Happy New Year!
January 2nd, 2008
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First thing I’d like to say is, Happy New Year to all. Also, I hope everyone had a great Christmas and celebrated it for the right reasons. My wife says so much money is wasted over Christmas and I guess I agree. Christmas should be the actual celebration of Jesus’ death, not when He was born. So, I hope everyone celebrated Christmas for the right reasons. I do love to give gifts, my wife calls me Santa Claus all the time. Well, UFC 79 is over and I cannot say it went like I thought it would. I did think Chuck would win. To be honest, I thought Chuck would have beat him worse. It was a great match up for Chuck stylewise, but Wanderlei showed a lot of heart in staying in there. My match didn’t go like I thought it would at all. It seems I never got my gameplan started. Georges came in there and didn’t hesitate on anything, when he wanted to do something he did it and it seems when I wanted to do something, I thought about it and then I didn’t have the chance to do it. When you have a chance to do something, you just have to pull the trigger and do it right then and there. I’m going to take some time off and think about things. I’ve already talked to Dana and Lorenzo, and we’ll probably see what happens with Georges and Serra. And if Serra loses, I might go against him. Nothing is set in stone, just an idea right now. Like I said after the fight, I came in in shape with a good gameplan, I just didn’t execute. I want to thank everybody for their support, for the emails and mostly for the prayers. For those of you who have been asking, my arm will be fine and my black eye will heal. I hope everyone has a great 2008. -Matt |
January 2nd, 2008 at 11:57 am
Hi Matt,
I saw your fight with GSP and despite you losing, I thought you performed well. I was really pulling for you that night and took it pretty hard when you lost. But I know you’ll bounce back and really bring it next time [hopefully against Matt Serra].
One thing I was telling my friends that night was that I noticed the amount of class you showed before and after the fight. I noticed you extended out your hand to GSP as he took his warm-up lap around the octagon, wished him luck in the stare down, and congratulated him after the fight. Thanks for being such a classy guy and the epitome of what a MMA should be about.
- Yong
January 2nd, 2008 at 12:15 pm
Matt,
You’re exactly right about the reason for Christmas, Jesus came to die in order that those who believe would be saved. I have to admit that I still feel sort of down about your loss to Georges, but I want to let you know that you have been a real inspiration to me over the years, and not just because of your dominance in the octagon, but because of things like you just posted about the Lord.
God bless you Matt.
January 2nd, 2008 at 12:46 pm
Matt,
I’m new here but not new to mma or ur career.I’m not going to waste anyones time saying much so I’ll get to the point.I posted a topic in the forum stating an opinion on what u could do if u continued fighting and I think in certain ways,what I put makes sense.If anyone in charge want’s to check it out or u check it out ur-self it’s named “Time for Hughes to move up”
Always be a fan and consider u the G.O.A.T.-Achillez14
January 2nd, 2008 at 12:48 pm
Matt,
Happy New Year! I hope you and your family have a successful, prosperous, peaceful 2008. I too am still bummed about your loss. I so wanted you to avenge that loss, as I know you did. I know you are better than him, nothing will change my mind. You’re the Champ, always will be to me. No matter what, no matter who gets the belt, you’re the best UFC Welterweight EVER. I hope you continue to fight, would love to see you in the Octagon again. Whatever you do, you will be a success.
Take care and God Bless!
January 2nd, 2008 at 12:55 pm
Happy New Year ! You ok? Sorry about the loss i didnt think he could do it. though first time was because you went in there thinking it was going to be easy and he surprised you. But your missing something, last few fights you seem to be somewhere else when you step into the octagon. Clear your mind and get hungry again.. You can take him Matt train again and go at him be hungry. Gotta get hungry then him. then step in and don’t think just attack him. Look at all the great names you have dropped you can do it. All your fans know you can do it were behind you. Keep up have a great year.
January 2nd, 2008 at 12:55 pm
Matt,
I thought you did a great job of controlling Georges posture in the first round and were very active on the ground. I think you that you are a true champion by the way you carry yourself and the way you stand up for what you believe in….you inspire me to be a better person. I can say with confidence that Georges will beat Serra and I would like nothing more than to see you fight him after that….my only question would be is would Serra even take the fight knowing it was not a title fight anymore…I guess only time will tell…Anyway I hope you have a great 2008 and I hope God continues to bless you and your family….cant wait to see you in the octagon again.
take care,
Galations 2:20
January 2nd, 2008 at 12:59 pm
Matt,
Win or lose you display the qualities of an exceptional athlete and most of all a person. I am sure you already know that the meaning of Matthew is a gift from the Lord (my son is named exactly for that reason). The gift to us is the high standards, morals and values that you live by. Your genuine love for your family, friends and fans, which I see first hand with your relationship with my brother, is unconditional. It is comforting to know that even with fame and fortune a person can still be humble which is a rare and endearing trait to have. Thank you for being an inspiration.
Laura
January 2nd, 2008 at 1:00 pm
[...] the top of his list of potential opponents. Hughes offers the following on his official website, Matt-Hughes.com: I’m going to take some time off and think about things. I’ve already talked to Dana [...]
