Rich Franklin : Five Possible Fights and Outcomes

Rich Franklin, despite his last loss to Vitor Belfort, is still a top ten light-heavyweight. He could very well step up and win two or three fights and be talked about having a title shot.

The division he is in is one of the most crowded, and to be ranked ten is still an honor. There are so many options for Rich to go for, and I am going to narrow it down to five. Some fights in this division will prove to be very difficult, and some will prove to be very easy. Although, everyone of them will be rewarding.

5. Keith Jardine - Last fight was a knockout loss to Ryan Bader

Keith, if he does not get cut, could put up a fight against Rich if he got the chance. Rich has not showed his knockout power recently, so Keith might not get caught in this fight. He could use his awkward style and it might lead him to a decision victory.

Although, I don't see it happeneing, Rich would most likely get back to his knock outs. Rich by either a tko or lengthy decision.

4. Krzysztof Soszynski - Last fight was a win over Stephan Bonnar

Krzysztof had a good fight agianst Stephan, but that was Stephan Bonnar. Rich Franklin is in a different league than Stephan Bonnar. Krzysztof, before Stephen, took a beating at the hands of Brandon Vera.

In the long run, Rich would pull it off. Rich's bodykicks are insane, remember Matt Hamill, and Krzysztof has had problem with bodykicks in the past. Rich by a easy decision or possible late finish.

3. Thiago Silva - Last fight was a close decision loss to Rashad Evans

The toughest fight on the list for Rich at the time. Rich has a ideal chin, that has been tested and has failed several times. Thaigo could very well catch Rich and put him out of the game of mma.

Very risky fight for Rich, but if he could pull the fight off could be one of his biggest wins. A win over Thiago could take rich to the top five, because he seems to have a problem against brazilian strikers. Tought fight to pick, but if Rich fights smart and goes for takedowns he will win a decision.

2. Ryan Bader - Las fight was a knockout win over Keith Jardine

Ryan, being so inexperienced, would have problems with Rich's technical striking ability. Rich would throw body kicks, punches, and everything else. Ryan would have a problem  with this. People who claim Bader would just take him down and dominate him from there, I would like for them to show me where that has happened once.

Rich has problems with people who can out punch or strike him. I don't believe Bader can, and even though Ryan is ranked higher than Rich. If Rich fought and won, it would not prove much for him in the long run. Rich would pull off a closed decision, or maybe even some crazy tko. Who knows?

1. Randy Couture - Last fight was a submission win over Mark Coleman

The most obvious fight for most fans. I am personally a huge fan of this fight. This fight could prove alot for both fighters, and win could lead them both into the top of the division.

Randy's last fight was not impressive to me. He beat up on a old Mark Coleman, bar that he did beat him about as bad as physically possible. Randy would not control Rich on the feet like that nor in the clinch. People tend to forget Rich was at one time known for his strength, and he will prove it in a fight against Randy.

Very tough fight, and a very good fight. I can see Rich winning a decision, and quite possible a late second early third round stoppage from a body kick.