All the talk about the free agent pool in MMA has recently been focused on Dan Henderson. That could soon change with the announcement by Roger Huerta’s manager that the former Sports Illustrated cover-boy is looking for a new contract.
Speaking to Sherdog.com, “El Matador” addressed the possibility of leaving the UFC:
“I’d definitely like to fight a top-caliber fighter like (Shinya) Aoki, (interim champion Gilbert) Melendez, or (champion Josh) Thomson. Obviously, I’d have to earn my stripes in that organization (Strikeforce).”
Huerta will look to rededicate himself to fighting after contemplating a career change. The California native was hoping his good looks and fame would translate into acting roles. It appears he is having no such luck.
At only 26, Huerta should have many good years in the octagon ahead of him. The 20-3-1 lightweight lost his last two fights in the UFC to Gray Menard and Kenny Florian respectively. Prior to that, Huerta had not been defeated in a MMA match since June of 2004.
If Huerta does sign on with another organization the UFC would have one year to match the contract. This stipulation, which all fighters agree to before signing on with the organization, could inhibit where Huerta eventually ends-up.
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