here for the predictions.)
I won't bore you with the details of the past year's developments so I will give you the abridged recap of the past year or so in the UFC's heavyweight division: Randy Couture was the UFC champion last year. During a contract dispute between he and the UFC, the promotion crowns an interim champ while things with Randy got sorted out (for better or worse). The interim champ, Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira ("Big Nog") was scheduled to defend his belt against Frank Mir after the conclusion of this season's The Ultimate Fighter on Spike TV. During the taping of TUF, Randy and the UFC settled their differences which did not allow for the scheduling of a title unification bout between Big Nog and Randy. The opponent chosen by the UFC for Randy's belt was Brock Lesnar.
Why Brock?
(1) $ - This is a big money match up between two recognizable names. There are so many ways this bout can be promoted (and analyzed): wrestler v. wrestler (not to be confused with pro wrestler); experience v. youth; small heavyweight v huge heavyweight; champ with a year long layoff v challenger who has recently competed. No matter how you slice it, this main event has the making of a blockbuster.
(2) Vendetta - Many have said that Dana White (UFC President) saw this as a "punishment" match for Randy after what he put the company through. Though vindictive, it is reasonable to say that they lose nothing if Randy loses the belt to Brock. It would reinvigorate the heavyweight division which has been somewhat neglected the past few years. The UFC would also be able to expect good returns of future Randy Couture main events because people live "The Natural".
(3) No one else? - There are several heavyweights in the division now but the ones that have been in the UFC for a while have not had impressive performances while those heavyweights that joined over the past several months have made huge strides towards what will eventually be a title shot (if they continue to win). But NONE of them have the physique and instant recognition that Lesnar does.
Though an Mixed Martial Arts (MMA, for short) neophyte, Lesnar has a lot of crossover appeal from his days in the WWE. Let's not forget that he does have a legitimate base for MMA with his background as as NCAA wrestling champ. Make no mistake. Brock Lesnar, according to many, does not deserve a title shot after only being 2-1 in his short MMA career. This is still a business and the UFC is striking while the iron is hot.
This PPV event has the potential to be a transcendental moment for MMA. It could put MMA firmly in the American sports landscape and people will start seeing it as another combat sport on par with boxing (if not better than boxing). Tonight could be the start of a new way of thinking about MMA. The American consciousness could begin to shift away from seeing MMA as simply a modern version of the Bloodsport movies and underground (and illegal) MMA groups that existed in the 80's and early 90's. This change in paradigm is critical for mainstream acceptance of MMA. And though the UFC is the leader of the MMA movement, we cannot forget that it is simply the big fish in the pond. Much like MLB dominates professional baseball while the minor league system and independent baseball leagues still manage to survive. Other promotions like Affliction, Strikeforce, and WEC will aid the UFC in this movement but it won't be easy and acceptance of the sport will not take place overnight... but tonight's event will come close to being an overnight coup.
With all that said... time for predictions. Many thanks to Jorge who has taken the time to provide his insight on tonight's card. My comments and prediction will follow his:
UNDERCARD--
Matt Brown v. Ryan Thomas -
Well, At this point I'll have to go for Brown. He definitely showed he had determination and skill during the show. His bout with Sadollah was a true war and there's no shame in losing the the guy that won the whole thing. I don't really know much about Thomas except that he has been in a winning streak in smaller mid-west organizations. Although Brown just lost to Kim via decision, I think he will "welcome" Thomas into the UFC and show him the difference between the farm leagues and the big time show.
[I agree with J on this one. A rude welcoming is in store for Thomas. Though I don't think he'll be a pushover. I expect a decision for Brown]
Mark Bocek v. Alvin Robinson -
Bocek is great on the ground, but Robinson is sick in the ground. He has great transitions and I think he will overwhelm Bocek. Bocek is coming off two loses to [Frankie] Edgar and [Mac] Danzig, while Robinson has a loss against KenFlo. They both have something to prove, but I think Robinson will pull it off.
