http://www.5thround.com/66170/strikeforce-and-dream-planning-lightweight-grand-prix-in-may/ After receiving much props for organizing their blockbuster Heavyweight Grand Prix, it appears Strikeforce is looking to double-dip in tournament action by hosting a Lightweight GP with Dream in Japan. According to ESPN.com, the eight-man tournament will start in May. HDNet confirmed with the outlet they would broadcast the tourney stateside should it go down. Were committed to keeping our fighters active, but if we can help Dream and have our fighters go over there and participate in their tournament, why not? Strikeforce CEO Scott Coker stated. If things go the way they should, I feel confident well send a bunch of guys over. Strikeforce could supply up to five contestants, but lightweight champ Gilbert Melendez would likely be ruled out. Coker told ESPN El Nino will return to action on their April 9th card against a yet-to-be named opponent. However, Dream champ Shinya Aoki, as well as fellow Japanese superstars Tatsuya Kawajiri and Katsunori Kikuno are expected to participate. The report did not mention what would be in store for the tourneys king. In their HW Grand Prix, Alistair Overeem will not be required to defend his title. The GP winner and Strikeforce champ (Overeem) will both be recognized as champions. The 265-pounders will then meet in a title unification bout, of sorts.
I wonder if they've considered reaching out to Bellator to make this even more interesting (and to further illustrate how unwilling UFC is to play ball with anyone else in contrast). Rebney would be on it in a hot minute.
I wonder whats going to happen with Melendez? if this puts a possible title match with Kawajiri on ice then I'd like to see him fight someone before may.
:deal I've been on the verge of giving up on MMA altogether, but this is exciting! [yt]UPw-3e_pzqU[/yt]
The problem is there isn't much to look forward too these days other than UFC events. Variety is the spice of life as they say....
Well i dont boycott it exactly. Iv supported many UFC events in person, merchandise, PPV's etc. But im tired of Dana White and the way they do business in MMA. Its not good for the sport. Additionally im not interested in just being fed MMA the UFC way. Other promotions can coexist and provide other options. But the UFC refuses to let anyone else break bread and has a hard-line policy that borders on protectionism. Also i find most UFC events these days downright boring.
Melendez and Thompson need to be involved but it needs more depth. Perhaps try and get Alverz involved from Bellator and Aoki involved from Dream. Throw in the bloke who beat Thompson and the bloke who beat Aoki.
Ideal line-up for me: 1. Gilbert Melendez (Strikeforce) 2. Eddie Alvarez (Bellator) 3. Shinya Aoki (DREAM) 4. Tatsuya Kawajiri (DREAM) 5. Josh Thomson (Strikeforce) 6. Katsunori Kikuno (DREAM) 7. Gesias "JZ" Cavalcante (Strikeforce) 8. Lyle Beerbohm (Strikeforce)
