With EliteXC readying its blockbuster cards on CBS and Strikeforce getting some late-night love from NBC, the UFC is running out of major networks to sign with. But if the latest “informed speculation” turns out to be true, we could eventually see some Octagon fights on ABC. MMAPayout passes along this unconfirmed report:

The UFC and ESPN are discussing a potential strategic partnership. Representatives from each company reportedly met for what were described as extensive discussions last week in New York and Bristol, Connecticut. While Spike is the official cable home of the UFC, there is no longer an ABC Sports division, only ESPN on ABC, leading to speculation that such a partnership could lead to live events on ABC.

Screw creative control: If I’m Dana White, I’m going to do everything in my power to make this happen, “gladiator intro” be damned. Because if ABC gets snatched up by some other fight club, then the UFC is basically locked out of network television. Now is the time to make a deal. Pull back the ego a little bit and make it happen.

Semi-related: I just realized that I can’t name any show that’s currently airing on ABC. For my benefit, please post a comment with the name of a series that’s on that network — without consulting Wikipedia. Caller number nine gets a pair of tickets to see Blue Oyster Cult at the Rock-o-Rama.