Strikeforce Impressions

As predicted, Santos overwhelmed Carano and stopped her via TKO. What was somewhat interesting was that both fighters had top position, Carano even had the mount twice, and both decided to get up and stand. Perhaps lack of training? I don't buy that. You don't train for an MMA fight purely on kickboxing. I think they were both just nervous. In the end, Cyborg went on top of Gina and finished her on the ground. I think both fighters were just nervous. This was a big moment in MMA history. Perhaps this will inspire women to get into the sport. By that, I mean actually look at this as a career. The credentials for a woman to get into MMA fighting is not as steep as their male counterpart. Women don't have to be NCAA wrestling champs or K-1 professionals before entering the octagon. The talent level just isn't there yet. The women's division of MMA is still waiting for someone to come in and really evolve their division to something beyond stand up striking. Anyways, enough of that. Time to move on to the rest of the card.

Jay Hieron vs. Jesse Taylor

This wasn't televised, and I can't find somewhere to watch it online for the life of me. So, just by going on some of the comments on forums and what not, I'm guessing it was a boring fight. Ten takedown attempts by Taylor? Only one of them was successful. Looks like I overestimated Taylor's takedowns and completely underestimated Jay's takedown defense. I was wrong on this one, but can't blame a guy for seeing the fight differently than most.

Babalu vs. Mousasi

Gegard is the next big thing in MMA. I was pretty shocked he was able to finish Sobral, and finish it early as well. Fedor's protege is looking very Fedor like in his demeanor as well. This guy is scary.

Melendez vs. Ishida

Gil looked very good in this fight. I really felt he was back looking to prove something, and he did. Ishida took the fight on short notice, and it showed. He was very sloppy out there and this time around couldn't get through the size advantage Melendez had.

Werdum vs. Kyle

Kyle had some surprising moves off his back in this fight. However, Werdum showed why he picks apart any sub par heavyweight. His jitz is top notch. It's a shame Werdum wasn't able to get over the hump in the UFC for a title shot. He should fare better in Strikeforce.