There has been much speculation over the star-studded UFC 82 card that takes place in Columbus, OH. With fighters like Diego Sanchez, Josh Koscheck, Jon Fitch, and Andrei Arlovski participating, most of that speculation has come from which fighters would make the main card. Earlier today, MMAJunkie.com reported that Arlovski was moved to the preliminary portion of the card for his fight against Jake O’Brien.

Flexing the Negotiating Muscle

Arlovski’s contract expires on April 15th, and he has only one fight remaining. The last time he stepped into the Octagon was in September when he won a very lackluster unanimous decision over Fabricio Werdum. There have been reports about the two sides being unable to negotiate. Everything coming out of Arlovski’s camp has been particularly courteous and cordial.

It’s clear what the UFC is trying to do here. They couldn’t come to terms with Arlovski, and they are certain he’s going to walk. So, in their eyes, they’re going to do everything they can to diminish his value. What better way is there to do that than matching him up with a “boring” wrestler? Don’t get me wrong, O’Brien is good at what he does, but he doesn’t warrant a shot at Arlovski, and it isn’t the most exciting fight. Also, don’t forget that Werdum has been awarded a title shot after his victory over Gonzaga. That’s a direct slap in the face to Arlovski.

Arlovski’s Options

Everyone and their brother will come knocking down the door for Arlovski. There just aren’t that many good heavyweights available on the free agent market. This creates a potential match-up for Fedor Emelianenko in M-1. It also creates a possibility of an Antonio Silva or Kimbo Slice match-up in EliteXC. Those are potential big money fights. Let’s not forget about HDNet Fights either. I’m sure Mark Cuban would love to pick up one of the top free agent heavyweights and use it to cross-promote with M-1 Global.

But, wait; let’s think about this from a conspiracy standpoint. Stay with me here. Let’s say that Arlovski signs with M-1 and fights Emelianenko. What if he wins? The UFC immediately destroys M-1, Emelianenko, and in return they probably get a Couture/Nogueira showdown. Is it really that far fetched?

There is also the possibility that he re-signs with the UFC. Since Tim Sylvia lost his shot at the title, he is no longer in the picture for the time being. This sets up a potential Arlovski/Nogueira fight. The UFC was sort of in between a rock and a hard place with Arlovski. If Sylvia would have won the title, they really would have no use for Arlovski. I mean, who would want to see Sylvia/Arlovski IV? But now that Nogueira is the champion, there is still a chance for him to be a champion.

Closing Thoughts

The next couple of months will be really interesting in the Arlovski sweepstakes. I can guarantee you this though, even if Arlovski knocks O’Brien out brutally in the first twenty seconds, we won’t be seeing that fight. What do you guys think about the UFC’s negotiating tactics? Where do you think Arlovski will go next? What are some more potential fights for him?