From rags to riches.

Seems like everyone these days wants to get on the back of the UFC and ride the MMA organization all the way to the promise land.

Even the total sports network is getting in on the action lately. Yep, none other than ESPN.

That wasn't the case back in 2001, when the fledgling company was waging an uphill public relations battle and just trying to stay afloat.

Here's a snip from the article:

The UFC almost folded in 2003. But its fortunes began to change with a reality show on Spike TV called ‘Ultimate Fighter' that has given UFC its biggest stage, averaging 2.2 million viewers in its third season.

Indeed, the UFC is attracting huge audiences. With each sold out arena and whopping pay-per-view figures, it's only a matter of time before it eclipses professional boxing and becomes an official sport.

And it is definitely only a matter of time before ESPN will be writing more than just scant articles about the UFC.

Who knows, maybe we'll soon see an "Outside the Lines" show dedicated to the UFC and MMA. That responsibility, most likely, falls on the capable shoulders of one Marc Ratner.

Can't wait.