It’s official! But, no surprise for any of us hardcore MMA fans to hear that on Friday, July 16th, former Strikeforce Champion Jake Shields had signed a deal with the Ultimate Fighting Championship where he plans to compete in the organization’s welterweight division.
With a professional MMA record of 25-4-1, things are still falling into place for Jake Shields. He’s not lost a fight since November 2005. Shields’ contract with Strikeforce ended with him walking out wearing the Middleweight Championship belt after having defended his championship against Strikeforce’s newly (at that time) acquired ‘glory boy’ Dan Henderson.
Shields vs. Henderson took place on Saturday, April 17th 2010. Jake’s 5 round unanimous decision victory against Hendo proved only to be a prelude to what I feel was the actual ‘fight of the night’ – The Infamous Cesar Gracie Scrap Pack altercation.
You Remember, Yada, Yada… “Jake: Where’s my rematch, Buddy?”
Shields and five others were given three-month suspensions and fines of $5,000-$7,500 by the Tennessee Athletic Commission.
Just one week later on April 24th, 2010, Jake Shields was spotted, shown on camera sitting next to Dana White at the first WEC 48 on pay-per-view. Obviously, a very strategic move by Dana White and Zuffa, LLC. – Dana White sitting, smiling and mouthing the words “He’s mine!”. His arm around Jake Shields’ shoulders, Jake – smiling giving the ‘thumbs up’ sign.
Not long after Jake had won his bout against Hendo, he stated that it was tough for Strikeforce to provide him with exciting fights and this would be a key aspect in his decision to stay or leave. Immediately, Dana White and Zuffa, LLC. made it clear that they would make Shields a generous deal worthy of considering a jump to the UFC.
On Wednesday, June 30th, just as we thought… Strikeforce released Shields from the organization and Shields entered into talks with the UFC. In early conversations, his manager (and father), Jack Shields stated that his son was eager to fight against top middleweight UFC fighters, such as Anderson Silva. ‘Anderson Silva? Say what?!’
Now, that’s correct. Jake fought in the Strikeforce organization as a middleweight. And Shields’ walk around weight is 185-190 pounds. His natural fighting weight is 170 pounds. But, considering the elite competition in the UFC, could Shields make a successful transfer into the UFC’s Middleweight division? I don’t think we need to concern ourselves with the answer to that question.
I believe, and most others agree – Jake Shields will be most successful in the UFC’s Welterweight division. The latest word is: That’s exactly where he plans to jump in! WELTERWEIGHT.
Though not yet officially announced, Shields’ UFC debut is expected to be against welterweight top contender Martin Kampmann.
Kampmann’s last fight ended in a unanimous decision victory against Paulo Thiago. Kampmann has been patiently fighting his way up the ranks and waiting for the opportunity for a fight match up against Georges St. Pierre. Now, comes his chance…
This will be the perfect scenario for both of the top notch welterweights…
Forget what you’ve been thinking about with the Josh Koscheck v. Georges St. Pierre fight following The Ultimate Fighter 12 Finale – Team United States verses Team Canada. With something this big soooo possible, I don’t think The Ultimate Fighter Series showdown has a chance!
We’re looking at: Jake Shields vs. Martin Kampmann happening fairly soon and then the winner taking on Georges St. Pierre for the UFC Welterweight Championship!
In the end, the biggest winner will be UFC President Dana White.
I think Jake Shields will bring a lot to the table. Unfortunately, I don't see him ever beating the top guys in the welterweight division. There's just too many top wrestlers with great submission defense. I actually think he's better suited for middleweight..
I think Jake Shields will bring a lot to the table. Unfortunately, I don't see him ever beating the top guys in the welterweight division. There's just too many top wrestlers with great submission defense. I actually think he's better suited for middleweight..