Over at the UnderGround, UFC lightweight contender Tito Ortiz actually started a thread titled "EliteXC Makes A Name For Itself". Well, actually the thread had a ton of typos and poorly written English, so I've cleaned it up a little. In any event, Tito's first post inside the thread was a copy of Jake Rossen's article on EliteXC hitting the CBS airwaves with the message: "Finally Dana is shown for who he really is!!" (again, I cleaned up the language for readability).

Without working ourselves into a lather over what could happen, it is safe to assume EliteXC would have to be an extremely enticing alternative for Ortiz, provided they could afford him. With a lack of recognizable stars and the opportunity of a lifetime in reaching a massive network audience, Ortiz could be just the prospect to legitimize the EliteXC product at a pivotal moment for the fledgling organization. More importantly, the CBS-EliteXC arrangement offers Ortiz a second shot at career and athletic glory. He'd not only be the organization's biggest and most marketable star, he'd likely be a top contender for anyone on their roster at 205lbs. And let's also not forget about the potential rematch with Frank Shamrock should EliteXC and Strikeforice work together (and they likely would). Ortiz could become champion again and while the idea of his legitimacy as a champion may clash with what the hardcore fans understand about the 205lbs. rankings, Ortiz could be the flag bearer for the casual fans looking to see what all the fuss is about when EliteXC hits CBS later this year.

All of a sudden, maybe Ortiz doesn't need the UFC afterall.