World Wide Ed

Boston, Bodies, and Barack Obama

There’s been some interesting “B” words in the news as of late. Boston, as in the Boston Celtics… Bodies, like the one in the Bodies Exhibition going on at Ala Moana… and Barack Obama, because, well, he’s always in the news and frankly, I needed a 3rd “B” sounding word to round out my catchy title. (Note: I was this close to using “Babalu” Sobral instead of Barack, but didn’t think his name had quite the same star power. *grin*)

And since you obviously read this blog to catch up with all of the quality, cutting edge reports going on in the world, I didn’t want to let you down. I’m here to deliver. Word.

So hurr we go son!

Boston
Yesterday afternoon, the Boston Celtics handed Kobe and crew a 131-92 beating to take the 2007-2008 NBA Championships. I was happy to see vets Paul Pierce, Ray Allen and Kevin Garnett not only bring one back to Beantown for the 17th time, but also validate themselves as players with their very first title. Congrats Celts!

Bodies… The Exhibition
On Saturday, a controversial exhibit that put human cadavers on display opened at Ala Moana Center. Controversy came when it was reported that they may be the remains of executed Chinese prisoners. Regardless whether they were or not, the exhibition has been cleared to start and will be on display through January 18th of next year. Admission is around $26.

Barack Obama
In a recent CNN poll, Barack Obama is shown leading John McCain 47%-43% (presumptive nominees). Awwwwright!

——

[Extra special kine bonus]

Renato “Babalu” Sobral

Recently signed with Affliction MMA, he will be fighting on their “Affliction: Banned” Pay-Per-View Card on July 19 against Mike Whitehead. The same stacked (and I mean STACKED) card that will feature Fedor vs. Sylvia, Barnett vs. Rizzo, Rothwell vs. Arlovski and Lindland vs. Negao.

Talk to me!
* Happy with Boston’s victory?
* Are you interested in checking out the Bodies exhibition?
* Barack or McCain?
* Excited for the Affliction: Banned event?

Tags: Ala Moana Center, Andrei Arlovski, Barack Obama, Ben Rothwell, Bodies... The Exhibition, Boston Celtics, CNN poll, cnn.com, Fabio Negao, Fedor Emelianenko, John McCain, Josh Barnett, Kevin Garnett, Kobe Bryant, Los Angeles Lakers, Matt Lindland, Mike Whitehead, Paul Pierce, Pedro Rizzo, Ray Allen, Renato "Babalu" Sobral, Tim Sylvia

Come Meet BJ Penn!

In other news, UFC Lightweight Champ BJ Penn will be meeting and greeting his fans around town this Saturday, June 7th. Go down and send him some Aloha at one of the following locations yo!

Saturday, June 7, 2008

• 2:30PM-4PM at Town & Country Surf in Windward Mall
• 4:30PM-6PM at Town & Country Surf in Pearlridge Center (Uptown)
• 7PM-8:30PM at Blue Hawaii Surf in Kalihi (1216 Kaumualii Street)

Mahalo Philip Pendleton!

Tags: bj penn, Blue Hawaii Surf, meet and greet, Pearlridge Center, Pearlridge Mall, Pearlridge Shopping Center, RVCA, Town & Country Surf, UFC, UFC Lightweight Champion, Windward Mall

What Happened to Kimbo!?

On Saturday, I, oh, only spoke of the biggest night in Mixed Martial Arts history, when MMA finally went prime time to the masses on network television. Problem was, I had a previous engagement (benefit dinner). D’oh! So I set my trusty DVR to record the blessed event, and even recorded half an hour of the news that followed in case it went long. That’s an extra half an hour of buffer zone yo!

At the dinner, I frantically looked up the results of the fights on my phone and read that there was some controversy in the Slice/Thompson fight. I salivated even more at the fact of coming home to watch it with my own two eyes. So I get home and study my Real Estate book for a couple chapters (highly recommend Abe Lee Seminars by the way) and decide to reward myself with the fight. I “Skip to end” and rewind.

WHAT THE!

They’re still on the Lawler/Smith fight. I’ll watch that later. So I fire up the 1/2 of buffer recording and start to get upset. Knowing it went three rounds, the meter on my bar was quickly approaching the end by the time the first round started.

!#$%

It got cut off! I couldn’t even watch the most anticipated fight on this historic MMA card. Double D’oh! I’ve since frantically searched all channels at all times for a re-airing, but didn’t find anything. If anyone wants to invite me to their house to re-watch it, let me know. LOL! I can’t believe I missed it. I wanted to see the controversial tap dammit.

What was even more amusing was how outspoken UFC President Dana White talked smack on ESPN about his rival organization, saying “What happened on CBS was horrendous.” Check it out.

