http://racingnews.runnersworld.com/2010/05/a-brief-chat-with-jon-rankin-2.htmlJon Rankin missed the Olympics even though he had a stellar 2007 and 2008 season with a sub 3:55 personal best. At the next contract negotiation, however, Nike wanted to turn his contract into an incentive laden deal. I'm sure it was in no small part due to the growing number of milers out there.
I wouldn't be surprised if Meb faced the same approach from Nike. Nike is saying that there are other runners who can duplicate Meb's success (I disagree FWIW) and that they don't want to pay a super-high top dollar for a runner that Nike will argue is on the decline.
What role Meb's brother had to play in the negotiations is a mystery. So far no one's talking. Regardless, it's a shame that Meb is going through this.
I don't know what kind of money he is asking for, but I think he is a great representative of the sport. If Asics people read this, they should consider picking him up. Especially now that Asics' best runner has not been matching the caliber of performances he had 5 years ago.