This past Thursday saw another well known mixed martial arts personality suffer from a bad weight cut, as former Maximum Fighting Championship lightweight title holder Antonio ‘Mandingo’ McKee (27-4-2) hit the scales seven pounds over the 155-lbs limit for his MFC 32 bout versus Brian Cobb.
McKee was stripped of his title by MFC President Mark Pavelich, and, like Anthony ‘Rumble’ Johnson who is fresh on everyone’s mind after coming in 11-lbs over for his middleweight debut, was cut from the promotion following his bout versus Cobb.
There was some rumbling on various multimedia sites that McKee had failed the weight cut on purpose as a slight to the MFC boss.
McKee took to Facebook (@antoniomckee) to explain his side of the story, saying that he was “blackin out and having internal problems.” Which would certainly be a health issue that would require McKee to rehydrate immediately.
Here’s his full statement:
My body comp. has really changed in the last 6 months or so. I was at 3% bodyfat and was blackin out and having internal problems..just couldnt cut anymore. I am a natural athlete and do not rely on chemicals or any other substances to get myself prepared for battle. I take my job seriously but I can only do so much. Unfortunately, its the unprofessional nature of hot head Pavelich who is taking the hit for the nation my friend! Its not me! I love fighting in CANADA!!! and no worries, I’ll be back… the MFC fucked around and helped boost my stock!!! I have a keen INSTINCT that my AGGRESSION will properly be put to the test in a ring NEARBY SOON! MUCH LOVE
McKee also addressed his recent firing by Pavelich in an interview with The Joe Show for those interested in hearing more of ‘Mandingo’s’ side of the story.
On Friday night, McKee earned his twenty-seventh pro-victory by earning a unanimous decision over Cobb at the MFC 32 event.