So I'm sitting here early in the morning on my living room couch, and I had a positive thought. What the UFC is doing with its free fight nights on Spike TV is fantastic for the future of the organization. It is providing exposure for the lesser known (oftentimes younger) fighters whom UFC President Dana White hopes will one day become pay per view draws. The last fight night's main event was Joe Lauzon vs 23 year old Jeremy Stephens. While neither fighter at 155lbs is a huge draw as of early 2009, they both have a bright future in the UFC.
My eyes usually don't widen very much when I scan over the advertisement of a fight night as I'm flipping through the channels on my television. But I now realize that these solid, but lesser named fight cards are a necessary exercise. They showcase the most eager of the UFC's talents, and give each up and comer a chance to make a name for himself. Take Cain Velasquez, for example. Many sources insist that this 6'4 240lb heavyweight is the future of the division. He fought on the other night's card, and appeared to be obsessed with putting up a stunning victory. While he WAS the dominating fighter in his bout, Velasquez was unable to close the deal in such an explosive manner. These young guys know that the quick road to victory in the UFC is through shock and awe. Houston Alexander was never as talented a fighter as Lyoto Machida in the Light Heavyweight division, but because of a few jaw-splitting knockouts he recieved the fast track to stardom. Meanwhile, Machida has won 6 straight fights and remains not the number 1 contender in the division. Most of Machida's fights have been less than entertaining. The average fan wants brutal action, so unfortunately pretty knockouts must take precedent over deservedness. Isn't that always the way?
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