Some in the MMA community were surprised by the UFC’s decision to permanently ban welterweight fighter, Paul “Semtex” Daley, from the organization after he took a cheap shot on his opponent, Josh Koscheck, after their bout had ended. Many believed there would be a hefty fine and suspension, but few thought it would escalate to complete banishment.

Strikeforce President, Scott Coker, doesn’t know the disciplinary protocol of the UFC, but he does think the swift punishment might have been influenced by the brawl that occurred at the end of his organization’s event on CBS last month. Whether UFC President, Dana White, upholds his intention to never re-sign Daley to another contract or not, Coker doesn’t expect the British fighter will be available to compete for some time.

“I’m not the UFC and they run their business the way they run it and I have no idea what thought process went into it, but I’m sure it was influenced by what happened a couple of weeks before. I’m not sure really when cooler heads prevail, maybe (the UFC will) be able to work something out with Paul, but I’m sure Paul will be on some heavy type of suspension from the commission up in Canada and I don’t imagine Paul being able to fight anytime soon.”

Interestingly, Coker had the opportunity to acquire Daley’s contract back in 2009 when Strikeforce absorbed many of the fighters signed with Pro Elite, the parent company of EliteXC. At the time, Coker chose not to bring “Semtex” into the fold. After his actions on Saturday, Coker still doesn’t appear interested in securing the services of the new free agent.

“I’m sure we’ll get a call, but let’s what happens. Who knows? He could be on suspension for four to six months. He’s not going to be able to fight. I don’t think that type of reaction or behavior from a fighter will be accepted. It’s just unacceptable.”

The other hot topic of conversation in MMA seems to focus on where Kevin “Kimbo Slice” Ferguson will end up. Coker revealed that he has had several people ask if Strikeforce will sign the internet sensation. At the moment, Coker is hesitant in pursuing either of the UFC castaways.

“You’re like the sixth person who’s contacted me saying, ‘Hey, you have to put together Herschel Walker vs. Kimbo Slice.’ The thing is with Kimbo is he was successful with the ratings, but when we purchased (the contracts) from Pro Elite, the deal at that time (for Kimbo), we felt was too rich for long-term viability. We haven’t revisited it internally yet, so as of right now I think we’re going to stick with our course, which is putting on the best fighters in the world in the best matchups.”

Where do you think Ferguson and Daley will end up? Strikeforce? DREAM? Bellator? For better or worse, both fighters have name recognition. It’s only a matter of time before another organization looks to add them to their roster.

(Source: Sherdog)