MMA Sun

When a fighter gets cut from the UFC, it is not uncommon to see them string together a few wins outside the promotion and earn their way back.  I believe that there are several guys who are doing just that right now.  Look at 10 fighters who are UFC veterans who are working their way back to the promotion.

1. Jake Rosholt – Jake Rosholt was once one of the most promising prospect in the world.  The world class wrestler got his chance in the UFC and looked solid, however, he lost a few fights and received the boot.  Rosholt has gone 6-1 outside the UFC and is openly campaigning for a return.  He may need another win or two before he gets the chance, but Rosholt probably deserves to be in the UFC.

2. Vinny Magalhaes – Vinny made it to the finals of the Ultimate Fighter season 8.  However,  following consecutive losses Vinny was cut from the UFC.  Since his release he has gone 7-1, including winning the M-1 light heavyweight title.  He is currently tied up in a contract dispute with M-1, but has made it clear he wants out and back into the UFC.  I would suspect he will get his wish.  However, he cannot sign with the UFC until he is clear of his M-1 contract.

3. Nate Marquardt -  Marquardt was cut from the UFC following a problem with his testosterone levels before his fight with Rick Story.  The UFC cut him and vowed that he would never be back.  Not too long ago there is no way his name would be on this list.  However, UFC president Dana White has openly softened his stance on the idea of Marquardt returning to the UFC.  Interestingly, Marquardt has been released from his BAMMA contract and is looking for a new place to go.  It is highly possible that Nate Marquardt re-signs with the UFC.

4. Patrick Cote - Cote is 3-0 since his UFC release.  There had been rumors of him returning to the UFC in Montreal, but the UFC cancelled that event.  It may be possible that one more win would get Cote an invitation back to the UFC.

5. Justin Buchholz - Buchholz went 1-4 in his UFC stint.  However, he has rebounded nicely from his release and has won 3 straight in impressive fashion.  Buchholz is slatted to fight John Gunderson on February 16, a win could inch him closer to a UFC return.

6. John Alessio – I had long thought that Alessio deserved a chance back in the UFC.  He has had a few opportunities in the big show, but he was thrown straight to the wolves as he is 0-2 with losses to Diego Sanchez and Thiago Alves.  Alessio has recently dropped to lightweight and will face Ryan Healy in March.  Alessio may be a win or two away from another opportunity in the UFC.

7. Ronys Torres – Torres came into the UFC as a promising prospect, but he went 0-2 in his stint there.  Since his release Torres has gone 9-1.  This 9 fight winning streak certainly has him knocking on the door for a UFC return.

8. Soa Palelei - The Australian heavyweight is 6-1 since his UFC release.  His only loss came at the hands of Daniel Cormier.   Two things work in Palelei advantage.  First, the heavyweight division is the weakest of all.  Second, the UFC is dedicated to the Australian market, which may make him an appealing fighter to add when they return to Sydney in March.

9. Tim Sylvia – I know its not likely, but it is possible.  Sylvia is a big enough name to warrant another chance.  The former UFC heavyweight champion has been less than impressive though.  He seems to be easily KO’d and out of shape.  An in shape and dedicated Sylvia is a different story.  Don’t be surprised if Sylvia got another chance, but in my opinion he needs a few more wins to prove he still has it.

10. Kendall Grove – Grove is one of those guys who has talent, but doesn’t seem to care.  Grove has won a few in a row since being released by the UFC and he could get a return invite with a few mroe wins, starting with Jay Silva in February.

Currently the UFC has 8 members of their Hall of Fame which include: Royce Gracie, Chuck Liddell, Ken Shamrock, Dan Severn, Mark Coleman, Randy Couture, Matt Hughes and Charles “Mask” Lewis.  Each of those people is well deserving of the honor.  They have contributed to the sport in a unique way which caused them to stand out from their peers.

The difference between the UFC Hall of Fame and the hall of fame of other sports is subjectivity.  In other sports, the writers elect the members of the hall of fame.  In UFC, someone inside the organization puts them in.  I believe that in order to legitimize the UFC Hall of Fame there needs to be some standards for induction.  While, I do not foresee this happening, I do believe that there are some notable omissions to the UFC Hall of Fame. I believe that the number one thing that the UFC needs to do to legitimize their Hall of Fame is to induct several of the notable omissions.  Here are 15 fighters I would argue for as worthy candidates for the UFC Hall of Fame:

1. Tito Ortiz - I believe that Tito Ortiz is the most deserving and most likely to be the next fighters inducted into the UFC Hall of Fame.  I was skeptical that Ortiz would ever be inducted due to his rocky relationship with UFC President, Dana White.  It now seems that the relationship is somewhat mended.  While Ortiz is a lightning rod for criticism he is a former UFC light heavyweight champion, who was immensely popular.  Ortiz is just as deserving of this honor as many who are already there.  With his retirement looming, look for him to be inducted in 2012.

