Raphael Assuncao Still Campaigning For A Shot At The Bantamweight Title
Top bantamweight contender Raphael Assuncao is still pursuing a shot against T.J. Dillashaw for his UFC title despite the odds not being in his favor:
“I was not confident that they would give me the title shot. Unfortunately, they might do an immediate rematch, which is bad for me,” Assuncao told MMAFighting.com. “I beat the champion already and I deserve the title shot. It makes sense.
They have yet to get back to me on this,” he continued. “I sent the UFC my exams 10 days ago and they didn’t get back to me yet. I’m still waiting.”
The Brazilian unquestionably deserves a crack at the belt with him being on the longest current win streak in the division and the only man with a win over the champion. However, it looks like the UFC are planning on booking Dillashaw vs. Barão II despite the fact that the champ has also said Assuncao should be next in line.
The pair fought back in October and Assuncao took a split-decision win after three close rounds of fighting which earned both men “Fight of the Night” bonuses. The 31-year just hopes UFC president Dana White changes his mind and gives him the next shot at the title.
“Anything can happen,” Assuncao said. “It’s a fight that makes sense. Barao was the champion and became more popular in Brazil, but he’s not that popular here in the United States. I don’t think Dillashaw vs. Barao would be that different from Dillashaw vs. Assuncao in terms of sales. I deserve my shot.”
Assuncao is now back in training after suffering a rib injury while training to face Barão at UFC 173. If he doesn’t get the next shot at the title he doesn’t know what the promotion will have install for him next.
“I see many possible scenarios,” he said. “If the (Dillashaw) fight doesn’t happen, I will sit with my team and study the possibilities.”
Who do you guys think Dillashaw should fight next?
