Jon Anik

  (12:52 PM)

Gentlemen, ladies. Thanks for checking back in for another MMA Live chat here at espn.com. Franklin McNeil is with me for the next half hour, so pepper him with questions as well. Also, you can now follow me on Twitter (Jon_Anik). I will be posting live updates from the Bellator show in California this weekend. Let's vent.

jarred charleston,sc [via mobile]

Jon, big ups to kimbo for giving up the money in japan to prove himself on tuf. I feel he has earn a little respect back. What's your take?

Jon Anik

  (12:53 PM)

I think Kimbo deserves some credit for joining the cast of TUF. But, I still think he is only driven by money. I don't believe Kimbo has any passion or drive for MMA. Perhaps he will prove me wrong.

mary mack big stone city sd [via mobile]

how do u think kimbo will do on tuf?

Jon Anik

  (12:54 PM)

I think he has a great chance to win a fight or two, but eventually he will run into a guy who is well-rounded. Believe me, I'm excited to see Kimbo on The Ultimate Fighter. I just don't think his heart is in MMA, and it needs to be.

Mike (Richmond, VA)

I can arrange my schedule this weekend to watch either Strikeforce or WEC, but not both. Which should I choose?

Franklin McNeil

  (12:55 PM)

McNeil is taking this one. That's a tough one, but the Strikeforce card is loaded. I'm glad I don't have to choose!

Charlie, Philly

Any inside info on what Dana's big announcement is? a TV deal?

Franklin McNeil

  (12:56 PM)

Rumor has it Dana White, who recently added Kimbo to TUF, will announce a network TV deal. But that can't be substantiated at this time. I'm working on it.

Ken (Pittsburgh)

Good afternoon, Franklin and Jon. On a recent video blog, Dana said he and Lorenzo were in L.A. recently for a business meeting that would "change the UFC, and MMA" forever. Any speculation on what he could be referring to?

Franklin McNeil

  (12:57 PM)

Again, the rumors are hot that it's a TV deal, but nothing is confirmed. I plan to call Dana later this week, but can't guarantee he'll come clean.

eddie (long island, ny) [via mobile]

Franklin, are your "sources" telling u the big dana white news is mma legislation in Ny?

Franklin McNeil

  (12:58 PM)

Could be. I heard the initial vote went through today, but that is by no means the final step.

Leo (Boston MA)

Hi Franklin did you watch the "Thilla in Manilla Documentry" I thought it was fantastic.

Franklin McNeil

  (12:58 PM)

I did. What a great show. Very informative. I actually spoke to Joe Frazier once about his experience leading into the fight. The documentary was long overdue.

BT (Atlanta)

Hey JA, took a couple weeks off, but back with a question. With all the big draws fighting in the next 3 months, who do you see headlining UFC 103? Maybe Hughes or Cane?

Jon Anik

  (12:59 PM)

Good to have you back, BT. Anything is possible. That may sound like a cop out, but UFC 99 and 100 will go a long way in determining the 103 line-up. Don't sleep on Chuck Liddell, either. Not as a headliner, but I think he'll fight once more.

Eddie (Mia) [via mobile]

I agree Kimbo does not have the Heart ... What about Bobby lashley is he still fighting?

Jon Anik

  (1:00 PM)

Yup. He will fight Bob Sapp later this month on PPV.

Greg, NY

Jon and Franklin, thank you for the chat. What do you guys make of Rampage coaching as opposed to getting a title shot, and do you see the winner of Evans Rampage getting Machida next?

Franklin McNeil

  (1:01 PM)

I spoke to Rashad Evans before UFC 98 and on a number of occasions, he mentioned wanting to face Rampage. These two really don't like each other, so it comes as no surprise to me that Rampage would jump at the opportunity to face Rashad immediately.

Jon Anik

  (1:01 PM)

I would add that Rampage loves the camera and the spotlight, and TUF provides that.

Ken (Pittsburgh)

Guys, Faber or Brown this Sunday? Also, do you think Jens Pulver will get another W?

