Strikeforce: Tim Kennedy Earns More Respect In Defeat Than In Victory

When it was announced that the vacant Strikeforce Middleweight Championship will be up for grabs in a bout between Tim Kennedy and Ronaldo "Jacare" Souza disappointment struck keyboard warriors from all over the world.

Ronaldo Souza, better known by his nickname "Jacare" is an accomplished Brazilian-Jiu Jitsu black belt. Many would argue he is the best grappler on the planet. Many considered him a heavy favourite to win gold in the United States upon his arrival.

Tim Kennedy, on the other hand, may not have been blessed with the god-given talent like his opponent but has shown that hard work will get you a long way. The native of Fort Bragg, North Carolina, juggled his time in the military with training to become the well-rounded mixed martial artist that we see today.

Recently, Kennedy decided it was time to put his military commitments aside and focus all his efforts on becoming a Champion.

Leading into his bout with Souza, not too many gave his a chance against the ADCC Submission Wrestling World Champion. I also believed Souza would walk back to the dressing room with that ten pounds of gold before it entered the championship rounds.

But Tim Kennedy entered the Strikeforce cage with the intent of proving the world wrong and fulfilling his life long dream of becoming a Champion. Throughout the fight Kennedy landed more strikes than Souza and actually took the accomplished grappler down to the mat on two separate occasions.

Following five rounds of explosive action, it was Souza's hand that was raised to the dismay of the Houston, Texas, crowd. They wanted their American soldier to leave victorious.

I cannot speak for the rest of the fight community, but Kennedy impressed me with his performance just hours ago.

In his past four victories, Kennedy has shown a well rounded skill set and a lot of promise for his future. Against Souza he showed the world that he has the heart of a champion and will be looking to get right back into the title mix.