Note: *Brackets next to the fighter's name indicate World Ranking prior to the event*
In the aftermath of Pride's NYE event, Shockwave, we take a look back at what was certainly a memorable weekend of fights.
Gomi (1) vs. Ishida (7)
Well, the Gomi vs. Ishida fight, that I miss reported as being a title fight, was nonetheless, a very entertaining display of absolute furry. Takanori Gomi, allegedly irritated by comments Ishida made prior to the fight, refused to touch gloves as the fighters emerged from their corners after the bell. After a short feeling out process, and an attempted counter or two, the moment came all but late. As Ishida threw a prospective leg kick, Gomi countered with an overhand left that sent his opponent into a daze. As Gomi took the top position, he rained hammerfists down into Ishida's loose defense until the eventual stoppage.
More than impressively, Takanori Gomi, round 1 via TKO.
Fight Note: This fight has seemingly rejuvinated "The Fireball Kid" and his desire to remain Pride's Lightweight Champion. Following the TKO stoppage, Gomi asked almost immediately for his belts, before parading them around the ring from turnbuckle to turnbuckle; the crowd responded as expected.... by showing their appreciation for their favorite fighter with a roar of cheers.
Nogueira (4) vs. Barnett (3)
Nogueira vs. Barnett II looked very much like many thought it would. A great technical display of both the ground, and standing game. This time around however, Nog was able to better neutralize Barnett's size advantage, and kept the fight standing for longer stretches.
I am still in disbelief of Barnett's ground game. He is without a doubt one of the biggest forces MMA has to offer at present, and nearly caught "Minotauro" in the third round with a Guillotine choke that put the Brazillian BJJ Blackbelt in trouble for nearly 30 seconds.
Barnett, who is anything but a pretty sight after taking a few shots to the face (swells and bruises easily) has to be given tremendous credit. He nearly ended their first bout via a kneebar that made Nogueira let out a scream of pain just prior to the final bell; and presented the only clear fight ending opportunity of their second fight.
Regardless, Nog showed the heart of a champion and persevered; This was without a doubt, the most competitive (of the highest level of fighters) matchup on the card, as both were ranked in the top 5 world HWs. With Mirko "Cro-Cop's" recent departure from the Pride ranks, it would appear that both of these warriors will be in line for long awaited title shots once more, and in Barnett's case, his first under Pride.
Result: Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira via Unanimous Decision
Emelianenko (1) vs. Hunt (9)
Let me first start by commending Mark Hunt for his efforts at Shockwave 2006. The man had desire, and looked better than he ever has in any prior MMA contest (as a more complete threat); on two occassions, the challenger even tried to submit the reigning champ from the side mount position (which he held throughout much of the fight utilizing his great size and weight advantage). His striking looked sharp, and as always, dangerous, especially when an early looping hook grazed the Russian's nose, drawing a slight trickle of blood. All said and done, I am very enthused and excited about this fighter's continued development and growth in the sport. I expect to watch many great, and entertaining fights in Mark Hunt's future
What else can be said about "The Russian Experiment" Fedor Emelianenko? His poise, and composure throughout any bout he enters, puts him in a league of his own. This martial arts genious has once again shown why he is the world's best. His emotionless expression when in the ring has to be his most intimidating feature; a quality about him that seems almost inhuman. As the 250lbs Mark Hunt lay on top of him, you could see the wheels spinning as Fedor relaxed to defend. In the words of MJ, the greatest basketball player of all time, Fedor, 'had been there before'.
Late in the first round, his moment finally came as the fight went back to their feet. An aggitated (acting, not looking) Fedor charged his opponent with a mid-kick, followed up by a couple quick hooks, before finding himself in the clinch. Here, he was able to use Judoka techniques in order to throw his much larger opponent. When finally gaining the top position for the first time since the opening minute, Fedor did not faulter twice. He secured, and locked into a Kimura, that ended Hunt's night as he grimaced in pain. When later asked about the tough challenge that Hunt seemingly presented, Fedor replied, stating that he did not find the fight to be very difficult at all, and expressed his desire to rest and recover from an injury. He later mentioned that he would like his next opponent to be the very best that MMA has to offer, whoever that may be at the time.
In the meantime, he will continue to train young fighters. A past-time that he finds very rewarding and takes a great deal of pride in. Have I mentioned his teenaged brother yet??? Look out!
Shockwave 2006 certainly did not disappoint.
Be on the lookout for reaction to the recent signing of Mirko "Cro Cop" Filipovic to the UFC...
- DD
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