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Happy Holidays -- from Tito Ortiz...

Folks, Happy Thanksgiving!

And, who better to wish you season's greetings than Tito Ortiz and Punishment Athletics (PA)?

I've been meaning to put this entry up for a few days, but last week Ortiz's Press Office sent out an email detailing PA's offerings for the holiday season, geared towards "fans of Tito or fashionistas." Advertised items include hats such as the "Halo Flat Bill", beanies, and shirts such as the "Heritage", which is printed in both English and Spanish.

Ortiz, more than most other fighters, has truly embraced the corporate side of MMA's recent mainstream success. While others, such as Chuck Liddell and Randy Couture, have benefited as well, Ortiz may be the most proactive of the lot. Every decision he makes is a business decision and I see nothing wrong with his attempts to cash in.

For years, MMA fighters have toiled in relative obscurity and for relatively little pay. Those such as Ortiz who helped bring the sport to America are in the ironic position of not being able to fully enjoy the windfall as their careers wind down.

So, while Ortiz may never be a champion again in the Octagon, it appears he is geared up for his next fight in a new arena -- your wallet.

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About the blogger
Mark Chalifoux covered his first MMA event at UFC 68 in Columbus, Ohio. Since that night, he’s been hooked on the sport. He is based in Cincinnati and also works in sports talk radio. He’s written for the Athens News, ESPN.com, SI.com, The Cincinnati Enquirer and the Chalifoux Family Christmas Newsletter.

Pramit Mohapatra, who currently runs FightTicker.com, previously authored this blog.
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