Talk to me:
* Are you a Kimbo fan? Do you think he needs to be tested more on the ground and deeper into the rounds (cardio) to legitimize his game?
* Do you think EliteXC is using Kimbo strictly as a marketing tool? Shouldn’t they put him up against good comp soon already?
* Is Brett Rogers hating’ (jealous of Kimbo’s coverage) or does he have a point?
* What do you think of Dana White? Love ‘em? Hate ‘em?
* How ’bout that Faber vs. Pulver fight eh? I gots new found respect for Pulver man!

Tags: brett rogers, cbs, colossus, dana white, elitexc, elitexc saturday night fights, featherweight, james thompson, jens pulver, Kimbo Slice, UFC, urijah faber, wec

MMA Television Programming for June 2008

MMA Television Programming for Hawaii - June 2008 (All shows are in HST on Oceanic Time Warner Cable):
Info may be updated after original post date so keep checking back.

• Sun, June 1 @ 3:30AM on KHNL Channel 0008 or HDKHNL Channel 1008
  Strikeforce on NBC: Strikeforce on NBC brings you face-to-face with some of the most exciting Mixed Martial Arts fighters in the nation, every Saturday night! From top professional competitors and champions to the up-and-coming challengers, you’ll get an insider’s perspective on the world’s most extreme sport. Experience the adrenaline-filled, heart-pounding action that comes with each round in the cage - this is a series that will put MMA fans on the edge of their seats!
• Sun, June 1 @ 3PM on Versus Channel 0210 or HDGolf Channel 1216
  WEC (Faber vs. Pulver): Former UFC Lightweight Champion, Jens “Lil Evil” Pulver returns to 145 pounds, a weight at which he has never been beaten, as he looks to defend his legacy against the #1-ranked featherweight in the world - WEC Champion “The California Kid,” Urijah Faber. A win for Pulver secures his spot in MMA history. A win for Faber takes him one step closer to becoming the greatest featherweight fighter ever. [Fight Card]
• Mon, June 2 @ 8PM on SpikeTV Channel 0559
  UFC 85 Countdown: Hughes vs Alves: Go behind the scenes as the fighters prepare for their bouts. See how they train, eat and live in their home towns.
• Wed, June 4 @ 7PM on SpikeTV Channel 0559
  The Ultimate Fighter: The training and development of professional Ultimate Fighters.
• Wed, June 4 @ 11:35PM on KITV Channel 0006 or HD KITV 1006
  “Rampage” on The Jimmy Kimmel Live Show: Quinton “Rampage” Jackson makes an appearance on the Jimmy Kimmel Live Show.
• Fri, June 6 @ 3:30PM on HDNET Channel 1355
  Inside MMA: Inside MMA is your opportunity to step inside the world of mixed martial arts and find out what it takes to be a champion. Hosts Bas Rutten and Kenny Rice provide all the latest news and highlights, along with features, analysis, and rankings.
• Fri, June 6 @ 4:30PM on HDNET Channel 1355
  Best of DREAM 2: The best fights from the second event from DREAM, a new mixed martial arts promotion from Japan. Featured fights include a rematch of the Gesias Calvancanti vs. Shinya Aoki fight from the first round of the Lightweight Grand Prix tournament, as well as the opening round of the 16-man Middleweight Grand Prix tournament. The Middleweight first round is highlighted by a match-up of Top 10 fighter Denis Kang vs. rising star Gegard Mousasi, plus fights from other top Middleweights Ronaldo Souza and MMA legend Kazushi Sakuraba.
• Sat, June 7 @ 9AM on PPV Channel 0701 or HDPPV Channel 1700 (preshow starts at 8:30AM)
  UFC 85 BEDLAM: Hughes vs. Alves: Former two-time UFC® welterweight champion MATT HUGHES begins his run for an unprecedented third title against a young gun eager to take his place near the top of the 170-pound ladder in Brazilian slugger THIAGO “PITBULL” ALVES. Plus, exciting bouts featuring Michael “The Count” Bisping, Brandon “The Truth” Vera, Fabricio “Vai Cavalo” Werdum, Mike “Quick” Swick, and Marcus “The Irish Hand Grenade” Davis. [Fight Card]
• Sat, June 7 @ 1PM on HDNET Channel 1355
  DREAM 4 Preview: Ron Kruck previews the Middleweight Grand Prix Quarterfinal match-ups scheduled for DREAM 4. Fighters on the June 15th card include Jason “Mayhem” Miller, Gegard Mousasi, Ronaldo “Jacare” Souza and MMA legend Kazushi Sakuraba.
• Sun, June 8 @ 3:30AM on KHNL Channel 0008 or HDKHNL Channel 1008
  Strikeforce on NBC: Strikeforce on NBC brings you face-to-face with some of the most exciting Mixed Martial Arts fighters in the nation, every Saturday night! From top professional competitors and champions to the up-and-coming challengers, you’ll get an insider’s perspective on the world’s most extreme sport. Experience the adrenaline-filled, heart-pounding action that comes with each round in the cage - this is a series that will put MMA fans on the edge of their seats!
• Wed, June 11 @ 6PM on SpikeTV Channel 0559
  UFC Unleashed: The best fights in the Octagon: UFC Unleashed is a themed hour of the best fights, legendary fighters and previews of upcoming battles.
• Wed, June 11 @ 7PM on SpikeTV Channel 0559
  The Ultimate Fighter: The training and development of professional Ultimate Fighters.
• Fri, June 13 @ 3:30PM on HDNET Channel 1355
  Inside MMA: Inside MMA is your opportunity to step inside the world of mixed martial arts and find out what it takes to be a champion. Hosts Bas Rutten and Kenny Rice provide all the latest news and highlights, along with features, analysis, and rankings.
• Fri, June 13 @ 4:30PM on HDNET Channel 1355
  Best of DREAM 3: The best fights from the third event from DREAM, a new mixed martial arts promotion from Japan. Featured fights include the final match-up from the Middleweight Grand Prix Tournament first round as Jason Miller takes on Katsuyori Shibata, Nick Diaz and Melvin Manhoef making their DREAM debuts, as well as the three Quarterfinal fights from the Lightweight Grand Prix Tournament. The Lightweight Quarters are highlighted by a fight of the year candidate in Joachim Hansen vs. Eddie Alvarez.
