Former UFC interim lightweight champion Justin Gaethje recently blasted UFC President Dana White for his treatment of perennial lightweight contenders Dustin Poirier and Justin Gaethje. Dustin Poirier defeated Conor McGregor at UFC 257, while Tony Ferguson is on a 2-fight skid for the first time in his illustrious career.
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Gaethje fought champion Khabib Nurmagomedov at UFC 254 and came up short. Former Bellator lightweight champion and UFC newcomer Michael Chandler served as the backup for that fight. Gaethje was more than unhappy with that special treatment, as Chandler hadn’t competed in the organization at that point in time.
“The reason why this is happening with Poirier is because Dana White used, he tried to, he did, he f***ed Tony (Ferguson) and Dustin. He said: “f*** you guys, I’m going to take Chandler, and he’s going to be the back-up for this title fight,” said ‘The Highlight’.
“That all happened four months ago. We are humans, we have principles, we have morals, and that’s what that is. That’s why Dustin Poirier is saying (he won’t fight Chandler). Well, I would assume. I don’t talk to the guy.”
Ferguson and Poirier wanted to fight each other in the co-main event of UFC 254. But that fight never materialized, as the UFC couldn’t agree on terms with both parties. They wanted to be compensated well, and rightfully so. Their achievements over the years in the division should have been rewarded by the UFC.
Justin Gaethje aims to back in title contention
Gaethje hasn’t fought since his UFC 254 setback against Nurmagomedov. He is looking to be back in the title picture again. A fight against Charles Oliveira or Michael Chandler is most likely next for him.
Nevertheless, ‘The Highlight’ was right in his evaluation of the situation of the lightweight division.
What did you make of Gaethje’s comments? Didi the UFC did wrong with Tony Ferguson and Dustin Poirier?