2. B.J. Penn - B.J. Penn has retired from the sport, but most people do not think that he is really done.  Regardless, Penn has the resume to be in the Hall of Fame.  He is a former welterweight and lightweight champion.  He has beaten many of the sports’ greats.  Retired or not Penn is what other sports would call a first ballot hall of famer.

3. Mirko Cro Cop - Cro Cop’s run in the UFC was less than  impressive, but his time in PRIDE made him a legend.  I am assuming that UFC will eventually take into consideration the careers of PRIDE fighters.  If they do, perhaps the first fighter to merit induction into the Hall of Fame would be Mirko Cro Cop, who at one time was one of the most feared fighters in the world.

4. Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira - Nogueira’s place in the UFC Hall of fame comes because Nogueira is the only fighter to hold championship belts in both UFC and PRIDE.  Nogueira is widely regarded as one of the greatest heavyweight of all time.  His record in the octagon is impressive, but also taken into consideration has to be his impact on the sport.  Nogueira is a legend in Brazil and one of the most respected fighters in the game.

5. Vitor Belfort - Belfort has been around for a long time at a high level.  He is a UFC heavyweight tournament champion, a former light heavyweight champion and a middleweight title contender.  Belfort could stop fighting today and have a solid case for the hall of fame, but Belfort is trying to build on that legacy still.

6. Wanderlei Silva - Wanderlei Silva was the man in PRIDE.  He is a legend.  If the UFC hall of fame does not include “the Axe Murderer” it is incomplete.  Wanderlei Silva had an incredible streak in Japan.  Wanderlei may not have been dominant in the U.S., but he has had some solid wins over the likes of Keith Jardine, Michael Bisping and Cung Le.  If I was a voter on a committee, i would vote for Wanderlei hands down.

7. Anderson Silva - The only reason Anderson Silva is not number one on this list is because he is not done fighting.  I know some of the other guys are not either, but I just get the feeling his resume is still being built.  Nevertheless, Anderson Silva will probably go down in history as the greatest mixed martial artist of all time.  He has been dominant.  He hasn’t lost in the UFC.  he has smashed every UFC record imaginable.  Simply put, he is the best.  I would be all if favor of putting Anderson in the Hall of Fame right now.  No one has a better resume for the UFC Hall of Fame…no one!

8. Brock Lesnar - This may be controversial.  His record is not all that impressive.  However, I put Lesnar here for two reasons.  One, Lesnar was a former UFC heavyweight champion.  While people hate Lesnar, there is no denying his skills.  He jumped into the UFC and fought the best of the best and beat the likes of Frank Mir and Randy Couture.  Second, Lesnar changed the sport.  He is the biggest PPV draw in UFC history.  He should be in not only for success in the cage, but also for what he did for the sport.  Now that Lesnar is retired people will chew on his impact and career and I think an honest look merits a hall of fame nod.

9. Dan Henderson - I am not sure how the UFC will take into account a fighter’s career in  other Zuffa purchased promotions like PRIDE and Strikeforce, but if that holds any weight Dan Henderson is a lock.  He has fought the best of the best in 3 weight classes.  He is a two division champion in PRIDE, a light heavyweight champion in Strikeforce and has fought for both the UFC middleweight and light heavyweight titles.  Oh yea, he isn’t done.  It appears as those Henderson will get another crack at a UFC title.  If this is my ballot, I check “yes” for Henderson.

10. Pat Miletich - It gets a little bit sketchy the further we go back in history.  However, if we go back in time, former welterweight champion Pat Miletich has to come on the radar.  Miletich’s value is not just as a former UFC champion, but also as the famed trainer of Miletich Fighting Systems, which was the top camp for years.  There is some friction between him and some inside the UFC, but that aside a solid case can be built to induct Miletich into the UFC hall of fame.

11. Frank Shamrock – If Shamrock makes the UFC Hall of Fame i will have a heart attack.  His dispute with Dana White nearly assures this won’t happen, but I want to make the argument that based on performance as a fighter alone Shamrock is deserving.  He defended the UFC light heavyweight title four times, including defeating Tito Ortiz.  I think he has the credentials, but not the politics to get in.

12. Georges St. Pierre – His resume is good enough right now, but his legacy is still being writen.  It is uncertain how he will rebound from a blown ACL, but St. Pierre is the most dominant welterweight champion in UFC history.  He has beaten everybody.  Also, he is crazy popular.  St. Pierre is a lock for this honor…eventually.

