Why The UFC Needs a 'Masters' Division

Bodybuilding has one. More to the point, Martial Arts tournaments have age divisions as well. The UFC is on its way to having a stable of quality, older fighters that can (and should) compete regularly - just not against 28 yr olds. No disrespect to Randy Couture, or anyone else that finds success in the octagon when most of their contemporaries are at the chiropractor or on the treadmill once a year - but a competitive division, specific to an older age group could do wonders both in selling the sport to a wider audience, and  filling MMA gyms with older guys (and ladies) who realize they still have a lot to gain (and enjoyment to have) from the incredible training it involves. Plus, think of the ad revenue to be had marketing to men (and women) who are not young anymore, but are still physically active, tough and capable and living in a way that fights old age as much as possible.

From the fans perspective, it would have the same attraction as other sports' different levels/divisions. People who like the NCAA do not avoid pro sports - and seeing a different group of seasoned, experienced fighters who deal with maturing bodies and skills  (one being a disadvantage the other a huge advantage) can make for a slightly different, yet similarly enjoyable competition.

The main reason I suggest this is that we are in a new era of sports medicine, therapy, diet and longevity. We could actually see quite a few over-35 (for example) serious fighters at any weight-class in the UFC today. This would also prolong some careers, as they (wisely) made a move into the Masters division, where someone like Royce Gracie can utilize his patience, skill and strategy without having a 30 yr old's explosiveness derail what would be the superior tactics. Maybe I just wanna watch Shamrock vs Couture, maybe I don't want to see fighters who still have fight left in them exit the octagon because they dropped a few to younger, stronger fighters.

I don't know, call this food for thought. But it wouldn't be the first time a sport created a niche for older competitors - and there's a good chance it can not only make money and attract fans as well.