Nine UFC Fighters to Watch

Everyone who follows mixed martial arts (MMA) knows that the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) is one of the two most influential organizations in the sport today (along with Pride). With the recent boom in MMA popularity, due in a large way to Spike TV’s The Ultimate Fighter Reality Television Show (TUF), champions like Matt Hughes, Rich "Ace" Franklin, Chuck “The Iceman” Liddell, and Tim “The Maine-iac” Sylvia are quickly becoming commercially recognizable names. Of course, plenty of fighters have fallen prey to these champions in the ring, but that’s not what this article is about.

It’s about those who haven’t fallen prey yet.

Which UFC fighters that have never lost to the champion are worth mentioning? Who with a good showing over the next year might find themselves standing toe to toe with a UFC champion?

Forrest Griffin (Light Heavyweight)– This beloved light heavyweight winner of TUF 1 was involved in one of the best stand up wars in MMA history against Stephan Bonnar in the TV show’s finale. In a recent controversial split decision loss to Tito Ortiz, he gained a lot of respect. He’s accumulated a 12-3 record that includes a decision victory over Jeff “The Snowman” Monson.

Strengths– He’s tough as nails and highly intelligent. A very good striker with power. In addition, he did exhibit good takedown defense against Tito Ortiz in his last fight, and he’s in great shape every time he steps into the ring. The fans love his quick wit and charm which will no doubt aid him in his quest for a shot at the belt.

Weaknesses– Not great from his guard (though he has won two matches by triangle choke in his career). Doesn’t appear to have much in the line of takedowns.