Because of the way he fucking showed up on the scene... I mean, they were hoping for Machida to get knocked the fuck out and build Sokoudjou up as a star. He's young, has a marketable look, and is an exciting fighter. They had big hopes for him and I wouldn't be surprised if he's back in two or three years under a "better" contract in their eyes.
Shit, if there wasn't another promotion out there that will overpay him, he'd more than likely get a quick restructured contract to sign.