A combination of a high priced contract and lack of a fan-friendly style was the cause of Shields being fired. Some may say that they saw it coming, but I thought the UFC had a bit more respect than that. Shields was actually being talked about a possible dark horse contender to fight for the title, if he can defeat Hector Lombard. Obviously he got dominated throughout the fight. That still doesn't make him liable to be fired. He had won four fights in a row, although his win over Ed Herman was overturned because of a failed drug test. He still had beaten Tyron Woodley and Demian Maia, who are both top ten welterweights. I'm aware of the UFC wanting to market fighters, who are going to finish fights and constantly be exciting. That doesn't mean the fighters that fight to their strengths, regardless of how dull it may be should be punished. Shields began to go on a nice run following his knockout loss to Jake Ellenberger in September of 2011. The fact that he was released after one loss was baffling. The best fighters in the world should always be fighting in the top company, as long as they comply with the rules. It would have been wise to ask Shields to take a pay cut, if money was the main issue. Dana White made a good point that Shields hasn't ever truly evolved, but that doesn't take away from how talented he is in controlling or out-grappling his opponent.
I cover the sport of MMA, along with being a fan of the sport since 2008. I've been covering the sport for two years now, along with interviewing several fighters. I also write on MMASucka.com. You can follow me on twitter @Allen_Strk or email at AStrk19@gmail.com
