Scotty - if the sport we as well developed in NZ as Super 12 was and NZ was already regarded as a world power in Kickboxing then it would be an equivalent scenario you raise, but as yet it is not.

At this stage of the sports development is it about promoting our premiere fighters internationally and developing their individual profiles as well as cultivating a strong local support base. If we match up Ray and Jase we run the risk of have only one fighter to promote internationally as opposed to two or more.

I'd rather see 3 or 4 of our fighters all winning against international opponents as opposed to one, I believe that would be better for the develppment of the sport long term.

K-1 typically has matched our top fighters further up the track prior to the grand prix finals anyway - (eg Mark vs Ray, Adam Watt vs Ray, Ray vs Peter, Peter vs Sam, Ray vs Sam) so lets give the guys more development against international opponents, and our crowds more opportunity to see our boys up against top international fighters.

Rebel - I have had enough black eyes from you already over the years no need for any more, I give up.

Lollo yeah re K-1's stratgey you could be right on the money there, I think they are chasing markets with more earning potential - either way Jase, and in the Future the Paulas, Peter Sampsons, Daniels are still better served by fighting other international fighters to force their way into contention rather than keeping the staus quo of one maybe two fighters from Oceania flying the flag.