Rimouski, Que.’s Patrick (The Predator) Cote has signed a new four-fight deal with the UFC, perhaps putting him in position for a role as coach of The Ultimate Fighter: Canada vs. Australia.
Bleacher Report was first to bring news of the signing, a standard deal for UFC fighters, during which Cote (19-8) expressed his desire to be featured on the rumoured next international edition of the reality show.
“I’m ready for that. I really hope they are thinking of me,” Cote said referring to the possible Team Canada coaching gig.
The 33-year-old, who has never lost outside the UFC, has already received social media support from fans for the role.
“@dianadj7: “@tidom44: I would like to see TUF: Team @patrick_cote vs Noke at the next Ultimate Fighther, Let’s go CAN #TUF, #UFC”
— patrick cote (@patrick_cote) April 30, 2013
The former middleweight title challenger is currently on a two-fight win streak, including a unanimous-decision win over Bobby Voelker in his welterweight debut at March’s UFC 158 in Montreal. However, both wins came with some controversy. Many felt the victory over Voelker was a “hometown decision,” while his previous appearance at UFC 154 in November, also in Montreal, ended in disqualification after his opponent Alessio Sakara landed what were deemed illegal blows to the back of the head, even though he had already been dropped by a legal elbow.
Cote has TUF experience as a competitor, taking part in Season 4 (titled “The Ultimate Fighter: The Comeback”). He made the finals, losing to Travis Lutter.
Following that loss however, he went on a four-fight win streak to earn a title shot, which he lost to Anderson Silva when he blew out his knee in the third round. He then went on a losing streak before being released. He returned nearly two years later and lost to Cung Le before his current win streak.
UFC president Dana White recently said that TUF: Canada vs. Australia will likely be filmed in Montreal, which would be ideal for Cote, who trains there.
