Veteran heavyweight Paul Buentello has been released from his Strikeforce contract and is negotiating a return to the UFC.
Strikeforce President Scott Coker confirmed the news today via email.
“We offered Paul a six-figure contract to fight Fedor, but he turned it down,” Coker said. “His decision is understandable considering Fedor’s level of skill but, at the same time, Paul didn’t really fit into our plans. He’s been a solid journeyman fighter and we wish him the best of luck in his future endeavors.”
That’s one fine example of a backhanded compliment, isn’t it?
But I do have a question: if you offered Buentello a six figure deal to fight Fedor, then why wouldn’t he fit into your plans? Trying to book someone against the best fighter on your roster would seem to indicate that he fits into your plans. Such a comment is surprising coming from Coker; he’s usually very measured and not at all combative with his comments regarding fighters.
Buentello’s last UFC appearance came at UFC 57 in February of 2006, where he scored a TKO victory over Gilbert Aldana. He has made several appearances for Strikeforce over the past few years, including a heavyweight championship loss to current title holder Alistair Overeem in 2007.
Buentello’s professional record stands at 24-10.
