Well ... this is interesting.
When Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) released its list of Strikeforce acquisitions (see it here), one name was conspicuously absent. I'm referring, of course, to former UFC Heavyweight Champion Josh Barnett, who went 3-1 for the former San Jose-based promotion with three submission wins.
"The Warmaster" is widely considered one of the top 10 heavyweights in the world.
UFC President Dana White, however, didn't seem to be in much of a hurry to get a hold of the former PRIDE FC star and part-time pro wrestler, likely due to Barnett's history of drug test failures and expensive price tag. But was his talent too great to ignore?
While it's far from a confirmation of employment, it's certainly interesting to see Barnett's profile emerge on UFC.com.
The artist formerly known as "The Babyface Assassin" is 32-6 overall and holds notable wins over Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira, Semmy Schilt and Randy Couture. He was one win away from capturing the Strikeforce Heavyweight Grand Prix Championship before getting upended by Daniel Cormier last May.
What are the chances he's Octagon bound?
The self-described "mercenary" thought the idea of a UFC return was "fantastic," but he also said he refused to "serve any master" while job hunting. He may not have a choice if he hopes to stay busy on the national level. It's not like Bellator is banging down his door.
Anyone think this is a sign of things to come? Or another false positive?