Friday, June 27, 2008

Russian Casinos - Major Changes Coming

Starting on July 1st, 2009, the gambling landscape of Russia will change in a very fundamental way. After that deadline, casinos will no longer be allowed in Moscow. Instead, gambling will be confined to four remote areas of the country: Kaliningrad, Altay, the Primorsky region and the border between the Rostov and Krasnodar regions. It is the government’s hope that these areas will serve as a Russian version of Las Vegas or Macau.

The ball got rolling in 2006, when Russian officials passed a bill which would limit casino gambling to the four regions. The local casino industry tried to fight it, but President Putin and his supporters would not be denied. They wanted some safeguard in place to fight the rising number of gambling addicts in their primary cities. By limiting gambling to these remote areas, the entire process could be better monitored and regulated.

AZOV CITY

At the moment, the most ambitious plan is that of Azov City. With a projected location in the Krasnodar region, the new city would contain 50 hotels and have a population of about 60,000. A port and airport would also exist to attract additional tourists.

Of course, this is still in the planning stages, and the proposed location for Azov City currently contains vast stretches of wheat fields. But if it can be pulled off, it will mean thousands of jobs for locals and should draw an estimated 6 million tourists per year.

There are also other concerns. According to one expert, it may be a year before construction even begins. And since that’s around the same time that casinos will become outlawed in the major cities, that means a whole score of illegal casinos may spring up across Russia. And given the strength of the Russian mafia, there’s little doubt that this will lead to an increase in crime.


Still, if you’re a world traveler and a gambler, then this is one to keep an eye on. If the Russians can pull it off, Macau and Vegas may have some additional competition.


For more gambling news:

Buy Sex and Get Gas at Legal Nevada Brothel

NFL Schedule for 2008-2009 Season


Russian Casinos - Major Changes Coming

Thursday, June 26, 2008

NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year - Bodog Odds

As the 2008 NFL season keeps getting closer, it’s time to start thinking about who’s going to win the NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year award. Will a dark horse candidate sneak in the back door, or will it predictably be a first round selection? There are plenty of intriguing candidates, and Bodog’s sports book has you covered when it comes to making a wager.


ROOKIES OF THE YEAR - LAST 10 YEARS

For the sake of comparison, let’s take a look at the players chosen as NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year for the past decade.


1998 - Randy Moss - WR - Vikings

1999 - Edgerrin James - RB - Colts

2000 - Mike Anderson - RB - Broncos

2001 - Anthony Thomas - RB - Bears

2002 - Clinton Portis - RB - Broncos

2003 - Anquan Boldin - WR - Cardinals

2004 - Ben Roethlisberger - QB - Steelers

2005 - Cadillac Williams - RB - Buccaneers

2006 - Vince Young - QB - Titans

2007 - Adrian Peterson - RB - Vikings


For those of you keeping score, that’s 2 quarterbacks, 6 running backs and 2 wide receivers over the last 10 years. Since it normally takes receivers and quarterbacks a few more years to adjust to the pro level, that’s why running backs tend to dominate this award.

So who will it be this year? Let’s take a look at the current odds being offered by Bodog. The maximum bet is $100, although you can bet the limit on multiple players.


NFL ROOKIE OF THE YEAR - BODOG ODDS


Darren McFadden - RB - Raiders 3/1

Jonathan Stewart - RB - Panthers 13/2

Kevin Smith - RB - Lions 13/2

Rashard Mendenhall - RB - Steelers 12/1

Felix Jones - RB - Cowboys 18/1

Matt Ryan - QB - Falcons 14/1

Matt Forte - RB - Bears 13/2

Devin Thomas - WR - Redskins 40/1

Chris Johnson - RB - Titans 35/1

Joe Flacco - QB - Ravens 35/1

Ray Rice - WR - Ravens 20/1

Jamaal Charles - RB - Chiefs 35/1

James Hardy - WR - Bills 30/1

DeSean Jackson - WR - Eagles 35/1

Chad Henne - QB - Dolphins 35/1

Limas Sweed - WR - Steelers 30/1

Dustin Keller -TE - Jets 60/1

Malcolm Kelly - WR - Redskins 45/1

Donnie Avery - WR - Rams 70/1

John Carlson - TE - Seahawks 60/1

Eddie Royal - WR - Broncos 40/1

Steve Slaton - RB - Texans 25/1

Tashard Choice - RB - Cowboys 125/1

Brian Brohm -QB - Packers 35/1

John David Booty - QB - Vikings 50/1

Jerome Simpson - WR - Bengals 90/1

Early Doucet - WR - Cardinals 55/1

Mario Manningham - WR - Giants 45/1

Jake Long - OT - Dolphins 35/1

Earl Bennett - WR - Bears 100/1

Field 15/1


For more on the NFL, please read the following:

NFL Player Prop Bets from Bodog

2008 NFL Draft - First Round Results


NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year - Bodog Odds

Wednesday, June 25, 2008

UFC 86: Jackson vs. Griffin - Full Card and Bodog Odds

The hits just keep right on coming. Of course, I’m talking about the latest upcoming UFC event entitled UFC 86: Jackson vs. Griffin. It’s scheduled to take place on July 5th at the Mandalay Bay Events Center in Las Vegas, and the main event will be Quinton “Rampage” Jackson (Light Heavyweight Champion) defending his title against fan-favorite Forrest Griffin. Leading up to this fight, both men also acted as coaches on the seventh season of The Ultimate Fighter.


UFC 86 COMPLETE CARD

Below is the complete card for UFC 86. When possible, I’ve included betting odds provided by Bodog. If you don’t see odds for a particular fight, there’s a good chance Bodog will have it as the date of the event draws closer.


Preliminary Card

(Lightweight) Corey Hill vs. Justin Buchholz

(Lightweight) Melvin Guillard vs. Dennis Siver

(Lightweight) Jorge Gurgel EVEN vs. Cole Miller -130

(Heavyweight) Gabriel Gonzaga vs. Justin McCully


Main Card

(Lightweight) Tyson Griffin vs. Marcus Aurelio

(Welterweight) Josh Kosceck -315 vs. Chris Lytle +240

(Lightweight) Joe Stevenson -215 vs. Gleison Tibau +175

(Middleweight) Patrick Cote -105 vs. Ricardo Almeida -125

(Light Heavyweight Title) Quinton Jackson -260 vs. Forrest Griffin +200


QUINTON JACKSON VS. FORREST GRIFFIN


Quinton “Rampage” Jackson

Jackson first made a name for himself in PRIDE, and he’s been fantastic since debuting in the UFC. He knocked out Chuck Liddell in short order to win the title, and during his career he’s got wins over Kevin Randleman, Murilo Bustamante, Ricardo Arona, Murilo Rua, Igor Vovchanchyn, Matt Lindland and Dan Henderson.

Jackson is 3-0 in the UFC, and he’s riding a 6-fight winning streak. He has 28 career wins (13 by KO, 7 by submission), and he’s lost 6 times (being knocked out 3 times and submitted only once).

