Recently news had been spread that Strikeforce 205lb contender Mike Kyle (18-8-1(1)) had again broken his right hand while training for his upcoming bout against former Strikeforce 205lb champion Gegard Mousasi (30-3-1). Following the news, an April Fool's joke had spread that UFC Heavyweight Cheick Kongo had stepped in to replace the injured fighter which had MMA fans scratching their heads. Even with this joke circulating, news was made that former TUF2 alumni UFC veteran Kieth Jardine (17-9-1) would be the one stepping in to face Mousasi. Jardine vs Mousasi is not set for the main card of the April 9 Strikeforce: Diaz vs Daley card.
Jardine was a longtime star of the UFC since having debuted under the Zuffa banner in 2005 with a Rnd2 TKO by Leg-Kicks. Jardine went 6-7 in the UFC which included wins over then future champ Forrest Griffin & former champ Chuck Liddell. Unfortunately for Jardine his career in the UFC went sour going on a four fight losing streak with two of them being by way of vicious knockout. Even after a Fight of the Night performance against Matt Hamill, Jardine was released by the promotion with many critics suggesting he retire. Since his release by the UFC, Jardine has gone 2-1 with a recent Rnd1 TKO win. With Zuffa having purchased the promtion & brand of Strikeforce, it is no surprise that they would suggest a familiar name like Jardine's be signed. Having once been considered a contender & then a gate keeper for the UFC's 205lb division, Jardine was thought to be immediately invited t join the Strikeforce roster, though it was never delivered to the "Dean of Mean" as he would compete in lesser promotions after his release. Jardine will make his promotional debut for Strikeforce on one week's notice in what will be considered a chance to redeem himself in the eyes of UFC brass & possibly make a run for the Light Heavyweight title for the promotion. A win for Jardine could propel him into contendership, which is not a very deep pool with very select names like Rafael Cavalcante, Gegard Mousasi, King Mo Lawal, & current champ Dan Henderson the only big names that are the recognized as the top of the promotion's division. MMA fans will be happy to see The Dean of Mean back in action as Strikeforce is the #2 American MMA promotion that has essentially become the little brother of the UFC with all fighters considerably in the same roster. Whether he ever wins the title or not, a strong performance in Strikeforce could either make him a big name that earns top pay for every performance, or earn him a second chance in the UFC.
Keith "The Dean of Mean" Jardine may not be fighting in the octagon come next Saturday April 9, but his return back to competing on a televised main card will be the perfect stage for him to make a statement to say he is back in action to take on the best.
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