Cris Cyborg has been under Zuffa contract in the hopes that she would drop to 135lb. to fight then champ Ronda Rousey. Meanwhile she has been fighting in Invicta. With Ronda losing, that fight isn't worth what it was. So what does Zuffa do with Cyborg? About a month ago, she asked to be on UFC 198 on May 14 because the show is in her home town of Curitiba, Brazil at the Arena da Baxaida. Today the UFC ended the rampant speculation today by announcing that Leslie Smith will face Cyborg at a catchweight of 140lb. Leslie just won over Rin Nakai. UFC President Dana White claimed today that Leslie was the only fighter who would take the fight. I don't buy that because I doubt the UFC would allow a highly ranked fighter to take this fight. And we don't know who else it was offered to. Leslie has never fought at a weight heavier than 135 so she is fighting at a big size disadvantage. I don't expect Leslie to last very long. I have no problem with Cyborg being on this show because she's a draw in her home town. But I would have brought in a non-UFC 145lb fighter. The result would be the same and I would not ask a 135lb contract fighter to take this fight. It's just not worth it.
I agree with you. Leslie will not last long against Cyborg. Another, heavier fighter, UFC or non UFC would have been a better choice. Cyborg will win anyways pleasing her hometown fans. I just hope Leslie does not get badly hurt and or injured. The risk is not worth it. Right on all points Frank.
ReplyDelete