January 2nd, 2008 at 1:26 pm
Good Fight Matt… I guess it’s just one of those fights that just wasn’t meant to be. I think all around you’re the better fighter, it just happened to be Georges night. All I can say that if Serra is next, give it to him good. And just know that some of us just appreciate the effort and preparation that goes into the fight and not the outcome.
January 2nd, 2008 at 1:27 pm
Matt, Keep fighting! If your not in there then where is the bar set for challengers for the title. Two or three fights with those at the top of the list and you would be set for another shot at the title. With time, everything changes. GSP will not be able to be the longstanding champion you were. Hope the HIT Squad is a great success. God bless you and your family.
In Christ, Lance
January 2nd, 2008 at 1:30 pm
Please dont stay away too long Matt, the Octagon and the UFC is a better place with you in it. It doesnt matter if we win or looose so long as we are following GODs will. You only need to read the forums to know that what you have given is appreciated and admired by so many people. If you ever want to know what a True Champion is, you only ever need to look in the mirror.
We’re all here for you
Dave
January 2nd, 2008 at 1:31 pm
Matt:
Happy New Year. Well I hope that you and your family have a great year and that all your wishes and dreams come true. I would say God bless you, but God is already blessing you with your family, friends and all those fans including me that support you all the way and all i can say I pray that he keeps blessing you and your fam.
Well Matt I will say this, Im in Iraq and i work in a Dining Facility we were watching the fight and we were all supporting you all the way. You guys lift our morale up, by a lot. Seen you perform so great is just really cool.
Win or loose, either you keep fighting or not Im still a big fan and i believe in you and your abilities.
I do hope to be able to meet you in person some time.
Take care
thanks for supporting all of us on this side of the world
January 2nd, 2008 at 1:37 pm
Dear Matt,
Happy New Year to you and yours. To quote an old football film, “Winning isn’t everything, but losing sure sucks!” I share the frustration of planning and preparing for a work endeavor only to have an unexpected negative outcome. Proverbs reminds us that we will fall but shall not be utterly cast down (obviously Solomon did not have MMA in mind when he wrote that l.o.l.) I pray the Lord give you clarity of purpose as you meditate on His word and pray for direction. I also pray that would continue to count you blessings (wife, children, family, friends). You are a mighty man of God Matthew. You words after the fight were a strong witness for Christ. Many times I have seen God turn an apparent defeat into a victory for His kingdom.
January 2nd, 2008 at 1:50 pm
Matt,
I’ve glad to hear that you had a great Christmas. A Christmas for the right reasons. That is one of the biggest reasons i am a fan of yours. I believe that God can and has used you to reach many people in this world for Christ. I remember telling my friends that i wanted you to beat George and Serra because you are such a good representative for the sport and a good example for those who believe. Obviously, i wish the fight would have turned out different, but God has His reasons for everything. Always seems hard to understand at first, but then He works it out in His time and for His glory. I purchased your book yesterday and finished it today. Thanks for sharing so much with your fans. It was nice to get a peak into the life of the Greatest UFC Champion of all-time. The storys of you and Mark growing up and getting in to trouble was funny. Seemed like you and Mark relied on each other for everything growing up. Nice to know that your brother always has your back.
God willing, i’ll get to see you in the Atlanta, Georgia area for your book signing tour. I’ve been looking forward to it ever since it was announced on your website; which is great by the way. Thanks for always keeping your fans updated on everything and for staying current. Hope you heal up soon. Looking forward to seeing you in the Octagon again. I’ve always wanted to see you fight live, hopefully, i’ll still get my chance. God Bless. Always praying for you and your family.
corey “Kal-el”
January 2nd, 2008 at 1:54 pm
MATT,
Well for starters my name is randy tonche’, I am from Sallisaw Oklahoma and I was at the state line brawl that u were at in Arkansas… Matt you’re my favorite fighter and you are one person I look up to so much because of your work ethic, attitude, and most of all you Christianity!!! During my senior season in wrestling last yr I always thought about how hard you worked to get that belt. When I thought about how big of an achievement that was for you it helped me drive off it and make it to the state finals for the third time in a row and I grabbed my first state championship and undefeated season, the other previous yrs I was runner up. You were an amazing wrestler when you were in school and to think about how hard you worked for what you received that helped me think about how hard I wanted it. Every fight I saw you in u had that look in your eye that you cant be defeated. You had the drive and determination to win. i watch all your fights and you had that look in them. You simply effused to be beat. I know you lost some but it was because they were the better fighter you didn’t have that look in your eyes. What I am trying to say is when you fought GSP tonight, from the moment you walked into the ring, you didn’t have that look in your eyes, there was no fire. Have you ever watched a boxer when he gets knocked down?? You can always tell how bad he wants it when he is on the ground, the fire in his eyes tells you weather or not he is going to get back up and keep moving forward or weather or not he will stay down and accept defeat. All you have to do is get that fire back!! I know you can do it Matt, I have all the faith in the world that you can. I know you must get many messages like this but like I said you are my favorite fighter and my idol. You deserve to go out on a win. Please don’t throw the towel in just yet, please. I really hope that I can meet you one day face to face. Well thank you for your time and if you could please message me back at (tonche189@diamondnet.us ) take care and God bless!! HERE IS A LITTLE SCRIPYURE I THINK WILL HELP YOU CAUSE IT HELPS ME QUITE A BIT, ITS PHILP 4:13- I CAN DO ALL THINGS THROUGH CHRIST WHICH STRENGTHENS ME!!
