BJ Penn: A champion outside the cage

The state of Hawaii awarded their native son, BJ Penn, for various civic achievements this week. Penn most recently captured the UFC interim lightweight championship belt from Joe Stephenson at UFC 80 and then defended his title against Sean Sherk at UFC 84. It’s expected that he will either meet the winner of the upcoming Huerta vs. Florian match-up for his next fight… or who knows? Rumors have been circulating that he could fight GSP provided the Canadian can get past John Fitch in their UFC 87 title bout.

It’s always nice to hear about these guys giving something back to the community. Kudos BJ.

James Irvin tests positive for banned substances

Following his UFC Fight Night 14 loss to Anderson Silva, James Irvin has tested positive for Methadone and Oxymorphone. Methadone, a drug commonly given to heroin addicts to ween them from the drug, and oxymorphone are heavy duty pain killers. My guess is he may need some more after that crushing defeat at the hands of the “spider.”

The results for all other fighters on the card were negative. Irvin has a period of 20 days to dispute the findings or he will most likely be fined and suspended.

Ricardo Arona UFC debut?

Former Pride FC 205 lb. contender Ricardo Arona disclosed to sherdog.com this week that the UFC is top on his list of potential suitors. “Because it (UFC) offers the best proposals and the best fighters, and it’s the best event and best show.” The Brazilian stand-out also went on to say that he thinks the rules in the UFC favor his style of fighting, citing the cage and the shorter 5 minute opening round. Clearly the cage has benefited many a ground and pound fighters before him.

It will be interesting to see how Arona will look after a year+ of lay-off from the sport. His recent inactivity, as he puts it, was to watch how the sport is changing from the outside. Can he make an impact in the most talent rich division all of MMA… who knows. All I know is that another top 10 caliber fighter can’t hurt, and we may get to see the rubber match between him and Wanderlei Silva. Sounds good to me.