Franklin McNeil

  (1:02 PM)

I like Faber this weekend. Anik is leaning towards Brown. As for Pulver, he needs this win or his career could be over. 145 is his best weight and, if he can't win there, he's done.

Chris (Danville, Ca)

Better fight this weekend: Lawler/Shields or Diaz/Smith?

Franklin McNeil

  (1:03 PM)

Wow. Diaz-Smith. I think it is the more competitive fight on paper.

Leo (Boston MA)

Mike Brown is a +120 underdog, seems like a good play this weekend?

Jon Anik

  (1:03 PM)

Some value there, for sure. Most fighters I talk to are backing Brown. To quote one fighter 'No way Urijah can knock Brown out...'

Charlie, Philly

With a win over Swanson this Sunday, does Jose Aldo get the winner of Faber/Brown?

Jon Anik

  (1:04 PM)

You'd have to think if Aldo wins a fifth straight fight in the WEC that he would've earned the title shot. But, a Faber-Brown trilogy fight is not out of the question should Urijah win.

GIL THE THRILL SAN ANTONIO, TX

whats up jon!!!! With Kimbo on TUF Season 10. How do you think Kimbo will get along with Rampage or Evans? Even at that how about all those hungry guys in the house who want to take him out?

Jon Anik

  (1:05 PM)

I think Rampage may be the perfect coach for Kimbo. Obviously he wore Bas Rutten's patience out. I don't see how Rashad gets Kimbo going. It'll have to be Rampage.

TGolding (Sacramento, CA)

Which event this weekend are you second most excited about?? WEC 41 or Strikeforce?? (I know Bellator will be #1 in your heart).

Jon Anik

  (1:06 PM)

Hahahaha...Strikeforce show is drunk with talent. Can't wait to get back from California to watch.

Eddie (long island, Ny [via mobile]

I'm calling an HBO deal for the UFC. Hdnet was dropped by Time Warner, HBO parent company.

Franklin McNeil

  (1:07 PM)

HBO Sports President Ross Greenburg has told me countless times that MMA is not in the network's plans.

Greg, NY

Franklin, do you see the winner of Kongo vs. Velasquez as the next competitor for the heavyweight belt?

Franklin McNeil

  (1:07 PM)

Yes. Sorry, Shane Carwin.

Justin, Framingham MA

Franklin, question about GSP... If he is successful in defending his title vs Thiago Alves, who do you see next for him , considering that Anderson Silva, who was rumored to face GSP at the end of the year, is slated to face the winner of hendo/bisping

Franklin McNeil

  (1:08 PM)

Good question. Silva seems the most logical choice. It's certainly been bantered about, and GSP seems interested in the fight.

john jersey [via mobile]

Thank god for my blackberry... Franklin and jon how do you guys feel about the affliction card worth ordering?

Franklin McNeil

  (1:09 PM)

Yes, definitely worth ordering. Fedor is always must-see TV. Anik is glad you found us, John.

TGolding (Sacramento, CA)

What is Strikeforce going to do about Cung Le's title? Obviously he isn't going to defend it with his movie career in full swing. Any chance of them having a vacant title, ala UFC with Randy Coture last year?

Franklin McNeil

  (1:10 PM)

Scott Coker has told me he's standing behind Cung Le and supports his outside pursuits. But, that was a few months ago, and now there are a ton of worthy contenders.

Phil (STL)

Hey guys! How do you think the Mousasi-Babalu fight will pan out at Affliction 3? Dana White can't ignore Gegard after this fight if he wins...

Franklin McNeil

  (1:11 PM)

Anik loves Mousasi against anyone. I like Babalu. He's found himself mentally and physically, having won five straight. But you're right- Mousasi has to be a name Dana White is monitoring. He's gotta beat Babalu, though.

Smokin Joe (agruing w/ rob from jersey)

Jon - I can beat Robbie Lawler right?

Jon Anik

  (1:11 PM)

Most definitely. Villasenor would beat Lawler yesterday and tomorrow. Cage/ring? No matter.

