All that hype about a possible Anthony Pettis vs. Jose Aldo superfight can be thrown out the window for now, as it is being confirmed that Pettis’ first lightweight title defense will come opposite TJ Grant. Via Yahoo! Sports’ Kevin Iole on Twitter:
Update: @danawhite says @TJ_Grant will get next shot at lightweight title. @Showtimepettis still undergoing tests. MRI results unclear
— Kevin Iole (@KevinI) September 3, 2013
TJ Grant went from being an average welterweight in 2010 to, by 2013, being one of the most fearsome lightweights in MMA. Since dropping to 155 pounds, Grant is undefeated, posting a 5-0 record with three stoppage victories.
Earlier this year, he squared off against former lightweight contender Gray Maynard. While Maynard was heavily favored, courtesy of his potent ground-and-pound and clinch work, Grant scored a shocking first-round knockout, setting up a title fight with then-champion Ben “Smooth” Henderson at UFC 164.
However, Grant suffered a serious concussion while training for the fight, forcing him to withdraw. He was replaced by Milwaukee native Anthony “Showtime” Pettis, who would go on to defeat the champ via first-round armbar.
While Grant had earned the title shot by defeating Maynard, many wondered if he would get his promised time in the spotlight. After beating Henderson, Pettis called out featherweight champion Jose Aldo, who he was originally scheduled to face at UFC 163. The fight was scuttled as “Showtime” injured his knee and was replaced by “The Korean Zombie”, Chan-Sung Jung.
Pettis, however, suffered a knee injury during his fight with Henderson. The severity is unknown at this time, and the new lightweight king is currently awaiting MRI results that will determine how soon he is capable of returning to the cage.
Keep an eye on Bleacher Report for exact details on the bout when they become available.
Update:
Pettis’ MRI results have come in, and he sustained minimal damage to his knee and can return to fighting in seven weeks. You can read our full article here.
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