13.  Forrest Griffin - UFC president Dana White has said repeatedly that Forrest Griffin vs. Stephan Bonnar at the TUF 1 Finale may have been the most significant fight in UFC history.  That alone may have earned Griffin the hall of fame nod.  However, Griffin followed up his Ultimate Fighter victory with a run that lead to him becoming UFC light heavyweight champion.  Griffin has the resume for sure and if I was a betting man, I would say this is likely a reality.

14. Rich Franklin – Franklin’s resume is not as impressive as some of the fighters above, but do not be mistaken, he has a solid resume.  He is a former UFC champion, which instantly gets him in the conversation.  However, Franklin has proven himself time and time again to be an elite fighter.  He has done very well in two weight classes and should be considered for the hall of fame.  Not only is Franklin a great fighter, but he has consistently been a great ambassador for the sport.

15. Quinton “Rampage” Jackson – Rampage etched out his legacy in both PRIDE and UFC.  He is one of a few fighters to have success in both organizations.  He is a former UFC light heavyweight champion who is still a top ranked fighter.   I would venture that rampage will find his way to the UFC Hall of Fame by the time his career is finished.

I think there are others who are well on their way to being in the UFC hall of fame like  Jon Jones and Jose Aldo.  I also think you could make arguments for fighters like Urijah Faber, and Frank Mir.  Heck, I think argument could be made for Forrest Griffin, Kenny Florian, Takanori Gomi, Lyoto Machida, Shogun Rua, Jens Pulver, Rashad Evans, and Michael Bisping and perhaps even Chael Sonnen.   Perhaps UFC could consider some “blasts from the past” like Bas Rutten or Evan Tanner.  Perhaps they could consider some other memorable PRIDE fighters such as Kazushi Sakuraba or Fedor Emelianenko.   I wouldn’t fuss over Josh Koscheck or Jon Fitch being considered.  Then again, it is the “hall of fame” and not the “hall of good”.  It seems inevitable that guys like Frankie Edgar and Dominick Cruz will build their cases as well.  All of this does not even take into account non-fighters who are well-deserving.  People like Bruce Buffer, Mike Goldberg and Joe Rogan have become a huge part of the UFC.  A UFC hall of fame also would not be complete without people like Dana White himself and Lorenzo and Frank Fertitta.

Japan has a long history of martial arts and a long history in the sport of mixed martial arts.  However, for some reason Japanese fighters have not transitioned well into the UFC.  Perhaps the most successful has been UFC middleweight Yushin Okami.  Okami had a shot at UFC gold, but lost decisively to Anderson Silva in Brazil.  So, will a native of Japan ever become UFC champion?

Currently the UFC has 9 Japanese fighters on their roster (Akiyama, Gomi, Okami, Mizugaki, Omigawa, Hioki, Fukuda, Urushitani, and Yamamoto). It appears as though Okami had his chance.  It also appears as though Akiyama, Omigawa, Gomi, Fukuda and Yamamoto have a very slim chance of ever becoming UFC champions.  While Takeya Mizugaki is undoubtly a top 10 bantamweight in the world, it is unlikely that he would be able to defeat Dominick Cruz.  It will be interesting to see if Akiyama can reinvent himself at welterweight, but I do not see him as a contender.  UFC has signed flyweight Yasuhiro Urushitani to compete in a four man flyweight tournament to crown the first UFC flyweight champion.  Urushitani enters the tournament as the least likely to win, but he is technically one fight away from a UFC title shot.

The other and most likely option is Hatsu Hioki.  Hioki is the number 2 ranked featherweight in the world.  While Hioki failed to impress in his UFC debut it is possible that with a win over Bart Palaszewski at UFC 144 he could notch a shot at Jose Aldo.  It would seem like out of all the Japanese fighters on the UFC roster that Hioki is the most likely to be a UFC champion.

However, perhaps the best options for a future Japanese fighter are outside the UFC.  The most obvious names would be Japanese lightweight Shinya Aoki or featherweight Tatsuya Kawajiri.  In my opinion, it increasingly seems unlikely that Aoki will move to the UFC in his prime.  Aoki could contend with the UFC elites, but even if he did move to the UFC, I would not pick him to beat the top 5 in the UFC lightweight division.

In my opinion, the most suited Japanese fighter to challenge for a title in the UFC is Tatsuya Kawajiri.  Kawajiri has dropped to featherweight and has the wrestling and submission skills to make him a threat to UFC’s featherweights.  I have not clue if Kawajiri would ever make the move to UFC, but if he did, he would enter as a serious contender.

There are other options, but not many.  Flyweight B.J. Kojima is a very possible addition to the UFC in the future.  Young bantamweight prospect Kyoji Horiguchi is one of the best prospects in that weight class.  There are a few other Japanese guys coming up, but the problem in that talent in Japan in on the decline and often times legit prospects fall victim to horrible matchmaking.