HAPPY NEW YEAR!!! YOUR FRIEND,
RANDY TONCHE’
January 2nd, 2008 at 2:17 pm
Matt-
You are such an amazing fighter, and you are the main reason i even watch this sport these days. You are such an awesome role model, and unlike those others that gloat and showboat you are humble and thank everyone for supporting you to where you have gotten today. Thank you for making this sport fun for families to watch. I am deeply saddened at the fact that on the Ultimate Fighter your said you only have a few fights left in you. The sport will not be the same when you leave, but you do have a family to care for and i understand.. Just like Garth Brooks I always wanted to see him perform and when he retired i was devastated, but lucky for me he is coming to cali to perform and i get to go…. So that gives me hope that one day i will someday get to watch you perform also. My friends and family all laugh at me for how happy it makes me to talk about you, and how i defend you to the end, but in all honesty its because you hold your morals in this sport and you are just amazing.. Thank you again for making this sport what it is… I will always be your fan.
-Cynthia
January 2nd, 2008 at 2:55 pm
I will see you on the 18th in Atlanta, Country Boy. Win or loss on Saturday, you are still a great representative of the sport of MMA. You still have at least 1 more bone to pick or break shall I say. And that is with Matt Serra, if anything is left of the guy after GSP blitzkriegs him.
God Bless
Bloom
January 2nd, 2008 at 3:07 pm
While I will be sad to see you retire when you finally make that decision, Matt I understand where you’re coming from. Having a baby girl changes you…it is completely different from having a baby boy. I think that I know exactly where your heart has been for the last 12 or so months…not that you haven’t fought well and put forth amazing effort…like I said, having a girl just changes you. I support your decision 100% to take some time off and I wish you many blessings in all you set your mind to do. You will always be my favorite UFC fighter, no matter what you decide. I have read many replies telling you not to stay away too long and I just want to tell you to make the decision that is best for your family and yourself…not anyone else. True fans will love you no matter what you decide and although they may be sad about not seeing you in the octagon anymore, they will survive. And don’t be afraid about there not being anyone left to be a positive role model and to bring Christianity to the UFC. God will raise up another when your time is done….when Elijah’s earthly ministry was done God brought up Elisha to take his place. Spend some time with your baby girl and enjoy it! God bless, we love you!
January 2nd, 2008 at 3:30 pm
Matt,
Thanks for the update. Serra beat GSP by hitting him in the head, just like a Liddel-tito fight. I think you need to go after a fighters weakness, even if that isn’t your strength. Thanks for the great words, and the fighting class. If you get a chance to watch some of the other fights, there was some very poor sportsmanship, which is very unusual for the UFC.
Great to see you in the octagon.
cheddarhead
January 2nd, 2008 at 4:54 pm
Matt, Thanks for the reply. I really think you should continue fighting a bit longer. You know what you did wrong by not going through with your gameplan. If you fight your fight there isn’t anyone in that division that can beat you. Either way, I also appreciate you updating your website for us. I check this site everyday hoping you have put something on here. You are a class act for us and the sport. You are the champion, kick Serra’s butt and go after the title one more time. I really hope to meet you someday(as every fan), I will try to drive to one of your signings. If you can come to Indiana it would greatly be appreciated. Thanks and God Bless.
January 2nd, 2008 at 5:23 pm
Matt I just wanted to share with you how much I appreciate your positive attitude. I’m a new fan to UFC and you’re my favorite fighter. I hate you didn’t get the win but I still think you’re awesome and hope to see you in a match again soon.
