Despite the fact four lightweights are headlining UFC 150, including the division’s current and former champion, the hot topic of conversation during Thursday’s press conference circled around Anthony Pettis (Pictured).
Donald Cerrone kicked things off last week by claiming “Showtime” was ducking him by hiding behind a shoulder injury. “Cowboy” promptly picked up right where he left off during yesterday’s presser. When asked if he was still focused on competing for the crown or simply content with maintaining a consistent work schedule, Cerrone’s response drew ‘oohs’ and ‘awes’ from the audience.
“The title means more money, so I definitely plan on fighting for it,” Cerrone stated. “As far as sitting and waiting like Pettis, and hiding, no I don’t think I want to do that. I want to keep fighting and trying to make money.”
When current UFC champion Benson Henderson was questioned on his interest level of avenging his only loss in his last 15 fights, an impressive span running over five years, it was clear Henderson was still having nightmares about the “Showtime kick.”
“I think ‘Cowboy’ just said he has him first, but at some point in time, Anthony Pettis and I will dance in the cage again,” Henderson said. “Before he retires, before I retire, we will dance inside the cage again.
“That being said, it’s on him. It’s his job to get to the UFC belt level. It’s not my job to wait for him or open the doors up for him. He’s great. He’s a great fighter. I take my hat off to him. I’m a big fan of his. But it’s not up to me to say, ‘Oh, wait. This guy’s next. He’s next.’ My job it to beat whoever they put in front of me.”
Speaking of Pettis’ spot on the 155-pound totem pole, UFC president Dana White tentatively dubbed him the division’s top contender after putting Joe Lauzon to sleep at UFC 144. However, Nate Diaz abruptly stole the moniker after submitting Jim Miller in May.
Shortly after Thursday’s media gathering wrapped, Pettis caught wind that his name flying around the presser and quickly responded to Cowboy’s claims.
“If u want to fight me you dnt have to be a bitch and make up lies @cowboycerrone ill show you why I was the champ and u weren’t!” the WEC’s last lightweight title holder tweeted.
FYI – Pettis will be sitting front and center inside Pepsi Center in Denver to watch Saturday’s show.
Source: http://www.5thRound.com/125175/anthony-pettis-steals-spotlight-at-ufc-150-press-conference/
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