Depending on whether he returns @ 170 or 185 I hope he will have a "ring rust" fight first--a very beatable opponent, much like when John "Steroid Bones" Jones came back against St Preux. If he had come back against Cormier that night, he would've been killed. You never know if GSP will get ring rust, because some guys don't really get it (Cruz, for example). GSP always had great camps, so that's a plus. Except he seemed way off against Hendricks (even if Hendricks dodges a bullet that fight by not getting tested).
Some possibilities:
Bisping: this is dangerous for George if he doesn't have his timing or his legs @ 100%. It's a good fight in that division for him because he won't be up against crazy power. It's still a weight class up, and Bisping's shot will feel harder than average 170 shots, plus he's more accurate and active than most 170s would. Plus Bisping has been asking for this fight. You don't want George to force-bulk to get to 185. He has the frame to do 185, but 170 is still his ideal fighting class imho.
Woodley: GSP is a much better fighter but Woodley is dangerous. So is Lawler, which is why I think GSP would rather skip Lawler and take on Woodley, given the choice. The Woodley fight would depend on whether GSP still has a crisp, Koscheck eye-crushing jab, or whether he'd want to try to sit on him for 5 rounds.
Silva: this is dangerous so long as Silva has some of his power left in him. Like GSP, Silva is long and has great overall talent.
Some semi-random, ranked #6-10+: this would be a test; probably an easy win but a way to kick the rust.
It's a multi-fight deal. I just hope he's ready because it's been a while. Love the guy, hate that he sits on people, would love to see him get a belt.
e: Diaz is always a possibility. Maybe Conor, but isn't Conor taking time off? If GSP came back and fought Conor in the 1st fight, that would be the UFC's all-time biggest draw. You'd have to talk to the Dallas Cowboys or a soccer team to see if you can find a venue to hold 100,000+
This post was edited by RewtheBrave on Feb 20 2017 12:37pm