Jackson is supremely confident going into the fight. Just look at what he said about fighting Griffin in a recent interview, “If the fans want to see a good ol’ fashioned ass whoopin, if you just want to see somebody get their ass whooped, tune into this fight…he’s never fought anyone like me before, he’s never fought anyone meaner, uglier, stronger, he never fought no one like me before. He’s going to have a really hard time. But I’ve fought people like Forrest before–tough guy, no chin, no punching power, tall guy, good on the ground. I’ve fought guys like that.”


Forrest Griffin

Griffin’s title shot is a long time coming, but nobody can say that he hasn’t earned it. After beating guys like Stephen Bonnar and Jeff Monson, Griffin moved on to drop a close split decision to Tito Ortiz. Keith Jardine knocked him out in the first round, but Griffin bounced back by beating the highly-touted Mauricio “Shogun” Rua in his UFC debut (Griffin was a +235 underdog).

During his MMA career, Griffin has 15 wins (3 by knockout and 7 by submission) and 4 losses. He’s currently on a two-fight winning streak.


PREDICTION

While I hate to see either one of these guys lose, I’m going to have to predict Rampage by a first round TKO. Forrest will seek to take it to the ground at some point, but Rampage is freakishly strong. Forrest often has a slugger’s mentality, and I fear that this will be his undoing.


For more MMA action, click on the links:

UFC 76 Results

UFC 83 Betting Odds


UFC 86: Jackson vs. Griffin - Full Card and Bodog Odds

UEFA EURO 2008 - Bodog Soccer Odds

Every four years since 1960, European soccer teams have come together to compete in the UEFA European Football Championship. While it was once called the European Nations Cup, the new name was adopted in 1968.

This year’s tournament started on June 7th, and is scheduled to end at Ernst Happel Stadion in Vienna on June 29th. The host countries for this year’s event are Switzerland and Austria, and Greece came into the tournament as the defending champions (although they have already been eliminated).


EURO 2008 UEFA FINALS

The finals of the 2008 Euro are just days away, and Germany has secured a spot by defeating Turkey 3 to 2. Turkey will take home the bronze title, while Germany will await the winner of Russia versus Spain, which is to be played on June 25th.

Insane numbers of people will be watching these remaining matches all across the globe, and bettors can wager on the action without having to leave their living room. Just head on over to Bodog Sportsbook and place your bet on literally hundreds of possible betting combinations.

And if you like to keep things a bit more simple, here are a couple of Euro Cup futures offered by Bodog.


UEFA EURO 2008 BETS FROM BODOG

Who will be the top goal scorer during the UEFA Euro 2008 tournament?

Miroslav Klose 25/1

David Villa 1/3

Fernando Torres 25/1

Lukas Podolski 6/1

Michael Ballack 10/1

Andrei Arshavin 16/1

Bastian Schweinsteiger 40/1

The Field (any other player) 5/1


Who will be the winner of the Euro 2008 tournament?

Germany 6/5

Spain 3/2

Russia 3/1


For more articles on sports, be sure and follow the links below:

Canseco vs. Sikahema - Celebrity Fight

Soccer Gambling Crackdown - 23 Arrested


UEFA EURO 2008 - Bodog Soccer Odds

Belladonna - Babe of the Week

With her tattoos and messed-up teeth, Belladonna doesn't exactly look like the prototypical porn star. But when the cameras start rolling...look out! Nobody in the business is nastier or more enthusiastic than this 34C-24-34 hottie. She's appeared in over 250 adult films and is one of the biggest stars in the business.

Belladonna - Babe of the Week

Tuesday, June 24, 2008

Ultimate Finale 7 - Full Results and Bodog Odds

The seventh season of The Ultimate Fighter officially concluded on Saturday night in Las Vegas with The Ultimate Finale. Below, I have listed the full results for each fight. When possible, I have also included some of the odds posted by Bodog’s excellent online sports book. If you’re looking to bet on some MMA action, be sure and check them out.

ULTIMATE FGHTER RESULTS

Preliminary Card
(Middleweight) Tim Credeur vs. Cale Yarbrough - This bout was cancelled after Credeur tested positive for a banned substance.
(Welterweight) Matt Arroyo vs. Matt Brown - Brown won by TKO at 3:40 into the second round.
(Middleweight) Rob Kimmons vs. Rob Yundt - Kimmons won via guillotine choke at 3:58 of the first round.
(Middleweight) Marvin Eastman EVEN vs. Drew McFedries -130 - McFedries won by TKO at 1:08 of Round One.
(Welterweight) Josh Burkman -220 vs. Dustin Hazelett +180 - Hazelett won by armbar submission at 4:46 of Round Two.
(Middleweight) Jeremy Horn -140 vs. Dean Lister +110 - Lister won by guillotine choke at 3:52 of the first round.

Main Card
(Middleweight) Matthew Riddle vs. Dante Rivera - Riddle won by unanimous decision.
(Lightweight) Spencer Fisher -220 vs. Jeremy Stephens +180 - Fisher won by unanimous decision.
(Welterweight) Diego Sanchez -500 vs. Luigi Fioravanti +350 - Sanchez won by TKO at 4:07 of the third round.
(Middleweight Tournament Finals) Amir Sadollah vs. C.B. Dollaway - Sadollah won by armbar submission at 3:02 of Round One to become the latest Ultimate Fighter winner.
(Middleweight) Evan Tanner -225 vs. Kendall Grove +165 - Grove won by split decision. Most experts agreed that Grove should have won a unanimous decision, as his performance was completely dominant.


UNDERDOG WATCH
So how many underdogs actually won their fights on Saturday? Well, the final number was three. The biggest, according to the betting line, was Dustin Hazelett’s submission victory over Josh Burkman.

For more MMA action, check out the following links:
Kimbo Slice and EliteXC on CBS - Bodog Odds
UFC 77 Results


Ultimate Finale 7 - Full Results and Bodog Odds

Thursday, June 19, 2008

NFL Player Prop Bets from Bodog

While the 2008 NFL season doesn’t officially start until September, that doesn’t mean you can’t do a little betting in the meantime. Thanks to Bodog Sportsbook, there are a number of intriguing NFL player prop bets to wager on.

You can bet on Offensive and Defensive Rookie of the year, and we’ll be covering those in more detail in future entries. Last year’s Offensive Rookie, Adrian Peterson, seems like a no-brainer now, but will Darren McFadden of the Raiders be able to follow in his footsteps?

For now, though, let’s focus on some of the other NFL proposition bets offered by Bodog. Be sure and check back often, as new wagers will be offered as the season inches closer to kickoff.


NFL PLAYER PROP BETS FROM BODOG

Who will have more rushing yards in the 2008 NFL Regular Season?

Adrian Peterson -110

LaDainian Tomlinson -120


My prediction: Both men will be spelled in an effort to keep their legs fresh, but I’m betting that Tomlinson will still get the rock more. Peterson should have a monster year, but Tomlinson is such an entrenched part of the Chargers’ offense.


Who will lead the NFL in passing yards during the 2008 regular season?