[Again I concur with J, but I suspect it'll be more due to experience edge Robinson has. However, expect Bocek to get some chances to finish the fight. Robinson by TKO - a little G'n'P in the 2nd round]
Jeremy Stephens v. Rafael Dos Anjos -
Stephens has been around and he had a nice winning streak until he faced Spencer Fisher. Although I think this will be a good match, Dos Anjos has better BJJ. He also has more high profile fights, albeit in Japan without a cage. I say Dos Anjos.
[My gut is telling me to go with Stephens even though my brain is screaming dos Anjos. Cage experience trumps impact debut once again tonight. Unanimous decision for Stephens despite a good showing for Gracie Fusion's dos Anjos]
Jorge Gurgel v. Aaron Riley -
Riley is virtual unknown that has been in a lot of fights but never wins against any B class or above fighter. Gurgel is a guy that in my opinion should stick to coaching because with his skills he should be finishing dudes instead of eating a lot of punches and losing decisions. I go with Riley on principle, although Gurgel will most likely submit him in the 2nd.
[I told J earlier, I want to root for Gurgel and I'm all for the "make the fight exciting by trading punches with your opponent" but he just doesn't have the striking chops to keep standing. If Gurgel can mix in some takedowns and sub attempts then MAYBE he can grind out a decision victory but I suspect his ego and misplaced pride will get in the way of a proper gameplan. Riley is 3-3 in his last 6 fights but the losses came to Ryan Shultz, Eddie Alvarez, and Spencer Fisher. Not a bad list. Gurgel wouldn't fare much better against those 3. Riley by decision - Gurgel's too good to be subbed and something tells me Riley won't be able to finish it with his striking.]
MAIN CARD--
Dustin Hazelett v. Tamdan McCroy - Tamdam who? Hazelett is still a C level, maybe B level fighter, but he's way better that a guy that gets along with his size. I McLovin via Sub.
[HAHA McCrory who? Yeah yeah he may get no love but McLovin may have his hands full. If it was a battle of nicknames Hazelett's got it hands down-McLovin' vs. The Barn Cat?? No contest, folks!!!- but Hazelett has faced better competition which should give him the edge. Could be a sleeper fight of the night if other major bouts end quickly. McLovin by a super-sweet RNC in the 3rd.]
Demian Maia v. Nate Quarry -
I respect Maia a lot. I think his BJJ is first class and he can definitely scrap. However, Quarry is the man, and he's always improving. Maia has not been dominant in any of the fights I've seen and I think Quarry is going to inflict too much damage even on the ground. I think Quarry has enough sub defense to keep Maia at bay and continue to inflict damage. The rock via TKO strikes.
[Maia has 3 consecutive Submission of the Night honors. And we had to wait nearly 7 months to see Quarry after the embarrassing showing by Starnes. I think this may make Quarry vulnerable in the early going but once he settles in I think he'll be tough to beat. If Maia can slap a sub on early then it may be lights out for Nate but I'm giving this to Quarry as Maia hasn't faced anyone that has as good standup as Quarry. Quarry by KO in the 2nd]
Gabriel Gonzaga v. Josh Hendricks - GG wins via anything he wants to do. Hendricks is in his twilight and this should be a walk in the park for GG. Now Hendricks does hit hard and is a solid wrestler so GG does need to avoid showing off and he has to watch his cardio specially if this goes to the later rounds. I say GG via.. duh... sub.
[I agree that this is a walk in the park for Napao. This is just a set-up for one of the better heavyweights to regain some recognition and maybe work his way up to a title shot. Napao by sub early 2nd -- possibly late in the first round.]
Kenny Florian v. Joe Stevenson -
Now this can be a really good fight, or a bore fest. Given the way KenFlo handled himself against Huerta we may see him bicycle around and picking shots from a distance. The worst thing Stevenson can do is engage in a stand-up battle. I think Kenflo can win this because he has better cardio and his way to slick for Stevenson to submit. I fear it may be a decision as KenFLo "evades" a la Machida and earns the judges votes on points. I hope I'm wrong and Stevenson pushes KenFlo to the cage takes him down and makes this a fight!