January 2nd, 2008 at 5:31 pm
Matt being a high school wrestling coach in Southeast Kansas, i have to be honest that I had heard about Matt Hughes a while before your UFC success. A friend of mine is a coach at Labbette Community College and he has always had great stories of Matt Hughes…..Okay now to the point, here is my question, you have been actively cutting weight for many years now…..and I am sure your body is use to it, but Matt is the cut to 170 getting to much for you? I mean you probably walk around at 190-ish right? Getting where you are in age, I think that the cut might be a bit to much……when we watched you coach on the ultimate fighter, we saw you throw pretty much everyone around…that was when you where probably if I am right at about 190. Now we all know that your strength is amazing, but in your last few fights, you havent been able to utilize it. In GSP-2 you couldnt really finish your once effortless double leg scoop. When you fought BJ you really couldnt finish the double leg there as well. In the most recent GSP fight, there was a time in the fight that George tried a superman punch and you ducked and caught the double leg, but couldnt scoop him up over your shoulder, like you use to. I have been a fan of yours Matt your entire MMA career, and it isint just what you do in the ring, it is what you stand for, as a coach, as a competitor, as a man. I want you to continue your career, because I know you still have the ability. I think you need to move up in weight. Boxer’s do it all the time, I have high schoolers that move up every year, I think you could still clean up the UFC in a higher bracket, we need more fighters like you that put God at the center, and have language our younger kids can watch and not have to censor. Matt I hope to see you at one of your book signing dates, I plan to travel to one of them. Fight Serra if you want, but I think you should move up in weight, and get a few more fights…You can be one of the only fighters to dominate two weight brackets…..God bless
Michael
January 2nd, 2008 at 5:45 pm
Matt,
Unless you’ve been it the position your in, no one can comment on what continues to motivate a Champion.
You are an inspiring individual, and I hope you continue your career.
I personally feel you didn’t fight like you can fight, George is clearly a physically strong individual, I was suprised that he stayed up in the clinch, I truley expected some big slams from you.
Hope you have and your family have a great year.
Gerry
January 2nd, 2008 at 6:04 pm
Matt,
I am so happy to hear that you are planning on returning to the octagon!!!! I have been praying for you to heal and come back stronger then ever. Not only are your fans with you, but most of all GOD is with you. I can’t wait to see you fight again.
GOD BLESS,
*Kelly*
January 2nd, 2008 at 6:30 pm
Matt,
Well I am some what confused on this past weekend. My wife and i went to ufc79 and that was an emotional rollercoaster. First I was happy that chuck won but I am probably one of the biggest matt hughes fan their is and we did not have a goodnight. But I went to Matts after party and i waited right underneath where Matt was going to be at(I seen Robbie out in the crowd and he showed me). First I seen Mark Fiore and i asked him for his autograph and he laughed and told me matt was not their yet. So my wife and I waited hoping we would get a chance to meet matt. Let me tell you if you have ever been in LAX it is crazy in there so while we were waiting Mark kept looking over the balcony laughing at us(surprised that we were still there). Finally I looked at my wife and said lets go I had been waiting their for a longtime and iwas getting tired of beer getting spilled on me.. Right when we were leaving my wife screemed their is matt.i looked up and their he was at that time mark tapped matt on the shoulder and pointed at us. Matt smiled and waived and we asked him if we could maybe meet him and he looked at us and said come on up. My wife and I made it up their and first we got ahold of Mark and he then started laughing when he seen us. Mark was a very nice guy and we did get a couple of pics with him. I then asked Mark if he would go with us to meet matt and he told me I was a big boy. At that time matt turned around and he came over to us and took some pics and talked to us. The most suprising thing about it was when we were getting ready to leave he told us we could stay their if we wanted to. We stayed their for a couple minutes but I did not want to warm out my welcome. That was probably one of the best thing that has ever happened to me. I just want to say thank you to Matt,markand Matts wife (for taking the pics)that made my weekend. My wife are from Illinois and the only reason we even went to ufc79 is because of matt. Oh yeah i did meat nateR so nateR could you help me get these pics on the website somehow. Thanks again
[Of course, email them to webmaster@matt-hughes.com and I'll post them to the Fan Photos gallery. -NateR]
January 2nd, 2008 at 8:44 pm
I personally think GSP is the real deal and the current #1 at welterweight. There is no shame in losing to him. Matt has had a standout career in MMA and the UFC since the late 90s. What has it been, like 7 or 8 title defenses? That’s very impressive. Name one other UFC fighter who is even in that league? Could it be that the ‘fire’ is gone? What more does he have to prove in the UFC?
I’d like to see Hughes fight Serra no matter what the outcome of the GSP/Serra bout is. All throughout the TUF season, we were promised Hughes vs Serra, and I think it would be very disappointing not to have some sort of resolution.
January 2nd, 2008 at 8:44 pm
Matt,
Happy New Year’s to you and your family, may this year find you and your family in good health. My wife and I are avid fans of MMA. When you lost to GSP, our living room filled with silence. We are fans of the Iceman also, but nothing could be compared to the way we felt when you lost to GSP. We wanted to see you shut Serra’s mouth for good! As the great athlete you are, before and after the match. You still showed the utmost respect, not like Serra has or will ever have. Just the way Serra ran his mouth during TUF6 calling you an egotistical maniac, he needs to watch the replays of himself to see how much of a hypocrit he really is.
We met at Extreme Challenge in Hayward, WI awhile back and you took the time to sign a shirt and take a picture…Thanks for that…Hopefully my wife and I can make it to your book signing at the Mall of America, my wife was too much of a chicken to take a picture with you then.
Take Care,
Henry
January 2nd, 2008 at 8:45 pm
Matt,
Just wanted to wish you and your family a wonderful 2008. This past fight didn’t go like any of us would have hoped and as I am studying the book of James, I am reminded that God uses times like this to grow us and often times what we learn through adversity is priceless. Thank you for being a champion in the ring, not only in wins, but also in losses. Your character speaks volumes for your faith and there are many out there that need to see it!
