It does seem like he was much more of a badass in Pride, those crazy body slams he used to be so good at. But time is cruel and fighting for a living takes its toll. I wouldn't want to be in there doing this shit for a living.
I disagree that Ryan Bader is a shitty fighter though. I think he's pretty tough. Still has a lot to prove, but I don't think he's an easy opponent at all. I'll be watching this fight, might be a good one.