Fighting for the UFC is most fighter’s dream, the equivalent of making it to the big leagues. However getting there and staying there are two very different things. The UFC has an unwritten, yet usually followed rule; three straight losses and your out, looking for fights elsewhere. There are of course exceptions to every rule and Dan Hardy will be the next exception I believe.
Dan Hardy started his UFC career on a four-fight win streak that earned him a shot at the Welter Weight championship belt against Georges St. Pierre. Dan proved his toughness in this fight but other than that it was a very lopsided loss. His next two losses came to Carlos Condit, and most recently to Anthony Johnson at UFC 128. Dan hasn't looked impressive in any of his losses but he has done one thing very right, he earned the respect of Dana White. Dana has said before, and even after the most recent loss that he likes Dan Hardy, and it's never a bad thing to be on your bosses good side! Having Dana behind you is a great thing, but it's not the most important reason that I think Dan will stay in the UFC. He is a strong draw with the fans, especially with the fans in Europe. The UFC is constantly trying to expand, and grow to new countries worldwide, having a likable fighter from the UK will certainly help them accomplish this. Helping the UFC grow in a new market definitely out weighs three losses in the octagon.
What's next for Dan Hardy? The UFC will put him on a main card in the UK in a very winnable fight in my opinion. The UFC and Dana want Dan to get back on the winning track, as it's good for business. This situation proves it's good to be on Dana's good side, and even better to have fan support in a growing market! Dan Hardy will get back on the winning track and become one of the poster boys for the UK and Europe.
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