• Fri, June 13 @ 6PM on HDNET Channel 1355
  Strikeforce All Access: An all-access look at Gilbert Melendez and Josh Thomson as they prepare for their fight for the Strikeforce Lightweight title June 27th on HDNet. Cameras follow both fighters as they train for the biggest night of their career.
• Sat, June 14 @ 3:30PM on HDNET Channel 1355
  Adrenaline MMA: Adrenaline MMA premieres on HDNet and the LIVE action will make your heart race! Jeff Monson, one of the top submission grapplers in the world, will square off against Mike Russow, who was last seen on HDNet after a submission victory at HDNet Fights Presents: Fedor Returns.
• Sat, June 14 @ TBAPM on Showtime Channel 0633 or HD Showtime Channel 1633
  EliteXC Lightweight World Championship: Noons vs Edwards: KJ Noons vs. Yves Edwards, Jake Shields vs. TBA, Rafael Feijao vs. Wayne Cole, Nick Diaz vs. Muhsin Corbbrey. [Fight Card]
• Sat, June 14 @ 10PM on HDNET Channel 1355
  DREAM 4: See the second round of the DREAM Middleweight tournament LIVE on HDNet! Jason “Mayhem” Miller entertains the crowd with his colorful antics and a fight with rising star Ronaldo “Jacare” Souza. Japanese legend Kazushi Sakuraba squares off against Melvin Manhoef. Shinya Aoki battles Katsuhiko Nagata in a Lightweight tournament match. [Fight Card]
• Sun, June 15 @ 3:30AM on KHNL Channel 0008 or HDKHNL Channel 1008
  Strikeforce on NBC: Strikeforce on NBC brings you face-to-face with some of the most exciting Mixed Martial Arts fighters in the nation, every Saturday night! From top professional competitors and champions to the up-and-coming challengers, you’ll get an insider’s perspective on the world’s most extreme sport. Experience the adrenaline-filled, heart-pounding action that comes with each round in the cage - this is a series that will put MMA fans on the edge of their seats!
• Wed, June 18 @ 6PM on SpikeTV Channel 0559
  UFC Unleashed: The best fights in the Octagon: UFC Unleashed is a themed hour of the best fights, legendary fighters and previews of upcoming battles.
• Wed, June 18 @ 7PM on SpikeTV Channel 0559
  The Ultimate Fighter: The training and development of professional Ultimate Fighters.
• Fri, June 20 @ 3:30PM on HDNET Channel 1355
  Inside MMA: Inside MMA is your opportunity to step inside the world of mixed martial arts and find out what it takes to be a champion. Hosts Bas Rutten and Kenny Rice provide all the latest news and highlights, along with features, analysis, and rankings.
• Mon, June 20 @ TBAPM on HDNET Channel 1355
  HDNet Fights Presents: SportFight XXIII: Heated Rivals: TBA.
• Mon, June 20 on Oceanic PPV (TBD)
  King Of The Cage: Twisted Metal: King of the Cage returns to the San Manuel Casino in San Bernardino, California with its one hour special, “Twisted Metal”. Welterweight World Champion, Aaron Wetherspoon returns to the cage and defends his title once again against John Mahlow. Watch Paul Arrs put his undefeated record of 4-0 on the line against Reggie Orr. Also, witness the exciting slams of Rick Legere against Gabe Lara. Along with five other matches, this show promises to be a fight lover’s dream. Which one will reign? Which one will be the one left standing? Who will be the King of the Cage? Order on Events iN DEMAND Pay-Per-View.
• Sat, June 21 @ 3PM on SpikeTV Channel 0559
  The Ultimate Fighter Finale: Tanner vs. Grove: Evan Tanner vs. Kendall Grove, Diego Sanchez vs. Luigi Fioravanti, Spencer Fisher vs. Jeremy Stephens, Josh Burkman vs. Dustin Hazelett, Marvin Eastman vs. Drew McFedries, Jeremy Horn vs. Dean Lister. [Fight Card]
• Sun, June 22 @ 3:30AM on KHNL Channel 0008 or HDKHNL Channel 1008
  Strikeforce on NBC: Strikeforce on NBC brings you face-to-face with some of the most exciting Mixed Martial Arts fighters in the nation, every Saturday night! From top professional competitors and champions to the up-and-coming challengers, you’ll get an insider’s perspective on the world’s most extreme sport. Experience the adrenaline-filled, heart-pounding action that comes with each round in the cage - this is a series that will put MMA fans on the edge of their seats!
• Fri, June 27 @ 3:30PM on HDNET Channel 1355
  Inside MMA: Inside MMA is your opportunity to step inside the world of mixed martial arts and find out what it takes to be a champion. Hosts Bas Rutten and Kenny Rice provide all the latest news and highlights, along with features, analysis, and rankings.
• Mon, June 27 @ TBAPM on HDNET Channel 1355 (or KHNL 0008 or HD KHNL 1008?)
  HDNet Fights Presents: Strikeforce: Melendez vs. Thomson: Following a year of anticipation, Strikeforce World Lightweight (155 lb. limit) Champion, Gilbert “El Nino” Melendez (14-1), will put his coveted title on the line against number one contender and Bay Area arch-rival, Josh “The Punk” Thomson (14-2), in the main event of a Strikeforce mixed martial arts mega-card at San Jose’s HP Pavilion on Friday, June 27th.
• Sun, June 29 @ 3:30AM on KHNL Channel 0008 or HDKHNL Channel 1008
  Strikeforce on NBC: Strikeforce on NBC brings you face-to-face with some of the most exciting Mixed Martial Arts fighters in the nation, every Saturday night! From top professional competitors and champions to the up-and-coming challengers, you’ll get an insider’s perspective on the world’s most extreme sport. Experience the adrenaline-filled, heart-pounding action that comes with each round in the cage - this is a series that will put MMA fans on the edge of their seats!
• Sun, June 29 @ 6PM on SpikeTV Channel 0559
  Countdown to UFC 86 Jackson vs. Griffin: Now that latest Ultimate Fighter® series has determined a winner, it’s time for the coaches to get ready for their own test of skills. Go behind-the-scenes with defending UFC® Light Heavyweight title holder Rampage Jackson and Forrest Griffin as they train in Los Angeles and Las Vegas, respectively.

