UFC Middleweight title contender Vitor Belfort isn’t happy that his championship match with Chris Weidman was postponed due to the champ suffering a hand injury, and in a recent interview with MMA Fighting, he let it be known.
“Dana White confirmed that my opponent [Weidman] will have to wear a cast for four weeks, and will be cleared (to train) in six,” said Belfort. “I have to respect the decision that was made. Unfortunately, injuries are part of the routine of professional athletes,” he continued.
“The Phenom” went on to explain why he feels not only is he missing out, but the fans are as well, along with the promotion itself and its’ sponsors.
“In this type of situation, everybody loses – the fans, who want to see an incredible fight, the other athlete, who trains hard for a fight, the promoters and sponsors, who want to make it all happen.”
According to Belfort, UFC should create an interim title in this type of situation.
“The belt must be available to be conquered by the best fighter. I’m in favor of creating an interim title for cases like this, when the champion gets injured more than once, especially in back-to-back injuries, preventing title fights to happen.”
Belfort was scheduled to fight Weidman for the middleweight title at UFC 181 on December 6th, however an injury to Weidman forced the match to be postponed, with Johny Hendricks vs. Robbie Lawler II taking its’ place on the card.
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