Assunção understands Cruz's choice for a title fight: 'It's difficult to say he doesn't deserve it'

R. Assunção (photo) is looking for his seventh consecutive victory. Photo: Josh Hedges/UFC

For the third time in a row, Raphael Assunção is having to deal with the frustration of being left out in the UFC's choice regarding the next challenger for the bantamweight belt. The Brazilian has won six consecutive victories since moving down to the 61 kg division, including one over the current champion, TJ Dillashaw.

He would be scheduled to face the then champion, Renan Barao, at UFC 173, in May, but was unable to fight due to a rib injury. Months later, he was passed over to fight for the title with the rematch between Barão and Dillashaw scheduled for UFC 177, which did not end up happening due to the Brazilian's health problem. And this time, the choice for the next challenger should be the former champion Dominick Cruz, who returned to action with a vengeance at UFC 178.

Assunção reiterated his opinion that he should be the next to face Dillashaw, but showed understanding of the UFC's choice. “It’s hard to say he doesn’t deserve it. But it's hard to say I don't deserve it, too. Anyway, I don't know. Is he more popular? He was the champion. I'm happy for him, he deserves it. But that doesn’t change the fact that I think I’m the next challenger because of my consistency”, said the Brazilian, in an interview with the website of the North American broadcaster “FOX Sports”.

However, Assunção denied being saddened by recent events. “I wouldn’t say I’m upset. It's hard to find the right words. I'm not upset, just motivated. I’m staying focused on the test I have,” he said, referring to the fight he will have with Bryan caraway at UFC Fight Night 54, this Saturday (4), in Canada.