5 fighters UFC should hire from other promotions (& 5 fighters it should let go of)

#4. Should hire: Michael ‘Venom’ Page (Bellator)

Michael 'Venom' Page has a record of 20-2

Michael ‘Venom’ Page has been one of the most popular fighters outside of the UFC for several years now. While he appears to be content competing in Bellator, he is now in a difficult position in their 170 pound division, having lost his interim title fight to Logan Storley back in May.

With that in mind, perhaps now would be a good time for him to join the top promotion in MMA, create some fresh match-ups for himself, and breathe new life into his career. His entertaining fighting style would bring plenty of eyes to his bouts, so the UFC would also benefit significantly from this potential move.

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#4. Should let go: Mauricio ‘Shogun’ Rua (UFC)

Dana White called for Mauricio ‘Shogun’ Rua to retire prior to his most recent performance against Ovince St. Preux. He lost that fight and has not looked like his former self in his last two performances. While he stated his intention to finish out his contract, that may not be the best idea.

Instead, preventing Rua from doing so could protect both his legacy and his health. Rua was once one of the most dominant competitors in MMA and is clearly no longer competing anywhere near that level anymore. Instead of giving him one more fight for the sake of nostalgia, it may be time to call it a career.

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#3. Should hire: Demetrious Johnson (ONE)

To this day, Demetrious Johnson is considered the greatest flyweight in UFC history. While he is currently competing in ONE Championship and has stated his intention to retire in that organization, it would be incredible to see him back inside the octagon.

Things haven't necessarily gone Johnson's way in ONE Championship, but he has also proven he remains one of the best flyweights on the planet. There are a ton of new, exciting matchups for him in the UFC, whether it be against flyweights or bantamweights, which may currently be the best division in the sport.

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#3. Should let go: Robbie Lawler (UFC)

Robbie Lawler has a record of 29-16 (1 NC)

Former UFC middleweight champion Robbie Lawler is another fighter who may need to be protected from himself at this stage of his career. He defeated Nick Diaz not too long ago, but there were several questions regarding Diaz’s level at that point. Lawler has lost five of his last six.

He’s also taken a ridiculous amount of damage over the course of his career, whether it be in his iconic title defense against Rory Macdonald or his more recent loss to Bryan Barberena. Instead of giving Lawler further match-ups, it could be smart to put a stop to his incredibly impressive career.