Cormier points out UFC protection for Poatan after 'cancellation' of fight against Ankalaev

Commentator defends Ultimate's decision not to put Brazilians at risk and reveals reaction to learning about the Russian's next fight

Alex Poatan is UFC champion. Photo: Reproduction/Twitter/UFCBrasil

Alex Poatán He is UFC champion. Photo: Reproduction/Twitter/UFCBrasil

Keeping an eye on the progress and decisions regarding the light heavyweight (up to 93kg) scenario in the UFC, Daniel Cormier has a controversial opinion to justify withdrawal from scheduling Alex Poatán x Magomed Ankalayev by title. In the commentator's opinion, the organization is protecting the Brazilian's stardom, in order to avoid any risk of possible defeat and loss of the belt.

“What the UFC is saying here is, 'We have this star (Pereira) and we know this guy here (Ankalaev) could be a potential problem for this star. They will fight eventually, but they will fight when we have no other option.' And I like that. I think you still don’t take the risk (of letting Pereira fight Ankalaev)”, declared Cormier on the Good Guy/Bad Guy program.

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As he continued speaking, Cormier revealed that he was stunned by the UFC's decision to pit Ankalaev vs. Aleksandar rakic No. UFC 308.

“(…) I'm rarely surprised when fights are announced, but I remember sitting in Manchester (commentating UFC 304) and they said what the UFC 308 contained, and when I saw Rakic ​​facing Ankalaev, my jaw dropped. I thought, 'They really did this.' Sometimes you have to protect the goose that lays the golden eggs a little, and that’s kind of how I feel,” he concluded.

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poatan ankalaev

A. Poatan and M. Ankalaev are light heavyweight standouts. Photo: Reproduction/Montage SUPER FIGHTS

In a statement published on social media, Ankalaev said he felt sorry for his next opponents, as he was determined to destroy them all. On the other hand, the organization's plans for the future of Alex Poatán. The big speculation surrounding the scenario is that there will be a rematch against Jan Blachowicz be scheduled.

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