McKenzie (photo) spoke out against the UFC. Photo: Josh Hedges/UFC
The last week has been marked by demonstrations of dissatisfaction from some fighters towards the UFC. A few days after confirming a formal process against the organization for monopoly, it was the turn of former Ultimate fighter Cody McKenzie to harshly criticize the management of Dana White and his partners, whom he accuses of putting politics above sport and not providing athletes with the conditions to earn a minimally profitable living through fights.
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A participant in TUF 12 and with seven fights in the Octagon under his belt, between 2010 and 2013, McKenzie recently announced his retirement from fighting only at the age of 27. The North American says he was unable to earn money as a fighter and was disgusted with the working conditions he had at the UFC. “I never made a dime in the UFC. I've fought for it for years and I don't see the point in continuing. I would compete if I won money. I didn't get into it for the money, but at the same time, I've reached a certain age where I need to grow up. I want to have a real house, like everyone else. And I can't have that unless I'm a top 10”, said McKenzie, in an interview with the North American website “Bleacher Report”.
For McKenzie, the UFC does not value certain athletes because of the sporting aspect. “The UFC is the top of the sport and unless you're sucking up to Dana, you don't make any money. I see these guys who have 4-5 or 3-0 records, and I wonder, 'Who the hell are these guys?' They are ass kissers. I never flattered anyone, and I lost space because of it. The UFC takes care of some guys who suck up, but that's not me. I never respected Dana White, and I still don't. I think he's a greedy idiot and I'm glad they're being sued," he continued.
Amidst the criticism, it was left to UFC's new signing, CM Punk, who will make his MMA debut after a long career in the telecatch. “Just look at this guy, CM Punk. It's all politics, and I'm sick of it. I know I can fight. I would beat up CM Punk, but nobody cares because he's rich and famous. That's what people want to see, this guy. I have nothing against him personally, but sport is pure politics”, he added.
McKenzie retired from MMA with a record of 15 wins and six losses. Known for his sharp guillotine choke (a move he used to win 11 of his fights), the American has faced names like Chad Mendes, Leonard Garcia, Sam stout and Brazilian Vagner “Ceará” Rocha.
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