BT (Atlanta)

I was never that big of a rampage fan, but it really does seem he is ducking machida. Guys (especially FM), have you lost a little respect for Jackson? And didnt he say h didnt even like coaching last time?

Franklin McNeil

  (1:12 PM)

I think it's a good decision for Rampage. He did not look good against Keith Jardine, and is still adjusting to Wolfslair (his new camp). Besides, fighting Rashad is no cakewalk.

REL Lynn MA [via mobile]

How come Brock Lesnar gets into the ufc with nooo problems @ all and Bobby lashley who is about as Decorated as Brock about as gifted and same wwe background dose not get a shot even on TUF or a ultimate fight night would a strog showing agianst Bob sapp Prove himself to dana

Jon Anik

  (1:14 PM)

Bobby himself has told us he is not ready for the UFC just yet. He says he wants to get a few more fights under his belt. And Franklin points out that Lesnar did not just waltz into the UFC. Dana had some reluctance at first, but Brock really forced the issue.

david (SC) [via mobile]

How far does Kimbo get in TUF?

Jon Anik

  (1:14 PM)

We think he wins at least one fight.

Franklin McNeil

  (1:14 PM)

...and I think he'll win more than one fight.

Jeff (MD)

I doubt very seriously Rampage is ducking anyone. Can anyone else at 205 say they have fought every top 205er in the world during the last 5-7 years?

Franklin McNeil

  (1:14 PM)

Exactly.

Kevin: Middletown, Oh

Any word on a cheat code for UFC Undisputed that changes Florians hair styles between rounds?

Jon Anik

  (1:15 PM)

Hahahaha...There is no 'mullet' setting on my PS3. Still looking.

TGolding (Sacramento, CA)

Who are you leaning towards in the 145 final? Reyes or Soto??? To be honest, I'm just stoked to see Bryan Baker in the ring again.

Jon Anik

  (1:16 PM)

Love TGolding bringin' the Bellator talk. I think Joe Soto wins the belt at 145. His striking will be too much for Yahir Reyes, who can't afford a slow start this time around. Also jacked up to see Baker vs. Matt Horwich. An important fight for both guys for sure.

shawn: florida [via mobile]

Is Shogun gonna get any respect against Machida? I don't think any ones giving him a chance already.

Franklin McNeil

  (1:16 PM)

I don't think he will get much respect, even with his recent win over Chuck Liddell. Shogun hasn't looked like the fighter who performed in PRIDE since joining the UFC.

Jon Anik

  (1:17 PM)

...I would disagree, in part. I think Shogun is as viable a challenger as there is at 205. If he channels to Shogun of old, that could be a very compelling fight. Rua will gain some momentum, in my opinion, as the fight approaches.

Fedor Russia

I'll be in season 10 tuf

Jon Anik

  (1:18 PM)

You wouldn't be caught dead on a reality show! Or in a cage, for that matter.

rob (jersey)

Franklin, us Jersey folk need to stick together - lol. but seriously, Don't you think Kermit Cintron could be the first upper-level boxer to crack the MMA ranks and do well. He has a great wrestling background.....

Franklin McNeil

  (1:19 PM)

Yes, I agree Rob. Kermit has very good stand-up, obviously. And his wrestling is top-notch. He would have little trouble making the transition to MMA.

Snapple Cap (My desk)

Mosquitoes are attracted to people who just ate bananas. You're welcome.

Jon Anik

  (1:19 PM)

Thankfully, I'm not a banana guy.

Charlie, Philly

Who do you have winning the Lawler/Shields fight?

Jon Anik

  (1:20 PM)

I like Shields to overwhelm Lawler on the ground. McNeil thinks Robbie gets it done.

Sean (VT)

If Davis beats Hardy at UFC 99, does he shed his gate keeper status and become a contender or was the Swick fight his only chance for that?

Jon Anik

  (1:21 PM)

Great question, Sean. I think the window for Davis as a contender has all but closed. I would ask you this- Do you think he has any chance of beating GSP, Fitch or other top welterweights. I'm just not sure.

BT (Atlanta)

What do you guys think of a Cane/KS (Polish Experiment)fight?

