[bears9]

Former UFC light heavyweight champion Tito Ortiz (15-5-1 MMA, 14-5-1 UFC) says his return to the octagon will likely take place in early 2008.
The fighter was expected to rematch Rashad Evans in a UFC 78 main event on Nov. 17. However, Ortiz has just one fight remaining on his current contract. When a new deal wasn’t completed in time for UFC 78’s ticket on-sale date, the UFC booked an Evans. vs. Michael Bisping main event instead.
Ortiz and Evans battled to a draw at UFC 73. UFC President Dana White said the organization would book an immediate rematch, but Ortiz’s contract negotiations changed those plans.
Ortiz hasn’t fought since that July 7 event.
“Right now I am totally focused on training,” Ortiz said in a statement issued today. “I have always had a reputation for being the best prepared fighter in any match I’ve ever entered, and I intend to maintain that reputation.
“I’m currently working very closely with the UFC to plan my next fight, which you can be sure will not disappoint my fans. It looks like I will fight again in early 2008, and when I do, I will be 100 percent prepared to crush my opponent.“

Tito Ortiz: I Plan to Fight Next in “Early 2008″