With The Great Southern Trendkill fast approaching, one question looms large over the United Toughness Alliance: where does Jarvis Valentine fit in? The reigning UTA Champion, who has carried the company since its return, suddenly finds himself without a clear challenger.

On paper, the next man up should be Chris Ross. The power rankings list him as the number one contender, but his rivalry with Eric Dane Jr. continues to burn hot. After their chaotic collision last Friday, officials are expected to keep the two locked in battle at the upcoming PLE. That leaves Valentine without his most logical opponent.

Behind Ross are three women in the rankings: Angela Hall, Graysie Parker, and Valkyrie Knoxx. Knoxx is expected to defend her Women’s Championship on the card, and Parker technically isn’t even under UTA’s umbrella. That leaves Hall, the United States Women’s Champion, who has been on a meteoric rise. Could we see UTA gamble on a groundbreaking mixed-title showdown between Valentine and Hall? Stranger things have happened.

Another name in the conversation is former champion Brick Bronson. He’s always in the mix, but fans may be fatigued by the pairing, as Bronson has already used and lost his rematch. While safe, Valentine vs. Bronson might be the one matchup fans don’t want to see again.

Maxx Mayhem has also been whispered about, particularly after his involvement in last Friday’s mayhem. But insiders suggest he’s not quite ready for a PLE-level main event. If it happens, it might serve as a stopgap bout before Trendkill.

And then there’s the wildcard: Madman Szalinski. The future Hall of Famer is confirmed to be in attendance at The Great Southern Trendkill. Could officials really pull the trigger on Valentine vs. Madman? While Szalinski’s prime years are behind him, the marquee value of a legend standing across from the champion can’t be denied.

For the first time since his crowning moment, the path forward for Jarvis Valentine feels uncertain. His popularity is strong, but a lack of compelling contenders could put that to the test. Will UTA deliver a bold new challenge, or will Jarvis risk being lost in the shuffle as others grab the spotlight?

All eyes will be on the next two weeks as The Great Southern Trendkill takes shape.