Tuesday, October 6, 2009

Kimbo vs. Big Country - My Top Questions and Answers

I know I said this entry would be about UFC 103 but since I'm behind on events anyway, I thought I'd do a quick analysis on the fight of the last TUF episode, Q & A style.

Q. How did Nelson not win in the 1st round? He landed over 20 unanswered, punches to Kimbo's head.
Simply put, he didn't finish Kimbo.
His strikes were weak and the only thing that Kimbo was in danger of was getting mat burn on his forehead. Dana was spot on with his post-fight comments. Roy should have showed a tad bit more "enthusiasm" after he had the crucifix in place.

Q. OK fine, then why did Herb Dean stop it in the 2nd when it was the same scenario?
It was a similar scenario, but not the exact same. The round wasn't even half over when Kimbo was again helpless and could not defend himself.

Q. Why didn't Roy try "harder" to finish the fight?
Big Country is not the typical TUF noob entrant. He may have the most well-rounded accolades in the history of TUF. He's the ex-IFL champ, fought top 10 contenders and has all the skills to back up his big mouth and belly. He's the front runner to win this season - and I'm sure he's thinking the same thing. The only thing that can legitimately beat him is an injury. By not turning up the speed, flair or intensity in his matches, he leaves less chance of misfortune rearing its ugly head.

Q. Did Kimbo ever stand a chance against the ex-IFL champ?
I 100% believe Kimbo could have won.
No doubt in my mind.

Q. Explain how he would have overcome Roy's bjj skillz.
The opposite of the ground game is standup. Forget bjj defense or even the clinch game.
KEEP IT STANDING
Do NOT attempt knees, kicks, spinning backfists, jumping windmill kicks, spinning hook kicks, or the legendary “Triple Lindy".
Just do what you do best:

Pretend you're in a boatyard, light him up like a Christmas tree and introduce Roy to your Certification of the Streets.


Done and done.

2 comments:

  1. How do you defend against 264 1/2 pounds of belly? I have never been to a serious jui jitsu class, but I am sure they do not teach you how to escape from the "Jelly Guard". I can't think of any one on that show that could get out of that crucifix.I wish they would have postponed this fight to later episodes. Although Kimbo in taking this fight shows that he isn't scared to fight, and "doesn't have a chip on his shoulder." He more than anything is there to learn. If he loses it isn't gonna ruin his career. Especially since you know Dana is gonna give him a contract regardless of what happens on the show. He will ride that cash cow til They Boo him in the stands.

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  2. Hey M.,
    You bring up some really valid points.
    Unfortunately, there was no way Kimbo wasn't going to fight in that spot. Rashad is playing the game really well and understands that Kimbo is highly valued by Rampage and could legitimately affect him mentally and morally.
    That said, Kimbo can still take the time there to learn, but he just won't be the spotlight of attention. I agree he will get a contract and I'm sure all the sponsorships will make up for money he lost not winning the contract.
    ~S

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