In 2006, The Ultimate Fighter reality series was in its fourth installment. This season, however, showcased UFC vets instead of UFC hopefuls. The winners not only received a six-figure UFC contract, but also an immediate title shot. The season showcased notable UFC fighters such as Matt Serra, Chris Lytle, and Jorge Rivera. With rumors as of late of another “Comeback” season on the horizon, I made a list of my top 5 UFC vets I’d like to see get a second chance.
Tim “The Maine-iac” Sylvia
Usually in order for a fighter to enter the UFC, a fighter will need to rack up several pro wins and get noticed by the UFC brass to earn a multi-fight contract. For the former 2-time UFC heavyweight champion, he has resorted to a more embarrassing entrance plan. Sylvia (30-7) has been begging and pleading to UFC president Dana White for another shot in the UFC. Dana has refused to accept Sylvia’s attempt to return to the octagon, but what's a better way for Sylvia to prove himself then go through the Ultimate Fighter? Sylvia has said in his campaign to return to the UFC that he’s a bigger show than half of the current UFC heavy’s. He’s absolutely right, and to put him on The Ultimate Fighter will probably give the reality series its biggest ratings since Kimbo Slice graced the show in 2009. Having won six of his last seven outings, Sylvia is on a little tear. But at 36 years of age, the UFC better get him quick before he expires.
Caol “Uno Shoten” Uno
For many hardcore MMA fans, having Uno on the show would be an absolute treat. In his 16 year career, Uno has thrilled audiences and has brought the MMA community some of its greatest fight. Uno (26-15-5) has hit a rough patch as of late, only winning one of his last seven bouts. But then again, he's the perfect candidate for a comeback. Uno has amassed a 3-5-2 record inside the octagon, including his second fight with BJ Penn which saw the first UFC title fight go to a draw. The former Shooto Champ would be a nice, quirky personality to have on the show.
Kevin “The Monster” Randleman
The former UFC heavyweight champion may be forced to retire after losing 10 out of his last 13 fights, but fans will always pay to see "The Monster" in the ring. A former 2-time NCAA Division I national wrestling champion, Randleman always puts on a great show. When you look at Randleman (17-16), he’s a behemoth of a man, just absolutely jacked out of his mind, which always brings viewers to tune in. He probably will never return to his past glory, but this show is about ratings and Randleman will definitely rack them in.
Gilbert “The Hurricane” Yvel
After a stoic stint in Pride FC and many other fighting organizations, many believed Yvel would have success in the UFC. How wrong they were. Yvel (38-16-1 1 NC) has lost three straight fights, including an absolute stinker to Ben Rothwell. "The Dutchman" was then cut by the organization and his career was left at a standstill.Yvel then joined the newly formed Resurrection Fighting Alliance in hopes of (no pun intended) resurrecting his career. Yvel dropped to 205lbs for the first time in his career and has looked like his old self. Yvel has racked up two victories in a row including a brutal KO over UFC vet Houston Alexander.This might be the best time to put Yvel in the Ultimate Fighter house. Yvel is on a roll and with his new look at 205lbs, he could fight his way back to the octagon.
Jeremy “Gumby” Horn
When you think of ironmen of MMA, the first person that comes to mind is Jeremy Horn. Fighting professionally since 1996, Gumby has amassed a record of 89-21-5. Horn has fought in almost every fighting organization you can think of and hasn’t slowed down just yet. Having won nine of his last eleven fights at 36 years of age, this would be the best time to put Horn on the Comeback roster. Horn has been around the block a few times and knows the in and outs of the fight game. With his wealth of experience, he could also act as a coach and mentor to many of the fighters on the show. Gumby is a class act and a fan favorite; it would be a complete mistake if the UFC passed up on this opportunity.
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