Where Does Chris Leben Fit In?

Where exactly does a fighter like Chris Leben fit in the UFC 185 pound division. In my book, near the top.

Granted Leben got destroyed by current champ Anderson Silva, but who doesnt? Trust me, I know what you are going to say next. What about the back to back losses to Jason MacDonald and (gulp) Kalib Starnes?

Lets analyze those two losses for a second. First off, I believe Kalib Starnes was treated unfairly. Yes he ran, but the dude had a broken foot. A lot of guys would have quit. His strategy was to continue the fight in hopes of catching his opponent in a submission. It didnt work for him. MacDonald on the other hand has made a great showing in the UFC, losing only to former champ Rich Franklin and the only UFC fighter to beat Silva, Yushin Okami.

A closer look tells us what is even more impressive about Leben. The guy stepped into the cage 5 times in 2006. With that kind of pace, a loss or two is almost expected.

In short, Chris Leben may be one of the most exciting fighters in the UFC, regardless of whether he ever gets the chance to fight for the title again or not. Leben attacks the cage like few fighters do. Seldom does he ever take a step back. He never stops working, never stops throwing punches until the horn sounds. That is what fighting is all about. Rest assured, when I see Chris Leben on the card, I shell out the $45 to watch the fight and you should too. A fighter like him is much better suited for primetime TV than the likes of Kimbo Slice.