Franklin McNeil

  (1:22 PM)

I like that match-up. Might have to talk to Joe Silva about this one. Anik doesn't think the UFC would jeopardize Cane's contender status by putting him in there with Soszynski.

Adam (Provo, UT)

Franklin, I saw Will Ferrell was on Man vs Wild last night...can you work your magic and get Anik on that show?

Franklin McNeil

  (1:22 PM)

Anik wouldn't last a minute.

Jon Anik

  (1:23 PM)

Easy, F-Mac. This is my chat homey.

Henry MIA FL

Will Vitor Belfort ever be in the UFC again?

Jon Anik

  (1:23 PM)

That's a tough one. I would lean towards yes, as long as he keeps winning. He's got the skill and, perhaps more importantly, the name.

Adam (Charleston, SC)

If GSP wins @ UFC 100, who is the next challenger at welterweight? Kampmann, Swick (if he wins), or a Fitch rematch?

Jon Anik

  (1:24 PM)

It could be the aforementioned mega-fight versus Silva. But at 170, Kampmann and Swick are both possibilities. Swick has to get through Ben Saunders first, and that's no gimme.

TGolding (Sacramento, CA)

The man to watch on the upcoming season of TUF is Brendan Schaub. Write that name down! Dude is a beast. He's an ex NFLer who trains with Shane Carwin. He's got serious power!!

Jon Anik

  (1:24 PM)

You're on the record.

Adam (Provo, UT)

Did you call F-Mac honey?

Jon Anik

  (1:25 PM)

Homey, with an M. Easy, Utah.

sxjohnson (phx, az)

Who do you take in the Smith/Diaz fight?

Franklin McNeil

  (1:26 PM)

I'm going with Diaz. He has the better boxing skills to avoid Smith's power, and he can also end it on the ground. Diaz will win, likely by submission. Anik agrees, for the record.

Henry MIA FL

Does the WEC need faber to win so they can set up a part 3

Franklin McNeil

  (1:27 PM)

Not only does the WEC need Faber to win for a possible third fight with Brown. But a Faber win would also set up a possible showdown with Miguel Torres. A Faber win gives the WEC more options.

Scott(Des Moines)

I watched a couple of Kenny's fights recently, and I've never seen a person who can turn it on and off like he does... When he's in the booth it's one thing, but come fight time I didn't even recognize him... Thought?

Jon Anik

  (1:27 PM)

Totally agree. The dude is a mental machine.

Mike M. (Los Angeles, Ca)

Forrest Griffin will beat Anderson Silva ... What do you guys think?

Franklin McNeil

  (1:27 PM)

No.

BT (Atlanta)

I tend to think that Cane is actually more deserving of a title shot than Shogun. Please explain if I am wrong.

Jon Anik

  (1:28 PM)

In terms of what he has done lately, you're right. But as we know, title shots aren't always given to the most deserving in the UFC.

Franklin McNeil

  (1:28 PM)

I don't agree, Jon. Though Shogun hasn't looked like a worldbeater, his resume speaks for itself.

Franklin McNeil

  (1:29 PM)

Alright, Jon's gonna take it from here. See you tomorrow on MMA Live. McNeil out.

Johnny, Indiana

Gray Maynard would tend to agree JA.

Guilherme (São Paulo, Brazil)

Can't we just fast forward TUF 9?

Franklin McNeil

  (1:29 PM)

Hahaha...I'm ready for 10 myself, Gui.

Ivan, NYC

I am interested in KJ Noons carrer. Do you guys have any idea if he has joined Strikeforce? After smoking through Yves Edwards and clocking Nick Diaz I was starting to see a fighter grow up. Maybe UFC is in his sights?

Franklin McNeil

  (1:31 PM)

I still think KJ has a lot of work to do to be considered an elite MMA athlete. I'd love to see him rematch Nick Diaz. My lasting image of KJ Noons (hate to say it) is of him getting blasted by Charles 'Crazy Horse' Bennett at the EliteXC debut in Mississippi. Noons talked all this junk, and got KO'd cold.

