LAS VEGAS – Japanese superstar Yoshihiro Akiyama recently drew a touch
of criticism from some MMA fans after he voiced his disinterest in
fighting middleweight slugger Chris Leben at this weekend’s UFC 116
event.
Leben was offered up to Akiyama after original opponent Wanderlei Silva
was forced to bow out of the fight due to an injury, and the judoka
expressed frustration at such a “lesser-named” opponent.
While Leben admits he took the swipe a bit personally, Akiyama said he
didn’t intend any disrespect.