(Warning: Video above contains NSFW language.)
Former WEC title challenger and perennial UFC contender Donald Cerrone could probably get a title shot if he defeats Eddie Alvarez at UFC 178 on Saturday.
However, if that means waiting on the sidelines for six months, “Cowboy” would say “no, thanks,” based on a recent interview with Sherdog (transcription per MMA Fighting).
It’s going to be a scrap. Dude throws down. That’s all I know about him. Haven’t really seen him fight, ever. That’s what people tell me. S–t, I’m ready. Never seen Eddie fight, ever. Never, never, never. I’ve seen a picture of him before. That’s it. I don’t watch fights … My teammates, my coaches, my management, they all think we should wait and take the title fight. But, you already know, people who know me, I’m gonna say, ‘Let’s roll. Let’s keep it going.’
Cerrone later added that he isn’t concerned about maintaining his top 10 ranking since his top priority is fighting and making money.
UFC lightweight champ Anthony Pettis doesn’t fight top contender Gilbert Melendez until December 6 at UFC 181, so the winner would likely not compete again until March of April of next year.
The Greg Jackson’s MMA standout is currently riding a four-fight win streak (all finishes) and cracks the UFC’s official lightweight rankings at No. 5.
Cerrone, 31, also compiled four straight victories inside the Octagon between February and October of 2011, but his perfect year was spoiled when he lost a decision to Nate Diaz at UFC 141 in December.
Whether or not he faces the same letdown against Alvarez remains to be seen.
Alvarez, a two-time Bellator lightweight titleholder, makes his long-awaited UFC debut at Las Vegas’ MGM Grand Garden Arena this weekend.
“The Silent Assassin” has fought just three times since October 2012, mostly due to a very public contract dispute with Bellator that lasted for the better part of last year, per MMA Junkie.
Even though he might hate it, should Cerrone sit back and relax until he’s booked for a championship fight (if he beats Alvarez), or should he continue his active ways and keep hunting for UFC post-fight bonuses?
John Heinis is a featured columnist for Bleacher Report. He is also the MMA editor for eDraft.com.
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