Still, “The Dragon” remained second in line to Jackson, even if he had shut down big names and made them look foolish in the process.

Actually, the process was the problem. That brings us back to the word elusive, which largely has a negative connotation. According to the dictionary on my computer, elusive is: difficult to find or catch; difficult to understand, define or identify; not easily called to mind or memory.

Not good, unless you’re a criminal.

“The Dragon” picks his spots beautifully, always appears in control and emerges victorious. But for many people, elusive equals boring. In a three-round fight, Machida runs more than Usain Bolt did during the Beijing Olympics.

However, Machida makes no excuses for the methods that treat him so well.

Funny, then, how UFC 98 was dubbed “Identity Crisis.” To the contrary, Machida seems to know exactly who he is.

His identity might not win fans, but I believe it builds intrigue.

Machida creates a sense of wonder that makes up for what he lacks in the lightning-rod department. Fans want to see if someone can solve his puzzle, and that sells tickets (and pay-per views) as well as the prospect of Carwin bludgeoning another behemoth.

Machida’s road to this title shot was long. He hit every red light on the way. Then, it took one injury to heavyweight Frank Mir (which knocked him out of his fight against Brock Lesnar, leaving UFC 98 without a main event) and two injuries to Jackson (he has an elbow problem and needs jaw surgery) before UFC honchos parked Machida in the championship fight.

The mystery man will finally put his unique brand of MMA on display in a UFC main event that has major spoils on the line.

With both contestants undefeated in 14 fights, Evans might even be the underdog. He has one draw on his record, and it came against Ortiz, a man that Machida easily picked apart.

But “Sugar” Rashad’s wrestling base and evolving standup give him the stuff to beat all challengers. Like any good investigator, he’ll probe for a way to defeat the elusive Machida.

Even if Evans doesn’t make the arrest, per se, I guarantee the clash will be captivating.