Props: MMA Weekly

Quoteworthy:

"To be honest with you, I signed the Bellator contract and just waiting to get permission from MTV. Everyone wants me to do something, but they’re just concerned with my past, if I’m going to be hard to work with. It’s a great opportunity for Bellator, I would love to fight in that competition, it’s going to be great exposure, I just think Bellator’s going to blow up on the scene ... This is it. This is my opportunity to go out there and end my career as a champion, and I would love the opportunity to fight in that 205lb tournament."

Former UFC Heavyweight Champion Ricco Rodriguez wants another shot at MMA stardom after floundering on the local and International circuit since his 2003 departure from the Octagon. "Suave" captured the Abu Dhabi Combat Club (ADCC) title in 1998 (open weight) and defeated Randy Couture at UFC 39 to win the promotion's vacant heavyweight strap in 2002, but has also had his share of his public battles with obesity and drug abuse, even appearing on the "Celebrity Rehab" reality show with Dr. Drew. After missing weight at November's IFC "Genesis" event, Rodriguez was adamant that it was an isolated incident. Can he make one last run at greatness with a fresh start as a Bellator light heavyweight?