Derrick Anderson (Browns) 15/1

Kyle Boller (Ravens) 400/1

Tom Brady (Patriots) 9/5

Drew Brees (Saints) 5/2

Marc Bulger (Rams) 25/1

Kellen Clemons (Jets) 350/1

Jay Cutler (Broncos) 45/1

Trent Edwards (Bills) 250/1

Rex Grossman (Bears) 200/1

Matt Hassel beck (Seahawks) 20/1

Tarvaris Jackson (Vikings) 200/1

Jon Kitna (Lions) 35/1

Eli Manning (Giants) 25/1

Peyton Manning (Colts) 9/4

Donovan McNabb (Eagles) 30/1

Carson Palmer (Bengals) 9/1

Philip Rivers (Chargers) 40/1

Aaron Rodgers (Packers) 45/1

Ben Roethlisberger (Steelers) 30/1

Tony Romo (Cowboys) 13/2

JaMarcus Russell (Raiders) 100/1

Alex Smith (Niners) 150/1

Vince Young (Titans) 200/1

Field 12/1


My prediction: Peyton Manning is always a solid bet. Until last year, Brady was never exactly a monster when it came to stats, so who knows what 2008 will hold. Derrick Anderson was super hot last year, so he’s a strong contender if he can remain consistent. My pick, however, at 30/1 is Ben Roethlisberger. They added receiver Limas Sweed in the draft to go with Santonio Holmes and Hines Ward. In addition, they also got Rashard Mendenhall to help out Willie Parker in the running game. If all bets were at even odds, I’d take Peyton Manning, but Roethlisberger looks really nice at 30/1.


What conference will the leading passer come from?

AFC -200

NFC +150


My prediction: The AFC has Roethlisberger, Brady, Manning and Carson Palmer. Go with the AFC.


What conference will the leading receiver come from?

AFC -225

NFC +175


My prediction: With Marvin Harrison getting older and fighting nagging injuries and off-the-field problems, look for Manning to lean on Reggie Wayne more and more. He’s my pick for the NFL’s top receiver in 2008.


For more NFL articles, be sure and take a peek at the following:

2008 NFL Draft - First Round Results

Fantasy Football News Update - Green and Culpepper


NFL Player Prop Bets from Bodog

Bodog Poker Tournaments - BodogLife Poker Tournaments

I’ve long been a fan of the always-excellent Bodog Poker Room. Great customer service, fast payouts and lots of inventive promotions have always kept me coming back for more. But I had no idea of the wide variety of tournaments offered by the card room, until I recently came across a detailed list on their website.

Prepare to be impressed.


BODOG POKER TOURNAMENT LIST


Freerolls

A multi-table tournament with no entry fee. Freerolls may offer cash prizes, but they also provide player points and entry in other Bodog tournaments. It’s suggested that you register early for freerolls, as many usually have a limited number of entrants.

Multi-Table Tournaments

All players begin a multi-table tournament with the same amount of chips. When a player loses all of their chips, they are eliminated from the tournament. As players fall, tables are eventually consolidated together until there’s only one table remaining. These poker players then go until one participant has all the chips and is declared the winner.

Bodog Poker Points Tournament

Bodog Poker Points are earned every time you play in a Bodog poker room. Special tournaments are offered which allow the players to buy-in using only Bodog Poker Points. In other cases, you can buy-in with either BPPs or real money.

Qualifiers

Also known as satellites, these tournaments allow you to win entry into larger events without having to pay the more expensive buy-in (for example, win a $10 qualifier, and you get to play in a $100 game). Many larger tournaments will have a number of smaller qualifiers available.

Multi-Table Sit and Go

These tournaments begin when all seats are filled at the table. Most Bodog tournaments of this type include two to five tables and accommodate between 18 and 45 players. In most cases, the blind levels for these events will increase every 10 minutes, but turbo versions of the game see a rise every five minutes.

Sit and Go

Similar in format to multi-table Sit and Go, except there are less players, and they are all seated at one table. Payouts generally go to the top three players, with 50%, 30% and 20% being paid out, respectively.

Sit & Go Turbo and Super Turbo

In this version of Sit & Go, blinds increase at double the speed (five minutes versus ten). In the Super Turbo version, blinds increase every three minutes.

Sit and Go - Short-Handed

Played with two to six players, this version either pays out two players in a six-handed game or just the top player in a two-player match. This is an ideal format for those who want to play poker, but don’t want to spend half the day doing so.

Re-Buy Tournament

Usually, a player is eliminated from a tournament when all their chips are gone. In the re-buy version, players can elect to purchase more chips if they run out or fall below a certain level. In most cases, only one rebuy is allowed during the game, although some tournaments do allow unlimited rebuys (which is certainly nice for the prize pool).

Add-ons may also be available, and this can increase your chip stack regardless of its size. Both add-ons and re-buys must usually be purchased during a designated part of the event (before the first break, for example).


For more cool stuff from Bodog, take a look at these:

Bodog Poker Room Bonus

Bodog Casino Download


Bodog Poker Tournaments - BodogLife Poker Tournaments

Buy Sex and Get Gas at Legal Nevada Brothel

If you’ve ever wanted to get laid and get free gas, then I’ve got good news for you. In an effort to “stimulate the economy” (among other things), Bobbi Davis, owner of the legal Nevada brothel named the Shady Lady Ranch, will be giving out gas cards to all paying customers.


HOW DOES IT WORK?

Here’s how it works: Spend $300 (which gets you one hour of half and half, multiple positions and multiple climaxes) and you’ll get a $50 gas card. Spend $500 (which gets you about anything you want), and you’ll receive a $100 gas card. Davis is hoping that this will bring back some of the business she’s lost due to high gas prices.


STRUGGLING NEVADA BROTHEL INDUSTRY

Located in a yellow mobile home on lonesome Highway 95 north of Beatty, the Shady Lady Ranch is about 150 miles from downtown Las Vegas. Which means that, unfortunately, the $50 gift card would probably just about cover one round trip. Still, if you’re planning on visiting the brothel anyway, why not get a little extra reward?

The rising gas prices have hit the Nevada brothel industry hard, and the Shady Lady’s closest competitors, Angel Tails and the Cottontail Ranch, have been forced to close their doors in recent years. The problem is evident statewide, and a brothel owner in Southern Nevada labeled the situation “as bad as they’ve ever seen them.”

But Davis isn’t ready to throw in the towel just yet. She and her husband have operated the legal Nevada brothel for 16 years, and it has been voted Best Small Brothel for five consecutive years. At any given time, three to five ladies of the nigh (or day)t can be found working inside the elegantly decorated mobile home.

The promotion will run through the month of July or until Davis runs out of gift cards. Customers to the Nevada brothel can also earn gas cards by buying $300 worth of souvenirs (which include key chains, shot glasses, poker chips, coins and T-shirts).

The Shady Lady Ranch is open from 7am until midnight on Tuesday through Sunday, and from 11:30am until midnight on Monday.


BROTHEL OWNERS GO ON THE OFFENSIVE

Other brothels are also getting in on the act. Dennis Hof, owner of the famous Moonlight Bunny Ranch in Carson City, has offered to double the money of the first 100 clients to bring in their federal stimulus checks. So far, just under a dozen horny men have taken him up on the offer.

