By: Justin Bolduc

Heavyweight Championship: Ultimate Fighting Championship vs. Randy Couture

In a special MMA Access we’re going to dive into the battle between the UFC and mixed martial arts legend Randy Couture. Below is a breakdown of what has transpired, as well as an update on what is next for Couture.

Stay tuned for a full interview with “Captain America” next week where he talks about Fedor, his Xtreme Couture gyms and clothing line, acting, and his life’s struggles and triumphs.

The Natural Resigns

On October 11, 2007, Couture announced that he was resigning from the UFC as their champion, as a fighter, and also as an analyst and commentator. Couture felt disrespected by the organization, unhappy with his financial situation compared to other fighters, as well as the UFC’s unwillingness to come to terms with Fedor Emelianenko and management – which would have undoubtedly set up the biggest heavyweight fight of mixed martial arts history.

Couture Denies Retirement, Maintains Resignation

On October 25, Couture held his own press conference where he denied his departure from the UFC was a retirement, and maintained his leave was a resignation. He once again brought up his sticking points in regards to why he was unhappy with the UFC, and stated when he believed he would be out of his contract.

The UFC Fires Back

Moving ahead to October 30, Lorenzo Fertitta and Dana White pulled together a UFC press conference to discuss the Couture situation and share their side of the story. White claimed that Couture was paid a signing bonus and shared copies of checks paid to and cashed by Randy Couture. Zuffa maintained that Couture was under contract and would fulfill his contract.

Couture vs. Nogueira?

The UFC ultimately offered Couture a title defense against former PRIDE champion Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira, which Couture declined. Most recently Couture has publicly stated that he will not fight Nogueira, but will instead wait out his contract and face Fedor Emelianenko in late 2008.

Exclusive: Randy Couture Interview

I had a chance to sit down with “The Natural”. Along with talking about the growth of his gyms, his clothing line, and his acting career, Couture also spoke freely about his situation with the UFC.

Couture on retirement vs. resignation: