New Questions for Rogers, Mousasi & More

Is the heavyweight division outgrowing itself?

A burly, barrel-chested Emelianenko still looked comparatively small next to Brett Rogers, who has the physique of a lineman; Antonio Silva, Tim Sylvia, Brock Lesnar, Shane Carwin, and at least a half-dozen other heavyweights flirt with the division’s 265 lb. ceiling. While heavyweights are traditionally expected to fight in an open-class environment, big men are acquiring skills comparable to the opponents they dwarf. If Brock Lesnar steps into a cage to defeat Emelianenko one day, did he do it because of a skillset -- or because he’s the size of a Kenmore side-by-side?

Is Gegard Mousasi in for a dour 2010?

Mousasi looked slow to start against Sokodjou Saturday, but recent performances -- including a heavyweight contest -- have shown him to be a viable next-generation fighter. Unfortunately for his development, Strikeforce’s 205 lb. division is their weakest: getting rounds in isn’t quite the same as getting pushed.

Is CBS in this for the long haul?

Television’s biggest asset -- consistency -- is also its biggest handicap. While programs like “Seinfeld” can take months or years for viewers to warm to them, executives rarely operate in a patient mood: if you’re not delivering, you’re not airing. Emelianenko’s performance will get buzzed about, but it’ll take both Strikeforce and their performers several shows to work up a head of steam.

Is Brett Rogers going to get more dangerous?

A knockout loss tends to change how fighters conserve their attacks: get hit and next time you might flinch. But Rogers has the benefit of knowing he lost to the best, an asset that could actually boot his confidence the next time the bell rings. His follow-up might be more interesting than Emelianenko’s.