Ongoing/repeat shows include UFC Unleashed (UFC) on SpikeTV (0559), Various Specials on HDNet Fights (1355), World Extreme Cagefighting and WEC Wreckage (WEC) on Versus (0210) or HGOLF (1216), TapouT on Versus (0210) or HGOLF (1216), UFC Wired (UFC) on KFVE (0005), Strikefoce on NBC on KHNL Channel 0008 or HDKHNL 1008, and ICON Sport TV on KFVE (0005).

If I missed anything, send it on over and I’ll add it to the list. Thanks!

Tags: Bas Rutten, elitexc, jake shields, jason mayhem miller, June 2008, Kenny Rice, kj noons, matt hughes, Michael Bisping, MMA Television Programming for Hawaii, nick diaz, quinton rampage jackson, tapout, the ultimate fighter, thiago alves, UFC, ufc 85, urijah faber, yves edwards

Biggest Weekend In MMA History

Get ready for history in the making folks. Tonight, EliteXC, in a partnership with CBS, will bring the first-ever Mixed Martial Arts fight card to the mainstream when EliteXC Saturday Night Fights makes its debut on CBS (KGMB 0007 or KGMB HD 1007 on Oceanic Time Warner Cable) at 8PM HST.

A HUGE step for a renegade sport that was once completely banned from TV just a few, short years ago.

Headlining the card is Internet legend, turned MMA manchild Kimbo Slice (Kevin Ferguson). His Youtube exploits were so popular that they eventually led to a contract with the then startup Showtime EliteXC organization. Now training with retired MMA fighter and trainer extraordinaire Bas Rutten, Kimbo’s career has reached a new high. He will be facing James “The Colossus” Thompson, a 6′5″ 265 pound giant.

But in what will probably turn out to be the more competitive/exciting fights, former UFC and ICON fighter Robby Lawler will defend his Middleweight title against The Ultimate Fighter alum Scott Smith, while the most popular female MMA fighter in all the land, Gina Carano, who also moonlights as Crush on the American Gladiators, will take on future up and comer Kaitlin Young.

And… Tomorrow!!!

Former UFC legend Jens “Lil Evil” Pulver drops down to featherweight (145lbs) to take on the man who’s been dominating that division, WEC Featherweight champion Urijah “The California Kid” Faber. The rest of the card looks suspect, but it’ll also be on free TV: VERSUS Channel 0210 or HDGOLF 1216 at 3PM on Oceanic Time Warner Cable.

