Absence makes the heart grow fonder.

Sometimes it just makes us forget people. Such is the case with some mixed martial arts (MMA) fans and Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) middleweight fighter Alan Belcher.

"The Talent" has been missing in action since May 8, 2010, when he defeated Patrick Cote by submission (rear naked choke) at UFC 113 in Montreal. 

Belcher was slated to take on Brazilian jiu-jitsu (BJJ) specialist Demian Maia on Sept. 15, 2010, but he was forced to withdraw due to an emergency eye surgery.

Has he still got what it takes?

On Saturday night (Sept. 17) at UFC Fight Night 25: "Shields vs. Ellenberger," Belcher will take on Jason MacDonald, who is coming off his triumphant return to the Octagon with a win over Ryan Jensen on April 30 at UFC 129 in Toronto.

"The Athlete" will certainly be a good test for Belcher, who was once a highly touted contender in the UFC's 185 pound division.

Belcher has won two in a row. Let's not overdo. Belcher's last two victories came over fighters who are no longer with the organization. A win is a win, but it's not like he was setting the world ablaze before his hiatus.

That aside, Belcher has always been a favorite with the fans because of his style and the fact that his fights seldom go much further than the first or second round.

At a time when MMA fans are asking if there's anyone left for current champion Anderson Silva to fight, the division is in need of contenders.

It's hard to believe that Belcher could be in a position to give "The Spider" a run for his money. Really, it's hard to believe anyone could right now. We'll see. Belcher will likely be coming into Saturday's fight with a chip on his shoulder and something to prove.

Can he get it done? Do you like his chances, Maniacs?