Q&A: Doug DeLuca: “It’s one big beautiful dance…”
By Robert Przybylo
BPrzybylo@Oklahoman.com
The countdown is still on as we get closer and closer to another EliteXC event on CBS. So just how in the world did a little upstart company like EliteXC become a major player in MMA? Well, a lot of credit must go to Doug DeLuca, the CEO of EliteXC. Like UFC president Dana White, DeLuca has a vision. Now why can’t boxing people think like this? Anyway, The Boneman was able to snag a nice conference call with DeLuca as he imparted some of his wisdom.
Two months removed from the first show, what’s your thoughts on how it all went down?
DD: We thought it was a real succesful outing. I think the key thing is we gained a lot of new fans. Now it’s all about keeping the momentum.
With having the network deal, it gives you a leg up on everybody. What’s one hidden advantage that people don’t really think about?
DD: We see it like this. The NFL taught people how to watch football. What to look for, what’s important, etc. We feel that with Gus Johnson and Frank Shamrock and our production values, we can do the same thing.
It’s not just barbaric. It’s calculated and disciplined. It’s like watching one big beautiful dance.
What are some things you are looking to improve on heading into this broadcast?
DD: We received a lot of feedback. Most of it was fairly positive. One thing people did say was there was too much time between fights. You have to leave some time for advertisers, but we want to make this a much tighter show.
Are you worried about the show running long?
DD: That’s always a concern, and it’s something, like I said, we’re addressing. That brings up a funny story with Adam Carolla. People were saying with the first show that if you planned your TiVo based on that, you missed the last fight. Carolla said you have to know as a sports fan that everything is going to run long. You need to record at least the next show, maybe even the second show. The goal is for a tighter show.
Is there a danger about making EliteXC a regional brand? A lot of the shows seem to cater around California.
DD: We want to grow the brand, no question. But there’s also a sense of loyalty. I mean you want to reward those fans for helping make the product great. Stockton (Calif.) is a great crowd. But definitely, we’re looking to grow.
What’s the latest with Kimbo Slice?
DD: He’s training really hard. He takes a lot of unjustified criticism. He’s very focused and dedicated. Just because he made his name on the streets doesn’t mean he’s not a legitimate fighter. We’re hoping to set something up in the fall.
What’s holding MMA back?
DD: There are a lot of little things, but one thing for sure is the lack of a unified system. That gets confusing for fans to try to follow. There are different rules for every brand, and that’s not easy to understand. We’re getting closer to that happening, but it’s not an easy process.
What’s the next big thing that needs to be accomplished?
DD: I don’t think you have to think like that. Not everything needs to be a major step. It’s all about progress and keep on building on things. If it’s baby steps, that’s fine. We’re a relatively young sport. There are a lot of things we can to build and grow. We’re getting established, we’re getting respect. We’re on our way.
The Boneman would like to thank Mr. DeLuca for taking the time to address everyone’s questions. Reminder, EliteXC on Showtime at 7 p.m. and switching over to CBS at 8 p.m. Live blogging right here on the Bout Blog as well.
Next: Predictions for EliteXC and yes, finally, a little Miguel Cotto-Antonio Margarito coverage.
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