Black Adder
28-01-2011, 18:17
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.
“We’re 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 we’ll 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 tourney’s 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.
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http://sportifi.com/news/Strikeforce-and-Dream-Planning-Lightweight-Grand-Prix-in-May-593600.html
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.
“We’re 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 we’ll 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 tourney’s 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.
Don’t forget to follow 5thRound.com on Twitter @5thRound and "Like" us on Facebook!
http://sportifi.com/news/Strikeforce-and-Dream-Planning-Lightweight-Grand-Prix-in-May-593600.html