Q&A with former UFC lightweight contender Hermes Franca

Hermes Franca is a UFC title contender attempting to make the long journey back.

About to come off a yearlong suspension for steroid use in July, Franca has a lot to prove to both mixed martial arts fighters and fans. He has to show the world that he is clean and dedicated to becoming the top fighter he was a year ago.

Before his next fight, Franca will be making a special appearance Friday night at the Revolution Fighting Championships at Revolution Live in Fort Lauderdale, Fla. Franca will be available to speak with MMA fans and will also corner a fighter. We recently caught up with Franca to discuss the Revolution Fight Championship card, what he thinks about his suspension, and what he thinks about his opponent the night he was suspended -- Sean Sherk.

Franca is anxious to fight again, wherever it may be. (UFC)

Question: What makes the Revolution Fight Championships card appealing to you?

Hermes Franca: Most importantly, one of my fighters is going to fight. His name is Ryan L'Amareaux. He is 145 pounds and very exciting.

Q: His opponent is Tulio Quintanilla. What do you think about Tulio?

HF: He is a great student from Miami. He is 2-0. It's going to be a war.

Q: Your role with RFC is as a special guest where you'll be meeting the fans and cornering your fighter?

HF: Yes, I am going to be a special guest. I have a lot of friends in the Miami area who are coming up. All the fans are very excited for this show.

Q: After being a special guest, it will be time for you to start fighting again. When do you think that will be?

HF: I hope to fight soon -- maybe July. We are still negotiating. Thankfully, there are a lot of organizations out there, and a lot of the organizations are looking for Hermes Franca, so I'm going to see what will be the best for me.

Q: Have you spoken with the UFC?

HF: It's actually in my manager's hands right now. I put in my mind that I am a fighter. It's in his hands. He'll take care of who, where and when I'll be fighting. That means it's my job to train and stay focused on the fight. I have trained with all different camps including B.J. Penn's camp and the American Kickboxing Academy in San Jose.