So, to answer the question at hand, will there ever be a Japanese UFC champion?  It isn’t looking promising right now.  Yes, Hioki and Urushitani are nearing title shots.  However, they have an uphill battle.  Many of the best Japanese fighters like Kawajiri and Aoki are content fighting in Japan, which means that they may never even get the chance to challenge their division’s best.  Time will tell and things could chance.  Hopefully we start to see new Japanese talent develop that can hang with the best in the world and one day compete and wear UFC gold.

Currently the UFC has somewhere around 20-25 Canadian fighter on their roster.  If you were to add the fighter who train in Canada at gyms like Tristar then you would see that Canada’s influence in great.  Canada continues to put out world class talent in MMA.  I believe there is still a lot of talent to find in Canada.  The UFC realizes this and has sought out the top fighters in the country and have even discussed holding a Canadian version of the Ultimate Fighter.  The UFC has committed to holding events in Canada as well.  They have found that the country is one of the best markets in the world.  Annual events in Toronto and Montreal as well as events in other cities such as Vancouver have shown the UFC’s commitment to Canada.  It only makes sense to have a host of Canadian fighters available to fight on those cards.  The next UFC event in Canada will be UFC 145 in Montreal in March.  It is possible that we will see some Canadian newcomers on the event.  UFC has already signed Canadian Chris Clements for this event, but is there any other Canadians who could get a call?

1. Josh Hill – (7-0) – Bantamweight – Hill is the current Agression MMA bantamweight champion.  I believe that Hill will eventually find his way to a major promotion.  He may need one or two more wins to get there, but there is a possibility that UFC could target him for one of their Canadian events.

2. Steve Bosse – (8-1) – Light Heavyweight – The former hockey enforcer may be the most likely on this list to get picked up by the UFC.  He has a few things going for him.  One he has an exciting style.  Second, he has an impressive resume which includes wins over UFC veterans Wes Sims, Marvin Eastman and Houston Alexander.  Third, he is a former hockey player, which gives some intrigue.  Also, the UFC could use more talent in their light heavyweight division.  I think Bosse is the right guy for the UFC 145 card in Montreal.  Montreal is where Bosse trains.

3. Misha Cirkunov – (5-1) – Light Heavyweight – The 24-year old Latvian native is not a Canadian by birth, but he does live and train there.  He trains at Tap Star with UFC fighter Sean Pierson.  Cirkunov perhaps has some of the most upside on this list.  I would be shocked if he does not make it to UFC or Bellator soon.

4. Nordine Taleb – (6-1) – Welterweight – The 30 year old fighter has to be on major promotion’s radar.  Taleb really impressed in his victory over Pete Sell in which he became the Ring of Combat WW Champion.  Taleb trains with some of the best in the world at Tristar gym.  Taleb will fight February 10th at Ring of Combat, a win there should earn him an invite to a large promotion.

5. Alex Garcia – (7-1) -Welterweight -  Garcia is another one of the Tristar welterweight that is on the rise.  Garcia may have already had his chance if he hadn’t lost to Seth Baczynski.  However, he has since rebounded.  Many people speak highly of Gracia.  If he should string together a few more wins he will be in the UFC soon.  At just 24-years old he has time.

6. John Fraser – (10-3) – Bantamweight – Fraser is a solid bantamweight who I believe could beat many UFC bantamweights.  He is currently riding a seven fight win streak, which includes an impressive victory over Travis Reddinger in his last outing.  The one obstacle for Fraser is his age.  At 34 years old his upside is minimal.

7. Kajan Johnson – (19-10-1) – Lightweight – While his record is not particularly stellar, Johnson has the chance to continue to improve under the tutelage of Firas Zahabi. Kajan has won two in a row  over Richie Whitson and Ryan Healy.  I would be shocked if UFC signed him directly right now, but he could make a case.  Johnson tried out for the Ultimate Fighter 15, no word on whether or not he made it.

8. Tyson Steele – (8-1) – Welterweight – Steele has been rumored to actually be on the verge of heading to the UFC.  Steele has a chance to convince the pwers that be that he is ready.  He will take on Ryan Ford in February.  If Steele could beat Ryan Ford, there is little doubt he would get a call.

9. Nathan Gunn – (9-2) – Welterweight – Perhaps a UFC stint is unlikely, but it is somewhat possible.  Gunn has a solid resume, however he is already 33 years old and has lost to his most notable opponents.

10. Shelden Westcott – (5-1) -Lightweight – Westcott has cut his teeth inside Canada’s MFC.  I believe a few more wins for the young lightweight could get him some more buzz.

