Known for putting together bizarre matchups, the Japanese a working on another one. With a lowered number of heavyweight athletes, Dream’s organizers are close to confirming that Mirko Cro Cop’s next fight will be under submission grappling rules. His adversary will be Ralek Gracie, son of Rorion Gracie, Jiu-Jitsu black belt and MMA beginner with but one fight (won by submission).
The battle is made even more obscure by the fact the Croatian, known for his slick striking, has always avoided the ground in his 31 professional MMA appearances, even though he has trained with World champion Fabricio Werdum. The stage should be Dream 4, on June 15th, and the rules would be little different from the ones traditionally used in Abu Dhabi.
According to a report on Nokaut.com, it should have two five-minute rounds, without counting points, or in other words, if there is no submission, the bout will be declared a draw. The Croatian’s initial adversary for the event was French kickboxer Jerome LeBanner. Up until now no official pronouncement has been made as to whether the fight was simply canceled or postponed.
