B.J. Penn's Camp More About Mixed Messages?

BJ Penn’s camp seems to be producing more mixed messages than mixed martial arts.  For instance, take Jason Parillo. He claims that it’s such an advantage to be underestimated that he immediately follows it up with descriptions about how hardcore Penn’s training is.  You can’t help but wonder when even some of Penn’s fans even skeptically view one of Penn’s top guys.  Such confusion from a camp conjures up memories of a recent Vice Presidential candidate.  Similarly, it all makes for some juicy television.

But let’s temporarily abandon these WWF-like threats.  Personally, I couldn’t agree more with Penn’s assertion in the UFC Premiere sequel, “Martial arts is about skill, technique and the will to win”. 

Now, skill is most often attributed to Penn and he has definitely shown his ability to pick the right moves. But if you have this much skill, you should beat Hughes—especially after you fought him the first time—just saying.  

Technique, like skill, is not something you develop overnight.  It’s a direct relationship of the amount of time booked to training.  It comes only through consistent practice. 

Ignoring all the drama about Penn’s vacation, I think it made sense that he needed a break; however, this is not just based on the few weeks before the fight, but rather all the events leading up to it. 

Penn probably was hitting his body too fast, too soon.   Not only has GSP had two more fights since their first match up in '07, but GSP's fights are much more evenly spread out compared to Penn’s. 

Plus, St. Pierre is well-known for being absolutely ridiculous when it comes to training.  Overall, the approach which is much more planned and controlled can only yield superior technique.

When it comes to the will to win, I do not doubt that Penn genuinely wants to beat GSP.  In fact, he says it quite often.  But, do his intentions match GSP’s record?    

GSP has been most resolute in his past fights recently, not only taking on new fighters but also being sure to reclaim past losses of learn from his former opponents.  Granted Penn has thrown some biting remarks, but it’s as if GSP is just checking off a list of names proving that he is the true welterweight champion.

My prediction is, if it doesn't end in the first round with Penn knocking out GSP, it will go to the third. Penn will probably try a rear-naked choke, but Pierre will end it with a his own submission.