One of the most care-free and beloved fighters in the UFC, Clay Guida is the last person to hold a grudge or any sort of resentment towards an opponent. However his opponent, Anthony Pettis, might just be an exception.
The two lightweights will square off in the main event of The Ultimate Fighter Finale this weekend, with the winner likely earning a title shot by the year’s end. Pettis, who was acquired by the UFC from the WEC merger, is one win away from possibly earning his title shot.
But Guida plans on ruining his chances.
“I’m going to make him pay [his UFC dues] June 4. It’s not out of any rivalry or anything like that, but he’s going to realize that it’s time to step it up,” Guida said in an interview with ESPN.com.
Guida said he respects Pettis and he acknowledges the fact he has fought tough, credible opponents, but he plans on showing the difference in competition.
“He has wins over Shane Roller and Ben Henderson — they are tough guys. But I’ve fought the best in the cage,” he said.
Guida has a valid point, and one that not many could argue against; plain and simple: the best competition resides in the UFC.
Pettis, however, is no slouch when it comes to competition. The former WEC lightweight champion brings a unorthodox style, along with a high amount of energy, that keeps the crowd entertained and on their feet. But Guida knows a thing or two about entertaining a crowd, and on June 4, he said he intends to get into his opponent’s face and welcome him to the UFC.
“I’m going out there guns blazing,” Guida said.
“I’m looking to finish this fight. It’s important to finish this and not leave it in the hands of judges. I don’t want there to be a big question mark at the end of this fight.”
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