The only info we have is coming from Dana and that isn't really a safe source, considering the situation.
Here is what I said in another thread:
Yeah the only way i see them completely stepping away from the Pride name is if it will help them get back on TV in Japan. Then they would do it, otherwise it would make no sense. This is of course assuming that they can get the business end over there figured out.
my guess of what happened is the following:
* Zuffa bought Pride's assets expecting to pretty much take the company over a different name. We have done this before with my family's business.
* Many of Pride's employees not being actually tied contractually to the new company and not wanting to work for an American quit.
* Now Zuffa needs people who know Japanese business and the Japanese Fight Game (both very different from their American counterparts)to run and manage the company as they are busy enough with the UFC. Until they get these people and get the company set up all Pride events are on hold. So it makes the most sense to sell a title unification bout and then if they get pride up and running again hold a Grad Prix or something to establish a new 205 title there and if they don't get Pride running again then they can use this to sell Hendo or Rampage as the absolute best 205lb fighter in the world.
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