White: Jose Aldo doesn't want to fight Anthony Petttis in August

Shortly after UFC On Fox 6, the UFC surprised many by announcing a cross-divisional fight featuring Anthony Pettis challenging Jose Aldo for the Featherweight title. Pettis was coming off first round finishes over highly ranked Donald Cerrone and Joe Lauzon, but was willing to drop to 145 to fight Aldo. While there was some controversy, the anticipation overrode most complaints.

However, following the UFC 157 press conference Dana white revealed to Ariel Helwani that the 145 lb. champ didn't like the match up:

Dana just said Aldo told him he is refusing up flight Pettis because he doesn't think he deserves it.

— Ariel Helwani (@arielhelwani) February 24, 2013

Dana said Aldo will fight Pettis or he's not going to like the way this turns out. He's absolutely refusing right now.

— Ariel Helwani (@arielhelwani) February 24, 2013

It's hard to argue with Aldo that Pettis's accomplishments at Lightweight have earned him the right to challenge for the Featherweight title. And regardless of Dana's threats he can't force Aldo to sign a contract. The only leverage he holds is refusing to schedule the 145 lb. champion.

Latest From Our Partners

• MMA Fighters on the Hot Seat (BR)
• Most Indestructible UFC Fighters (BR)
• Top UFC Moments From Past Februarys(BR)
• Top 10 Weakest Punchers From MMA (BR)
• Best Knockouts of the Year so Far (BR)
• Top Moments From Matt Hughes' Career (BR)