Blessings!
January 2nd, 2008 at 8:56 pm
Matt,
I am the biggest Hughes and Gsp fan and did not want to pick a winner. But you are undoubtedly the best welterweight ever. I hope your time off goes well and you are back in the octagon very soon..I hope it is against serra after he gets destroyed by gsp..and I hope you completely demolish him and his big mouth. anyways thanks for the new years and hoped you enjoyed it with your family and God bless…
-alex-
January 2nd, 2008 at 9:49 pm
Matt,
I know so many people are just sad that you lost, and I feel the same way. I am from Germany and my husband introduced me to the UFC and I have been hooked ever since. I sent my husband the PPV’s to Iraq, that’s where he is stationed right now. We agree, you are a great person, great character (no matter what anybody says) and the best Welterweight!!!
Frohes Neues Jahr (Happy New Year!),
Leonie & Nick
January 2nd, 2008 at 10:08 pm
A loss is a loss and it stinks when you get one but never any need to speak or retirement because of that loss. We all know with that loss Matt is still top 5 in his weight and can still compete at a level higher than most. Unless he’s tired of it or his family wants him to step away there is no need at all to even talk about it. It’s in him to be a fighter!!! with more than 2 or 3 left in him
January 2nd, 2008 at 10:30 pm
Matt:
You are a great fighter and a spiritual inspiration to even an observant Jewish guy like me.
I hope that you do fight at least once more. I’d love to see you take on Serra. I’d come to that event!
But if you do retire, may G-d continue to bless you in everything you do.
Tiger Mike
January 2nd, 2008 at 11:10 pm
hi matt, i did watch the fight,between you and gsp.To be honest with you this is just my opinion and ive read a few at other places that GSP looked like he was using a illegal substance.it looked as if he was thicker in his size + was pointed out he looked like he had some gyno issue in his chest.I know people to get past blood test’
i never seen anybody out power you so easly like gsp did in this fight.i thought you would have the upper hand in the wrestling cause of your strenght and tech.
ide be double checking on gsp , i think hes doing something ,just my opinion.
ANY HOW MATT ,i dont know why people say some of the bad things i hear them say about you.
I think you show to have decent morales, the way the world is today we need more morals for sure.
Good luck on your future plans in this sport.
god bless your family and happy NEW YEAR.
January 2nd, 2008 at 11:50 pm
Matt-
I would love, love, love to see you fight Serra. I have no doubts that you can beat him!! I also think you can beat GSP, and I want a rematch before you retire. Maybe take a different approach to training? GSP is a great fighter, but I don’t think he has the heart that you do. You were right when you said that he “was a great champion,” but YOU are an even better champion! Good Luck with whatever you decide… I hope to see you fight again in ‘08, though!
January 3rd, 2008 at 8:48 am
Matt:
You are a great role model and you handled your loss with great class and dignity. I have two boys (two and a half and nine months), and when they get older I am going to show them your highlight reel so that they can see what it means to be a true competitor.
I wish you success in whatever you do, and I thank you for providing me with some inspiration in my own athletic endeavors.
I respect that you are outspoken about your faith, and I pray that G-d Almighty continues to bless you in whatever you do.
January 3rd, 2008 at 10:57 am
I may not be a champion in the UFC or MMA but as someone who has had to choose between the career of my dreams and my family, I believe I am qualified to make a statement about what may be a factor behind my favorite fighter’s decision to take time off. Matt’s focus has been different lately and I simply offered my opinion however humble it may be. Sorry if it offended anyone. Matt you are a champion whether you are in the octagon or not because you serve the Lord God Almighty! Whether you fight again or not is totally up to you…I’ll be praying that God gives you wisdom to make the right choice for you. If you continue fighting I will be there to cheer you on and be elated along with you when you win back the title. If you do not continue fighting I will be right there as one of your biggest fans still. Your humble spirit and your faithful heart to the Saviour will get you the best prize of all-your crown in heaven! Have a blessed day!
January 3rd, 2008 at 11:15 am
Showed some real class in defeat which impressed me, do hope you teach serra a lesson after GSP showes him that his 15 minutes is up. Him beating GSP was a blip on the Radar and although it did happen and everyone has a punchers chance I am sure GSP his going to hit him so hard and fast that he will think he is surrounded. I know you are very christian and propably have forgiven serra for his comments and his actions but I would like to see you teach him a lesson, hit him with so many rights that he begs for a left! But as far as his comments go…..all you can expect from a pig…..is a grunt
Wish you all the best
Tmack
January 3rd, 2008 at 11:40 am
I have to say that I was more impressed with you rather than Georges. Sure Georges fought a good fight, but to take the loss like you did was just amazing. So classy and respectful, this is something that I have a trouble with since I’m about as competition-crazy as they come.
Good fight, I would love to see you fight Serra.
Happy New Year and God bless.