Always the self-promoter, Hoff explained, “What are you going to do, take your stimulus check to Wal-Mart? That money is going back to China. Give it to the hookers, and it will go to tattoo parlors and beer and massage therapists and hair stylists and manicurists. We’re keeping the money in America.”

Spoken like a true patriot.


For some gambling news, check out the following:

Missouri Senate Eliminates Betting Limits

Stratosphere Refuses to Pay Winnings


Buy Sex and Get Gas at Legal Nevada Brothel

Ultimate Fighter Finals - Full Card and Bodog Odds

The Ultimate Fighter: Team Rampage vs. Team Forrest will wrap up this Saturday when the UFC holds the Ultimate Fighter Finals at The Pearl in Las Vegas. This will conclude the 7th season of the popular reality MMA show, and it will also set up the impending in-octagon showdown between the show’s coaches, Quiton “Rampage” Jackson (UFC Light Heavyweight champ) and Forrest Griffin.

This season featured only middleweight fighters (171 to 185 pounds), and the format was changed so that each one of the fighters had to battle for a roster spot. The winners stayed around to train with the coaches and live in a Las Vegas home. As expected, both drama and comedy ensued.


ULTIMATE FIGHTER FINALS

During the show, each man battled with the goal of making the finals of The Ultimate Fighter. Jesse Taylor was the first to reach this goal, defeating Tim Credeur to advance to a spot on the pay-per-view card. In the second semi-final bout, Amir Sadollah locked in an armbar in the third round and forced opponent C.B. Dollaway to tap out. It was then expected that the two finalists would fight in front of a live audience, but fate had other plans in mind.

Jesse Taylor and four cast mates went out raising hell in Vegas. Taylor, acting like an idiot, kicked out the window of a limo and harassed a number of women in a hotel bar. Unfortunately, a security tape of his behavior made its way into the hand of UFC honcho Dana White. That’s when the shit hit the fan.

Taylor was removed from the finals, and C.B. Dollaway and Tim Credeur were given a chance to fight one another for the vacant spot. Dollaway won a unanimous decision to move onto the finals and face the man who eliminated him in the first place - Amir Sadollah.


ULTIMATE FIGHTER COMPLETE CARD

Here’s the complete card for the show. I’ve also posted betting odds for many of the fights, courtesy of Bodog. While odds are not yet available for all fights, check back with Bodog in the coming days. Rest assured that they’ll all be available before showtime.


Preliminary Card

(Middleweight) Tim Credeur vs. Cale Yarbrough

(Welterweight) Matt Arroyo vs. Matt Brown

(Middleweight) Rob Kimmons vs. Rob Yundt

(Middleweight) Marvin Eastman EVEN vs. Drew McFedries -130

(Welterweight) Josh Burkman -220 vs. Dustin Hazelett +180

(Middleweight) Matthew Riddle vs. Dante Rivera

(Middleweight) Jeremy Horn -140 vs. Dean Lister +110


Main Card

(Lightweight) Spencer Fisher -220 vs. Jeremy Stephens +180

(Welterweight) Diego Sanchez -500 vs. Luigi Fioravanti +350

(Middleweight Tournament Finals) Amir Sadollah vs. C.B. Dollaway

(Middleweight) Evan Tanner -225 vs. Kendall Grove +165


For more fighting news, see the following:

UFC 85 - Fight Results and Bodog Odds

List of Current Boxing Champions


Ultimate Fighter Finals - Full Card and Bodog Odds

Jennifer Ellison - Babe of the Week

This week's babe is Jennifer Ellison, an English-born model, singer and actress. Her 32DD breasts are truly magnificent, and the rest of her isn't bad either. You can catch her, and her lovely boobage, in the recently-released-to-DVD British horror film named The Cottage.

Jennifer Ellison - Babe of the Week

Friday, June 13, 2008

Canseco vs. Sikahema - Celebrity Fight and Bodog Odds

A celebrity fight is going down on July 12th in Atlantic City, New Jersey. The participants? None other than former MLB star Jose Canseco and former NFL player Vai Sikahema.

Regardless of who wins, this one will no doubt get plenty of coverage, as everything Canseco does seems to be under the magnifying glass following the release of his book which blew the lid off of steroid use in baseball. It also doesn’t hurt that Sikahema, a former return specialist, is the sports director for the NBC affiliate in Philadelphia.

Both fighters will wear headgear, and 14-ounce gloves will be worn. Each round will last for two minutes.


HOW THE FIGHT HAPPENED

Some time ago, Canseco issued an open challenge to any celebrity who wished to fight him. The winner takes home $5,000, and Canseco has admittedly been plagued by financial troubles in recent years. He claims that two divorces drained him of $15 million.

In May of this year, Sikahema stepped forward and accepted the challenge. According to the former Eagles’ player who actually invented the tradition of punching the goal posts after scoring, “I think I’ve made a decision that is prudent, although unconventional, and people think I’m out of my mind.”


BACKGROUND ON JOSE CANSECO

Known as “the Bad Boy of Baseball,” Canseco became the first man to hit 40 or more homers and steal 40 or more bases. He also won the AL MVP award in 1988, and dated such sex symbols as Madonna.

But as his career winded down, and his money dwindled away, Canseco released a tell-all book in 2005 entitled “Juiced: Wild Times, Rampant ‘Roids, Smash Hits & How Baseball Got Big.”

In the book, Canseco admitted to using performance-enhancing drugs and also ratted out other famous players, including heroes-turned-villains like Mark McGwire. Needless to say, this did not make him a popular man in the sports community.

However, it did result in the MLB looking into the matter, and the release of The Mitchell Report caused shockwaves in the baseball community which are still being felt to this day.

“The curiosity factor is going to be incredible,” Canseco said about the fight. “Whether people want to see someone kick my butt, or me kick someone else’s butt, I guarantee there will be interest.”


BACKGROUND ON VAI SIKAHEMA

Sikahema played in the NFL from 1986 until 1993 as a running back and kick returner. His career took him to the Cardinals, Eagles and Packers, and he was twice voted to the Pro Bowl. After scoring a kickoff return touchdown in 1992 against the Giants, Sikahema first invented the “goal post punching move,” which is still used by some players in the league.

Since he’s been working in sports broadcasting, it seems as though Sikahema has been spoiling for a fight. In 2007, he called out angry comic (and celebrity boxer) Danny Bonaduce. In 2008, he fought radio host (and martial artist) Dave Cruise at a charity event and won a 30-27 decision.

If he wins the fight, Sikahema has dedicated his purse to the widow of a Philadelphia police officer recently killed in the line of duty.


TALE OF THE TAPE

Jose Canseco is 45 years old, while Sikahema turns 44 on July 2nd.


Canseco claims to hold black belts in Muay Thai, Taekwondo and Kung Fu. Sikahema wanted to be a pro boxer while growing up, and he was taught the art by his boxer father.


