Dana White Gives Cryptic Response When Asked About Yair Rodriguez

It looks all but certain that 2020 is going to come and go without Yair Rodriguez fighting. But, based on what Dana White had to say about the featherweight on Saturday, it sounds like ‘Pantera’s’ short term future is unclear.

White offers cryptic response when asked about Rodriguez

The 28-year-old Rodriguez hasn’t fought since last October, when recorded a decision win over Jeremy Stephens. ‘Pantera’ was supposed to fight Zabit Magomedsharipov this past summer, but he was forced to the sidelines with a reported injury.

Well, following UFC Vegas 15 on Saturday, White was asked about the status of Rodriguez. The following exchange ensued (transcript via BJ Penn.com).

Report:…He’s posting on social media that he’s training fully now and that he’s totally recovered from the injury.
White (to UFC executive offstage): Have we not talked publicly about that? Why not? Yeah. Huh? (To reporters) I don’t think he’s going to fight soon.
Reporter: Is he hurt?
White: No.
Reporter: Does it have to be so mysterious?
White: We didn’t announce it. I don’t know why we didn’t, but yeah. I don’t know what the deal is. It’s actually none of my business what’s going on there. So when it comes out, it will come out.
Reporter: Is this now Hunter Campbell’s business?
White: No. It’s none of our business. None of the UFC’s business. When they figure it out, they’ll let us know.
Reporter: Did he decline the offer to fight?
White: Did he? No, that would be my business. Any other questions? Good night. Thank you.

Speculation?

So, it certainly sounds like something is happening, behind the scenes here. If the issue were solely related to Rodriguez turning down a fight, or contractual issues etc., White would likely say so (as he noted).

It’s also possible that some sort of miscommunication has occurred. But, as it stands right now, it doesn’t look like we’re going to see Rodriguez fighting anytime soon.

The dynamic striker has gone 8-1, with 1 no-contest to date in the UFC.