Former UFC middleweight champion Michael Bisping has admitted he agrees with Justin Gaethje rejecting a potential fight with Conor McGregor.
‘The Highlight‘ put on a career-best performance at UFC 291 last Saturday, emerging victorious against fellow American fighter Dustin Poirier in a bid for the promotion’s infamous BMF belt. Gaethje delivered a devastating head-kick to his octagon counterpart which subsequently earned him a second-round KO win, following a relatively-even first five minutes in which both fighters landed a number of powerful strikes.
After having his hands officially risen in triumph, the 34-year-old called for a third shot at the Lightweight title against the winner of Islam Makhachev vs. Charles Oliveira 2. This bout is set to take place at UFC 294 in October.
McGregor’s Call-Out
Despite eyeing the 155 lbs belt, there may be another possible avenue for Gaethje’s next fight: Conor McGregor.
The Irish superstar took to Twitter immediately after UFC 291’s main event, taunting the BMF belt-holder.
Gaethje was asked about ‘Mystic Mac‘s call-out at the official UFC 291 post-fight press conference and shut down the possibility of a bout between the two.
He told reporters: “You know, I don’t really care. Whatever. I fight MMA. You know, I like to fight big fights. I like exciting things. So, it sounds pretty exciting to me. I’m not gonna fight someone on steroids. I’ve never taken steroids in my life and never will. Well, maybe when I retire, I might.
“But, I’ve never taken steroids, and I don’t want to fight someone that is cheating. So, I probably shouldn’t even say that if I want to fight, but it’s the truth.”
Englishman Michael Bisping is in agreeance with Gaethje’s stance on the matter, although praised McGregor for his ability to remain in the limelight.
“He got asked about Conor McGregor,” Bisping said on his podcast. “Conor McGregor was tweeting him and talking shit like he always does, he does a good job of keeping himself very relevant even though he hasn’t fought in quite some time. Justin shot it down big time and I agree with him.”
Michael Bisping Further Explained
Some have claimed that Gaethje’s decision to snub ‘The Notorious‘ offer may be foolish, given the scale of a potential fight. It may also be seen as a negotiation tactic, or fuel to the fire if the duo were ever to meet in the octagon.
‘The Count‘ continued to express how he feels chasing a title shot would be more beneficial for the American, and could look towards a super-fight versus McGregor in the future.
Bisping said: “No, I don’t [think it’s a negotiation tactic]. I think that’s legitimate.
“I think he spoke about it last year or earlier this year, he wants to be the champ and he wants to defend the belt a few times and then retire. Getting sidetracked with a fight with Conor McGregor, that allows the title conversation to continue elsewhere.”
The 44-year-old continued: “If he wins or beats his Islam Makhachev or Charles Oliveira, regardless who the champion is after Abu Dhabi happens, then he’ll get those big paydays anyway.
“He might be able to fight Conor McGregor as champion or whoever it is, which would be pretty nice. Red panty nights everywhere. But, you wanna focus on the legacy and then let the money follow afterwards, if possible. So, yeah, I agree with him.
“[Gaethje] cemented himself as the number one contender, without a shadow of a doubt.”
MMA enthusiasts worldwide will have to wait and see who the BMF belt-holder will next face in the octagon.
Do you agree with the comments of Michael Bisping? Is Justin Gaethje risking a shot at the title with a fight against Conor McGregor? Please leave your comments below.
Featured image credits to Embed from Getty Images
