Tahspark
Ted Thorn (20)
I have a confession. I have 2 teenage boys who love watching the UFC but I can't deny my appreciation of it.
I know that it's polarizing with passionate advocates and detractors. Both of my brothers hate it (but neither have teenage sons). It didn't help that on one occasion whilst channel surfing with one of my brothers Fuel was showing an especially bloody contest. My youngest brother reckons that he'd rather watch a pub fight than 2 blokes going toe to toe in the octagon.
But here's the rub. It's very skillful. Those that excel truly are mixed martial artists. The biggest and meanest do not always prevail. Invariably the athlete with the best technical ability gets the nod.
I also find the level of training and mental toughness involved very inspirational. The dedication to excellence in training transcends all sports, including, rugby.
My favourite bouts in the last 12 months include: Miller v Lauzon (UFC 155), Jones v Gustafsson UFC 165) and Melendez v Sanchez (UFC 166).
This afternoon, Georges St Pierre who hasn't lost since August 2007 defends his welterweight belt against the dangerous Johny Hendricks. If St Pierre wins he'll go to 19 wins in the UFC, a new record. I'm up for it bigtime & my boys are out!
I know that it's polarizing with passionate advocates and detractors. Both of my brothers hate it (but neither have teenage sons). It didn't help that on one occasion whilst channel surfing with one of my brothers Fuel was showing an especially bloody contest. My youngest brother reckons that he'd rather watch a pub fight than 2 blokes going toe to toe in the octagon.
But here's the rub. It's very skillful. Those that excel truly are mixed martial artists. The biggest and meanest do not always prevail. Invariably the athlete with the best technical ability gets the nod.
I also find the level of training and mental toughness involved very inspirational. The dedication to excellence in training transcends all sports, including, rugby.
My favourite bouts in the last 12 months include: Miller v Lauzon (UFC 155), Jones v Gustafsson UFC 165) and Melendez v Sanchez (UFC 166).
This afternoon, Georges St Pierre who hasn't lost since August 2007 defends his welterweight belt against the dangerous Johny Hendricks. If St Pierre wins he'll go to 19 wins in the UFC, a new record. I'm up for it bigtime & my boys are out!