Jesper, Sweden
January 3rd, 2008 at 11:41 am
Matt,
In the fight game, I’m sure you have come across people who you like more than others. In GSP, I feel he is a real good guy and will probably be a great champion for a while. On the other hand, Serra… you gotta find a way to fight that guy. If you never fight him, I’m sure you can continue to live, but as a man, I know you want to fight him bad. I hope you do.
The great thing about this sport is that it’s not really about who you fight, it’s about who you are. Matt, while I believe that you are a human fallen from grace like the rest of us, it is motivating that you don’t change who you are and you try your best to glorify God in the process. Thank you for all you’ve done publicly and all that you are going to do. In your consistent humility, I believe God will continue to show who He is through you. Good luck in coming fights and in your coaching career, may the H.I.T. squad house many champions to come.
Peace,
Brian
January 3rd, 2008 at 12:06 pm
I agree with your wife about Christmas becoming so much about the presents and material things. There are so many people who are celebrating and don’t even know the reason why.
Too bad about the fight but it would be nice to see you beat Serra. If you were to go out…..that would be a good way to do it.
See ya at the book signing!
January 3rd, 2008 at 1:36 pm
Many will say listen to your heart. I say listen to your wife. Often God speaks to us through our wives because they are not as bull headed as we are. God’s Holy Spirit as you know will not scream at you. So my advice for what its worth is skip the thinking and go straight to the prayer and fasting. God will answer!
God bless and Happy New Year to you and yours Matt. I am praying you get your answers.
January 3rd, 2008 at 3:38 pm
Matt, I’m originally from Montreal, so you can imagine who I cheered for during the fight.
But, I have to tell you, you impressed me with your post fight candor and honesty. You are a class act, Matt, in victory and defeat, and want to thank you for all the exciting moments you have given us over the years.
I wish you all the best in 2008!
Jack
January 3rd, 2008 at 5:31 pm
Mr. Hughes, you area great inspiration to me. UFC 79 was an extreme disapointment I know Georges came out fightin like a mad man but you had so much time to prep and it just did not even look like you wanted to fight. I thought you would have a KO or TKO by the first round. I would of never guessed that Georges would of beat on you that bad. Dispite your lose you showed some real class and I respect that, I think everyone does. I hope you get to fight Serra because I wanted to see you beat on him ever sense I watched Ultimate Fighter Show. Much love Mr. Hughes I hope you pick your head up after that last lose and keep truckin on.
Peter
January 3rd, 2008 at 7:47 pm
Matt,
Happy New Year! I wish you and your family all the best in 2008! I will keep you in my prayers with hope that you will receive the blessings and guidance you need at this time. Win or Lose UFC 79. You are still a role model and inspiration to me. You are gonna be a hall of fame UFC Champion, but most importantly you are a Champion in life.
“And don’t worry about messing up. God is a God of “refills” and second chances. He simply asks that we keep trusting, obeying and responding to his Word and Spirit. He’s given us both natural and supernatural resources. Let’s utilize them all.”
Now that’s a life-changing prescription. ” - Lyn Perry
Respectfully,
David M.
January 3rd, 2008 at 8:17 pm
Hi Matt,
Win, lose, or draw I will ALWAYS cheer for you. I am a fan not just because of your behavior and victories in the ring, but mostly because WHO you are outside of the ring. You’re a man of Faith,a great role model, and a family man, who has unwaivering confidence, work ethic, drive and mental strength. Attributes that I would also like to have or improve on. Please continue to compete as long as it’s God’s Will. Lord knows we need more people like you in the UFC. May God continue to Bless you and your family and may 2008 bring you all good health, prosperity, love…and a closer walk with Our Lord.
your friend from Castle Rock, CO… Rob Hartelt
January 3rd, 2008 at 10:13 pm
Hey There,
Well.. I have recently become very interested in the UFC. I watched your fight the other night and have to say I was cheering for GSP .. being from Canada and all I figured I had to be loyal. But.. tonight I thought I’d google you and here I am! You have so many wise things to say. You’re a really interesting guy! Next time I watch you fight I won’t just see you as a fighter… you’re a real guy.. with a big heart.
Your new fan,
Rebecca
January 4th, 2008 at 12:37 am
Matt
God is in control of all things and after all of this it’s only going to make you a better Christians as I’m sure people saw how you were as gracious you were in defeat as you are in victory. I love how God is always working no matter what happens his plan is for others to see you on TV and ask questions and you are definitely rescuing people from drowing now. God Bless Matt ill be praying for you family and Brothers family and I hope your New Years and Christmas were great.
God Bless,
Devon Fox
January 4th, 2008 at 12:50 am
Matt
I hail from the frozen tundra of Minnesota, and if there is one good thing about us MN boys is that we are hard nosed fans - no “fair weather” crap from us. Watching your fight left a sour taste in my mouth, but you’re still the best damned fighter I’ve ever seen, and you’ll continue to be my favorite of all time.
