Buentello done with Strikeforce, may be headed to the UFC

Paul Buentello (27-10) has been released by Strikeforce and has entered negotiations with the UFC.

Scott Coker talked to Sherdog about the situation,

"We offered Paul a six-figure contract to fight Fedor, but he turned it down," Coker said. "His decision is understandable considering Fedor's level of skill but, at the same time, Paul didn't really fit into our plans. He's been a solid journeyman fighter and we wish him the best of luck in his future endeavors."

Buentello said the UFC would honor his Affliction contract -- which has one fight left -- and that they are negotiating an extension as well.

Buentello was offered a fight with Fedor? That seems like some poor match-making but then again Strikeforce is working with limited options.

Still, why would the UFC go after a journeyman fighter?

The UFC has been on a signing spurt of late as they have swooped up former Affliction fighters, free agents and even fighters cut by Strikeforce. The irony of Zuffa's gluttonous signing streak is that they have been simultaneously trimming their roster of solid veterans like Jason MacDonald and Rich Clementi.

Most likely this is another attempt by Zuffa to suck up whatever talent is available. The question is whether this trend is a build up for a new television contract or is this Zuffa simple trying to starve the competition.

Most likely it is the latter as Dana teased a network deal earlier this month but that deal appears to be dead now.