Let me also throw out the possibility that the UFC could target Canadian veterans to fight at this event.  Perhaps someone like John Alessio or Patrick Cote would make sense.  Perhaps some of the America guys that have trained in Canda could also be worth a look.

Usually when the UFC brings a live event to a new place they try to sign fighters from that country. in April the UFC will head to Sweden for the first time. Currently, the UFC has several Swedish fighters under contract including Alexander Gustafsson, Papy Abedi, Akira Corassani and Reza Madadi. It is very possible that those fighters appear on the card, but it is also very possible that some new talent is signed as well. Sweden has a lot of talent that UFC could tap into, but so do surrounding nations. Perhaps we could see fighters from Denmark, Norway and Finland signed as well. For example, UFC just signed Norwegian prospect Simeon Thoresen and Finland native Michael Kuiper is set to debut in February. Perhaps more fighters from the area will follow.

1. Sirwan Kakai (6-1) – Sweden – Bantamweight

2. Tom Niinimaki (16-5-1) – Finland – Featherweight

3. Anton Kuivanen (16-4) – Finland – Lightweight

4. Assan Njie (11-2) – Sweden – Middleweight

5. Joni Salovaara (9-4) – Finland – Featherweight

6. Martin Svensson (9-2) – Sweden – Featherweight

7. Jack Hermansson (4-0) – Norway – Middleweight

8. Tor Troeng (14-4-1) – Sweden – Middleweight

9. Andreas Stahl (8-0) – Sweden – Welterweight

10. Niko Puhakka (24-11) – Finland – Lightweight

My guess would be that Kakai and Niinimaki are near locks to be pursued for the UFC event in Sweden. Kuivanen and Njie are also very possible.

On February 26 in Japan UFC champion Frankie Edgar will defend his lightweight title against Ben Henderson.  Ben Henderson earned the top contender spot by defeating Mark Bocek, Jim Miller and Clay Guida.  Most people felt that Henderson earned his title shot and he stood out as the most worthy of the UFC lightweights to challenge the champion.

The question at hand is, who’s next?  There have been a host of fighters who have risen to the brink of a title shot and then lost before they could cement that opportunity.  Melvin Guillard was one win away from a title shot before he lost to Joe Lauzon.  Jim Miller was one win away before he lost to Ben Henderson.  Clay Guida, Dennis Siver, Donald Cerrone, Anthony Pettis and George Sotiropolous were all close to a title shot as well.

My suggestion is that Nate Diaz is the most worthy candidate to fight for the UFC lightweight title.  I am not saying that Nate Diaz is the best UFC lightweight, but he is the best positioned.  Diaz has a solid resume.  He is the winner of the Ultimate Fighter, which from a marketing stand point helps his case.  He has several good wins in the UFC.  The fights Diaz lost at lightweight to highly ranked Gray Maynard and Clay Guida were razor thin decisions.  Plus, Diaz has looked excellent in his last two outings.

Some would argue that a two fight winning streak is not enough to warrant a title shot, but there isn’t anyone else at the top of the division who has as good of a resume as Diaz.  Some would argue that Diaz should be put in a top contenders bout.  Most people would agree that Diaz is close, but how close is he to a title shot?  The question really has to be, if not Diaz, who?  Or perhaps does Diaz get an immediate title shot or does he need to fight for the top contender spot.  Timing may dictate the answer.  If Diaz were to wait for a title shot he would be on the shelf for a while.

It is plausible that the UFC would match Diaz against the winner of the Terry Etim vs. Edson Barboza fight.  It is also possible that the Melvin Guillard vs. Jim Miller winner could fight Diaz for the top contender label.  There really aren’t many other options out there.  Perhaps the Joe Lauzon vs. Anthony Pettis winner would be well positioned.  Sean Sherk is still in the discussion.  However, none sits better than Nate Diaz.

My suggestion is give Nate Diaz the winner of Edgar vs. Henderson and at the same time set up another top contender match.  Diaz has the skills to challenge any opponent.  He is an interesting style match up for either Edgar or Henderson.  He is a well know name and an interesting personality.   Most importantly he has momentum.

Personally, I think the best option for a contender is Strikeforce champion Gilbert Melendez, but that doesn’t seem likely.  So give the shot to Nate Diaz.

Question 1 – Can Overeem hang with the UFC elite?
I do not know if a loss to Lesnar means that Overeem cannot hang with the best, but it certainly won’t help his argument. Overeem is in the same situation that Fedor Emelianenko was in a few years ago. Overeem is widely regarded as the best heavyweight outside the UFC. Now he is in the UFC and will get a chance to prove that he is the best in the world. I have no doubts about Overeem’s striking ability, but I do have some overall doubts about his game. Can Overeem shut down Brock Lesnar’s take down attempts? Can Overeem avoid gassing out? Also, it seems that Overeem’s camp has been full of distractions. A move to Holland half way through his camp, the late drug testing issues, and his sick mother. Will those things impact his performance? Overeem has proven himself against a lot of top level guys, but Lesnar may be his toughest fight to date.

