Dana White talks UFC 103: Franklin vs Belfort fight

Published on: 1st August, 2009

Dana White talks UFC 103: Franklin vs Belfort fight | read this item

At yesterday’s UFC teleconference we did not know what to expect would be the big announcement coming into the call. We all knew that Tito Ortiz return was a strong possibility and so was the announcement of ESPN airing the UFC in the U.K. We knew the signing of some of the Affliction fighters was also possible, but we did not know that White would officially announce a new main event for UFC 103 that would feature former Light Heavyweight champion Vitor Belfort.

White spoke about why the UFC decided to change the main event bout from Franklin vs Henderson to Franklin vs Belfort.

“When we announced that Rich Franklin was fighting Dan Henderson, there was some backlash, and people didn’t like it,” said White. “So we went out and just signed Vitor Belfort. The fans didn’t like the card, we changed it and it’s now Rich Franklin vs Vitor Belfort headlining in Dallas.”

White also spoke about aquiring the contract of the former champion after the collapse of Affliction as a MMA promoter.

“Vitor’s been on a streak again, and he’s back mentally and physically,” said White. “His contract came up and we were interested. I’ve been hinting around at bringing him back, we got it done and it worked out. I think him and Rich is a fun fight.”

We know fans are a lot happier now that they won’t have to pay for a fight they saw 8 months ago. We know we are as well. It appears the UFC really listened to fans complaints and made it their business to make sure they made the best fight possible to headline UFC 103.

Alberto Martinez "The Narcisist" is the founding owner of URDirt.com. If you would like to post on the front page or in our New "Fan Jab" section all you need to do is register. Read more from this author