Originally posted by: Mo0o
I think strikers in gracie's time wasn't as good defending the take down. Fighters today are much more balanced and know to protect their weaknesses
Excellent point there, my friend. Baxck in the beginning, many UFC fighters were not even remotely prepared to avoid the takedowns. Now, the takedown avoidance is practically an art form. Its amazing how a guy could practically have his whole body off of the ground and the other guy cannot get him down. Sweet.
As for Fedor, his counter-attacks are probably the most thought out and smart moves of any fighter today. Hell Randleman
souplaised him right on top of his head and you can see Fedor immediately rolling out of it and slapping the kimura on. The Gracies used to fight like he does. I call it the "Dead Eyes". You watch Royce or Fedor fight and it looks like they arent even interested in the fight. All the while they are four or five moves ahead of what is going on in the present.
Anyone see last weeks Pride on FSN? They had Josh Barnett and Big NOg fighting in last years HWGP(I think) Two heavyweights just going at it for the full 3 rounds. I swear I never saw as many countermoves in that fight as I have in my life. Great fight.
Found it on the 'tube:
here.
If you have about twenty minutes, watch it. Dont fast forward through it. You need to appreciate a fantastic fight.
Peace
Lounatik