Canseco is 6’4” and weighs 245 pounds, only 5 pounds above his 1988 playing weight. He insists that he’s no longer on steroids. “I‘m a real athlete, and a real heavyweight.”


Sikahema is 5’9” tall, and he currently weighs 210 pounds (up 25 from his 185 playing weight). He runs six to eight miles per day, and has had some boxing experience in the last year.


According to Sikahema, “I think he’s going to be in trouble. He’s a big dude, big target. He has to find me. I know combinations and how to throw punches. I’m short, but I’m not small. I’m in great shape, but I don’t have the reflexes of an Oscar De La Hoya.”


BODOG FIGHT ODDS

Luckily, our good pals at Bodog are already taking bets for this fight of the century. Here are where the current odds are positioned:


Jose Canseco -280

Vai Sikahema +200


For more fighting articles, check out the following:

Kimbo Slice Fight Results

Boxing News - Evander Holyfield and More


Canseco vs. Sikahema - Celebrity Fight and Bodog Odds

Wednesday, June 11, 2008

Bodog's Mini Series of Poker - BodogLife Online Poker

The World Series of Poker is underway in Las Vegas, but you can get involved in the Mini Series of Poker right from the comfort of your own living room. Thanks to Bodog, this mini poker tournament allows players to have a shot at a 2009 WSOP prize package, including a spot on Team Bodog (which includes such players as Evelyn Ng and David Williams).

The mini-tournament lasts from May 30th until July 3rd, and you can get in on the action at any time. What’s really nice is that the entry fee is about 1% of what it would cost to play in the World Series of Poker.


HOW THE MINI SERIES OF POKER WORKS

The top 30% of participants in each tournament will earn points based on how well they finished. These points will be added together to determine a player’s overall ranking, so the more you win, the better chance you’ll have of advancing in the BodogLife poker tournament.

A semifinal match will then be held for players ranked 5th through 100th, and the finals will include the top four players on the leader board, top 18 players from the semi-finals and five “wild card” spots selected randomly from players who entered three or more tournaments.

The top three players will win a trip to the 2009 WSOP in Vegas, while places 4 through 9 will win $109 in cash.


MINI SERIES OF POKER SCHEDULE


Thursday, June 12th 9:00 PM $20+$2 NL

Saturday, June 14th 9:00 PM $15+$1.50 NL

Sunday, June 15th 3:05 PM $30+$3 NL

Sunday, June 15th 9:00 PM $100+$9 Limit

Monday, June 16th 9:00 PM $25+$2 6 Hand

Tuesday, June 17th 9:00 PM $15+$1.50 NL

Thursday, June 19th 9:00 PM $15+$1.50 NL

Friday, June 20th 9:00 PM $20+$2 PL

Saturday, June 21st 9:00 PM $15+$1.50 NL

Wednesday, June 25th 3:05 PM $10+$1 Rebuy (NL)

Thursday, June 26th 9:00 PM $50+$5 6 Hand

Friday, June 27th 9:00 PM $20+$2 NL

Saturday, June 28th 9:00 PM $15+$1.50 NL

Monday, June 30th 9:00 PM $15+$1.50 NL

Thursday, July 3rd 9:00 PM $100+$9 NL

Tuesday, July 8th 9:00 PM $0+$0 NL Semifinal

Thursday, July 10th 9:00 PM $0+$0 NL Final


TERMS AND CONDITIONS

The tournament is only open to players 21 and older. You must also have a current Bodog account in order to participate. Actually, that can be done by clicking on this link to Bodog.

One entry per person. Anyone caught trying to enter under more than one name will be disqualified.

Prizes are nontransferable, and no substitution or cash equivalent is allowed.

The total value of all prizes offered is $36,654. Each winner is responsible for all state, local and federal taxes.

The buy-ins for the tournament range from $10+$1 to $100+$9.


For more from the world of poker, be sure and check out the following:

World Series of Poker Prop Bets from Bodog

Bodog Poker Bonus - BodogLife Poker


Bodog's Mini Series of Poker - BodogLife Online Poker

Online Gambling and the Next President - Bodog Odds

After months of tough campaigning, Barack Obama has finally defeated Hilary Clinton to win the Democratic nomination for President of the United States. Now he must face Republican candidate John McCain in what proves to be a very hotly contested race.

A wide range of issues are on the line, but gamblers are particularly interested in where the candidates stand on the online gambling issues. Since our current president virtually destroyed the U.S. online gambling industry by passing the U.I.G.E.A., the next leader of the nation will either be able to reverse some of the damage or make it even worse.


Let’s take a look at where both men stand on the issue of gambling.


JOHN McCAIN AND GAMBLING


- Opponent of all betting on college athletics.

- Has personally sponsored legislation to have betting on college sports made illegal in casinos throughout Nevada.

- Supports a total ban of Internet gambling on the grounds that players cannot be certain that the games are fair.

- Claims to oppose betting on college athletics because some of the most respected coaches in the sport have told him, “It can have a terrible effect on young people.”

- The Republican party spearheaded the movement to get the U.I.G.E.A. passed.


BARACK OBAMA AND GAMBLING


- Gambling does not seem to be high on Obama’s list of priorities if he becomes President.

- During his time in the Illinois State Legislature, Obama played in a weekly (and technically illegal) poker game.

- Supports a study of Internet gambling, which might eventually lead to regulation and legalization.


So there you have it. One candidate used to play poker, while the other seems to have a hellfire-and-brimstone dedication to getting rid of gambling. This November, remember what you’ve read when you go to cast your ballot.


BODOG PRESIDENTIAL ODDS

And just in case you want to show support for your candidate of choice, here are the current odds on the Presidential race, courtesy of Bodog.


John McCain +150

Barack Obama -200


For more gambling news, take a look at the following articles:

Bodog Casino - BodogLife.com Casino
Absolute Poker Faces Cheating Allegations


Online Gambling and the Next President - Bodog Odds

Tuesday, June 10, 2008

2008 WSOP Updates and Winners

We’re now 11 days into the 39th annual World Series of Poker competition, and the action continues to be fast and furious. A total of 13 events have concluded, and another four are currently underway. In all, there will be 55 events played and millions of dollars in winnings paid out.

And don’t forget, this year’s Main Event will be different than ever before. When only nine competitors remain to fill the final table (dubbed the “November Nine”), the Main Event will be suspended until November. It will resume at that time and be aired live on ESPN.

While everyone waits for the WSOP Main Event, there are plenty of other intriguing matches to keep an eye on. In case you missed them, we’ll be listing the winners of the first 13 events, including the amount of money they won. We’ll also tell you which events are underway, and what’s coming up in the days ahead. All you have to do is keep reading.

Oh, and if you‘ve got a poker itch that needs to be scratched, be sure to head on over to Bodog‘s online poker room, and test your skill at one of their many games.


