Two years ago, Chael Sonnen rose to the pinnacle of the mixed martial arts world from total obscurity in the doldrums of the middleweight division, selling out one of the biggest UFC events in history and waking up the next day in search of a career.
His loss to Anderson Silva was the second in quick succession and so utterly decisive that, so long as the Brazilian remains champion, the path back to title contention is next to impossible.
There is no clear next step for the man, as he waits and contemplates his future. He’s talked of moving up to 205 to rejuvenate his career and there are others who have suggested a move outside the sport, into the world of professional wrestling, for example. Here’s a brief assessment of his options.