[markcowperthwai]

I like Tim because I have known him my whole life. I dont think he is a good fighter because I know him. I know and like many amateur fighters, but dont think they are good if they are not.

Tim's earlier competition was not star material, but he has grown steadily and beat AA, who everyone decried as unbeatable. Now they say AA was overrated, glass jawed, etc. I just wish people would give a little respect. Pride has generally better fighters, more money, but many guys just dont go there because they are happy with where they are. Who is to say that UFC doesn't start paying bigger and draw more Pride fighters?

I think the next few years we will see a merging of Pride/UFC into a major, worldwide mix. UFC may continue to be the proving ground to earn Pride money. I dont know. I just hope Pride gets more time on air in the US so I can see more and learn more along the way. I am a student of the sport, and like where I see MMA heading in the next few years.