2008 WSOP RESULTS


World Championship Pot-Limit Hold'em (Event 1)

Winner: Nenad Medic ($794,112)


No-Limit Hold'em (Event 2)

Winner: Grant Hinkle ($831,462)


Pot Limit Hold-Em (Event 3)

Winner: David Singer ($214,122)


Mixed Hold'em (Limit/No-Limit) (Event 4)

Winner: Erick Lindgren ($374,505)


No-Limit Hold'em w/ReBuys (Event 5)

Winner: Michael Banducci ($636,736)


Omaha Hi-Low Split-8 or Better (Event 6)

Winner: Thang Luu ($243,342)


No-Limit Hold’em (Event 7)

Winner: Matt Keikoan ($550,601)


World Championship Mixed Event (Event 8)

Winner: Anthony Rivera ($483,688)


No-Limit Hold’em / Six Handed (Event 9)

Winner: Ralph Porter ($372,843)


Omaha/Seven Card Stud Hi-Low-8 or Better (Event 10)

Winner: Farzad Rouhani ($232,911)


No-Limit Hold'em Shootout (Event 11)

Winner: Phillip Tom ($477,990)


Limit Hold’em (Event 12)

Winner: Jimmy Schultz ($257,049)


No-Limit Hold’em (Event 13)

Winner: Duncan Bell ($666,777)


GAMES CURRENTLY UNDERWAY


World Championship Seven Card Stud (Event 14)
Ladies No-Limit Hold'em World Championship (Event 15)
Omaha Hi-Low Split-8 or Better (Event 16)
No-Limit Hold'em Shootout (Event 17)


UPCOMING WSOP EVENTS


No-Limit 2-7 Draw Lowball w/ReBuys (Event 18)
Pot-Limit Omaha (Event 19)
Limit Hold'em (Event 20)
No-Limit Hold'em (Event 21)
H.O.R.S.E. (Event 22)
No-Limit Hold'em (Event 23)
Pot-Limit Holdem/Omaha (Event 24)
World Championship Heads Up No-Limit Hold'em (Event 25)
Seven Card Razz (Event 26)


For more gambling goodness, check out the following:


WSOP Prop Bets from Bodog

Bodog Poker Bonus - BodogLife Poker Promotions


2008 WSOP Updates and Winners

Miranda Kerr - Babe of the Week

This week's Babe is Miranda Kerr, a sexy Aussie best known for her work with Victoria's Secret. She's often been dubbed as "the next McPherson," and I think we can all see why.

Miranda Kerr - Babe of the Week

Sunday, June 8, 2008

UFC 85 - Fight Results and Bodog Odds

UFC 85 went down yesterday in England, and we’ve got all the results right here. I’ve also included the Bodog odds so that you can see how your favorite underdog did. And believe me, this was a night of underdog wins.


UFC 85 - FIGHT RESULTS


Preliminary Card


(Heavyweights) Antoni Hardonk vs. Eddie Sanchez - Hardonk won by KO at 4:15 of the second round. Neil Wain was originally scheduled to fight, but he was replaced by Sanchez.


(Welterweights) Paul Taylor -260 vs. Jess Liaudin +200 - Taylor won by split decision (29-28, 29-28, 28-29).


(Light Heavyweights) Jason Lambert -155 vs. Luiz Cane +125 - Cane won by TKO (ref stoppage) at 2:07 of the first round.


(Welterweights) Kevin Burns vs. Roan Carneiro - Burns got the upset win by triangle choke submission at 2:53 of the second. Ryo Chonan was originally scheduled to fight instead of Burns.


(Lightweights) Thiago Tavares -500 vs. Matt Wiman +300 - Big upset as Wiman KOs Tavares 1:57 into round two.


(Middleweights) Martin Kampmann -260 vs. Jorge Rivera +200 - Kampmann wins by guillotine submission at 2:44 of round one.


Main Card


(Heavyweights) Fabricio Werdum +130 vs. Brandon Vera -170 - Werdum wins by TKO at 4:40 of round one. Controversial stoppage on this one, and it was the same ref who called the Kimbo Slice fight a week ago.


(Middleweights) Nate Marquardt -205 vs. Thales Leites +165 - Leites won by split decision (28-27, 28-27, 27-28). Marquardt loss as the result of having two points deducted during the course of the fight.


(Welterweights) Marcus Davis -110 vs. Mike Swick -120 - Swick wins by unanimous decision (29-27 on all three scorecards).


(Middleweights) Michael Bisping -340 vs. Jason Day +260 - Bisping wins by TKO at 3:42 of the first round. This pleased the crowd a great deal, as he was the hometown favorite.


(174 lb. Catch Weight) Matt Hughes -200 vs. Thiago Alves +160 - Alves won by TKO at 1:02 of the 2nd round. He hit a flying knee and finished off Hughes from there. Possibly the last fight for Hughes, he should be given credit for stepping in against a much bigger opponent in order to give the UFC their main event (since they had already lost their original main event). Alves looked way bigger than Hughes and may have outweighed him by 10 or more pounds. It was obvious on the ground, as Alves was just too strong. As impressive as the win was, Alves either needs to start making weight or move up to the next weight class.


UFC 85 - Fight Results and Bodog Odds

Saturday, June 7, 2008

UFC 85 - Full Fight Card and Bodog Odds

Tonight, the UFC will be holding their 85th pay-per-view event. Coming from The O2 Arena in London, this card will be known as UFC 85: Bedlam. The original main even was supposed to have been Chuck Liddell against Mauricio Rua, but Rua was forced to withdraw following knee surgery. Liddell was then paired up with Rashad Evans, but a hamstring injury caused Liddell to pull out of the event. James Irvin was then brought in, but a foot injury forced the UFC to drop the idea of a heavyweight main event entirely. Instead, Matt Hughes vs. Thiago Alves was moved to the top spot.

But these weren’t the only problems with the card. Paul Kelly and Jonathan Goulet were scheduled to fight, but Goulet withdrew due to lack of training time. Not long after, Kelly suffered an injury and was also forced out of the competition.

And finally, hometown favorite Michael Bisping had to find a new opponent after Chris Leben was faced with legal problems which kept him from training properly. Instead, Jason Day was brought in to challenge the hard-hitting Brit.

Despite the card’s numerous problems, it’s still shaping up to be an exciting night of MMA action. Just take a look at the full card.


UFC 85 - FULL CARD AND BODOG ODDS

Odds are courtesy of Bodog’s online sportsbook, which offers some of the best betting options around. They also provide quick and easy payouts, so you’ll never find yourself wondering where your money is.


(Lightweights) Thiago Tavares -500 vs. Matt Wiman +300


(Welterweights) Ryo Chonan -130 vs. Roan Carneiro EVEN


(Middleweights) Martin Kampmann -260 vs. Jorge Rivera +200


(Light Heavyweights) Jason Lambert -155 vs. Luiz Cane +125


(Heavyweights) Antoni Hardonk -350 vs. Neil Wain +275


(Welterweights) Paul Taylor -260 vs. Jess Liaudin +200


(Welterweights) Marcus Davis -110 vs. Mike Swick -120


(Heavyweights) Fabricio Werdum +130 vs. Brandon Vera -170


(Middleweights) Nate Marquardt -205 vs. Thales Leites +165


(Middleweights) Michael Bisping -340 vs. Jason Day +260


(174 lb. Catch Weight) Matt Hughes -200 vs. Thiago Alves +160


MATT HUGHES VS. THIAGO ALVES

Tonight’s main event is an intriguing one, and bettors might especially want to take a look. Hughes is a -200 favorite to Alves’ +160, but Hughes is 34-years-old and has lost two of his last three fights (both to Georges St. Pierre). While there’s no shame in losing to St. Pierre, one has to wonder what kind of psychological effect this might have had on Hughes?

