According to a source “close to the situation,” the UFC is reportedly making moves to Cro-Cop block Bellator, preventing the rival organization from signing Mirko Filipovic to an exclusive deal. According to John Joe O’Regan at Bloody elbow, the UFC moved in at metaphorical bar closing time, presented the Croation with a “big offer,” and prevented him from leaving with potential suitor Scott Coker.
“The source says this was ‘almost certainly’ for no other reason than to keep Filipovic away from Bellator and Spike TV and to deprive Bellator frontman Scott Coker – formerly the head of Strikeforce – ammunition with which to work,” said O’Regan.
The UFC and Mirko have connected two times in the past, first a three-fight relationship beginning in February 2007, and then a seven-fight failed romance that began in June 2009. His record with the organization is four wins and six losses. But while the sands of time have made Cro Cop somewhat less attractive as a serious partner, the worrisome prospect of a new courtesan can sometimes change things. Even if the UFC’s heart isn’t in it, a preemptive intervention is sometimes necessary to protect the memories of better times.