Jon Anik

  (1:31 PM)

That was me, sorry. I thought I had rid this chat of McNeil, but he keeps coming back.

Ken (Pittsburgh)

Jon, I think one big-name fighter who gets no love is Rich Franklin; he only (as of recently) showcases on PPVs in Europe, was ostracized from Middleweight even though he was a great champion, and no one talks about him as a contender for the 205 belt. Do you think he'll beat Wandy in 10 days, and if so, what next for Ace?

Jon Anik

  (1:32 PM)

I can't wait for Franklin to beat Wanderlei, so we can figure out exactly what his future holds. I think you'll see Franklin face a top-tier light heavyweight, and eventually get a shot at the belt. As you can tell, I'm a huge Franklin fan. He's the consummate team (UFC) player.

Joe (St. Louis, MO)

Hey Jon! Sorry I'm late. I have tickets to Strikeforce on Saturday (8th row on the floor)! How do you think the main event between Robbie Lawler and Jake Shields will play out? I'm not impressed by Shields stand up, but his ground game will certainly be too much for Lawler...your thoughts?

Jon Anik

  (1:33 PM)

Good for you, Joseph. That's a great ticket, and I expected you to be there. I love Shields in the fight. I think he'll show off his chin up, and eventually get the fight to the ground.

Jon Anik

  (1:34 PM)

Reminder: Great guests on MMA Live tomorrow! Urijah Faber, Robbie Lawler, Scott Smith, and Stephan Bonnar, all via satellite. And, Miguel Torres live in-studio.

Ivan, NYC

The Pitbull Arlovski vs Brett Rodgers? Who are you guys taking? I say Arlovski!

Jon Anik

  (1:35 PM)

Most are backing Arlovski b/c of the decided experience edge. I think Rogers will surprise some people and get some things done early on, but eventually I expect AA to get the finish.

Alan (Plantation, FL)

How do you think the other fighters in the house will treat Kimbo? Will their be any resentment from them?

Jon Anik

  (1:36 PM)

I think Kimbo may isolate himself. You can be sure one cameraman will be assigned to follow the Slice man at all times.

Jeff (MD)

Jon, I need a response. UFC TV deal to Disney (ABC & ESPN)????

Jon Anik

  (1:36 PM)

Your guess is as good as mine, Jeff. I don't know what Dana's big announcement is. Honest.

Henry MIA FL

are you ever going to machida on mma live

Jon Anik

  (1:37 PM)

At some point, sure. But his English is not great. We expect to have Nogueira in-studio before his fight at UFC 102.

MPD(Illinois)

Jon, why is it most of the title holders in the UFC only defend their belts twice a year. I feel there should be a minimum 3 defenses a year. What do you think?

Jon Anik

  (1:38 PM)

It's annoying at times. GSP has said he prefers, at this stage of his career, to only fight twice per year. Anderson Silva, conversely, would love to be more active. Ultimately, the UFC calls the shots.

Bradley (Regina, Saskatchewan)

Who is the most over-rated fighter in the world? I would have to go with Faber, but couldnt a case be made for Rashad? Machida pitched a shutout on him.

Jon Anik

  (1:39 PM)

There are more underrated guys than there are overrated. I don't dislike Robbie Lawler, but I'm not convinced he's a top 3-5 middleweight. Just don't think he's well-rounded enough.

Chris (Danville, Ca)

Assuming Cung Le comes back to defend his title, do you think that Lawler, or whoever challenges, will beat him, or does it turn into a BJ Penn situation where people are not beating him and he pushes off title bouts indefinitely?

Jon Anik

  (1:39 PM)

I think the Lawler-Shields winner gets Cung Le. Hopefully, it happens before the year is out.

BT (Atlanta)

What do you think of a Kampmann/Hughes fight? It seems to me that both have something to prove.

Jon Anik

  (1:40 PM)

Works for me.

Adam (Provo, UT)

I know this is an MMA chat, but how about haye pulling out of the Klitschko fight today? That has to suck for boxing.

