The cards are annoying imo, they seem to be given out sometimes just to save some money. The ring also bothers me somewhat but I am used to it now. I'd agree that the overall standard as a whole is probably more balanced, but the UFC has more surprises. They are very different and each have their niche. Also people will become MMA snobs and choose Pride over the more commercial UFC because they think it's cooler. That's young fans for you

But I love them both - Pride gets special kudos for Nogueira, Barnett and the crazy announcer woman.