Former SW Ohio teacher to be honored as UFC star

Rich Franklin trains with sparring partners with instruction by trainer Jorge Gurgel during a media day at JG Mixed Martial Arts Academy in West Chester. Franklin is scheduled to fight Chuck Liddell next month in Vancouver at UFC 115.

Credit: Nick Graham

Credit: Nick Graham

Rich Franklin trains with sparring partners with instruction by trainer Jorge Gurgel during a media day at JG Mixed Martial Arts Academy in West Chester. Franklin is scheduled to fight Chuck Liddell next month in Vancouver at UFC 115.

When it comes to career changes, Cincinnati's Rich Franklin has made one of the most dramatic changes imaginable. Franklin went from teaching school in Cincinnati to an accomplished UFC athlete.

Franklin, a 29-time winner in mixed martial arts, will be honored at this month's VisitMyrtleBeach.com 300 at the Kentucky Speedway. Franklin held the UFC's Middleweight title and successfully defended the title twice. Franklin will drive the race's pace car.

“This is a first time experience for me in a pace vehicle and I’m really excited. I appreciate the Kentucky Speedway involving me and I’m ready to lead the field,” said Franklin.

Franklin has been out of fighting for three years.