Boxing vs. mixed martial arts is an interesting topic to breakdown. Arguing your point of view with an opposing point of view is futile. Everyone has a preconceived idea by now. It is identical to discussing politics only less violent.

The real problem with boxing versus MMA as a topic is it is too generic. Could we volley the topic back and forth better than most? Absolutely. But let's get real.

Tulsa fight fans get to decide for themselves on Friday, Feb. 25. We can compare and contrast using two scheduled events which happen to take place the same night.

ESPN2 brings Friday Night Fights back to Tulsa at the Osage Event Center, 995 W. 36th North in Tulsa.

Meanwhile, across town Dale Cook's Xtreme Fight Night 2 takes place in The Joint at Hard Rock Casino, 777 W. Cherokee St. in Catoosa.

Both fight cards are impressive. Combat sport enthusiasts have a difficult decision. Or do they?

Your choice hinges on your preference, so allow me to provide the requisite information so you can make an educated decision.

Old School

The main event for ESPN's FNF features two top-ranked Mexicans going toe-to-toe. The featherweight action pits Juan Carlos "Mini" Burgos (25-1) against Cristobal "Lacandon" Cruz (39-12-2).

The boxing match is scheduled for 10 rounds. The two pugilists have combined to deliver 50 knockouts between them.

The co-main event is a super middleweight contest. In the past, ESPN + super middleweight meant Allan Green. Not this time.

Instead we have Russian Maxim Vlasov (19-0) putting his undefeated record on the line against South African Issac Chilembe (15-1-1). This will be Chilembe's first sanctioned bout outside of his home country. Welcome to Tulsa!

Several additional boxing matches will take place in friendly confines of the Osage Event Center. There are no bad seats in the house.

ESPN2 will televise the fight card live. Not sure if this card is for you? Check out ESPN2 on any Friday night. You will see similar action in various cities across the country.

New School

Xtreme Fight Night 2 is a mixed card. The main event features a boxing match between two highly touted American Indian warriors.

Thomas "Thunderkick" Longacre steps up in weight to battle undefeated George "Comanche Boy" Tahdooahnippah in a boxing match.

Longacre made his name in kickboxing and is an undefeated mixed martial arts fighter. He has only one boxing match, but did not hesitate to challenge Tahdooahnippah on the big stage.

His opponent, "Comanche Boy," is an undefeated, ranked boxer. He has been accused of record building, which is a common practice in boxing. However, he was quick to accept the "Thunderkick" test in what promises to be an explosive match in a raucous venue.

Highlighting the mixed martial arts portion of the card is the return of the "Hurricane." Gerald Harris battles James Head in a middleweight bout. All eyes will be on the former UFC contender in this one.

He was unceremoniously released from his UFC contract after compiling an impressive 3-1 record with the organization. This is his first fight since the dismissal.

Another bout with local implications is the lightweight fight between former WEC fighter Mike "Wildfire" Budnik (10-4) and Jonny "King of Late Night" Carson (10-4).

This matchup of homegrown talent has been in the making for years. Budnik now resides in Chicago training fulltime while Carson moved to California and trains with several elite UFC and Strikeforce fighters.

Randy "Boom Boom" Blake takes on Myron "The Future" Dennis in a kickboxing bout. Many more fights are scheduled in what promises to be a memorable night of action.

Winner

The Tulsa fight scene continues to progress. Promoters may bill every card as the best and afterward claim record sales and sellouts. But the truth is the atmosphere in these venues rivals any sports related environment in our city.

A bad decision cannot be made. Both venues are knowledgeable with the fight game. Each location provides a unique customer experience. Rest assured each card will deliver thrilling moments.

The decision is yours. If you are leaning toward the boxing exclusive card at the Osage, call 918-699-7667 for ticket information.

If the mixed XFN2 event at the Joint is more appealing, call 918-384-ROCK.

If neither event appeals to you, I am at a loss for words.

North Tulsa Baseball

Tulsa County Parks Department teamed up with Christopher Elmore in an attempt to revive the baseball scene in North Tulsa. They are targeting youth ages 4-14, both boys and girls.

Elmore advised umpires, coaches and volunteers are still needed to get the program kicked into high gear. The weather slowed the sign-up process but he is confident business will pick up once grass can be seen again.

Baseball should be a sport for everyone and that is the goal here. The league fee is $50, which includes player's uniforms. No kid will be refused. Any player that needs it can qualify for a half or full scholarship.

If you or someone you know are interested, contact Christopher at 918-695-4918 or email him at consult@smileyelmore.com.

Do it for the kids.