--Many of the school teammates gathered at the local Frickers here in Middletown, to watch the season finale of The Ultimate Fighter. Slowly the sports bar was filled by practitioners of jiu-jitsu, grappling and pro/am fighters along with friends and family. By the time the main event started the crowd was feeling rowdy, loudly booing Shamrock and heartily cheering for Rich. When the fight started enthusiasm quickly turned to breath holding and explicit verbage as Shamrock caught Rich by the leg and tried to get the heel hook by twisting it in unsightly fashion. Rich who had been training for this move, quickly countered by rolling enough to keep Shamrock from securing the lock and forcing release through punches to the head. At this point the bar was ecstatic and the volume increased as Shamrock moving in for what appeared to be another takedown, second guessed himself causing a loss of balance and a landing on his back.  Attempts to get back up were stopped by Rich who quickly followed through with a barrage of punches ending the fight by TKO in the 1st Round. At this point the bar exploded in celebration with cheering, hugging, and all around chaos. A great night for Rich and a great night for us. 

 April 6, 2005- Good Luck Rich!

Rich Franklin left for Vegas yesterday for the Historic Ultimate Fighter Finale in which he will be battling the well known Ken Shamrock. What makes this event historic? For one it will be the most watch MMA event ever. Broadcasting live to millions of viewers. This could be a major turning point in the popularity of the sport. This means more competitors, more sponsorship and better pay for the fighters.

The event will air live Saturday April 9 at 9pm on Spike TV. Make sure to look for Jorge coaching in the background!

Also

Rich Franklin's personal page has launched check it out at

www.richfranklin.com