The first EliteXC mixed martial arts show on CBS got solid ratings but disappointed most hard-core mixed martial arts fans.The second EliteXC show on CBS will likely see a ratings drop, now that the novelty is gone, and without EliteXC's biggest name, Kimbo Slice. But for MMA fans, it's going to be a better show.
The July 26 main event will feature Robbie Lawler against Scott Smith, a rematch of their fight last month that was well on its way to being a very good one before it was called off because of an unintentional eye poke. The undercard is expected to feature Nick Diaz vs. K.J. Noons for EliteXC's lightweight title, as well as fights involving welterweight Jake Shields and heavyweight Antonio Silva.
That means that basically all of EliteXC's most talented fighters will fight that night. And that will make the show a good barometer for where EliteXC is: If the show does well, it tells us that fans view EliteXC as an organization with enough talented fighters that it doesn't need Kimbo to draw an audience. If the show falls flat, it tells us that EliteXC is basically just Kimbo Slice and everyone else -- and Kimbo just isn't enough to keep a promotion afloat.
I'll be rooting for the show to succeed: It would be a great step forward toward MMA becoming a regular fixture on network television.
Get the latest gear
