Dana White Says Michael Bisping Has to Defend Title “Against The #1 Contender”

If you’re a big time fan of Yoel Romero, and have been concerned the ridiculously dangerous fighter might get passed over for a title shot, well, it sounds like you can rest easy.

Romero is coming off a highlight reel, flying knee stoppage of former middleweight champ Chris Weidman, and has won eight straight. As a result, the decorated wrestler is ranked #1 in the 185 division and he’s expected to challenge the champ Michael Bisping next.

While the latter has said he’s willing to fight Romero, Bisping has also made it clear that he wants a big money fight. As a result, some have wondered if say the return of someone like Georges St-Pierre, could result in Romero missing out.

Well, White was a guest on the UFC’s “Unfiltered” podcast recently, and the promotion’s president had this to say about Romero (quote via Bloody Elbow):

“Yoel Romero’s been floating out there a long time waiting for a title shot. Bisping wanted to do that grudge match with Dan Henderson.”

“It was going to be Dan Henderson’s last fight. I’ve always shown Henderson the respect I felt he deserved. He’s a guy who’s fought everybody out there. So we did that fight and he’s got to defend his title now against the No. 1 contender.”

“If you look at what Romero did to Chris Weidman, he absolutely deserves the shot.”

So there you have it. Now sure, there’s still a chance something could go down, and Romero won’t get his shot at the belt. But it certainly sounds like Bisping will be facing Romero next.

Bisping recently underwent minor knee surgery and he’s not expected to return to action until the second quarter of 2017.