Belfort: I did not withdraw, that was UFC’s decision
Vitor Belfort: “I never gave up fighting at UFC 173 and never said that. Therefore, any information published in any medium of communication announcing this is not true.”
Last night huge news was announced on FOX Sport’s Live that Vitor Belfort withdrew from UFC 173 and Lyoto Machida would now face Chris Weidman.
It is true, but not exactly how it was announced according to an announcement from Belfort today on his Facebook page, (translated by Google):
“I never gave up fighting at UFC 173 and never said that. Therefore, any information published in any medium of communication announcing this is not true.
What was announced that I’ll be “giving up the TRT” and not “giving up the fight” to continue my dream of fighting.
The UFC decided to put another opponent in my place because I do not have the required time to adapt myself to the new rules of the NSAC. According to the UFC, will face the winner of Weidman vs. Lyoto within the new regulations of all athletic commissions.
I regret that this happened, and I thank the strength and understanding of all the fans, sponsors, and UFC’s own athletic commissions. “
Vitor Belfort