[I think the gameplan Jorge mentioned is correct but I think Stevenson's frustration will force Kenny to engage a little and that's where the fight will be won. Neither one has a major advantage on the ground and both have good cardio. I suspect this bout could have a quick end if one of these guys can get a couple of good shots in. Neither one has knockout power IMO and neither one has a glass jaw... but the one who can get the better of the mini-flurries will win this bout... by decision. Agree on possible fight of the night honors.]
Randy Couture v. Brock Lesnar -
Experience v Youth, Strategy v power, Skill v raw strength... we could go on all night. I'm worried about Lesnar's size, strength and explosiveness. I'm worried about Lesnar's hulking size and ability to hold people on the mat. I'm worried because this mastodon actually has footwork and will not be as easy a target to punch in the face. Finally I'm worried because Couture's greco clinch and dirty boxing may be simply shrugged off and nullified. I think Lesnar's main weakness is submission defense, unfortunately for Couure that means he has to tangle with Lesnar and possibly go to the ground. I think Couture can do it, I think he can frustrate Lesnar with strikes and leg kicks and get him on the mat, work a good mount and rain strikes on him. But in the end I'm worried about Lesnar doing what we all know he can do and put an exclamation point on Randy's career. I'll say Couture, because he has a real shot, but also because I'm hoping against hope.
[I don't want to repeat a lot of what has already been said but this is by far one of the toughest fights I've ever had to predict. There are just so many unknowns and what-ifs. Will Lesnar's size be a non-factor since Couture had large heavyweights in training camp? Will Randy's experience trump Lesnar's hunger to be champion? Will there be ring rust for "The Natural"? Will the "big game jitters" affect Brock? Ultimately, I think the fight is Brock's to lose. He runs on adrenaline and works well at feeding off of the crowd (probably picked up from his WWE days). If the fans back Randy, he'll play the "bad guy" role. If they root for him - unlikely - he'll get super pumped. If he lets the crowd get to him, his amplified adrenaline rush could cause him to break his gameplan or get a little too excited and make mistakes... which Randy could capitalize on. Couture is a master strategist and I am sure Randy will have a great gameplan. The question is whether he will be able to implement it. I feel that, for Lesnar, a loss at this stage of his career would do more for his development as an MMA fighter. But I've worked out all possibilities I could think of and I honestly cannot see Randy do anything to really beat Lesnar. If Couture loses, we could see him next against either dos Santos (who looked really good against Werdum last month) or Gonzaga if he wins tonight. There is the chance that Randy grinds out a decision victory. In the end, I think his layoff hurts him and Brock gets the win. I honestly don't know how. He won't be able to sub Randy, though I think he maybe able to overwhelm him with his size and wild striking. Ladies and gents, we will have a new heavyweight champion tonight... I think. lol.]
This should indeed be a good night for MMA.
I'll see you all back here tomorrow as I review how we did in our predictions.
- AG
Wednesday, November 12, 2008
I shaved my beard and WTF!...
Hello once again as I usher you through the inner workings of my scrambled brain.
I've had some people asking me about my beard lately. During finals week, when I was in college, I would get superstitious and once classes ended for the semester I would not shave until I took all my finals. But I'm not in school any more and for some odd reason I decided to grow my hair out a little (on the top of my head AND on my face)... for no legitimate reason. I didn't even know when I would end up shaving again.
I figured the timing was right for it to serve as an Evan Tanner tribute beard (oh, just Google it if you don't know who or what I'm talking about) but that wasn't it. Maybe I could use the election as my cover story. For a while I even vowed that if John McCain were to win, I would continue growing my hair - including facial hair - for 4 more years until the next presidential election. But the election came and went and I didn't shave. Eventually, I just got tired of it (as I often am when it comes to my facial hair). I find myself cycling through facial "looks": sporting the goatee, being clean shaven, growing the beard... and other variations in between (except the stand-alone mustache... looks funny on me).
