UFC 85: the Bastard Child

In an ironic reversal of history the UFC has been attempting to colonize the U.K from the United States. UFC 85 was suppose to be a blockbuster European card with 'Shogun' Rua fighting Chuck Liddell. It was take place in the Millennium Dome or the O2 Arena (pictured above) right after an Avril Lavigne concert and right before the U.K. premiere of Prince Caspian.

Unfortunately life really is that complicated. Shogun re-injured his ACL and couldn't fight. Rashad Evans was taped to replace him. Soon after, Chuck Liddell tore his hamstring and was out. Now there was no marquee star headlining the event. Rashad was to fight James Irvin. To revamp the card the UFC went out and got their biggest U.K. star Michael Bisping and slated him to fight Chris Leben. Plus Matt Hughes fighting Thiago Alves. The card looked to be saved, though not the five michelin stars status the UFC wanted.

However more damage was to come. Chris Leben was arrested and couldn't receive a travel visa due to jail time. So Jason Day took his place. Then Rashad Evans went out and an undercard fight between Thales Leites and Nate Marquardt was promoted. The card has finally been settled but it is definitely one of the most hap-hazard, thrown together cards the UFC has had in awhile. UFC 85: the bastard child of the UFC.

Previews coming soon...