EXC and Affliction: Work in Progress

The UFC has been described as the "800 pound gorilla of MMA." The success of the UFC brand has made somewhat of a nightmare for the competition, as EXC and Affliction are struggling to compete.

But not all is doom and gloom for Elite XC and Affliction. Despite financial problems for both companies, both show an upside.

The upcoming EXC card features legitimate MMA stars in Arlovski, Carano, and Shields, as well as the "Internet Legend" Kevin "Kimbo Slice" Ferguson.

Despite his opponent having rolled off five-consecutive wins, Shields should be a big favourite against Daley. Carano may actually have some difficulty with her opponent, but still should be favored over Kobold, who is coming off consecutive losses, to wind up in a much-hyped fight with "Cyborg" Santos.

In a fight that may be the most pleasing "hardcore" fans, Arlovski will be tested by Roy Nelson. This match has significance as both fighters see themselves as heavyweight contenders. A win for Nelson would perhaps finally give him the respect that he must desire.

People who look at Nelson and wish that he would be more conditioned, or less well fed, won't be able to ignore him anymore if he beats Arlovski. Conversely, an Arlovski win would be a win over a credible opponent, and perhaps would put Arlovski in line for a fight with Fedor. (Although, if Arlovski can't beat Sylvia, it can perhaps be asked, how could he beat Fedor?)

For the main event, we have Ken "The Least Dangerous Man" Shamrock, against Kevin "Kimbo 'Referees stand the fight up when I'm put in a crucifix position' Slice" Ferguson. 

Although this fight is perhaps the "freakshow" event that people say it is, it is still a fight that many people will want to watch. While Kimbo was unimpressive in his network television debut, it will be interesting to see if he comes back with an improved performance. 

Conversely, his critics are still waiting to see him lose and would love nothing more than to see his leg bent perversely by the over-the-hill Shamrock. Shamrock, meanwhile, is fighting in what could be his last hurrah.

Already a loser in eight of his last 10 fights, Shamrock is here simply to put a recognizable name up against Kimbo. However, in the eyes of hardcore fans, Kimbo will gain no legitimacy from this victory.

Hardcore fans will be hoping for one of two things: Kimbo putting Shamrock out of his misery with a devastating knockout, or Shamrock irreparably damaging the leg of the over-hyped Kimbo.

Like in the previous EXC cards, I'm picking all the favorites to win decisively. Right now, EXC is trying to build up name recognition and has set up fights to see their name fighters become even more marketable.

While the competition has at times been ugly to watch, they have at least been able to showcase their top talent. Hopefully, in the future, we will see the more-competitive bouts.

Although I am no fan of Kimbo, and can see how some think that his fame is a detriment to MMA as a sport, I must admit that I am looking forward to a Shamrock nap on the mat.