With Strikeforce dwindling and Zuffa in command, it’s time for the UFC to start picking fruit from its own garden.
For years, fans dreamed about potential super fights involving the best of Strikeforce facing the best in the UFC. When Zuffa purchased the San Jose-based promotion in March 2011, it was a forgone conclusion by fans that they would finally get the fights they have been waiting to see.
Now, we are more than a year into the UFC-Strikeforce deal, and there are a plethora of world-class names still locked up in Strikeforce contracts.
Strikeforce is certainly great for the UFC to have around, but unfortunately, everyone can’t cut it at the UFC level. It doesn’t mean fans don’t enjoy watching them fight; Strikeforce gives UFC castoffs another outlet to compete at a high level and stay relevant in the MMA world.
With that said, though, there are fighters currently on the Strikeforce roster who can compete in the UFC and make a run at a world title.
Here are five Strikeforce fighters the UFC should sign right now.