V. Belfort (photo) faces Weidman in December. Photo: Josh Hedges/UFC
Last Wednesday (23), despite having been caught with high testosterone levels in a surprise exam in February, in a series of events that culminated in the banning of Testosterone Replacement Treatment (TRT) from MMA, the Brazilian Vitor belfort was cleared to fight in Las Vegas by the Nevada Athletic Commission. After the hearing and confirmation of his status as a challenger for the middleweight belt in December, when he faces Chris Weidman At UFC 181, Belfort commented on what happened, defended himself from criticism for obtaining the license and commented on how his preparation has been without the hormone replacement therapy he underwent.
“First, I did not have any illegal substances in my body. Nothing was wrong. Everyone knew I was doing TRT. Nevada knew this. I could have refused (to take the surprise exam) because I didn't have a license at the time and they asked me to take it. People made this a big problem. I'm glad it's not anymore. People said I was this and that, that I was using steroids. I wasn’t using steroids, I was doing TRT”, said the Brazilian, in an interview with the podcast “The MMA Hour”. “When you are undergoing treatment, your level goes out (of normal) and this has become a big problem. I wasn't cheating at all. I spent a lot of money on tests on myself. It is what it is. It's over. No more TRT. Now it is TNT (quantification of energy released by explosions)”, he added.
Vitor also disagreed with those who insist on doubting Weidman's capabilities as a champion and stated that a UFC belt holder does not reach such a position just by luck. “He has great skills. To be a UFC champion, he can't just be lucky. He deserves respect and I respect him, but I don't see anyone else winning that night in my visions. I am confident in myself and my abilities”, he analyzed.
Finally, when asked about which areas he could beat the champion in December, Belfort showed extreme confidence and was direct. "Everywhere. It's not the best man who wins, he's the one who plays the best. I am focused on developing myself. It's a work ethic. I'm fighting in another dimension, so it's like I'm facing myself every day to get better. Whoever steps in that cage, whoever is on the other side of that cage, I'm going to win. This is how this sport has to be. You have to be confident, but not overconfident and arrogant. I have confidence in myself”, assured the “Phenomenon”.
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