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Yesterday, UFC middleweight Derek Brunson tried a unique tactic in an attempt to secure a bout with former champion Michael Bisping. While respectfully calling him out on Twitter, he included the last page of a UFC bout agreement that seemed to imply he was offered the bout with Bisping and had signed off on it:
Dear @bisping,
— Derek Brunson (@DerekBrunson) February 20, 2018
You’re no easy fight. Obviously you’re ranked ahead of me... it only makes sense for a #6 being you and #7 being me to fight. Upside for both of us. The top half of the division is older than us both stop crying. You aren’t going anywhere, neither am I. pic.twitter.com/3mTRfZqKns
Today, Bisping was having none of it.
On the most recent episode of UFC Tonight, co-host Bisping talked to Kenny Florian about the idea - and shot it down emphatically.
Michael @Bisping addresses @DerekBrunson's call out for a fight, including that signed bout agreement! https://t.co/AuqEV2y22q
— FOX Sports: UFC (@UFCONFOX) February 22, 2018
“Photoshop is a fantastic thing, because I have not been offered a fight with ‘Derelict’ Brunson. The reason I say ‘Derelict’ Brunson is, I think he’s still a shadow of his former self after getting knocked out against Jacare (Souza) recently. Derek, you’re a good guy, you’re making moves, but I’ve got bigger fish to fry. I mean, I don’t even know whose bout agreement that is. Derek, good try!”
Bisping (30-9, 20-9 UFC has lost two bouts in a row, dropping his title to Georges St-Pierre in November and then getting knocked out by Kelvin Gastelum a few weeks later. He has stated he wanted one more bout before he retires, but it remains unclear who that will be against.
As for Brunson, it looks like he’ll have to go back to the drawing board to find a new opponent.
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