WCL TALK

cfriedel · Joined: 25 Jan 2007 Posts: 5

Just got finished watching the Versus broadcast of the Dallas v Oklahoma match. I have to say I was impressed. The format keeps you interested and the action is really good. The techniques are also pretty clean and varied. The fighters seem pretty skilled (although they skipped a few matches so I didn't get to see everyone). Was really impressed by Shannon the Cannon, Longacre, and the Kamikaze. For a starting league, I really think this show has some potential.

With that being said, there is some room for improvement. A logo in the center of the ring would be nice. Some insight into the fighters would make the fans get into the teams and fighters more. Also think a little more flash during the introductions would add some flair. As far as the fighting and the action go though, the show is definitely spot on. Good show.

On a side note, when are they gonna let Richard Norton take off the suit and get in the ring =)

Cliff

AlkiBeachJim · Posted: Thu Jan 25, 2007 11:45 pm Post subject:

WCL was VERY impressive! The rules kept the action lively - a LOT more "TV friendly" than K1 or MMA - I'm hooked!!! It was also GREAT to see Karate fighters who also have legitimate boxing skill - reminds me of the heady days of Bob "Thunderfoot" Thurman & Chuck Himself in the PKA! AWESOME STUFF!!
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LiquidPanther · Joined: 09 Feb 2007 Posts: 1

Watched my first week of WCL and I too am impressed. It's good to see the different techniques of the various fighters.

It's still evolving so all I'll say is good luck.
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cfriedel · Joined: 25 Jan 2007 Posts: 5

Well, now 3 weeks in, I have to say I think the TV show is improving. They have Richard Norton doing play by play and Don the Dragon doing the interviews which I think are good moves. They both know the techniques and the strategy behind the fights. This makes it enjoyable to watch.

I also have to say that they are starting to tell you more about the fighters and their background. This helps a lot in the respect of tying viewers to the fighters. Also, the quality of the fighters in the LA/Houston match was quite good. A couple of MA/MMA champions from what the announcers said. Techniques were crisp, there wasn't too much hugging, and the fights flowed well. The one referee (for the first 7 matches) was a little obtrusive, but it wasn't enough to take away from the fights. Also, we got to see a few knockouts (I think more than the first 2 weeks), so you get the feeling these guys are really going all out (a lot of martial arts fights look like the guys are holding back).

I still think that they should get more logo placement around the ring and in the center, but with these being pre-taped, we may not see that until next year. Also, I still have to rant a little about the entrances. I realize there is a legitimacy you want to keep so you can't do too much flashy, but a little something would be nice to wow the crowd. Just my thoughts.

All in all, a good quality show. I really hope Versus keeps this one as I think it has a lot to offer. It would really be nice to see some of the events live (like next year's championship maybe), even if it were PPV (at a reasonable price like $10-15). Also, would be cool to have Chuck announce matches now and then, even if just for the championships.

Well, I have raved and ranted enough. Keep watching WCL!

Cliff

AlkiBeachJim · Posted: Fri Feb 09, 2007 11:38 pm Post subject: The Show's Improving

I agree - the show is getting a lot more "professional" in its style etc. Don "The Dragon" does a great job as does the other fella... The fights are AWESOME - great idea just doing the one round thing - Chuck's a genius! They should do more background on the fighters though... I know all the top boxers I follow - their stories, fight histories etc. And the MMA guys get a lotta press... Even people who don't like MMA or UFC knew about the whole Shamrock Ortiz rivalry... But, a lotta these great WCL fighters are unknown outta the ISKA/kickboxing world... More background would help getting a bigger fan base... By the way - the dude "Wonderboy" was really impressive... Anybody know anything about his style, background, record etc.?
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cfriedel · Joined: 25 Jan 2007 Posts: 5

Well, with one season pretty much in the bag, I have to say that this product gets better by the week. Looks like they are doing a much better job with the promotion of the fighters, they have the logo in the center of the ring, and even denny's and a few other sponsors (although as I speak they look like they were removed for some reason). For a first year promotion, this is really something. Chuck and the crew have done agreat job.

I am really hoping that Versus will continue coverage of the WCL in the next season. They really have a good product on their hands and could definitely profit from its continued showing. I think the WCL could definitely show the championships via PPV next year in the $10-20 range and get a good crowd. I would definitely watch it.

On the down note, why did they get rid of Richard Norton and Don "The Dragon" for the commentary? Were the episodes out of order or something? Really think those guys did a better job than some of the others in the play by play. You also get the name recognition, but I am sure money may play in that decision.

As far as the fighters, the rules, and the refs, for the most part I would say leave them as is. Leg kicks aregreat for full offensive combinations. Keeps people off guard. There are a few who haven't got the rules down,but for the most part the competitors know what is going on. I think as they go into the second season and it becomes more popular you will see more competitive fighters, especially in the heavyweight weight class. As for the females, they are in my opinion the best fights of the night in both technical aspects and in intensity. Showcase them =). On the referees, calm down Peoples a little. He seems to be a little too involved in the process. Referees should be there, but not known. the fact that I know his name is a signal that I have seen too much of him.

With that all said, excellent season all! You guys are doing a great job and people are really noticing. Keep it up!

katagatame · Posted: Thu Apr 12, 2007 1:11 am Post subject: The WCL....A good Idea

I have just found out about the WCL and I have to say, I am impressed. It's a pity they don't show the WCL herein the Philippines yet.

I have to be honest, I am a bit of a martial arts purist and I was a bit...unnerved by the WCL as it was really mainstream. Some friends of mine, people who have fought and trained in Thailand (Lumpinee Stadium) or have fought in undrground fights or simply fought on the streets think the WCL is a joke. Well, I don't. One has to keep an open mind nowadays.

It's a really good idea and from the looks of things, the WCL might just give the UFC a run for its money. Dana White, the president of the UFC, should think of better ways to market a sport (MMA) that is understood by people within the sport.

I mean, to me, MMA is exciting. You have elements of striking, grappling, wrestling, etc. But to the untrained eye, it's just two guys rolling around the floor trying to pound each other. People who do not train in the Martial Arts will not understand techniques involved and it may just look like a brawl. Truthfully, I get bored sometimes when two guys are on the ground in a deadlock. What the WCL has done is to have two fighters go at it at a high octane pace and it involves nothing but striking. I mean, an 8 year old knows what a punch and a kick look like what more a sports fan? I had fun watching the previews. Chuck, it was a great idea my man.

I just hope they invite teams or fighters from other countries like Thailand, the Philippines, Korea, etc.

Just my two cents from Manila.
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