Woodley complains about the UFC: “I’m the worst treated champion in history”

Woodley is the current welterweight champion. (Photo: Getty Images)

Tyron woodley is not at all satisfied with Ultimate. And the person who reveals this is the fighter himself. In an interview with “ESPN” (USA), the organization's welterweight champion complained about the way he has been treated, claiming that he does not receive the respect that, according to him, he deserved. With the revenge against Stephen Thompson scheduled for UFC 209, March 4th, he promises to respond to his bosses inside the Octagon.

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“I am by far the worst treated champion in UFC history. When March 4th comes, I will advance my legacy and continue what I am doing”, declared Woodley, adding that he does not understand why the company does not give him more space in promotions.

“I'm a husband, father of four, gym owner, actor, commentator, stuntman, Christian... Whichever way you go, I'm there. I grew up on the outskirts of gangs, I'm from a family of 14 and I made the choice to be successful. Why not promote me? I'm fighting like hell. I’ve never used anabolic steroids in my life… Why don’t they promote me?”, he said.

The American also caused controversy by insinuating a supposed lack of opportunities for black people in sport. As an example, he cited the flyweight champion Demetrious Johnson and the former light heavyweight belt holder, Jon Jones.

“The best fighter pound for pound, Demetrious Johnson, African-American man is a real Tasmanian devil. Why doesn't he have the big contracts? Why isn't he making more money? What is the difference? Think about it. The second, Jon Jones, stepped on a banana peel, I recognize he is their own worst enemy, but they can't wait and throw him under the bus. People of different races have so many different chances,” concluded Tyron.

Woodley, 34 years old, became champion of the category by defeating Robbie Lawler at UFC 201, in July 2016, by knockout in the first round. With 16 wins and just three losses in his career, he hasn't known what it's like to lose since 2014, when he was surpassed by Rory McDonald in the unanimous decision of the judges. In Ultimate, there are six positive results, two negative results and one draw.