Check out
All MMA Television Programming for May, 2008
All MMA Television Programming for June, 2008 (coming soon)

Learn More:

• saturdaynightfights.com
• Info from EliteXC
• Info from Showtime
• Info from ProElite.com
• Faber vs. Pulver Fight Card from WEC.tv

In other news, check out “Pho Fantasy - A Tour of Hawaii’s Favorite Pho Restaurants,” my June AroundHawaii article, where I visit three of Hawaii’s favorite Pho Restaurants (coming June 1, 2008).

Pho Fantasy - A Tour of Hawaii’s Favorite Pho Restaurants

Have a great weekend y’all!

Tags: american gladiators, cbs, cbs elitexc cbs elitexc saturday night fights, crush, elitexc, elitexc saturday night fights, faber vs. pulver, icon sport, jens pulver, MMA, pulver vs. faber, saturday night fights, UFC, urijah faber, wec

BJ Penn Is Da MAN!

On Saturday, BJ Penn’s flying knee knocked the living daylights out of Sean Sherk, making us reminisce about what he did to Caol Uno back at UFC 34. What impressed me more was not the victory over the former lightweight champion. It was his actions after the match.

As announcer Bruce Buffer proclaimed his victory, we saw BJ yell “Mahalo Kakou!” And as Joe Rogan interviewed him, he repeatedly sent love and thanks to Hawaii, even making a comment about how expensive gas was in Hawaii, but that he was still thankful for his fans who flew in to watch him fight. Talk about loyalty!

The best way I can describe it is that BJ Penn keeps it real. He never forgets where he came from and does his part to represent Hawaii with pride. You can see it in everything he does. From his entrance music, when he walks out to Israel Kamakawiwoole (a mix of “Hawaii 78″ and “E Ala E”), to his clothing, covered in everything Hawaii, to the way he surrounds himself with our local people. He is always proud to rep our island home, and we are so very proud (and lucky) to have BJ Penn.

OK, I think you’re convinced already that I’m a BJ Penn fan. Without further ado, here are scenes from my UFC 84 BBQ Parrrtay. Enjoy!

This is how I roll… *grin* (P.S. Welcome back Primo!)

“Put me on the Advertiser!” LOL!

Bacon-wrapped Scallops

BJ making his way to the Octagon. Dig my official UFC poster?

What did you think of BJ’s peformance? The card overall? And is it just me or is Penn’s face made of metal? I’ve never seen him bruise or bleed. What the?

P.S. Don’t forget to enter by this Thursday for your chance to win FREE Movie Pass Giveaway to You Don’t Mess With the Zohan!

Tags: bj penn, Israel Kamakawiwoole, Jiu Jitsu, MMA, UFC, ufc 84, ufc bbq, ufc party

UFC 84 Predictions

Tomorrow is probably one of the biggest nights of Hawaii AND BJ Penn’s life. At UFC 84, Penn will represent the State and defend his lightweight title against Sean “The Muscle Shark” Sherk at the Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas Nevada.

I don’t know about you, but I’m suuuupah excited about this event. Not only because Hawaii’s own BJ Penn will be bangin’ on the big stage, but because it’s a good excuse to gather the friends at the crib for a UFC BBQ Parrrrtay (see next week’s post for scenes from the party!)!

If you haven’t ordered it already, check out the UFC 84 Info Page at Oceanic.com (for Pay-Per-View info) or the Official 84.UFC.com site.

My picks for the fight are in bold below.

UFC 84 Fight Card
(My picks in Bold)
BJ Penn vs. Sean Sherk
Wanderlei Silva vs. Keith Jardine
Wilson Gouveia vs. Goran Reljic
Tito Ortiz vs. Lyoto Machida
Thiago Silva vs. Antonio Mendes
Ivan Salaverry vs. Rousimar Palhares
Rameau Sokoudjou vs. Kazuhiro Nakamura
Rich Clementi vs. Terry Etim
Jon Koppenhaver vs. Yoshiyuki Yoshida
Jason Tan vs. Dong Hyun Kim
Christian Wellisch vs. Shane Carwin

Whatchu tink? Think I’m off my rocker? *grin* Let me have it below!

Tags: bj penn, Jon Koppenhaver, Keith Jardine, Lyoto Machida, Sean Sherk, Sokoudjou, Tito Ortiz, ufc 84, UFC 84 Predictions, Wanderlei Silva

Egan Inoue Wins in Impressive Comeback!

In an exciting 59 seconds last night, Egan Inoue silenced all critics by walking right through his nearly 20 year younger opponent Hans Marrero is his return to the ring. On an otherwise lackluster card which included a Sean Sakata knee injury thrown on the very first kick of the night, a Lorenzo Moreno corner stoppage (rib), and what seemed to be a give-up by Ronald “Machine Gun” Jhun, Inoue’s fight turned out to be one of the most exciting bouts of the night. Congrats Egan!

Here’s what it looked like from VIP row. Yeah, junk camera, I know!

