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To the surprise of many, Dana White is not against the idea of Chris Weidman defending his middleweight title against Vitor Belfort in Brazil.
The UFC President joined members of the media at the pre-fight scrum, where he expressed his firm interest in booking the title fight, even though the Brazilian is yet to get licensed by the Nevada State Athletic Commission.
"We want to make that fight happen," White said. "That's the next fight. That fight should've already happened before the Machida. That's the fight we want to do and that's the fight that Chris Weidman wants. I love this kid calling out Vitor. The champ wants to fight Vitor Belfort, man. I don't blame him, I would too."
Belfort was subjected to a random drug test administered by the NSAC three weeks before his removal from the UFC 173 main event. The commission would soon take the decision to ban TRT in combat sports, which helped create the domino effect that ultimately saw Belfort removed from the title fight. His replacement was Lyoto Machdia, who challenged the champ at UFC 175 in a five-round battle.
Although Belfort is yet to sort out his licensure in North America, White believes the fight could take place in Brazil, as it would be well received in that country.
"It doesn't have to take place in Nevada. That fight would be big in Brazil, too. I would do it Brazil. As long as the commission clears him, yeah. We'd want the okay from Nevada, and if Nevada was cool with it, I'd do it in Brazil."
The former light-heavyweight champion is scheduled as a part of the NSAC's July 23rd meeting, which will determine whether he will be given a license to fight in the state.
Transcription taken from MMAFighting.com.