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.