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Oct 1, 2009 - 11:29:36 AM By: Jamie Penick, MMATorch Editor-in-Chief Bobby Lashley is in talks to fight for Strikeforce, possibly on the November 7th event on CBS, according to a report from Ariel Helwani at MMA FanHouse.
The former WWE wrestler and current performer with TNA (Total Nonstop Action) wrestling has not fought since a June victory over Bob Sapp for Prize Fight Promotions' "Ultimate Chaos" pay-per-view event.
The report states that Lashley has two fights left with that organization, and was rumored to be meeting Ron Waterman for the promotion in November.
Lashley's manager Greg Bloom would not confirm or deny whether talks were taking place, but did say that Lashley is still dedicated to MMA despite appearing with TNA at this time.
"Bobby's will to fight has never gone away. He's been ready to fight since June 28. It's just getting the promoters to get their ducks in a row. Bobby Lashley is as committed to MMA as he's been since he stepped in the cage," said Bloom. "He's always training; he's always in the gym; he's always ready to fight. Him being in TNA more than in MMA at this point has nothing to do with Bobby Lashley. We're just waiting for the promoters to let us know when and where."
Penick's Analysis: Lashley would be a good addition simply for the name value he'd bring with him. It's not the highest level of fame but he is a known name who has shown some legitimate ability through a year of fights. He's got a long way to go as a fighter but he's got some natural athletic gifts that can take him a long way. I like that he's been taking it slow and a step at a time, but outside of the top four to five guys that Strikeforce has in that division at the top there's no reason Lashley can't compete. We'll see if anything comes of it here or not, but Lashley on CBS would be a good move for Strikeforce.
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