The year that was 2011.

In year so full of ups and downs in MMA I could sit and reflect on the monumental moments of the year for a long time.  Jon Jones put together the greatest year in UFC history.  Jon Jones walked through former champions Shogun, Rampage, Machida.  Amazing fights were had tall around: Edgar v Maynard 2&3, Henderson v Shogun, Chandler v Alvarez.  Nick Diaz made his UFC Debut, dismantling BJ Penn with a barrage of body shots.  His little brother Nate jumped down to 155 to defeat Cowboy Cerrone in a one sided shallacking.  Brock Lesnar retires.  Christ Lytle retires.  Zuffa buys Strikeforce.  Chael Sonnen solidifies that he is the best heel in MMA.  Anderson Silva is declared the GOAT.  So much to love in MMA.  So many memories. So many fights.  So many hours sitting on the computer.  I know I missed a lot, but these moments stand out and I look forward to 2012.  I look forward to the first event of the year at UFC 142 Brazil.  Jose Aldo defending his title against a game opponent in Chad Mendes.  Rumble Johnson v Vitor Belfort.  I think this card is a little weak, but the fights dictate how this event will be remembered.  If UFC 142 inherently displays a number of malicious knockouts and submissions then it will be remembered and revered.  I hope that this first event sets the tone for the year.