Jon Anik

  (1:40 PM)

Too bad.

raul (chino,cal)

what do u think about ishii joining up with sengoku

Jon Anik

  (1:41 PM)

I was more surprised than most, I guess. I shouldn't have taken him at his word when he said he planned to sign with the UFC. I'm sure he is being heavily compensated, and he gets to keep the comforts of home.

Henry MIA FL

whats next for thiago silva

Jon Anik

  (1:41 PM)

I believe Keith Jardine in August.

Robert (WI)

Jon, what do you think of the rumored Belfort/Santiago fight at Affliction?

Jon Anik

  (1:42 PM)

I think Santiago is one of the better middleweights that people haven't heard of. Great camp, and he's in great current form. He will provide a legit test for Vitor.

Andy (Ann Arbor, MI)

If you could fight any celebrity, who would it be? Personally, I'd like to see you put a beating on Tom Cruise.

Jon Anik

  (1:42 PM)

Great question. I'd like to fight the new American Idol Kris Allen. Guaranteed W.

Andy (Ann Arbor, MI)

When does the next season of TUF begin showing on TV?

Jon Anik

  (1:42 PM)

September 16th debut on Spike.

Marc (Malden, MA)

With Rampage/Rashad not fighting until December, the winner won't get a title shot until March/April. That means Machida will have 2 title defenses between now and then. So who gets those title shots?

Jon Anik

  (1:44 PM)

Shogun Rua, and...not sure. Several possibilites. Maybe even Rich Franklin. Of course, the problem there is obvious. If Franklin wins, you'd have a LHW champ who has been floored twice by your middleweight champion. Luis Cane could be in the mix.

Marcus Davis

Dan Hardy is a douchebag.

Jon Anik

  (1:44 PM)

Actions speak louder than words. Make it happen June 13th.

shawn: Florida [via mobile]

You sure you dont want to fight the American Idol runner up?

Jon Anik

  (1:45 PM)

Hahaha. I'm an Adam Lambert fan. No animosity there.

Chris (Danville, Ca)

Jon, if Kimbo loses quickly on the show, and the finale when the winners are determined, does the UFC let him go, or try to get a little more money for him against small competition later?

Jon Anik

  (1:46 PM)

I think the UFC will milk Kimbo's presence for all it can. I think, win or lose, he could get a fight on the Season 10 Finale. What a crazy turn of events. Has to be considered a sizable loss for Strikeforce.

john

why dont my questions get on here and marcus davis can call ppl a douchebag?

Jon Anik

  (1:47 PM)

Over 600 questions in the queue. Every time I answer one, 30 more pop in. Doing the best I can.

shawn: Florida [via mobile]

What about Griffin getting the next shot? If he beats Silva of course?

Jon Anik

  (1:47 PM)

Sure.

MPD(Illinois)

What do you know about The Cowboy's opponent this Sunday?

Jon Anik

  (1:47 PM)

He's undefeated, but hasn't fought any name I recognize. Cerrone is a monster, and will win. Stamp it.

Alan (Plantation, FL)

Jon, why do the Vegas oddsmakers have so little respect for Saunders against Swick? Saunders has a good chin, great Muay Thai, a sizable reach advantage, and maybe slightly better ground/submission game.

Jon Anik

  (1:48 PM)

Haven't seen the line yet, but I do expect it to be close. Swick, though, is in phenomenal shape, and I expect him to grind out the win.

Mikey(Lackawanna,NY)

Jon, Any chance we will see Bobby Lashley join TUF cast for season 10?

Jon Anik

  (1:48 PM)

Nope. He was interested, but his managers advised against it.

Ken (Pittsburgh)

RE: Machida defenses: Forrest Griffin will likely get a title shot if he beats Spider Silva.

Jon Anik

  (1:48 PM)

Huge if, but you're right.

Chris (Danville, Ca)

Jon, do you think that the UFC is just waiting for Affliction to crumble so that they can make cheaper deals with some of their fighters like Mousasi, Belfort, Fedor, etc?

