The serious injury to Jiri Prochazka, who gave up the light heavyweight belt (up to 93kg) and the Jan Blachowicz e Magomed Ankalayev to compete for the vacant division title in the main event of the UFC 282 surprised not only MMA fans, but also Glover Teixeira, who would face the Czech in a rematch for the title of champion at the event on December 10th.
Moments after the turnaround was confirmed, the Brazilian gave an exclusive interview to SUPER FIGHTS, revealed how he found out about the changes and explained why he was left out of the fight for the light heavyweight belt.
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“I found out just now. An hour ago my manager called me. I was offered Ankalaev because Jiri (Prochazka) was injured. It's a totally different style. We have been doing camp for Jiri for months and I asked for more time. I asked to fight Ankalaev in Brazil, because I would have two or three more weeks to do a camp more focused on this guy. I'm 43 years old and I depend a lot on strategy, putting on the perfect fight. I really want to bring the belt to Brazil. I think I deserved it, but they just said the fight had to be in Las Vegas. I said I would accept fighting in Vegas against Jan (Blachowicz), because I've already fought with him and it's a style I've trained for. Ankalaev is left-handed, totally different. (…) They said that I already beat Blachowicz and that he is 39 years old. Then the guy is making fun of me. And I'm 43? But they didn’t agree,” said Glover.
Without hiding discontent, Glover Teixeira stated that the history he built in Ultimate over the last ten years should have been taken into consideration in the organization's decision-making, which he considered disrespectful.
“I felt a little disrespected for what I've done in the company. A little sad about the situation. Why not give me this fight with Jan? It's a fight that would sell more than his fight with Ankalaev. No disrespect to Ankalaev, but he's a guy who isn't that well-known. Honestly, I don't understand. (…) “They discarded me because of two weeks. I wanted to fight in Brazil and they just did it. I'm very upset. For the first time I'm upset with the UFC”, declared the former champion.
Even unhappy with the solution found by the UFC, Glover Teixeira guarantees that he is waiting to compete for the title against the winner of the duel between Magomed Ankalayev e Jan Blachowicz.
“Now we have to wait for the winner. I'm first in line and I'll fight the winner of one of the two. The UFC didn't say anything, but it's obvious. Who are they going to put in?”, asked the Brazilian.
Finally, demonstrating that even in difficult times he can maintain some of his famous good humor, Glover Teixeira refused to comment on the outcome of the fight between Ankalaev and Blachowicz.
“F*** it. I don’t care about that shit right now (laughs)”