Question 2 – Has Brock Lesnar fully recovered from his medical problems?
There were many people that suspected that Lesnar’s career was over after his second bout with diverticulitis and a highly invasive surgery. Some people may not realize how serious Lesnar’s medical problems were. The reality is that many athletes would not be able to return to competition following such events. Can Brock Lesnar return to form and compete against high level fighters? And what if all of the those medical problems of the past were slowing down Lesnar as a fighter? Is it possible that we see the best Brock Lesnar ever? If Lesnar were to beat Overeem it will be a great comeback story. I am just not fully convined that fighter can go through what Lesnar did and return at the same level.

Question 3 – Is the Donald Cerrone/Nate Diaz winnner the next lightweight contender?
I do not know if anyone envisioned this fight having title ramifications. However, many of the guys who were once in the mix have continued to lose. Jim Miller, George Sotiroplous, Melvin Guillard, Dennis Siver and Clay Guida all are coming off of losses. In addition, Donald Cerrone has looked quite good since moving over to the UFC. He looks like a contender. He has won 4 fights in 2011 so far. A fifth win this year could get him a title shot. Nate Diaz does not have the credential Cerrone does, but a win over Cerrone would make a strong case. Diaz looked really impressive against Takanori Gomi in his last outing. Also, few people realize that Nate Diaz lost two controversial fights to contenders Clay Guida and Gray Maynard. Diaz does have a nice resume himself.

Can Ross Pearson make a title run at 145 lbs?
I knew a host of lightweights would begin to drop down to the featherweight division. I really did not expect the drop from Ross Pearson. Pearson has looked solid, not spectacular at 155 lbs. There is some thought that Pearson could come in an be a serious challenger in the featherweight division. I think it is highly possible. He starts that quest with a very tough match up with Junior Assuncao. I think Pearson is a guy who could really do damage in this new weight class.

Can Johny Hendricks upset Jon Fitch?
Jon Fitch has made a career of grinding down his opponents. He has used his superior wrestling and grappling skills to slowly and methodically beat up fighters. Also, Jon Fitch is tough as nails. He is gritty. However, Johny Hendricks may be the guy to beat him. Hendricks has equally as good of if not better wrestling skills. He has shown some power in his strikes. Hendricks is not as experienced as Fitch, but is it possible that style wise Hendricks is a bad match up for Jon Fitch?

2011 was a crazy year in the UFC.  In fact, perhaps one of the biggest years int he promotion’s history.   We saw the integration of the WEC fighters, including the start of the bantamweight and featherweight divisions.  We saw the Zuffa acquisition of Strikeforce.  We saw several notable Strikeforce fights such as Nick Diaz, Alistair Overeem, Cung Le, and Dan Henderson transition in the UFC.  We saw the UFC ink a deal with Fox and their first show on network television.  UFC was not the only promotion making news as we learned that Bellator was purchased by Viacom and will move to Spike in 2013.  It is hard to imagine how 2012 could ever top 2011 as far as news is concerned.  However, we can be certain that every new year brings some type of big news in the sport of MMA.  2012 will be no different.  The UFC plans on hosting 34 live events on PPV, Fox, FX and FUEL TV.  Also, they plan to change the format of the Ultimate Fighter to showcase live fights on Friday nights.  In addition, Strikeforce will host 8 live events on Showtime.  At the very least, MMA fans will be kept busy between Strikeforce and UFC.  Also, Bellator will return at the start of 2012 for their sixth season of tournaments.   

While predicting the future in a unpredictable sport is a nearly impossible task, we will attempt to predict what will take place in the MMA world in 2012. 

• We will see the Ultimate Fighter go international.  This is not new news to anyone.  UFC already plans to host an edition of the Ultimate Fighter Brazil.  Casting has already begun and the Brazilian version of the reality show will air in March 2012.  However, I believe that we could also see the show spread to other countries.  Dana White has said that they will have Ultimate Fighter shows in Canada, Australia, U.K. and even the Philippines.  He has been saying that for a while and nothing has materialized yet.  However, I believe 2012 will see the addition of at least one more international Ultimate Fighter.
• Several notable UFC fighters will retire from the sport.  We may see the end of Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira, Tito Ortiz, Forrest Griffin, and a few other notable fighters. Also, we may be nearing the end of Anderson Silva’s career.
  