Tags: comeback, egan inoue, retirement, x1 legends, x1 legends results

Egan Inoue to Make Return from Retirement

OK, working for the cable company, I know this is a bit self-indulgent, but since this blog is supposed to include the latest and greatest in MMA, I just had to plug the X1 Legends fight scheduled for tomorrow night. Not just because Oceanic Time Warner Cable is offering this event in Pay-Per-View for Digital, High Definition as well as on the web, but because it is history in the making as 42 year old local boy Egan Inoue comes out of retirement to fight for the first time in almost 5 years.

Yesterday, we had the unique opportunity to have Egan as a guest presenter on our monthly Road Runner Interactive Webinar. Following the show I got a chance to chat with him a bit and discover that he is one of the most humble, grounded guys around. It’s amazing that this very man, in the heat of battle, can turn on the fire within, and compete with the best. I mean, you’re talking a former world champion racquetball player, Navy Seal trainer and BJJ World Champion, in addition to being a former champion MMA fighter. Bruddah is driven!

Not sure exactly what the odds are against his 23 year old counterpart Hans Marrero (11-5), but you can bet that I’ll be pulling for Egan tomorrow night. Either way, I know he’ll succeed.

Fight Details:
X1 Presents Legends - The Return of Egan Inoue
Friday, May 16, 2008 @ 7:30PM
Neal Blaisdell Arena
Also, available Live on Oceanic Time Warner Cable PPV @ 7:30PM (replay at 10:30PM)
- Digital Channel 0260 - Standard Definition - $29.99
- Digital Channel 1260 - High Definition - $39.99
- x1ppv.oceanic.com - On the Web - $19.99

Fight Card (subject to change):
Hans Marrero vs Egan Inoue
Brandon Wolff vs Chad “The Grinder” Reiner
Richie Whitson vs Ray “Bradda” Cooper
Michael Brightmon vs Kolo Koka
Dylan Clay vs Ronald “The Machine Gun” Jhun
Albert Manners vs Kana “The Riot” Hyatt
Chris “Red Bull” Willems vs Brandon Visher
Sean Sakata vs John “The Warrior” Visante

P.S. I’ll be going to the live event so check back for photos shortly thereafter…

Tags: egan inoue, Hans Marrero, MMA, x1 legends

MMA Television Programming for May 2008

MMA Television Programming for Hawaii - May 2008 (All shows are in HST on Oceanic Time Warner Cable): [Updated 05/28/08]
Info may be updated after original post date so keep checking back.

