UFC 121: Win or Lose, Jake Shields Is a Victory for the UFC

Since Jake Shields' unanimous decision win over Dan Henderson in his last Strikeforce appearance, there has been little for the UFC to complain about when it comes to the Northern California resident.

Going into the biggest fight of his life against Henderson, Shields made it very clear that this would be his last fight for Strikeforce; he was bound for the UFC. A heavy underdog, Shields was facing a legendary fighter that had just recently been released by the UFC for demanding more money than they were willing to give.

If Shields could pull off a win, it would leave Strikeforce with a pricey loser and the UFC would have a much more attractive opportunity than they had anticipated.

Shields did pull off the win and just a week later was seen at a WEC event sitting next to UFC president Dana White. What's worse? When the camera focused on the two, Dana had his arm around Shields and mouthed the words "He's mine."

Though Shields was expected to have to sit through a contract renegotiation period, Strikeforce wanted no part in jacking up the price tag of Shields and released him early, with no official offer to remain in the promotion. It was a mistake by Shields for making his move so blatant, but one that the UFC took advantage of.

Now, Shields is set to make his octagon debut this Saturday at UFC 121 against talented welterweight contender Martin Kampmann. White has stated that with a win, Shields will be fighting for the title in his next appearance. Confusingly, the same offer has not been extended to Kampmann, but that is for another article.

Truthfully, the UFC will look good no matter what the result of this weekend's fight may be. If Shields wins, they have a very credible challenger for the welterweight throne—something they have been running short of. If Shields loses, it is another opportunity for the UFC to point out that just because a guy can win in other promotions, does not mean he can win in the UFC—they love that stuff.

Basically, the UFC took away Strikeforce's champion, and if he comes up short in a tough outing against Kampmann, they will attempt to take away Strikeforce's credibility—nothing new for the sport's premier promotion.

Really, nothing has gone against the UFC in their acquisition of Jake Shields. Shields publicly disrespected his former employer by stating publicly he has no interest in choosing them over the UFC. The UFC got a discount price for Shields because of his blatant disrespect towards Strikeforce. And now they will look good whether Shields wins or loses at UFC 121.

These Zuffa guys got a lot going for them.