The interim featherweight belt is still up for grabs at UFC 206, despite the fact that Anthony Pettis missed weight.
This UFC 206 card must be cursed. It’s original main event, an exciting light heavyweight title fight rematch between champion Daniel Cormier and knockout monster Anthony Johnson fell through with DC pulling out with a groin tear.
Featherweights Max Holloway and Anthony Pettis were subsequently bumped up tot he headline act. Originally, the two warriors were set to slug it out over tree rounds, but this was increased to a five-rounder with the interim featherweight strap going on the line.
At the early weigh-ins for the event, rumours began circling that Pettis was struggling with the cut and looked like he wasn’t going to make the 145 lb limit. Holloway showed up early and made 145 with relative ease, while Pettis emerged a while later, looking visibly gaunt, tipping the scales at 148.
This card just can't catch a break #UFC206 https://t.co/awkke3zAUL
— SportsJOE (@SportsJOEdotie) December 9, 2016
“Showtime” was only allowed one shot at weighing in, meaning that he ruled himself out of fighting for a title by coming in over. When the news broke, Holloway’s team were heard negotiating with officials backstage. It was clear that both fighters still wanted to duke it out, but with Pettis unable to fight for the belt, terms needed to be decided.
Ariel Helwani of MMA Fighting, who was at the weigh-ins in Toronto is reporting that they have reached an agreement. Pettis will forfeit Holloway 20% of his purse as punishment for missing weight and while he won’t receive the belt if he wins, if Holloway emerges victorious, he will be crowned interim champion.
I'm told the fight is still on. Holloway, if he wins, gets interim title. Pettis won't if he wins. He also gives up 20% of his purse to Max.
— Ariel Helwani (@arielhelwani) December 9, 2016
