Sylvia, Rothwell sign with Adrenaline MMA (M-1 Global)

Former UFC champion Tim Sylvia and former IFL Silverback Ben Rothwell have signed with Adrenaline MMA, formerly M-1 Global.

The two heavyweights train out of Miletich Fighting Systems and are both managed by Adrenaline MMA President Monte Cox.

Sylvia is leaving the UFC after six and a half years with the organization. Even though Fedor Emelianenko -- whom Sylvia has stated numerous times his desire to fight - left Adrenaline MMA, the fight is still a possibility with Adrenaline going non-exclusive.

"Adrenaline is a new promotion, but it allows fighters to fight for other organizations... that's huge," Sylvia said. "I've got 3 to 4 years left and want to fight as much as possible, so this is the perfect choice for me at this time."

Rothwell was the IFL's star heavyweight, going an 9-0 from April 2006 to September 2007. He sat out the IFL Grand Prix after refusing to sign a contract extension.

"Adrenaline will give me the chance to take things to the next level," Rothwell said. "I'm ready to see how I fare against the best heavyweights in the world."

The first Adrenaline MMA event will take place June 14 in Chicago, Illinois.

This is a big blow to the UFC as far as the heavyweight division goes. While he wasn't a fan favorite by any means, Tim Sylvia was a mainstay in the heavyweight division and was willing to fight anyone they put in front of him. He wasn't the most exciting fighter but was always there to add his name to a fight card. As bad as the division was, it just got even worse but I'm not certain that this is a smart move on Tim Sylvia's part. He wasn't very recognized outside the world of MMA and fighting for an upstart organization won't help the situation. It will put bread in his pocket but won't help grow the sport.

You can definitely see both sides of this story. The UFC has given Sylvia every opportunity to fight for and defend the heavyweight belt, and didn't get a dominant heavyweight champ. Tim Sylvia did everything the UFC asked and isn't getting the dollar amount they're shelling out to unproven fighters.

One thing is for sure, he probably won't be missed.