Recent rumors have pegged Andrei Arlovski as the free-agent-to-be most likely to exit the UFC. After speaking with Arlovski and looking at his contract situation, I believed Arlovski’s departure seemed almost inevitable.

However, recent comments from the UFC show that they still have plenty of interest in keeping the former heavyweight champion in the promotion.

We love Andre Arlovski. We don’t want him going anywhere,” said Dana White.

White was not the only member of UFC’s brass to chime in. Matchmaker Joe Silva quickly interjected his thoughts on Arlovski.

His management is very happy with us. There is no problem with the UFC at all,” said Silva. “All they said is that they want to show what they can do in their last fight. They are not looking to deal with anyone else.”

Those are certainly encouraging words for fans who want to see Arlovski remain with the UFC. Arlovski’s contract expires after his March 1 fight with Jake O’Brien. Still, as I wrote last week, the writing on the wall points to Arlovski’s departure. His placement on the off-tv portion of UFC 82 cannot help matters either. These comments though can be seen as a sign that the UFC wants to appease Arlovski in hopes of possibly bringing him back.

he hasn't fought for a long time, damn he's exciting

The winner of him and Werdum was promised a title shot but alas Andrei only had one fight on his contract left so no title shot for him.

I wouldn't believe a single word that comes out of Dana White's mouth. I'd say bye bye Andrei after his fight with O'Brien unless they offer him some serious cash.

Hopefully he stays around, he's a good fighter when he wants to be

He hasn't been exciting in a long time. No more fangs, must have
got long in the tooth...pun intended....

this guys fighting wedrum next month i think. he was a guest on the HDNet Inside MMA show.