And by the way, I picked up your book as soon as it came in the stores. I’m not much of a reader, actually, the last time a read a book for pleasure was probably the “Cat and the Hat”. Well, I finally had a chance to sit down and read a little bit, next thing you know, 90 pages later…it’s great stuff, I don’t want to put it down. Hope to see you in Birmingham at your signing.
Peace,
From the Eglin Air Force Base MMA Enthusiasts
January 4th, 2008 at 1:12 am
Matt,
God is in control of all things and after all of this it’s only going to make you a better portrait of what a Christian is supposed to be as I’m sure people saw how gracious you were in defeat as you are in victory. I love how God is always working no matter what happens, his plan seems to be for others to see you on TV and ask questions and you are definitely rescuing people from drowning now. God Bless Matt I’ll be praying for your family and Brothers family and I hope your New Years and Christmas were great.
God Bless,
Devon Fox
January 4th, 2008 at 3:35 am
I actully disagree with Ufc’s choice of best fighters. they put matt serra as number 9 and matt hughes was not on the list. Thats bogus, if they fought hughes would beat serra easy.
January 4th, 2008 at 2:29 pm
Matt glad your ok, you havn’t what you actually think about the fight i know it didn’t go your way but why, i think you did stand off a little i dont know why but i do know that u could take him down at will if u had a mind to!! I have watched your old fights and you were an animal [i mean that in a nice way]. I think you are brilliant and you are already the best but come on lets go on a high im sure you can firstly put Matt serra away with ease, then give gsp a slap standing then take him and ground and pound that boy for the win. And invite me to the after party!!!
January 4th, 2008 at 9:33 pm
Matt,
I saw the fight and I have to love the respect that you guys showed eachother. You both love what you do and you are both great at it. On any given day either one of you could have one. Nice job regardless. On your training video on spike before the fight you had these two rollers that you were doing exercises with during your training. They looked like two roller blade wheels with handles and then you did different exercises with them. I had a set in college when I wrestled and I can’t remember what they are called and I can’t find them on the web and I would like to purchase a set of them. If you read this could you send me the name of them. Thank you in advance for the help and I would love to see you kick the crap out of Serra. Keep training hard.
January 4th, 2008 at 10:05 pm
Matt,
Happy New Year to you and yours. I truly believe everything happens for a reason. I tried so hard to get to that fight, that is all I ask for for Christmas. You are still a Champ and an amazing athlete!! I am looking forward to your next fight and hopefully I will be there with my “TEAM HUGHES” t- shirt on.
enjoy your time off with your family!!
Love and God bless
DeenaB
from PA
January 4th, 2008 at 10:12 pm
Matt,
Happy New Year!!! Sorry the fight didn’t go your way. you are still a champ in my book.
January 4th, 2008 at 11:43 pm
Matt,
Being a Canadian, I am big GSP fan. But I just wanted to give you your props for being a classy guy win or lose. Being gracious in defeat is the best quality any great athlete can have.
Look forward to your next fight.
God bless.
January 4th, 2008 at 11:52 pm
[...] to view the entire blog entry by Matt Hughes on his website. Watch the latest videos on [...]
January 5th, 2008 at 1:47 am
Hey Matt i just wanted to say congradulations on an amazing career,and thanks for the exciting moments.You have influnced my life and i am curre ntly training to become an mma fighter.I wanted to ask you if you thought it to be possible for a 36 year old beginner to be able to compete at a professional level,with the proper training ?I just need to get the advise from someone who has been to the top.Thank you.
January 5th, 2008 at 3:40 am
God love you Matt…you have so much heart and in my eyes your the champion.My son is one years old I hope he grows up to be such an amazing mixed martial artit like yourself,God Bless Lornalee
Lornalee123@yahoo.com
January 5th, 2008 at 3:42 am
I know you can beat Serra.
January 5th, 2008 at 1:37 pm
Hi Matt,
Tough loss to Georges… but as always, you handled it with a ton of class and showed that you are truly a champion in the eyes of many. As a fan, I’d love to see you in the Octagon again. Could you please explain what you meant by Christmas being a time to remember Jesus’ death and not his birth a little bit more? Thanks. Wishing you and your family, God’s continued blessings in the new year.
Best,
Danny
January 5th, 2008 at 6:41 pm
Hi Matt,
I’m a French Canadian from Montreal, and of course a fan of GSP, and I wanted to thank you for your good reaction before and after the fight, like a real champion. No matter what GSP does in his carreer, or any other fighter, never will there be a greater champion than Matt Hughes. I’m, above everything, a fan of MMA, and I surely (and hopefuly) want to see you back in the octagon. The fights are as good as the fighters who fight in them, and without Matt Hughes, the show is certainly not as good as it can be!!
So please train hard, and give us some other good fights, especially against Matt Serra. I’ve watched the last season of The Ultimate fighter and it’s like there is no conclusion to the show. It’s unfinished business! So please offer us that gift!
Thank you and sorry for my english.
