Evolution of MMA: game plan >> pure skill set

[thumper]

After reviewing the Crocop vs Gonzaga fight a few times, it became apparent to me that Crocop was ONE DIMENSIONAL, not in his skill set, but in his preparation. He thought that he could just win a fight based on his LHK and counter-striking alone, fighting Gonzaga just like he would any other opponent. We all know that Fedor had him figured out when he would stalk him, and press the action, and it seems like Crocop has never changed inspite of this.

I think there's a very strong case to be made that the last few upsets are based on BRILLIANT game plans, where it's not just a matter of a guy brushing up his jiu-jitsu to fight a bjj guy, or someone getting a new boxing coach in order to 'stand and trade' with a striker. No, I'm talking about tailor made plans that are nuanced and precise.

I have no doubt that the way Gonzaga PERFECTLY caught Crocop's body kick and took him to the ground is a move that he's practiced a thousand times in the gym. He didn't get scared, he didn't cover up, he simply knew EXACTLY what to do. Not only was it flawless, but he had that hungry look in his eyes and all his movements were purposeful, as if he was anticipating everything that Crocop was doing. While Crocop was tentative, testing the waters, even looking lost at times.

I take a different view that MMA is a complete 'toss up' these days. I welcome this new change, as it adds a new layer to things.

You need a new plan for EVERY opponent, and I think this is what separates Fedor from the rest of them.

cliffs: we're playing chess here, not checkers

[ta_wolverine]

Great point! People should start to see that this is the ultimate game of chess here and these boys are fully rounded and that a one dimensoinal fighter like that is going to get beat 90% of the time. For cro cop to continue to try and just stand and not be able to have a ground game is stupid. Shamrock learned the same thing when he fought tito the old days are gone maybe it would fly in pride but not here.

[VictorCharlie]

Great point! People should start to see that this is the ultimate game of chess here and these boys are fully rounded and that a one dimensoinal fighter like that is going to get beat 90% of the time. For cro cop to continue to try and just stand and not be able to have a ground game is stupid. Shamrock learned the same thing when he fought tito the old days are gone maybe it would fly in pride but not here.

I think everyone else learned it when Ken fought Tito but I'm not sure Shamrock ever learned it.