Anthony Pettis Believes He’s a Better Fighter Now Than When he Was UFC Champ

Although it’s been several years since Anthony Pettis was the UFC’s lightweight champ, and he’s incurred multiple losses during that time, “Showtime” believes he’s a better fighter today.

Pettis says he’s a better fighter now than when he was champion

Back in 2014, when Pettis was sitting atop the UFC’s lightweight champ, the highlight reel striker was widely regarded to be one of the best, pound-for-pound fighters. At one point, Dana White argued that Pettis was the top mixed-martial-artist on the planet.

But, in 2015, Rafael dos Anjos buzzed the MMA world by cruising to a clear-cut, unanimous decision win over Pettis. Since that loss, Pettis has gone 5-7, while competing at lightweight, featherweight and welterweight.

This past weekend, Pettis ended a two-fight losing skid by working his way to a split decision win over Donald Cerrone at UFC 249.

While speaking to the media afterward, Pettis had this to say, while talking about the fighter he is today, compared to when he was champion (quote via MMA Junkie).

“I’m better than I was when I won the belt. I think each part of your career requires a new version of yourself, and I’m finding the version that makes sense.

When I was 155, I wasn’t as good – but I didn’t give a (expletive). I still don’t care. ‘Cowboy’ is a beast and I took him on 21 days’ notice – I’ll fight anyone. That’s where I think I’ve been finding my mixed results.”

So, considering Pettis has lost more bouts than he’s won, since he was champ, is this possible? It’s an interesting question.

Well, since Pettis is 33 years old now, some might question whether he’s as fast and agile today, compared to when he was champion. On the other hand, one would certainly think that over the last five-plus years, Pettis has honed his skills and learned more techniques. 

Pettis talks future

All that aside, it will be interesting to see what comes next for the Milwaukee star. While talking about his hopes for the future, Pettis said this.

“Me and (head coach) Duke (Roufus) sat down and talked about it: After this fight, let’s figure out what’s our real career path.

Where do we want to go, and stick to that – not who’s the next big guy in line, who will give me a title shot. Because that’s what I’ve been doing and we’ve seen what that’s gotten me: mixed results. ”

There you have it. So, will we see Pettis competing at welterweight? Where his last two victories have come? 

Pettis currently carries a record of 23-10.