[warforrest]

I've been reading through the recent posts about Forrest and am somewhat shocked about poster's opinions on him. Someone had the sack to claim he's not a star. Have you ever been to a UFC event? I've been to 3. Have you seen the autograph line for Forrest as compared to Tito, Chuck, etc? He's a star alright and well deserved.
It's funny because I don't think I've ever seen an interview where Forrest says he's the best. I think he's struck a chord with the public because we see in him a bit of ourselves. He's TRYING to be the best, most folks realize this, and respect it. When Randy says you train harder than anyone, that's a compliment, and that's inspiring. Forrest didn't come to the UFC with a wrestling/mma pedigree...he was a hardworking public servant, from anytown USA and a student at a state university. Somehow he managed to find the hours to train, and relative to most fighters, he got off to a late start. Remember when you get home from your job and slouch in front of your computer that Forrest mustered up the energy to train 4-5 hours a day after a 12 hour shift. And look at his first fight...Dan Severn! Old or not, who would have done that? TUF didn't make Forrest, he would have ended up in the UFC regardless...it's always shocked me that his early win over an experienced Jeff Monson is never brought up in the forums.
I think Forrest deserves the fame because he's been so good to his fans. And cmon, we watch about 3 hours of interviews/press stuff for every 20 minutes of fighting, thank God Forrest has the sense of humor to make some of that entertaining...and he can laugh at himself which is always a plus. Love him or hate him, Forrest is largely responsible for bringing a new flock of fans to the UFC..new fans = more money...more money is what brought us Rampage vs. Hendo, and hopefully Randy vs. Fedor.
The Shogun speculation is also funny to read. Fighting is probably one of the shortest career paths anyone can choose...if you get the opportunity to take the big match...take the big match!
When I see Forrest fight, I may not see the best knockout ever...I may not see the most technical fight ever...but I'm going to see heart...and no matter the outcome, it's always inspiring. Best fighter ever? We'll see. Fighter I'd most like to have a beer with? Hell yes. You don't have to love him, and you definitely don't have to think he's the best, but the personal attacks are uncalled for...give the man some credit...his hard work, humility, and personality have given so much to this sport.