• Fri, May 2 @ 3:30PM on HDNET Channel 1355
  Inside MMA: Inside MMA is your opportunity to step inside the world of mixed martial arts and find out what it takes to be a champion. Hosts Bas Rutten and Kenny Rice provide all the latest news and highlights, along with features, analysis, and rankings.
• Fri, May 2 @ 4:30PM on HDNET Channel 1355
  DREAM 1: The exclusive debut of DREAM on HDNet! From the Saitama Super Arena in Japan, Mirko “Crop Cop” Filipovic returns to the country that made him an MMA icon. And Gesias “J.Z.” Calvancante, one of the top fighters in the world, takes part in the first round of the lightweight tournament. [Fight Card]
• Sat, May 3 @ 4:30PM on HDNET Channel 1355
  DREAM 2: A classic rematch and the middleweights highlight DREAM 2, from Japan! Lightweights Gesias “J.Z.” Calvancante and Shinya Aoki rematch after their bout at DREAM 1 ended in a controversial no-contest. Legendary middleweights Dennis Kang and Kazushi Sakuraba participate in the opening round of the middleweight tournament. [Fight Card]
• Sun, May 4 @ 3:30AM on KHNL Channel 0008 or HDKHNL Channel 1008
  Strikeforce on NBC: Strikeforce on NBC brings you face-to-face with some of the most exciting Mixed Martial Arts fighters in the nation, every Saturday night! From top professional competitors and champions to the up-and-coming challengers, you’ll get an insider’s perspective on the world’s most extreme sport. Experience the adrenaline-filled, heart-pounding action that comes with each round in the cage - this is a series that will put MMA fans on the edge of their seats!
• Tue, May 6 @ 1PM on ESPN Channel 0222 or HD ESPN Channel 1222
  Kimbo Slice on E:60: Correspondent Rachel Nichols updates an E:60 exclusive report on Kimbo Slice as he prepares for the first ever primetime mixed martial art fight Saturday, May 31.
• Wed, May 7 @ 7PM on SpikeTV Channel 0559
  The Ultimate Fighter: Both teams are rooting for Matt Brown to beat down Jeremy May, and everyone is shocked when two nice guys transform into savages in the Octagon.
• Fri, May 9 @ 3:30PM on HDNET Channel 1355
  Inside MMA: Panelists include fighter Josh “The Babyface Assassin” Barnett, Dan “The Beast” Severn, and clothing company vice president Tom Atencio.
• Fri, May 9 @ 4:30PM on HDNET Channel 1355
  Maximum Fighting Championship - Anger Management (LIVE!): Fight fans love to see heavyweights throw down, and two of the largest in the weight class will clash when Gary “Big Daddy” Goodridge and Eric “The Big E” Pele climb into the ring at MFC 16 LIVE from the River Cree Resort and Casino. Also fighting on this loaded card is undefeated welterweight star Ryan “Real Deal” Ford who puts on the gloves for the first time since his controversial win over Pete Spratt on HDNet at MFC 15. Ford will attempt to keep his record unblemished against C.J. Fernandes. [Fight Card]
• Sat, May 10 @ 9PM on HDNET Channel 1355
  DREAM 3 (LIVE!): Catch the second round of the DREAM lightweight tournament exclusively on HDNet! Eight fighters will enter the Saitama Super Arena in Japan and four will advance. Four of the participating lightweights ranked in the top ten in the world by Inside MMA. [Fight Card]
• Sun, May 11 @ 3:30AM on KHNL Channel 0008 or HDKHNL Channel 1008
  Strikeforce on NBC: Strikeforce on NBC brings you face-to-face with some of the most exciting Mixed Martial Arts fighters in the nation, every Saturday night! From top professional competitors and champions to the up-and-coming challengers, you’ll get an insider’s perspective on the world’s most extreme sport. Experience the adrenaline-filled, heart-pounding action that comes with each round in the cage - this is a series that will put MMA fans on the edge of their seats!
• Tue, May 13 @ 1PM on ESPN Channel 0222 or HD ESPN Channel 1222
  Gina Carano on E:60: ESPN’s E:60 newsmagazine show will feature Gina Carano.
• Wed, May 14 @ 7PM on SpikeTV Channel 0559
  The Ultimate Fighter: The training and development of professional Ultimate Fighters.
• Fri, May 16 @ 1:30PM on HDNET Channel 1355
  Inside MMA: Inside MMA is your opportunity to step inside the world of mixed martial arts and find out what it takes to be a champion. Hosts Bas Rutten and Kenny Rice provide all the latest news and highlights, along with features, analysis, and rankings.
• Fri, May 16 @ 2:30PM on HDNET Channel 1355
  The IFL, from the Mohegan Sun Casino Arena, CT (LIVE!): LIVE on HDNet not one, not two, but three championship belts will be on the line when the IFL invades the Mohegan Sun Casino Arena! Ryan McGivern puts his middleweight title on the line against talented IFL newcomer Dan Miller. The heavyweight belt will be at stake when Roy “Big Country” Nelson steps into the ring against Branden Lee Hinkle. Ryan Schultz, who grabbed the title from Chris Horodecki and ruined his perfect record on HDNet in December, will defend his title for the second time in three months. This time it will be the Lithuanian terror Deividas Taurosevicius attempting to snatch his lightweight crown. [Fight Card]
• Fri, May 16 @ 7:30PM on Oceanic PPV Channel 0260 or Oceanic HD PPV 1260
  X1 Legends: For the first time in Hawaii television history, this locally produced MMA event will be aired LIVE on Oceanic Time Warner Cable in both high definition (Digital Channel 1260 - $39.99) and standard definition (Digital Channel 260 - $29.99). There will also be a LIVE Internet stream available at x1ppv.oceanic.com for $19.99. The Friday night live broadcast starts at 7:30pm with a replay to follow immediately. [Fight Card]
• Sun, May 18 @ 3:30AM on KHNL Channel 0008 or HDKHNL Channel 1008
