Former UFC fighter criticizes Islam Makhachev and Leon Edwards’ ambitions: ‘Stay in your divisions’

I. Makhachev and L. Edwards are UFC champions (Photo: Montage/SUPER FIGHTS)

PUBLICITY:

Former UFC fighter and current commentator Paul Felder didn't hold back in his criticism of athletes seeking a second belt before even establishing themselves in their original weight class. In an interview on the 'Round Up' program, the retired veteran primarily attacked Islam Makhachev and Leon Edwards , complaining about their 'excessive ambition'.

See too

Michael Chandler hopes Dana White will convince McGregor to be a 'man of his word' for UFC fight

Colby Covington offends Ian Garry's wife and opens the door to fight with Irishman in UFC

Deiveson Figueiredo says he is “antivirus” for Sean O’Malley and wants the bantamweight belt

“We already know that Belal Muhammad is the number one contender. Leon Edwards is also saying he wants to break Georges St-Pierre’s record for title defenses. Then we have Islam Makhachev saying he should be the next to fight for the welterweight belt. Guys, stay in your crazy divisions, reign over your division. First, we should have dominant champions before everyone starts wanting to fight for other belts,” Felder said.

Paul lamented the trivialization of double championship disputes and asked that the champions establish themselves in their home division before thinking about moving up.

“It didn’t used to be like this. The guys who did it in the beginning, obviously Conor McGregor is an exception. He did it and it was crazy. He was a superstar. Daniel Cormier moved up because he was the light heavyweight champion. Amanda Nunes deserved it. Now everyone who wins the belt already wants the double championship. And I say, 'Well, how about you have a bunch of title defenses first, then you go and move up?'” Paul concluded.

Johnny Walker opens up about his heavyweight debut at UFC 332.