Jon Anik

  (1:49 PM)

I would expect the UFC and others to go hard after the Affliction talent, should the organization fold. But as of now, there is no concrete evidence that Affliction will call it quits after August 1st.

David (Dallas, TX)

How long until the Zuffa withdraws 155 in the WEC and brings the big name guys over?

Jon Anik

  (1:50 PM)

Good question. I think if there is any division deep enough to maintain in both the UFC and WEC, it is lightweight. I don't think there will be a merger anytime soon.

Ben (Columbus)

Is Fedor's defense against Barnett his last contracted fight with Affliction? If he were to move to UFC would WAMMA strip him of his title?

Jon Anik

  (1:51 PM)

As far as I know, Fedor's fight with Barnett is his last. WAMMA isn't really a huge consideration. If he moved to the UFC, Emelianenko would willingly relinquish the title. And, of course, the UFC wouldn't recognize the WAMMA title.

MMA Nation (Errwhere)

Jon Anik: (1:45 PM ET ) Hahaha. I'm an Adam Lambert fan. No animosity there. Wow. When's McNeil Coming back? Do you like Bette Midler, too?

Jon Anik

  (1:52 PM)

Hahaha. Dude's got talent, that's all. I'm glad I got called out, though. Deserved.

AL (New JERSEY)

who wins 4 man tourn, frankie Edgar, Tyson griffin, uriah faber, mike brown?

Jon Anik

  (1:52 PM)

Edgar.

Jon (Brookline, MA)

MMAJunkie is reporting a favorable vote for MMA regulation in NYC!

Jon Anik

  (1:53 PM)

Yes, several sites are reporting as much. This is just the initial vote, though. There are still other committees that need to approve the legislation. But, it's a good sign. The bill didn't make it past this step in 2008.

Marvin Haggler - Bristol England

Does Kenny even have a prayer against BJ Penn and is Marcus Davis a real irishman - please give me your breakdown of Penn-Florian

Jon Anik

  (1:54 PM)

Kenny has more than a prayer- he has a great chance to win the title. His boxing is vastly improved, and his footwork/head movement could pose a problem for BJ. Mentally, there is no one tougher than Florian.

Jeff (MD)

The Sherk win was that impressive for you eh?

Jon Anik

  (1:56 PM)

I just looked at those other 3 guys, and gave Edgar the slight edge. I like Tyson Griffin, too, but not as much as Edgar, at least right now.

Che (Macon, GA)

You admit that you're an Adam Lambert fan. Come on JA.

Jon Anik

  (1:56 PM)

I'm an honest dude. I've got about 80 posts in here questioning my manhood now. A lot of venom from MMA Nation.

Steve Dave (Sunny AZ)

Anik on the Edgar bandwagon now?! Or are you just blowin smoke?

Jon Anik

  (1:58 PM)

Not on the bandwagon, Steve Dave. I was asked how he'd fare in a tourney with those other three guys. If he was in a tournament with Alvarez, Kawajiri, and Florian, I'd give Edgar the #4 seed.

Jeff (MD)

Have you heard anything out of Brock's camp? Seems like all has been quiet up there for quite some time. I am wondering how the long layoff is effecting him. He seems to be making leaps and bounds every time out.

Jon Anik

  (1:58 PM)

Exactly how Lesnar likes out. Out of sight, and then BOOM! Down goes Mir! I would agree that the layoff could be a factor early in the fight, but Brock will be ready.

Guilherme (São Paulo, Brazil)

While people talk about Adam Lambert, I'm not getting my questions in. But that's OK. I'm not in my best shape today.

Jon Anik

  (1:59 PM)

Hahaha...sorry, Gui. Chat queue is buzzing today.

Chris (Danville, Ca)

Kenny has not fought in a long time and it seems like everyday he is sparring with some top fighters. Will the UFC 101 Kenny be a whole new beast when compared with his old self?

Jon Anik

  (2:01 PM)

I think the Stevenson fight showed you how destructive Kenny can be. He is in the best shape of his life, and his camp is already in full motion. You will see a prime Florian on August 8th. I wish today was August 7th.