  Strikeforce on NBC: Strikeforce on NBC brings you face-to-face with some of the most exciting Mixed Martial Arts fighters in the nation, every Saturday night! From top professional competitors and champions to the up-and-coming challengers, you’ll get an insider’s perspective on the world’s most extreme sport. Experience the adrenaline-filled, heart-pounding action that comes with each round in the cage - this is a series that will put MMA fans on the edge of their seats!
• Tue, May 20 @ 5PM on SpikeTV Channel 0559
  UFC 84 Countdown: Penn vs Sherk: Go behind the scenes as BJ Penn (Hilo, HI) and Sean Sherk (Oak Grove, MN) prepare for a lightweight championship battle. See how they train, eat and live in their home towns.
• Wed, May 21 @ 7PM on SpikeTV Channel 0559
  The Ultimate Fighter: The training and development of professional Ultimate Fighters.
• Fri, May 23 @ 3:30PM on HDNET Channel 1355?
  Inside MMA: Inside MMA is your opportunity to step inside the world of mixed martial arts and find out what it takes to be a champion. Hosts Bas Rutten and Kenny Rice provide all the latest news and highlights, along with features, analysis, and rankings.
• Sat, May 24 @ 4PM on PPV Channel 0701 or HDPPV Channel 1700 (preshow starts at 3:30PM)
  UFC 84 ILL WILL: Penn vs. Sherk: The fight game can get very personal and the war of words between UFC Lightweight Champion “THE PRODIGY” BJ PENN and former champ SEAN “THE MUSCLE SHARK” SHERK has taken personal to a whole new level. The talking stops and the real competition begins as these two men step into the Octagon to determine the undisputed king of the 155-lb. division. (See trailer and ordering information) [Fight Card]
• Sun, May 25 @ 3:30AM on KHNL Channel 0008 or HDKHNL Channel 1008
  Strikeforce on NBC: Strikeforce on NBC brings you face-to-face with some of the most exciting Mixed Martial Arts fighters in the nation, every Saturday night! From top professional competitors and champions to the up-and-coming challengers, you’ll get an insider’s perspective on the world’s most extreme sport. Experience the adrenaline-filled, heart-pounding action that comes with each round in the cage - this is a series that will put MMA fans on the edge of their seats!
• Sun, May 25 on Oceanic PPV (TBD)
  King Of The Cage: Opposing Force: King of the Cage returns this May with the premier of its 3 hour show “Opposing Force”. Superstar Welterweight World Champion Aaron “Slam” Wetherspoon returns to the cage after a one year hiatus to excite fight fans and again defend his 170lb World Title Belt. Also, watch Paul Arras put his undefeated record of 4-0 on the line and be there to witness the amazing slams of Rick Legere. Combined with another exciting eight fights, direct to you from the San Manuel Casino in San Bernardino, California, King of the Cage, “Opposing Force” promises an action packed night to remember. You don’t want to miss this, on Events iN DEMAND Pay-Per-View.
• Wed, May 28 @ 7PM on SpikeTV Channel 0559
  The Ultimate Fighter: The training and development of professional Ultimate Fighters.
• Wed, May 28 @ 7PM on on Versus 0210 or HGOLF 1216
  TapouT: The TapOut crew revisits some of their favorite fighters from season one with a look back at some of the best fights and most outrageous moments. New fight footage, where are they now interviews and a sneak peak at what’s ahead for season two - It’s all part of this very special Tap Out extravaganza.
• Fri, May 30 @ 3:30PM on HDNET Channel 1355?
  Inside MMA: Inside MMA is your opportunity to step inside the world of mixed martial arts and find out what it takes to be a champion. Hosts Bas Rutten and Kenny Rice provide all the latest news and highlights, along with features, analysis, and rankings.
• Fri, May 30 @ 4:30PM on HDNET Channel 1355
  Best of DREAM 1: The most exciting fights from the first event from DREAM, a new mixed martial arts promotion from Japan. Featured match-ups include the long-awaited return of Heavyweight Mirko “Cro Cop” Filipovic to Japan, Hayato Sakurai fighting as a Welterweight, as well as the opening round of the 16-man Lightweight Grand Prix tournament. The first round is highlighted by a controversial fight between Top 10 fighters Gesias Calvancanti and Shinya Aoki, plus fights from other top Lightweights Tatsuya Kawajiri, Mitsuhiro Ishida, Joachim Hansen and rising American star Eddie Alvarez.
• Sat, May 31 @ 3PM on SpikeTV Channel 0559
  Ultimate Iceman - Chuck Liddell
• Sat, May 31 @ 5PM on SpikeTV Channel 0559
  UFC Unleashed Special Presentation: Featuring Chuck Liddell vs. Wanderlei Silva.
• Sat, May 31 @ 8PM on CBS Channel 0007 or HD Channel 1007
  CBS/EliteXC Saturday Night Fights: MMA’s history making debut on network television. Scheduled fights include Kimbo Slice vs. James Thompson, Robbie Lawler vs. Scott Smith, Gina Carano vs. Kaitlin Young, Phil Baroni vs. Joey Villasenor and Brett Rogers vs. John Murphy. [Fight Card]
• Sun, June 1 @ 3PM on Versus Channel 0210 or HDGolf Channel 1216
  WEC (Faber vs. Pulver): Former UFC Lightweight Champion, Jens “Lil Evil” Pulver returns to 145 pounds, a weight at which he has never been beaten, as he looks to defend his legacy against the #1-ranked featherweight in the world - WEC Champion “The California Kid,” Urijah Faber. A win for Pulver secures his spot in MMA history. A win for Faber takes him one step closer to becoming the greatest featherweight fighter ever. [Fight Card]

Ongoing/repeat shows include UFC Unleashed (UFC) on SpikeTV (0559), Various Specials on HDNet Fights (1355), World Extreme Cagefighting and WEC Wreckage (WEC) on Versus (0210) or HGOLF (1216), TapouT on Versus (0210) or HGOLF (1216), UFC Wired (UFC) on KFVE (0005), and ICON Sport TV on KFVE (0005).

If I missed anything, send it on over and I’ll add it to the list. Thanks!

Tags: bj penn, cbs elitexc saturday night fights, Gina Carano, Kimbo Slice, May 2008, MMA Television Programming for Hawaii, the ultimate fighter, UFC, ufc 84, urijah faber