Opinion: The Cost of UFC vs. GSP

Editor’s note: The views and opinions expressed below are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of Sherdog.com, its affiliates and sponsors or its parent company, Evolve Media.* * * The Ultimate Fighting Championship vs. Georges St. Pierre saga is a code-red level of fail and pretty much one of the worst ways that the biggest mixed martial arts promotion can start under new ownership.WME-IMG had better hope that this little situation that finds them at odds with one of the greatest fighters of all time ends in their favor. Otherwise, they might unknowingly have tipped the first domino in a public backlash that could allow another promotion to sneak in the back door. The UFC-GSP situation is a culmination of various fighters under contract with the UFC actively searching for a way out. They believe they are underpaid and undervalued. From Jose Aldo to Al Iaquinta, the dissention has been growing at a time when the company is making a shift. It’s difficult enough to keep people happy with an ownership change considering that everyone is on pins and needles as they wonder what changes are to come. The last thing you want to worry about is the fighters. But that’s exactly what WME-IMG is dealing with. It’s an odd situation to watch unfold as St. Pierre sought to end his three-year hiatus from the Octagon this year. But as he publicly stated that he was ready to fight again, UFC President Dana White has done little more than undermine the French-Canadian’s desire to compete. It’s a strange way to say “we don’t really want you here,” but that’s exactly how White has played it. The suggestion that St. Pierre doesn’t have the desire to fight is one that should be taken with a grain of salt. The real reason that we haven’t seen GSP back in the cage is simple: money. With so many things changing since St. Pierre last fought, it makes sense that …

continue reading in source www.sherdog.com