Alves, on the other hand, is on a five-fight win streak. In his last two bouts, he’s achieved TKO wins over Chris Lytle and Karo Parisyan (although Lytle’s was a stoppage from a cut). Hughes fought Lytle two fights ago, but he couldn’t finish him off and had to settle for a unanimous decision.

Hughes has a vast advantage in experience, with a career MMA record of 43-6. But Alves will also come in a few pounds heavier. The weight limit for the bout was supposed to be 170, but Alves couldn‘t make it. Hughes agreed to fight him at the catch weight of 174. Those few pounds difference could end up being a factor. This isn’t the first time that Alves has had problems with weight. He’s even tested positive for a diuretic used to lose water weight.

If Hughes loses tonight, it might very well be his last fight. If Alves comes out on top, he might very well find himself catapulted into title contention. Whatever happens, this fight has very important implications for the UFC’s welterweight division.


For more MMA action, take a look at the folowing:


Kimbo Slice Fight Results - EliteXC

UFC 84 - Full Results


UFC 85 - Full Fight Card and Bodog Odds

Thursday, June 5, 2008

Big Brown and Belmont Stakes - Bodog Triple Crown Odds

It’s almost time for the 140th running of the Belmont Stakes, and millions of fans around the world are eagerly waiting to see if Big Brown can capture the first Triple Crown win in 30 years. In case you don’t know, the Triple Crown consists of the Belmont Stakes, Kentucky Derby and Preakness Stakes. Big Brown has already won the other two this year.

But it won’t be an easy task, as the lengthy Belmont track has earned the race the nickname of “Test of the Champion.” The distance, and the stamina required, makes timing and positioning a critical factor. But if anyone can do it, it’s Big Brown.


BIG BROWN

The three-year-old thoroughbred phenom is undefeated in five career starts. He captured the Kentucky Derby win from the #20 post, and that feat hadn’t been accomplished since 1929. If he wins on Saturday, he’ll become only the 11th horse in history to sweep the series.

Big Brown will running from the #1 post, which is generally considered the least desirable spot in the race. If he hesitates even slightly, he risks getting lost in the shuffle as the field moves to the inside of the track. The only good news is that this position is the shortest distance on the 1 ½ mile track.

Big Brown will also come into the race with a three-quarter-inch crack on his left front hoof. The crack has been stitched together with steel wire, and an acrylic and fiberglass patch will be applied on the day of the race. According to his handlers, his attitude and gait have remained unaffected. It should also be noted that Big Brown had the same problem back in the fall.

Affirmed was the last horse to win the Triple Crown, and that happened way back in 1978. The only three Triple Crown contenders to reach the Belmont undefeated are Majestic Prince (1969), Seattle Slew (1977) and Smarty Jones (2004).


CASINO DRIVE

The Japanese-owned racehorse Casino Drive is regarded as the toughest opponent for Big Brown. Unbeaten at 2-0, the horse will be racing in the #5 spot and ridden by Edgar Prado, the jockey who has piloted two of the last three Triple Crown spoilers.

But the owner of Big Brown is unfazed, and he even sent a message to Casino Drive’s Japanese owners. “When they see Big Brown, they’ll know that Godzilla is real.”


BODOG ODDS FOR THE BELMONT STAKES

In all, Bodog is offering 22 different wagers for the running of the Belmont Stakes. Here are just a few examples, with the number in front of the horse‘s name being their post position.


Odds to win the 2008 Belmont Stakes

(1) Big Brown 1/3

(2) Guadalcanal 40/1

(3) Macho Again 30/1

(4) Denis of Cork 10/1

(5) Casino Drive 10/3

(6) Da’ Tara 33/1

(7) Tale Of Ekati 16/1

(8) Anak Nakal 40/1

(9) Ready’s Echo 40/1

(10) Icabad Crane 35/1


Odds to win WITHOUT Big Brown (NOTE: You win if your horse wins outright or finished second behind Big Brown)

(2) Guadalcanal 9/1

(3) Macho Again 9/1

(4) Denis of Cork 4/1

(5) Casino Drive 11/10

(6) Da’ Tara 10/1

(7) Tale Of Ekati 6/1

(8) Anak Nakal 10/1

(9) Ready’s Echo 10/1

(10) Icabad Crane 9/1


Will Big Brown win the Triple Crown?

Yes -300

No +220


For more betting action, check out the following:

2008 World Series of Poker - Prop Bets from Bodog

Bodog Casino Download - BodogLife Software Download


Big Brown and Belmont Stakes - Bodog Triple Crown Odds

2008 NBA Finals - Bodog Odds for Lakers Vs. Celtics


Tonight, the 2008 NBA Finals will get underway, and the Boston Celtics and Los Angeles Lakers will meet with the championship on the line for a record 11th time. Legends like Larry Bird, Magic Johnson, Bill Russell and Wilt Chamberlain have been replaced with Kobe Bryant, Kevin Garnett and Ray Allen, but that doesn’t mean that anyone has forgotten this rivalry.

For example, a young Kobe Bryant managed to follow the legendary games between the two teams in the 80s, even though he grew up in Italy. This was thanks to tapes shipped to him by his grandfather.

CELTICS/LAKERS RIVALRY

The two franchises first played for the title in 1959. While the Celtics were located in Boston, the Lakers of that time were based in Minneapolis. The Celtics swept them decisively in four games.

During the 60s, they would meet six more times, with the Celtics coming out on top each time. After building up an 8-0 advantage in their championship conflicts, the Celtics would finally fall to their rivals in 1985 and ‘87.

The Celtics have won a total of 16 NBA titles, which is the most in the history of the NBA. The Lakers, however, are close behind with 14.


TEAM LEADERS

The Lakers are led by this year’s MVP, Kobe Bryant. He was also the 2nd highest scorer in the league in 2007/08, and arguably the best player among the current crop of NBA superstars.

The Celtics, on the other hand, are led by the dream trio of Kevin Garnett, Paul Pierce and Ray Allen. After coming over from the hopeless Timberwolves, Garnett made an immediate impact. In fact, some argued that he should have been selected the league’s Most Valuable Player over Bryant.


EA SPORTS SIMULATION

Each year, EA Sports simulates the NBA Finals using their latest edition of NBA Live. The results are usually very accurate, with their only miss to date being the Suns/Spurs series. According to the simulation, the Lakers will win in a nail-biting seven game series. Kobe will average 29 points a game and score 38 in the final game of the series. Of course, the real results remain to be seen.


BODOG ODDS - NBA FINALS

Our friends at Bodog’s online sports book have a ton of bets available for the NBA fan. Besides just betting on the outcome of each game, you can also try your hand at wagering on such stats as points, rebounds and assists. With Bodog, almost every possibility is available.

