In MMA, just like any other sport, the development of new stars is necessary for longevity. Since 2008, MMA has taken strides to become more mainstream, and has reaped the benefits, with stars such as Chuck Liddell, Forrest Griffin, and Randy Couture there to help carry the load. Now as these stars begin to fade, new individuals must take their places. Some have already stepped up to the challenge, but here are the names of some others I expect to breakout by the end of 2011:
Jake Ellenberger – UFC Welterweight 23-5
Ellenberger is a big-time prospect in the UFC’s welterweight division. At 26 years of age, Jake has a wealth of experience, which has become very important at the highest level of MMA. He has participated in a number of other “major” promotions, such as the IFL and Bodog Fight, and now finds himself on the cusp of becoming a UFC title contender. He has wins over Mike Pyle, John Howard, and Carlos Rocha, the last of which was very impressive, because he was forced to change his strategy mid-fight. While no upcoming fight plans have been announced, I’d love to see him face off against undefeated Dong Hyun Kim to see who emerges as the next contender.
Eddie Alvarez – Bellator Lightweight Champion 22-2
Becoming a popular figure in the sport of MMA is tough, especially if you are fighting outside of the UFC. However, Bellator Fighting Championship’s Lightweight title holder, Eddie Alvarez, is on his way to performing such a feat. With his defeat of Pat Curran this past Saturday, Alvarez looked like he was in another league. While his resume may not have the “big names” that mainstream fans know, it still has a list of tough opponents at both lightweight and welterweight. Alvarez has also expressed interest in fighting Strikeforce Lightweight Champion Gilbert Melendez, as well as a return bout against Shinya Aoki.
Justin Wilcox – Strikeforce Lightweight 11-3
Let the hype train begin. What happens all too often in sports is that when a young prospect comes along, he is pushed too far too fast, and we watch them crumble. That occurrence is even worse in MMA. With Justin Wilcox, Strikeforce has the chance to develop a strong talent at lightweight to challenge Melendez in the already ultra-thin division. With his dominating win at Strikeforce Challengers, it’s almost a must that Wilcox be given tougher opposition. That doesn’t mean he’s a fight away from a title shot, but I do believe that he could be three fights away. His growth has come along at a steady rate, and his background abilities are perfect for MMA. Let’s hope he is nurtured and developed in the right fashion to become a star for the sport.
Is it fair to call Alvarez a breakout star? We already had him ranked as a #8 LW. His most prestigious fights were back in his time with Dream against Hansen, Kawajiri and Aoki. Meanwhile who is Pat Curran?