This post does not refer to a new weight class needed by the UFC, but possibly a new division for the old Pride fighters.  With the relatevely low amount of success the incoming Pride fighters have had in the octagon should the UFC create a ring division?

There is no doubting that there is a large difference between mixed martial arts fought in a ring compared to those in a cage.  A perfect example of a super ring fighter not being able to cross over is Mirco Cro Cop.  In the ring Mirco can stalk his opponent and wait for him to make a mistake.  However, in the octagon he can be constantly pressed due to the smaller size and the ability to pin him against the cage.

There have been some success stories though since the buy out.  Rampage Jackson being one.  However, Rampages style is more suited to the cage atmosphere due to his ground and pound and slams.  The style of fighter that is at a true disadvantage in the cage are the kick boxers and stand up fighters.

Do you think that the UFC would be better off going to a two division system?  I personally do not.  I have been hearing for years about how much more skilled the Pride fighters were compared to the UFC fighters.  I think that is does take more skill and strategy to fight in the octagon and over time the fighters who do not completely round out their skill set will be weeded out and only the true mixed martial arts fighters will remain.

Filed under: General UFC