Here are just a few examples of what’s available:


Game 1 - Lakers at Celtics

Lakers +3

Celtics -3


Who will win the 2008 NBA Finals MVP Award?

Derek Fisher (LAL) 30/1

Kobe Bryant (LAL) 1/ 2

Lamar Odom (LAL) 20/1

Pau Gasol (LAL) 12/1

Luke Walton (LAL) 75/1

Ronny Turiaf (LAL) 100/1

Rajon Rondo (BOS) 25/1

Ray Allen (BOS) 10/1

Paul Pierce (BOS) 4/1

Kevin Garnett (BOS) 7/2

Sam Cassell (BOS) 75/1

(NOTE: Several other players are also available. See Bodog for a complete list.)


How many points will Kobe Bryant average per game during the NBA Finals?

Over 28 ½ (-125)


How many combined points and rebounds will Kevin Garnett average during the 2008 NBA Finals?

Over 32 (-110)

Under 32 (-120)


For more gambling news, check out the following:

Batlestar Galactica - Betting Odds for the Fifth Cylon

Bodog Fantasy Football - BodogLife Fantasy Sports


2008 NBA Finals - Bodog Odds for Lakers Vs. Celtics

Cheryl Ann Cole - Babe of the Week


This week's Babe is Cheryl Ann Cole, also known as Cheryl Ann Tweedy. A British singer, she is a member of the group Girls Aloud. She is also married to Chelsea football star Ashley Cole. For a guy with a girl's name, 'ol Ashley did pretty well for himself.

Cheryl Ann Cole - Babe of the Week

Sunday, June 1, 2008

Kimbo Slice Fight Results - EliteXC on CBS

In what proved to be a night of excitement and controversy, EliteXC became the first MMA organization to hold a fight card during a prime time network timeslot (Saturday from 9 to 11 EST). Airing live on CBS, all the buzz centered around Internet sensation Kimbo Slice, but plenty of other eyes were also looking at the lovely and charismatic Gina Carano. Who won? Who lost? Read on and find out.


ELITEXC: PRIMETIME FIGHT RESULTS

Here are the full fight results. I’ve also listed Bodog odds for several fights, just so you can see if any underdogs pulled out the win.

Preliminary Bouts

(Lightweight) Jim Bova vs. Chris “The Story” Liguori - Liguori won by TKO (cut) at 4:31 of the second round.

(Heavyweight) Carlton Haselrig vs. Carlos Morena - Former NFL Pro-Bowler Haselrig won by TKO when his opponent was unable to continue after the first round.

(Bantamweight) Mike Groves vs. Joe Sampieri - Sampieri won by TKO at 4:58 of the first round.

(Bantamweight) Wilson Reis vs. Justin Robbins - Reis won with a rear naked choke submission at 4:06 of the first round.


(Bantamweight) James Jones vs. Calvin Kattar - Jones won by rear naked choke at 4:49 of round one.

(Bantamweight) Zach Makovsky vs. Andre “Gigueto” Soares - Makovsky wins by unanimous decision (29-28, 29-26 and 29-26).

(Lightweight) Nick “The Mad Monkey” Serra vs. Matt Makowski - The younger brother of Matt Serra came to the ring wearing a gorilla mask and throwing bananas to the crowd. At 3:57 of the second round, Serra was disqualified after refusing to get to his feet. He had already been warned about passivity by the referee. Not a good month at the Serra household.

Televised Bouts

(Heavyweight) Brett “The Grim” Rogers (-280) vs. Jon Murphy (+220) - Rogers won by TKO after dropping Murphy at 1:01 of round one. Murphy was supposed to be skilled at wrestling, but he instead chose to stand and trade with the big slugger. Bad decision.

(Bantamweight) Gina “Conviction” Carano (-350) vs. Kaitlin Young (+275) - Carano won after the doctor stopped the fight between the second and third rounds due to damage to Young’s face. Carano missed weight for the fight and had to give 12 percent of her purse to Young. This is the fourth time in six fights that the smokin’ hot Carano has failed to make weight.

(Middleweight) “New York Badass” Phil Baroni (-105) vs. Joey “Smokin’ Joe” Villasenor (-125) - After talking his usual smack, Baroni got rocked and dropped for a TKO loss at 1:11 of the first round. Baroni now falls to 10-10. Time to retire.

(Middleweight) “Ruthless” Robbie Lawler (-250) vs. “Hands of Steel” Scott Smith (+200) - At 3:26 of the third round, Lawler accidentally hit Smith with a finger to the eye. When the doctor came in to examine him, Smith made the mistake of telling her that he couldn’t see out of the eye. What he meant was that he needed to take part of his allotted five minutes to fully get his vision back, but the doctor stopped the fight to protect the fighter. Smith should have kept his mouth shut. Since it was a title fight and didn’t go at least three full rounds, the fight was declared a no contest. Expect to see this one again, as it was very exciting up until the stoppage.

(Heavyweight) Kimbo Slice (-600) vs. James “The Colossus” Thompson (+400) - For the first time inside the cage, Kimbo was tested. Thompson was rocked several times, but he also managed to take down his opponent and demonstrate his veteran survival instincts when in trouble.

Thompson won the first round on all three judges’ cards, and he was also ahead at the end of round two. In the latter stages of the second, Kimbo was on his back and pinned up against the cage while Thompson threw punches and elbows. In the third, a Kimbo punch ruptured Thompson’s bizarre-looking cauliflower left ear and caused blood to stream down the side of the Brit’s head.

Shortly after, Kimbo had Thompson in trouble again, and the referee jumped in for a somewhat controversial stoppage. Granted, Thompson looked to be on his last legs, but he had endured similar onslaughts earlier in the fight. Since Kimbo is currently the company’s meal ticket, many wondered if the ref didn’t err on the side of caution. In many ways, it reminded me of something you would have seen in the days of PRIDE FC.

Kimbo was completely gassed after the fight and had to be helped to the back. Still, he did show improvement and his ground game looked better than some heavyweights I’ve seen. As he said in his post-fight interview, “I’ve got a lot to learn.“ Remember, this was only his third official MMA fight (the Mercer fight was considered an exhibition), so most purists are being a little too hard on him, in my opinion.


WHAT’S NEXT FOR KIMBO?

That question was answered rather quickly as undefeated slugger Brett “The Grim” Rogers started mouthing about Kimbo Slice at the post-fight press conference. While Slice initially tried to ignore the comments, Rogers would not be denied. “The Grim” referred to Kimbo’s efforts as “garbage” and insisted that the former Hurricanes linebacker has actually tapped in the waning moments of the second. Kimbo finally took the bait and a tense staredown and verbal exchange ensued. Ladies and gentlemen, I give you the next Kimbo Slice fight. This was either planned by management or a very smart move by Rogers to grab a piece of the Kimbo spotlight.


For more MMA action, check out the following:

Kimbo Slice and EliteXC on CBS

Kimbo Slice Fights


Kimbo Slice Fight Results - EliteXC on CBS