Oh look, UFC 104 odds have arrived! Wherefore were thou, UFC? It was a whole two weeks without any Fight Nights, Fight For The Troops, Ultimate Fighter Super Battle Showdowns… I was getting worried. You know I worry about you, UFC. I almost had to get into betting on boxing…who knows how THAT would turn out. Even though I know just to always put money on Pacquiao, all the time.

Anyway, here we are with UFC 104 action, so I figure it’s worth taking a look at the main two fights on the card. Although I’m thinking we’ve still got a few more events to go before the UFC stable of fighters recharges completely – and then we’ll get back quality fighters like GSP and Brock Lesnar – the main matchup of Machida vs Rua is a quality one in itself. Lyoto Machida is one mean, mean defender, and that’ll definitely be put to the test against Shogun Rua.

Shogun’s a brutal fighter himself, but his main tactic is to wait for an opening – or to take advantage of a slower, older opponent – and he’ll have none of that in Machida. Machida’s got the talent and the skills, and most impotantly, the patience. He’ll be like a cobra, just waiting to strike. (Cheesy, I know. Sorry.)

Now, it’s not really marquee, but I also want to take a look at Joe Stevenson vs Spencer Fisher for a sec. I’ve always thought Daddy was a solid fighter, even though he’s had a few ups and downs lately. He’s strong, but he might have some problems going up against the technical prowess of Fisher. Daddy’s best bet will be to take him to the mat, but good luck with that. I’m thinking Fisher may outstrike him this time around.

Now, go forth and bet on UFC! You know it’ll be a good one.

With the UFC 103 odds coming up fast – I know, I know, 102 just ended, but it’s Dana White’s world and we’re just living in it, okay? – I’m already starting to get psyched for the title fight. Why? Because it’s Rich Franklin fighting, and I gotta say, I harbor a tiny crush on the guy. I mean, come on — he’s a former math teacher. How cool is that? Bet nobody refused to do their arithmatic homework in HIS class.

Ace’s sportsbook odds to win his bout against Vitor Belfort are looking mighty good, too. Given that his all-time record so far is 25-4, it’s hard not to see that Franklin’s got Belfort’s number here. Although Belfort’s got a pretty solid history – he’s beaten Liddell, Ortiz and Couture – he’s been away from the octagon for four years, so I’m betting he’ll be rusty when he steps back into the arena. On the other hand, Franklin’s toned up and well-conditioned — firing on all cylinders, pretty much. I know I’ve got my wager ready.

Now, if you’re gonna have snacks at your UFC viewing party, I must insist on something that pairs well with the mood and atmosphere: ass-kicking, that is. For your eating enjoyment, here is a salsa recipe I threw together for a BBQ last weekend, which pretty much nobody touched but me because it was so hot and spicy. But that’s the way salsa SHOULD be, my friends — delivering a beatdown to your tastebuds like Franklin will do to Belfort. You heard me.

Anyway, for sure, I co-opted this recipe from the most excellent “(Not Exactly) My Uncle’s Salsa” recipe at Serious Eats – credit where it’s due, etc. – so here’s my version with a few additions/variations:

1 x 28 oz. can organic tomatoes (I like Eden’s whole roma tomatoes)
2 x jalapeño peppers, chopped (seeds, membranes and all!)
1 cup cilantro leaves
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup diced onion
2 tablespoons chili powder
1 teaspoon ancho chili powder
1/2 tablespoon fresh lime juice
Salt & pepper to taste
Dash of sugar

Put all ingredients in the blender and blend it all up. Be warned though — this salsa ain’t for sissies. Tossing the jalapeños in without seeding ‘em makes it incredibly intense, much like Rich Franklin staring at you disapprovingly.

If you need a towel girl, Mr. Franklin, please give me a call. I’ll bring salsa.