Franklin has surgery today while Dana and Tito prepare tobox tomorrow

It hasn't been a good year for the former UFC Middleweight Champion Rich Franklin in terms of his health.

In March 2006, Franklin broke his left hand beating up David Loiseau, which required surgery and the insertion of a metal plate and screws. After a seven-month layoff to recover and rehabilitate, Franklin returned to the Octagon a few weeks ago and suffered another major injury in his loss to Anderson Silva.

Now, he's going under the knife again, according to his Web site.

Here's the statement:

For all of you who are concerned about Rich's injuries, here is what we know so far. His nose was reset in the locker room right after the fight. A few days later, after meeting with the doctor, it was decided that he would need surgery on his nose. He had his blood work done on 10/18, his surgery is scheduled for 10/19 and then he will have a post-op visit on 10/23 to make sure everything is okay. Rich and his team appreciate all the support from his fans, and we will continue to update you as we get new information.

Get well soon, Rich. We hope you make a speedy recovery and look forward to your return to the Octagon.

In other news, Dana White and Tito Ortiz are supposedly getting ready to go toe-to-toe in the boxing ring.

As part of his contract to return to the Ultimate Fighting Championship, Tito had a clause worked into the three-year deal that guaranteed him a sparring session with his boss, former best friend and amateur boxer, Dana White.

It has been widely speculated – based on public comments from Tito himself – that the three three-minute rounds have been scheduled for October 20 and will be recorded documentary-style for release at a later date. "The Huntington Beach Bad Boy" has mentioned recently that the fight will be offered on Pay Per View for $15.

Will Tito really try and "take his head off" like he has been quoted as saying? Or, is this just one big hoax?

We'll have to wait to find out.