By MATT MOLGAARD
MMANEWS.COM Staff Writer

While Zuffa mayrun a basic monopoly over the mixed martial arts world ,there’s plenty of highly talented fighters not currently fighting under the UFC banner. Growing promotions are busy swooping up loads of prospects, and more than a few could likely hold their own within the octagon. Here now, is a quick glimpse at five fistic machines worthy of a call from match maker Joe Silva, and president Dana White.

#1 Alistair Overeem: Since bulking up to ridiculous proportions, Overeem has been steamrolling competition outside of The Ultimate Fighting Championship. The current Strikeforce heavyweight champion hasn’t lost a bout in three years, and he’s managed to destroy quality opposition such as Paul Buentello, Mark Hunt, Gary Goodridge and Brett Rogers. It should be noted that only Buentello managed to survive the first round, though he too met his demise in quite violent fashion. Few interesting bouts loom for Overeem outside of the UFC, but if the Dutchman is ever to sign with the UFC, he’ll be staring face to face with the highest quality heavyweights in the game today.