UFC bantamweight champion T.J. Dillashaw says he is being handsomely compensated to drop down and end the 125-pound division.
Over the past few weeks, rumors about the possible end of the UFC’s flyweight division have been swirling around. After Saturday’s event in Denver, Dana White stated that they are “working on some things” with the troubled weight class.
But late last week, the UFC announced that bantamweight champion T.J. Dillashaw will be dropping down to 125 pounds and face current titleholder Henry Cejudo at UFC 233. This matchup, according to Dillashaw, is likely connected to the UFC’s current plans for the division.
“The UFC wants to get rid of the division and they hired me to go down and close it and get another belt in the process,” Dillashaw said on Monday’s episode of the Ariel Helwani MMA Show on ESPN. “It’s a win-win for me.
“They’re paying me a f—k load of money to move down and kill the 125-pound division and collect a second belt. So, it’s game time.”
Dillashaw says he actually prefers making the drop instead of Cejudo coming up. For him, it would rule out any possible excuses that may arise.
“It’s gonna be better this way, anyway, because there’s no excuse,” Dillashaw said. “No excuses that I’m the bigger man, that I’m bigger when I’m fighting him. Because I’m gonna come down and make the weight.
“I believe we’re on the same weight, anyways, I’m a small 135’er. I’ve got no problem making 125. It’s gonna be a little more work, I’m gonna be a little more dedicated and be in better shape.
“I’m excited for the opportunity,” he added. “Like I said, it’s a win-win for me. I’ll continue to grow my legacy, get another belt, and be the last flyweight champion ever.”
UFC 233 will take place on January 26th in Anaheim, California.