OMAHA, Neb. - Jake Ellenberger had a good record - but some bad losses - when he first stepped into the octagon.
Jay Hieron? Derrick Noble? Delson Heleno? Mostly UFC vets turned regional standouts - guys that will get you into the UFC or keep you out of it.
Manager Monte Cox kept pushing Ellenberger, and in late 2009, the fighter got his shot in the UFC. He lost to Carlos Condit - but only on points and after he nearly knocked out the now-UFC interim welterweight champion.