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Originally Posted by 1inthechamber  Leben vs Lombard is exciting but doesn't make much sense imho. |
Couple reasons it makes sense:
1.) For fans, styles make fights and this is guaranteed fireworks.
2.) For a business, Lombard was a big investment, with a lot of hype; he's expected to do more than coast thru the mid tier of the MW division. Leben looked rusty and sluggish, but I expect he'll come back looking better in his next fight. Being a household name, Lombard's stock can benefit from beating Leben; despite Leben having just lost by a lopsided unanimous dry hump. Conversely, if Leben comes back and beats Lombard, the UFC can reassess their investment.
You're right though, that in so far as rankings and contention, it doesn't make a lot of sense; but that's never been an issue for the UFC.
It's gotten so bad with the UFC, that actually losing fights earns you a title shot.