Rosholt fight promises to be 'full of fireworks'

SANDPOINT — In numerous interviews with Mixed Martial Arts magazines, former Sandpoint wrestler Jake Rosholt has no problem calling Saturday night’s UFC 102 fight the biggest of his life, a make or break fight for his burgeoning MMA career.

Rosholt (5-1), a four-time All-American wrestler at Oklahoma State, will face Chris “The Crippler” Leben (18-8) on Saturday night at the Rose Garden in Portland, beginning at 7 p.m. live on Pay Per View. The salty Leben has a reputation as a dangerous puncher, and he’ll be extra hungry fighting in front of his hometown fans after recently completing a nine-month suspension for using steroids.

“I’m excited about this fight, it’s going to be full of fireworks,” Rosholt told Fight magazine recently. “I am excited about the opportunity to fight for the UFC. It means a lot to me to have made it to the highest platform in MMA this early in my career.”

Rosholt is also very hungry, and has been training for the fight in Las Vegas, along with former Sandpoint wrestler Chris Feist. After a quick submission loss in his last fight against Dan Miller, also his UFC debut, Rosholt knows it’s crucial to put up a strong showing on Saturday night to continue his ascension up the MMA ranks.

Most of Leben’s fights end in a knockout, including many of his losses. Rosholt will no doubt be looking to take the fight to the mat, where his skill set is best utilized in a ground and pound approach.

Rosholt’s fight is one of the marquee under-card fights, with MMA legend Randy Couture and Antonio Nogueira fighting in the main event.