January 6th, 2008 at 3:35 am
Matt,
I don’t know what to say except you make me proud to be from southern Illinois. I think your a great guy and a world class competitor (I always support my home state) and everyone in it. I would also like to thank you for supporting the troops, it really means alot, I’m in the Navy working at Marine Corps Security Force Company in Bangor, Washington. Although your fight against GSP didn’t go as expected I know in my heart there is no doubt you’ll be back on top, your going to beat Serra, then put all your heart towards beating GSP and 08 will be a great year, maybe if you get some free time you could wipe the floor with Trigg again (lol). I guess in closing I hope you keep your head up and keep moving forward, since your taking a break I get a break to read your book, I’m very excited about it. Thank you for being a great role model, MA3 Peoples, William USN
January 6th, 2008 at 3:24 pm
Hi Matt,
Glad to hear that your arm will be o.k. I’m a fan of both you and GSP…It’s a shame that the fight turned out bad for you, but you are nothing but a true professional in the way that you handled defeat. I’m glad that you showed what a class act you are.
You get a lot of flack because the media portrays you in a negative way in my opinion. Frankly, the only time I wasn’t too happy is when you were talking smack to GSP during the show in which he was on, but looking back I realize that it was all part of the game. I can’t wait to see GSP smash in Serra’s head so that you can ram your fist down his throat!!! Good luck in 08 (Not that you’ll need it!!!)
Also, I was wondering how who you’d fight after Serra. I don’t think moving up in weight makes any sense…Not that you wouldn’t be successful, but I’d like to see you teach some of these other young up and comers a lesson or two!!! I enjoy watching you fight and hope that you’re around for quite a while because you are a credit to the sport and your attitude and the way you carry yourself helps the sport grow.
Jay
January 6th, 2008 at 11:15 pm
HI MATT I JUST WANT TO TELL U THAT U ARE RIGTH ABOUT JESUS .MANNY RESPECS FOUR THAT AND I JUST WANT U TO LET U KNOW THAT EVEN IF U LOST GORGE U ARE STILL THE BEST SO KIP YOUR HEAD UP AND NO MATTER WATH OTHER PEOPLE SAY U ARE NUMBER 1 HOPE U GET BETTER .HAPPY NEW YEAR AND HOPE TO SEE U SOON ONE THE OCTOGON..LOVE AND TAKE CARE CINDY
January 7th, 2008 at 12:30 am
hi matt hughes! goodness, you have so many posts to read, i’m not sure if you’ll ever really read my post to you, but here it goes anyway… my husband and i are very big fans of yours, we have been ufc fans for a long time now, and wierd how it is we get attached to our favorite fighters. sounds wierd doesn’t it? we dont even know you! but we look forward to seeing you on the ticket. we have to thank you for being true to Jesus too. You set a very good example of a Christ follower and there is alot to be said about that. We can’t wait to get your book, we plan to go buy it this week. We are hoping that you will add some more home towns to your book tour. Please consider visiting the detroit michigan area! my husband has started jui jitsu and muay thai kick boxing lessons over these last couple of months and won his first tournament last month. it was very exciting. Enjoy this time off from the octagon right now. I pray that God brings you peace and happiness. I think God uses you to encourage people and to be a fair and good competetor. God bless you and your family. Congratulations on the new book. Look forward to meeting you one day (maybe on a book tour to detroit michigan?) LOL! Peace, The Todds
January 7th, 2008 at 10:27 pm
Hey Matt, my name is Lisa and I have the same birthday as you, I am a year younger though. Anyway I watch UFC all the time and I love it, I was sad though when they were saying that you are taking sometime off, but after reading some stuff that was written, I can understand why. Family is very important, I have an 11 year old son, his name is Hunter, he just joined wrestling this year for the very first time. He had 2 matches and went all 3 rounds and lost by 1 point in both matches, no matter what, win or lose, it is how you played the game, with heart, and that is what I tell my son. I am proud of him no matter what. You have alot of heart, and pride. My husband and I practice alot with our son. I think it would be awesome if one day you came to Pennsylvania to our school for the practices, or even a match and show off some of your moves to the youngsters. I plan buying your book and hopefully getting to meet you when you come to Jersey, I have to ask my husbands friend to bring me because he is a native of Jersey. Well I am glad to hear that you are healing, it takes some time. Can’t wait to see you up and fighting in the future! Like I said take this time to get yourself together and to be with the family, gym, and the farm. Good luck and congratulations on your book and with all the choices you decide! Thank you, Lisa
January 12th, 2008 at 3:22 am
Hi Matt! I’m Denise and I’ve been watching you fight for years. My family watches UFC all the time. My son started wrestilng a couple of years ago in high school after watching you fight a few times. Due to back problems he wasn’t able to continue but he wanted to be a UFC fighter like you!
We were really disappointed when you lost to GSP, I almost cried, but not as disappointed as you were. I was hoping that you would take him down this time! Hopefully you will decide to continue fighting for a while longer but you need to do what’s best for you and your family!
Congrats on your new book and gym! Good luck to you and hope to see you in the ring soon!
We love you!!!