• UFC belts will exchange hands.  As we enter a new year the UFC belts seem somewhat secure.  However, every year belts exchange hands.  It is not bold to predict that a champion will fall, but which one(s) will it be?  My prediction is that the most likely belt to be lost is Frankie Edgar’s lightweight belt.  I think it is very possible that Ben Henderson tops Edgar. 
• UFC will sign several new fighters.  If history repeats itself they will sign several high level prospects, but they will also sign a few top level established fighters.  I predict that UFC signs Shinya Aoki, Eddie Alvarez and Hector Lombard in 2012. 
• Despite claims from Zuffa brass that Strikeforce fighters will stay put, I would expect a few Strikeforce guys to make the move over to the UFC.  This may be via some sort of roster trade or it may be due to their Strikeforce contract being fulfilled.  For example, King Mo Lawal has one fight left on his Strikeforce contract.  It is very likely that UFC would sign him after his January fight. Gilbert Melendez has three fights left on his Strikeforce contract, which he could fulfill by the end of 2012.
  
• Bellator’s ratings will improve.  2012 is a transition year for Bellator as they prepare to move to SPIKE in 2013.  They will be moving their events from Saturday to Friday nights.  The one problem is that they will be competing with the Ultimate Fighter on a weekly basis.  I don’t believe their ratings will sky rocket, but I do believe they will trend upwards.
• Strikeforce ratings will be disappointing.  I do not know what will change in Zuffa’s marketing plan of Strikeforce, but since the Zuffa take over the Strikeforce ratings have been bad.  In reality, the quality of the fight cars has improved, but it has not translated into ratings.  Strikeforce has re-signed with Showtime for two additional years, so we will see if they market the Strikeforce brand more vigorously.  My guess is that ratings won’t be very good at all,.  Part of the reason why I feel ratings will be poor is because fans as a whole don’t want Strikeforce aroud any more.  Most fans thought folding Strikeforce into UFC was the best bet. 
• Both Nick and Nate Diaz will fight for UFC belts in 2012.  It is evident that Nick Diaz will fight for the interim UFC welterweight title on Super Bowl weekend, but I also believe that Nate Diaz is in contention.  By virtue of contenders losing, Nate has a chance to earn a title shot by eating Donald Cerrone on December 30th.  It would be interesting to see a set of brothers get title shots within the same year.
• I think we will see some of the talent from Russia and eastern Europe move stateside.  Many of the best talents are locked down in promotions like M-1.  I look for some of those guys to break free from M-1 and move to U.S. based promotions.  I expect guys like Alexander Sarnavskiy and Andrey Koreshkov to go to either UFC of Bellator.  There is tons of talent in that region hat has not been used.
• They flyweight division will take off in the UFC and will be full of excitement.
  
• Zuffa will go to war against Bellator.  Previous,Zuffa had insisted that it wouldn’t go after Bellator the way they did EliteXC and some other promotions.  However, the war is already on.  Bellator is owned by Zuffa’s former partner, Viacom.  Viacom has billions of dollars to throw at Bellator.  Interestingly, it is Viacom that is hitting first.  They seem to be counter programming everything the UFC does on SPIKE.  You can rest assured that UFC will see this as preemptive strike.  Look for them to go to war in 2012.
• I also predict that Zuffa will disband a second division in Strikeforce. Zuffa made the decision to disband the Strikeforce heavyweight division in 2012 at the conclusion of their Heavyweight Grand Prix.  UFC will absorb their heavyweight talent.  If you remember, division by division the UFC absorbed the WEC.  They decided to slowly eat up WEC rather than to do so in one swoop.  I believe this is how Strikeforce will end.  I have no clue what division will be next.  My guess is it will be either the lightweight division or the light heavyweight division.
• Let me throw out a few names of fighters in the UFC that I think will emerge into legit contenders by year end:  Edinaldo Oliveira, Alexander Gustaffasson, Chris Weidman, Rory MacDonald, Edson Barboza, Ross Pearson, and Michael McDonald
  
• UFC Champions Predictions: Junior Dos Santos (Heavyweight), Jon Jones (Light Heavyweight, Anderson Silva (Middleweight), Jake Ellenberger (Interim Welterweight), Georges St. Pierre (Welterweight), Ben Henderson (Lightweight), Jose Aldo (Featherweight), Dominick Cruz (Bantamweight), Joseph Benavidez (Flyweight)
• Strikeforce Champions Predictions: Gegard Mousasi (Light Heavyweight), Tim Kennedy (Middleweight), Jordan Mein (Welterweight), Gilbert Melendez (Lightweight), Cris Cyborg (Women’s 145), Rhonda Rousey (Women’s 135). 
  

