Despite setbacks Andrei Arlovski anchors Pro Elite comeback

Dan Rose | August 22, 2011 | Reply

Former UFC Heavyweight Champion Andrei Arlovski’s stock has plummeted since he defeated Tim Sylvia in 2005 to become the UFC Champion. He’s seen both success and failure since then, but a current four fight losing streak, three of which by KO, has the MMA community doubting his ability to absorb punishment. He doesn’t however have issues gaining employment and as Pro Elite attempts to rebuild, they look to him to anchor their first show back.

Andrei Arlovski will carry a 15-9 record into the main event against relative unknown Ray Lopez in a fight that Arlovski cannot afford to lose. If Arlovski were to lose this fight, he couldn’t effectively be taken seriously by writers, fans, and most importantly, promoters. Arlovski does have plenty going for him though, he has excellent hands, and the “it” factor.

Arlovski looks like a professional fighter, and actually has excellent striking. The problem is when he is in fact, struck. He seems to have issues with his chin, and after being stopped seven times now in his MMA career, people close to him are starting to worry about his health. It can’t be good for your head to be knocked out so often.

Recently at a press conference that fact was brought up to Arlovski, but he was not interested in hearing it and had a small meltdown. He was quoted as saying, “Come on, let’s be f*cking serious. I’m already sick of f*cking stupid questions about head injuries and weak chin. It’s f*cking bullsh*t and honestly, it pisses me off. Who says? I don’t know. I’m feeling great. I’m in good shape and everything’s fine. Do I look like a f*cking retired person or something? I don’t understand. Next question.”

Well, despite the health concerns, and Arlovski’s response one thing is certain. Saturday night Pro Elite will begin it’s reincarnation by hosting an event in Hawaii, and Arlovski will headline that show. He will compete against Ray Lopez who is 5-1 and picked up his last win at King of the Cage 69 over 4-10 Robert Morrow. Lopez is a blown up light heavyweight and should present an opportunity for Arlovski to work his Muay Thai.

Arlovski should be a substantial favorite in this fight, and if he wins and looks solid, expect him to headline another Pro Elite show. The Pro Elite show takes place Saturday night live from the Neal S. Blaisdell Center in Honolulu, Hawaii. As of the writing of this, it is not clear if the event will be televised or shown online. Fans will certainly be interested in how this event plays out and what’s next for Andrei Arlovski.

Tags: Andre Arlovski, MMA, Pro Elite, Ray Lopez