So I shaved my beard. I took pictures of the carnage in my bathroom sink but decided to spare you all the details so there will be no posting of the evidence here. You'll just have to take my word for it. Lets just say if there was a "Locks of Love" for facial hair, I would have TOTALLY donated it... but it was just trashcan-bound.
But you know... all this talk of waste and useless things reminds me of something I've heard lately. It's gotten so deep under my skin... I can't keep it inside any more!!
Through all the political coverage for days after Election Day all I kept hearing was how Barack Obama's win was historically significant. I am not disagree with that (how can one dispute that??). What I am hating is the mangling of the English language in the process!!! This is a historic event in American history NOT "an historic" event. WTF is 'anistoric' anyway!?!??!! Anistoric isn't proper use of the article "a/an"!! Oh, I'm sorry... is this a new dialect of English? I didn't realize the 'h' in historic (or historical) was silent!!
I mean with the world wide inter-web nets available to us, can't an editor or assistant producer look up the grammar rules??? I was able to find 2 reputable resources after 35 seconds of searching online: (1) http://www.learnenglish.de/grammar/articlestext.htm and (2) http://owl.english.purdue.edu/owl/resource/540/01/
Folks, this misuse and blatant disregard of the English language is ridiculous. It also happens to be one of my many pet peeves. (For a wonderful list of other modernbutchering "modifications" of the English language, click here. Definitely worth a look.)
*sigh*
Sadly, that's all I have for you today but....
SPOILER ALERT:: Tomorrow's SPECIAL weekend entry will be a preview of UFC 91 (along with guest commentary and predictions) and why it matters EVEN to those of you who don't know - or care - about MMA.
I've had some people asking me about my beard lately. During finals week, when I was in college, I would get superstitious and once classes ended for the semester I would not shave until I took all my finals. But I'm not in school any more and for some odd reason I decided to grow my hair out a little (on the top of my head AND on my face)... for no legitimate reason. I didn't even know when I would end up shaving again.
I figured the timing was right for it to serve as an Evan Tanner tribute beard (oh, just Google it if you don't know who or what I'm talking about) but that wasn't it. Maybe I could use the election as my cover story. For a while I even vowed that if John McCain were to win, I would continue growing my hair - including facial hair - for 4 more years until the next presidential election. But the election came and went and I didn't shave. Eventually, I just got tired of it (as I often am when it comes to my facial hair). I find myself cycling through facial "looks": sporting the goatee, being clean shaven, growing the beard... and other variations in between (except the stand-alone mustache... looks funny on me).
So I shaved my beard. I took pictures of the carnage in my bathroom sink but decided to spare you all the details so there will be no posting of the evidence here. You'll just have to take my word for it. Lets just say if there was a "Locks of Love" for facial hair, I would have TOTALLY donated it... but it was just trashcan-bound.
But you know... all this talk of waste and useless things reminds me of something I've heard lately. It's gotten so deep under my skin... I can't keep it inside any more!!
Through all the political coverage for days after Election Day all I kept hearing was how Barack Obama's win was historically significant. I am not disagree with that (how can one dispute that??). What I am hating is the mangling of the English language in the process!!! This is a historic event in American history NOT "an historic" event. WTF is 'anistoric' anyway!?!??!! Anistoric isn't proper use of the article "a/an"!! Oh, I'm sorry... is this a new dialect of English? I didn't realize the 'h' in historic (or historical) was silent!!
I mean with the world wide inter-web nets available to us, can't an editor or assistant producer look up the grammar rules??? I was able to find 2 reputable resources after 35 seconds of searching online: (1) http://www.learnenglish.de/grammar/articlestext.htm and (2) http://owl.english.purdue.edu/owl/resource/540/01/
Folks, this misuse and blatant disregard of the English language is ridiculous. It also happens to be one of my many pet peeves. (For a wonderful list of other modern
*sigh*
Sadly, that's all I have for you today but....
SPOILER ALERT:: Tomorrow's SPECIAL weekend entry will be a preview of UFC 91 (along with guest commentary and predictions) and why it matters EVEN to those of you who don't know - or care - about MMA.
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