In a recent episode of Good Guy / Bad Guy, former UFC champion Daniel Cormier advocated for the creation of a new UFC weight class, the ‘Super-Lightweight’ division, with a 165-pound limit.
Cormier’s proposal comes ahead of the highly anticipated matchup between Conor McGregor and Michael Chandler at UFC 303, slated for June 29.
Daniel Cormier says that the UFC should introduce a 'Super-Lightweight' division with a 165-pound limit, and Conor McGregor vs Michael Chandler should fight for the title at #UFC303
🎥 Good Guy / Bad Guy #UFC #MMA pic.twitter.com/GJ0a17j6Sm
— Championship Rounds (@ChampRDS) April 23, 2024
Cormier emphasized the significance of the McGregor-Chandler bout, highlighting McGregor’s return to the octagon after more than two years and Chandler’s opportunity to capitalize on the timing of the fight.
“If they’re going to do a 165-pound division, it should have a name attached to the weight class that is so big that it draws people’s attention,” Cormier explained. “Conor McGregor being that name… these guys would then fight for the super lightweight championship of the world.”
While Cormier’s proposal is not novel, with many UFC athletes advocating for a 165-pound weight class in the past, it has faced resistance from UFC President Dana White.
However, Cormier believes that McGregor and Chandler’s upcoming fight presents an opportune moment to push for the creation of a new division.
In response to Cormier’s proposal, his co-host Chael Sonnen expressed skepticism, citing regulatory challenges and the fighters’ recent records.
Sonnen argued against the necessity of a 165-pound title and suggested that the fighters’ combined recent losses undermine the significance of competing for such a belt.
The debate over introducing a 165-pound division in the UFC has long been contentious, with proponents advocating for increased opportunities for fighters stuck between lightweight and welterweight. While Cormier’s proposal adds momentum to the discussion, the final decision ultimately rests with the UFC and its leadership.
