Like it was such a mystery that Ed Ruth would have become a great fighter.
Askren himself made a list in 2014 about the top college wrestlers that in his opinion could make it into mma, and he put Ruth number 1.
"1.Ed Ruth– Now my initial assumption is that he will probably wrestle, but this guy could make millions fighting MMA within years. The more I watched him the more I was impressed with him, despite his laziness at times he was still very dominant this season. This dude has all the tools necessary, his body control is unmatched and grip is ridiculous. He would be nasty in BJJ immediately and with his range and agility would pick up the striking quickly also. The only thing that can stop Ed would be him getting complacent at the wrong time."
https://awawisconsin.com/which-2014-seniors-will-make-great-mma-fighters/
Scott Coker isn't a genius for scouting great talent, simply he is willing to sign 0-0 kids out of college and the UFC does not.