The long awaited rematch and a matchup that should have happened years ago awaits; UFC 164 kicks off on August 31st , live on Pay Per View (UK viewers can watch this on BT Sport).
The Rematch
Benson Henderson will defend his UFC lightweight title for a fourth time against former WEC lightweight champion Anthony “Showtime” Pettis. The pair has fought before, with Pettis winning a close decision. This fight proved a classic, with both competitors having their moments in the fight. What many find most memorable about the fight though, was the “Showtime kick” which was landed by Pettis in the 5th round. I usually try and avoid making bold statements when talking about sports, but the “Showtime kick” was probably the most insane moment in MMA history. I’m expecting fireworks folks, and so should you.
The kick heard around the world
The Overdue Fight
Frank Mir and Josh “The Warmaster” Barnett are also set to collide in a matchup that could have easily headlined a UFC event a decade ago. Both competitors are former UFC Heavyweight champions and crafty MMA veterans but have led very different careers.
Barnett seemed untouchable on March 22nd 2002, when he defeated the legendary Randy Couture for the UFC Heavyweight title (via TKO). However, his glory was short lived as he tested positive for banned substances (something he has always vigorously denied). He was stripped of the title and never seen in the UFC again. He went on to fight legends such as Antônio Rodrigo Nogueira, Alexander Emelianenko, Mark Hunt and Mirko Cro Cop in Pride FC, but there was always the question of how he would fair against the UFC’s elite fighters. Barnett’s a fighter that has been ranked in the top ten for the last decade, and isn’t to be taken lightly.
With Frank Mir, his record speaks for itself. He’s the former UFC Heavyweight champion, the only man to submit and knockout Antônio Rodrigo Nogueira and is considered one of the greatest grapplers to ever grace the Octagon (as is Josh Barnett). His last outing was against Daniel Cormier, where he was defeated by decision. However, when dealing with Frank Mir (a guy whose been involved in title matches throughout the entirety of his career), it’d be unwise to think, “The old dog can’t go anymore”.
Josh Barnett vs Frank Mir – Pre-Fight Interviews
UFC 164 is stacked from top to bottom with intriguing matchups and potential wars, so I’m definitely suggesting that you sit in this weekend with a few friends, watch the fights and avoid doing one thing; blinking.
International fans can find out where they can watch the fights by going here:
allthingsray.com 