It's time for the heavyweights to slap leather! I noted in my last review that the heavyweights this season seem to be more skilled than I expected, and this episode will confirm what I observed so briefly in the first two episodes. You can see my read my previous review to catch up on what has happened.
Like every reality TV series, the obligatory re-cap of the last episode started the show. The much talked-about Melvin shin-cap delivered to Josh Burkman seemed to have done more than previously reviewed. Josh Burkman had broken his left arm while partialy blocking the shin kick to the face. During the previews running all week, it was terribly obvious that Josh had to leave through injury to allow the the mentioned "new bloods" to step into the picture.
In reality, Josh did leave because of his broken arm. The adrenalin during the fight allowed a tough guy like him to continue but it's the correct decision to have him leave the competition. I look forward to seeing Josh fight in the undercards for the show's finale.
The comic relief portion of the show was provided by Rob MacDonald's constant whining and complaining about his shoulder injury. As a Canadian myself, I would have gladly rooted for Rob, a Mississauga native, to win the competition. But Dana White is right, you don't let others know you have an injury/weakness. This is especially true when you're in a competition and you live with your opponents. It was funny to take in the various reactions by teammates and opponents alike whenever Rob chimed in about his pain.
Jason Von Flue was the new alternate showing up to replace Josh Burkman. He has the potential to be this season's Chris Leben. He has a swagger about him, and isn't afraid to talk it up with his childlish John Cena impressions. Jason was certainly in low regard with coach Matt Hughes. Matt put Jason through the conditioning circuits that the other fighters have done in the first episode. The lack of heart was apparent as Jason transforms from a guy flipping off the treadmill, to a drama queen who made sure everybody knows that he's not in shape and is prone to quitting. I do not foresee much more TV time for skinny Jason, but I'm forced to wonder what they do with him at Chuck Lidell's camp.
Article comments
1 - Charlie
Do you know how I could find out the name of the song that was playing when Rob enters the octogon in Episode 3 at the beginning of the fight against Brad??