This kind of mainstream exposure is great for the vegan fitness community, especially in an arena as big as the UFC.  Mac's vegan lifestyle was not hidden in the show, and host Joe Rogan made reference to Mac being a 'strict vegetarian' who works in animal rights and takes care of his body' before his fight.  What made his win all the sweeter was the fact that he not only out-smarted, out-paced and had superior technique, but that he also out-muscled the bigger, supposedly stronger farm boy, Tommy Speers.  I found it ironic that Speers lives on a dairy farm.  Mac won all of his fights on the show decisively, and he won the finale with the same level of domination.  

For the win, he was awarded a 6-figure UFC contract that ensures he'll get some high-profile fights at future UFC events.  He's moving from welterweight (170 lbs) back down to lightweight (155 lbs) where he's fought in the past.  The lightweight category is extremely competitive and the title is currently wide open.  Mac should do very well and be in contention for a title fight before too long.  As I am a vegan and a kickboxer myself, Mac Danzig's domination of the Ultimate Fighter was exciting and I'm really looking forward to his next fight!   

Also, check out Mac Danzig's interview in the Jan-Feb 2008 issue of VegNews.