In the realm of combat sports, fans often form deep connections with their favorite fighters. Witnessing these fighters retire can evoke a mix of grandeur and emotion, as fans reflect on their journey within the sport. The recent announcement by Dana White regarding Robbie Lawler‘s retirement bout at UFC 290 has left fans both excited and furious.
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Robbie Lawler, a veteran of the sport, has captivated fans with his warrior spirit and memorable performances over the years. As he approaches the twilight of his career, the anticipation of his retirement bout has been building. Fans are eagerly awaiting an opportunity to bid farewell to this legendary fighter. Now, the opportunity has come, but fans are clearly not happy with it.
UFC and Dana White receive criticism!
Recently, Dana White revealed the highly anticipated UFC 290 card, featuring a lineup of exciting fights. The card boasts matchups like Alexander Volkanovski vs. Yair Rodriguez and Robert Whittaker vs. Dricus Du Plessis, generating immense excitement among fans. However, it was the news about Lawler that drew the ire of passionate fight enthusiasts.
Robbie Lawler will be on the prelims for the first time since his UFC debut in 2002 for his retirement fight https://t.co/xKWoAjipik
— Alex Behunin (@AlexBehunin) May 10, 2023
White announced that Lawler will be inducted into the UFC Hall of Fame on Thursday, July 7th, in recognition of his iconic fight against Rory MacDonald. Lawler‘s UFC 290 retirement bout will be happening the following day, July 8th. However, he is on the preliminary card, rather than securing a spot on the main card.
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This decision has sparked frustration among fans. They feel that Lawler‘s legacy within the UFC merits a prominent place on the main card of his farewell fight.
Many criticized the UFC for this decision.
Just classic ufc, kick the legend to the curb as he walks out the door.
— pat (o) (@Patkk151515) May 10, 2023
Others feel Lawler deserves better.
Lawler deserves better than this. I'm onboard the Nickal hype train but Robbie Lawler has EARNED better than this.
— TheScience (@TheScie72830285) May 11, 2023
Some even suggested starting a petition.
We should start a petition to get that man moved to the main card for his final fight.
— Julian Murray (@JMurrayMMA) May 10, 2023
Some made suggestions.
While others agreed with UFC’s decision.
If it’s the featured prelim it ain’t a bad spot to be
— Bispings Bird 🖕🏻🦆 (@bispingsbirdMMA) May 10, 2023
Many even thought it was right for him to fight in the prelims.
I think he’s the headliner of the prelims. And those are on ABC. Won’t more people be able to see this fight?
— Sarah Lawrence (@SarahLawrence__) May 10, 2023
Dana White received a lot of criticism.
I hate Dana
— Tyler 🇦🇺 (@Tyler_4P) May 10, 2023
One even termed him ruthless!
@Danawhite seems to be ruthless when it comes to the OGs of the ufc, ffs the least he could do is give Robbie a spot on the main card, after all the sacrifices Robbie gave the ufc over the years, Robbie deserves better treatment. I hope he's getting a decent amount of money…
— Martincoss1965 (@martincoss1965) May 11, 2023
Fans clearly were not happy!
Disgraceful. Put this man on the main card.
— Last Emperor Jon (@LastEmperorJon) May 10, 2023
Many also wondered about the decision to have the fighter on the prelims as he has been fighting for the UFC for a long time.
Robbie Lawler’s 22-year-long MMA career!
Lawler entered UFC as a 19-year-old in 2002. His fight against Nick Diaz at UFC 47 is one of his most popular fights to this day. With 4 wins and 3 losses in the promotion, Lawler decided to part ways and went on to fight elsewhere. He won championships in SuperBrawl, ICON Sport, and EliteXC.
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LAS VEGAS, NV – JULY 11: Robbie Lawler reacts to his victory over Rory MacDonald in their UFC welterweight title fight during the UFC 189 event inside MGM Grand Garden Arena on July 11, 2015 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Josh Hedges/Zuffa LLC/Zuffa LLC via Getty Images)
Lawler returned to the UFC in 2013, where he managed to win the UFC welterweight championship by defeating Johny Hendricks at UFC 181. He defended the title twice before losing it to Tyron Woodley. Nicknamed “Ruthless”, fans have known him for his aggressive fighting style and a record of tough fights. Lawler is the only fighter who has won three consecutive “Fight of the Year” awards from Sherdog and MMA Fighting.
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Robbie Lawler‘s journey within the UFC has been nothing short of remarkable. With multiple Fight of the Year performances and an impressive championship reign, Lawler has etched his name in the annals of MMA history.