GIL THE THRILL (SAN ANTONIO TX)

Jon, Who has a better shot to return to the UFC and actually make a run at the HW Title. Barnett or Arlovski?

Jon Anik

  (2:01 PM)

I think Barnett has a better chance to make a run at the title, but I think Arlovski is the guy who is more likely to return to the UFC.

Jim (Acton, MA)

16 days and counting til Smokin Joe can revitalize Anik's man crush.

Jon Anik

  (2:02 PM)

You are correct, James. It's been a long year without Villasenor. Look forward to him crushing Evangelista Santos on 6/19.

Guilherme (São Paulo, Brazil)

Jon, will you be in Philly for UFC 101? It will be my first UFC event.

Jon Anik

  (2:02 PM)

I will be there. Hopefully with MMA Live. But if not, I have bought a pair of tickets, just in case. Gotta be there to support my boy.

Henry MIA FL

biggest name in mma today

Jon Anik

  (2:03 PM)

Still Chuck Liddell. Kimbo Slice second. Randy Couture third.

BT (Atlanta)

Have you heard any plans for Condit?

Jon Anik

  (2:03 PM)

Nothing imminent. I'll ask around.

Ken (Pittsburgh)

Dana is a relentless businessman...not only does he sign Kimbo in a fashion that will rejuvenate TUF show, but he prevents Strikeforce/Affliction/Japan from capitalizing on Kimbo's popularity, all this on a weekend when SForce is putting on a stacked card.

Jon Anik

  (2:03 PM)

If Dana was a fighter, his cardio would never abandon him. The dude never stops. Works his a** off 24/7/365 and it shows.

shawn: florida [via mobile]

Now you have to choke someone out to win us back!

Jon Anik

  (2:04 PM)

Just choked out our graphics guy, Josh Perry. He's still asleep.

Charlie, Philly

SMOKIN' JOE! SMOKIN' JOE! SMOKIN' JOE! SMOKIN' JOE! - Do I have you attention yet? Yes or no to your suggested side bet on Shields v. Lawler?

Jon Anik

  (2:05 PM)

I've been warned about making side wagers with the Nation. If I had MMA Live t-shirts to hand out, I'd put one on the line right now. But I really don't.

Jim (Acton, MA)

Jon, do you know when TUF 10 begins? (real life not episodes)

Jon Anik

  (2:06 PM)

Shooting began this week.

Sean (VT)

Vegas had Perry +210. Nice work.

Henry MIA FL

do you think matt serra got robbed

Jon Anik

  (2:06 PM)

Nope.

GIL THE THRILL SAN ANTONIO TX

HEY JON JUST WANT TO SAY THAT YOU ARE THE NEW UFC LIGHTWEIGHT CHAMP IN MY UFC UNSIPUTED.. BEAT PENN VIA ARMBAR

Jon Anik

  (2:06 PM)

Outstanding. Thanks for the plug.

TGolding (Sacramento, CA)

Have you been watching Dana's video blogs?? It really shows how active that man is. If you haven't, watch them ASAP.

Jon Anik

  (2:07 PM)

They are entertaining. Always deliver.

Marc (Malden, MA)

MMA Live at UFC 100...perfect time for the first MMA Live on ESPN or ESPN2.

Jon Anik

  (2:07 PM)

Can't promise the latter, but we'll be there.

Jim (Acton, MA)

This question was asked earlier but I don't believe you answered it... how do you feel Cung Le stacks up against Shields and/or Lawler?

Jon Anik

  (2:08 PM)

Very favorably against both guys. I think he'd outstrike Lawler, but Shields, despite a size disadvantage, would be a handful on the canvas.

Jon Anik

  (2:09 PM)

Alright, guys. I gotta bounce. Be sure to check out Episode #56 of MMA Live tomorrow. Miguel Torres in-studio, and satellite appearances by Robbie Lawler, Scott Smith, Urijah Faber, and Stephan Bonnar. I'm off to California tomorrow for Bellator X. Will be posting on Twitter all weekend (Jon_Anik). Until next week, be well. -JA