(Let me guess — ‘27 Dresses‘ was on TBS again.)
We’re just moments away from the official start of Memorial Day weekend, a sacred American tradition in which people across the country drink beer at backyard barbecues in honor of the brave men and women who have given their lives defending this country. While you’re giving it up for the military, please take some time to consider those who have passed on in the UFC. And don’t forget to come back to CagePotato.com tomorrow night for our liveblog of UFC 130: Rampage vs. Hamill…
EVAN TANNER
A one-time middleweight champion of the UFC, Evan Tanner struggled with addiction and financial problems during the later part of his career. Tanner got sober in 2008, but died just a few months later during a fateful adventure in the Southern California desert. And though he didn’t always treat himself kindly, Evan left behind a legion of fans and friends who revered him for his generosity and positive attitude — much like TapouT founder Charles “Mask” Lewis, who also happened to be fond of the word ‘Believe.’
LOGAN STANTON AND NATASHA WICKS
They were adorable, energetic, and clearly too good for this world. Former Octagon Girls Logan and Natasha were summarily fired after less than a year on the job, for no good reason. Though they still pop up here and there, the UFC ring girl pit is just a little less interesting without them.
RANDY COUTURE
(The Natural contemplates his own tooth after his loss at UFC 129.)
Randy Couture’s durability and longevity is the stuff of sports legend. But it’s time to face facts — he ain’t coming back from this one. After an awe-inspiring 14-year career, the 47-year-old says he doesn’t want to be the Brett Favre of MMA. Which is a good thing, since Megan Olivi gets enough weiner-pics texted to her as it is. (You can thank me and McCorkle for that.)
CHAEL SONNEN
Well, maybe “hero” is the wrong word for this guy. But until he gets re-licensed to fight, all we have left is a fading memory of Sonnen’s tenacious wrestling, verbal bombast, and tragic submission defense.
Honorable mention:
DANA WHITE’S HAIR, BOSTON ACCENT, AND ABILITY TO GET THROUGH A 30-SECOND INTERVIEW WITHOUT SAYING “FUCK”
Never forget.
– Ben Goldstein