There is no other family more prominent in the sport of mixed martial arts than the Gracie family.  Many long time fans remember the success of Royce Gracie in the early days of the UFC, the success of Renzo around the world and the legend that is Rickson.  However, the Gracie clan has not been as prominent in the sport as it once was.  Renzo and Rolles Gracie both competed in the UFC in 201o and both failed to impress. So, will we see another Gracie fight in the UFC anytime soon?  If so, who will it be.  There is always a chance that we could see Royce or Renzo fight again inside the octagon, but I wouldn’t hold my breath on that one.  Here is a look at the most likely Gracie’s to fight in the UFC.

1. Gregor Gracie -He boasts a 6-1 career record and at just 24 years old has room to grow into a solid mixed martial artist.  Gregor fights at welterweight and is obviously a threat to anyone on the ground.  Gregor has recently signed with the OneFC promotion.  It is unclear what is contract status is with the Asian based promotion, but given his age, he is the most like to be the next Gracie in the UFC.

2. Roger Gracie -  Roger has had the most success out of the recent Gracie fighters.  However, Roger is coming off of a loss to King Mo Lawal in Strikeforce.  If it were not for Roger being tied up in Strikeforce, he would be the most obvious pick to be the next Gracie fighting in the UFC.  However, UFC president Dana White has said that Strikeforce fighters are staying put in Strikeforce.  At 30 years old Roger has a chance to finish up his Strikeforce contract and move to the UFC.

3. Ralek Gracie -  The 26 year old middleweight has a chance to get to the UFC one day.  The question with Ralek is his commitment to MMA.  He has not fought since he defeated Kazushi Sakuraba in May of 2010.  Ralek is just 3-0, but has a fairly impressive resume.  I am not convinced that Ralek has much desire to have a MMA career, but if he decided to become more active he would instantly be on the UFC radar.

4.  Rolles Gracie - The 30 year old heavyweight Gracie had a chance in the UFC.  He lost in his one and only UFC fight to Joey Beltran.  At the time of his entrance into the UFC, most fans felt that Rolles was a top prospect.  On the bright side, Rolles has gone 2-0 since his UFC stint and if he wins a few ore fights he could get an invite back to the promotion.

5. Igor Gracie - Igor is just 4-2, but he did fight and win on the undercard of a Strikeforce event in 2011.  It is possible that he would be on the UFC radar eventually.  He is not incredibly young, but he could be a candidate for Strikeforce or even the Ultimate Fighter.

6. Daniel Gracie – He competed in Bellator’s light heavyweight tournament and since has recently dropped to middleweight.  Daniel is not likely to make a run good enough to get him in the UFC, but you never know.  He is an average fighter who always is dangerous on the ground.

I do not know if in reality we will see another Gracie in the UFC or if another Gracie will be a dominant force on the world’s biggest MMA stage, but there is no doubt that every MMA fighter has been impacted by the Gracie clan.  The Gracie family is still active in training MMA fighters in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and most people credit them for the growth of mixed martial arts.

Since people are more well versed in jiu jitsu submissions are more rare than they used to be.  However, a few exciting submissions took place in 2012 on note.

5. Tito Ortiz’s Gulliotine on Ryan Bader at UFC 132 – July 2
Techincally it was not the most spectacular submission of the year.  However, Ortiz was a huge underdog.  His career was on the line.  Nobody thought he would win.  However, Ortiz rocked Bader with a hard punch and then sunk in a tight choke forcing him to tap.

4. Pablo Garza’s Flying Triangle on Yves Jabouin at UFC 129 – April 30
Any time there is a submission with the word “flying” in it, it was impressive.  Garza’s long limbs make such submissions possible.

3. Diego Brandao’s Armbar on Dennis Bermudez at TUF 14 Finale – December 3
Brandao was getting hamemred by Bermudez.  However, Dennis left an arm in and Diego grabbed it, rolled him and sunk in a deep and tight armbar in what was one of the best armbar submissions I have seen.

2. Chan Sung Jung’s Twister on Leonard Garcia at UFC Fight Night – March 26
This was an incredible submission.  The twister is not an easy move to pull off in MMA.  However, Jung locked in the submission right at the end of the round and caused Garcia to go to tappytown.  Eddie Bravo would be proud.

1. Frank Mir’s Kimura on Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira at UFC 140 – Deceber 10
Submitting Nogueira is a big deal.  Breaking his arm is an even bigger deal.  Mir looked to be out on his feet when he reversed his fortunes, sunk in the kimura, rolled big Nog and snapped his arm.  It still makes me cringe.

Honorable Mention: Jon Jones modified guilliotine on Lyoto Machida at UFC 140, Vinny Magalhaes gogopolata at M-1 Challenger 25,