EliteXC: Unfinished Business - Do You Care?

When EliteXC ran their first event with CBS at the end of May, there was an air of legitimate excitement in the MMA world. The "Kimbo Slice" hype machine was running at full speed. Gina Carano was becoming a star. Many people thought that a legitimate contender to the behemoth that is the UFC was being born.

That was then. This is now. EliteXC may end up becoming a victim of its own success. Due to the strong ratings of their show in late May, CBS executives ordered up another episode immediately. Rather than waiting until the fall, when "Kimbo Slice" and Gina Carano (EliteXC's two biggest stars) would be able to fight again, CBS wanted another episode immediately, wanting to capitalize on the success of the first show.

This move may end up being a disaster. The show is headlined by Robbie Lawler vs Scott Smith, which will undoubtedly be a great fight - I'm just not sure how many casual MMA fans will tune in to watch. There seems to be zero buzz online about this event - I don't personally know of anyone who is staying in tonight to watch this card.

EliteXC is in the unenviable position of being in the shadow of both the UFC and Affliction right now. Both promotions are treating their fans to top-notch events loaded with great fights - in the end, EliteXC may end up being largely ignored. EliteXC seems to be the red-headed stepchild of the MMA world right now - UFC and Affliction are soaking up the available talent, leaving EliteXC to take to the air with fighters such as "Kimbo Slice".

Bloody Elbow is reporting that media interest in this event is almost nil. According to a recent article, they reported that there was a "handful" of media at the EliteXC press conference to promote the upcoming event. Gary and Jared Show didn't even show up.

Executives at CBS aren't going to support EliteXC for too long if they post a major dive in ratings numbers. Dana White knows this, which is why he is airing a replay of UFC 84 in the same time slot.

I can't help but think that tonight's ratings for "Unfinished Business" are going to be a colossal disappointment for EliteXC and CBS. If tonight's ratings come up low, then the promotions very existence will likely rest in the hands of the ratings for the upcoming show in October, which will feature both "Kimbo Slice" and Gina Carano. If those ratings disappoint as well, then in my opinion it's lights-out for EliteXC.

Play Poker - Receive a $600 Bonus