Weidman: 'If I don't knock out or submit Belfort, I'll be disappointed'

C. Weidman (photo) faces Belfort at UFC 181. Photo: Josh Hedges/UFC

Chris Weidman is not exactly known for his controversial style or blunt statements aimed at his direct opponents or potential rivals. In preparation for the fight against Vitor belfortHowever, the middleweight champion seems to have abandoned his measured behavior and opted for some provocations towards the challenger. Despite maintaining some words of respect for Belfort, Weidman made it clear that he would be frustrated if he doesn't knock out or submit the Brazilian at UFC 181, in December.

“I respect him as a fighter. I go to fight prepared for total war and ready for the best Vitor belfort that has ever been seen. I can't afford to be disrespectful to my opponent when it comes to fighting. That said, I can say that I'm going in there to finish the fight. If I don't get a knockout or submission, I'll be really disappointed” said the champion, in an interview with the North American newspaper “Newsday”.

Weidman also tried to reveal how the fight will be promoted and appeared calm regarding the questions that may arise about the Testosterone Replacement Treatment (TRT), which Belfort was undergoing. The North American took the opportunity to advise the Brazilian to have the same stance on the issue. “At this point in my career, Vitor belfort You should be used to these types of questions and comments by now. Nothing should bother you anymore. If it’s something that promotes the fight and gets the fans excited, he should take it in stride, just like me,” he concluded.

On December 6th, at Mandalay Bay, in Las Vegas (USA), Vitor belfort challenges Chris Weidman for the middleweight category belt. The duel is the main fight of UFC 181. In the co-main event of the night, Anthony Pettis defends the featherweight title against Gilbert Melendez. The clash also marks the meeting in the octagon of the coaches of the 20th season of the reality show The Ultimate Fighter.