Frank Mir Calls Kimbo a Setback to MMA

Former UFC heavyweight champion Frank Mir, who is actually more famous for his submission of hulking Brock Lesnar, apparently doesn’t think too highly of Kimbo Slice’s impact on MMA:

Let’s face it, the public’s perception of MMA is not exactly fantastic. Every time guys like Tank Abbot or Krazy Horse (Charles Bennett) fought or even now with Kimbo Slice; every time Kimbo fights it sets the sport back. Guys like that just reinforce the idea in the public’s eye that we are all blood thirsty barbarians who just want to pummel each other and that there is no skill required. Guys like them do the sport a disservice.

Some pretty strong words, but Frank Mir is not a dumb guy. I’m sure he realizes that Kimbo’s marketing isn’t his own doing and that he’s EliteXC’s and Gary Shaw’s investment. Still, you don’t see Kimbo arguing with them over the savage animal image they portray him as, do you?

Then again you can’t help but wonder if Kimbo Slice actually makes MMA look tame when he gets in a cage with gloves on and a referee; it’s nowhere near bareknuckle brawling in a Miami backyard!