Ali Sonoma Is Moving On Up

by Ariel Helwani, MMARated.com

Without a doubt, MMA fans are a very "what have you done for me lately" kind of bunch. Betray their trust or put up a stinker and they may never forgive you. So, you can imagine my surprise when someone sent me a tip that former UFC Octagon girl Ali Sonoma would be appearing on the fifth season of ABC's "The Mole."

When Sonoma and the UFC parted ways at the end of 2007, she told everyone who would listen that she would be back in the limelight sooner rather than later. Of course, most believed that would be modeling at some car expo in Ohio. Au contraire, she has landed the biggest non-UFC gig of any Octagon girl.

I wish I could tell you what "The Mole" is but, sadly, I have never seen the show. That said, I have been able to gather this essential information:

* It airs on ABC

* It premieres on June 2, 2008

* This is its fifth season

* There are twelve contestants on the show

Oh, and the basic premise is that contestants will work together to complete various physical and mental challenges to build up a significant cash prize for the winner. One of them, however, is "the Mole," a double agent hired by the producers to sabotage the efforts of the group.

My sources tell me that the last three moles have been attractive young ladies so, that said, does this mean Sonoma will make it four in a row? Well, I guess that depends on if you consider her attractive.

Interestingly enough, a quick look at the reality show message boards (and if you think MMA forums are a haven for weirdos just check these out) shows that no one knows who she is or what she used to do for a living. Apparently, she is simply being positioned as the Christian girl. I knew Diego Sanchez would have something to do with this.