Ugh. The same silly lies and misinformation, passed on years and years and years later.
First off, I've trained at Tony's gym. Second, I know people Tony's trained who have competed and won -- from Jason Godsey at Pancrase to Mike Martelle to Shoney Carter (who appears in one of Tony's early seminar tapes and is being taught a double wrist lock and a wrestling escape from the guard).
Too often, people like "Frost" feel the need to show off their vast knowledge of internet rumor -- without giving the material any kind of objective review. THAT'S what's silly.
Not everyone thinks competing in MMA is the height of achievement as a fighter. Tony has NEVER had any interest in it, in fact. But take it from someone who's trained with him: he knows his stuff, and it's very real.
If you are in to training for grappling competitions, Tony did a DVD series with a jiujitsu black belt (who has long testified to Tony's skills).
In his new book, Rough and Tumble, Erik Paulson includes a chapter on Cecchine, praising Tony's skills and material.
At any rate, the age of the internet back and forth bashing is done. YouTube allows you to take a look at the clips for yourselves and make an informed decision. There are several clips up from Snap, No Tap. It's a great series.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oU9CjBIxD8U