Ben Askren made his UFC debut at UFC 235, scoring a controversial win over former UFC Welterweight Champion Robbie Lawler by first round submission.
A victorious Askren hasn’t been the most respectful of fighters after that win according to Jorge Masvidal, so Masvidal would like Askren to show the former champion some proper respect.
“He’s a little groupie, man,” Masvidal told MMA Junkie. “He’s calling my name. Who are you? Herb Dean gifted you a win and you’re calling people out? Give Robbie Lawler the respect you owe.”
Askren is expected to be in the building at UFC Fight Night London to challenge the winner of the main event, which Masvidal is a part of.
Masvidal says the way that Askren has handled the situation post-UFC 235 shows a lack of character.
“As a man, as a fighter, having pride in what I do, I choke somebody out, or I think choke them out, but when I see the replay and see the guy put the thumbs up, in my head, I would say, ‘Man, I didn’t choke this guy out,'” Masvidal said. “And as a man, having pride, I would say, ‘Let’s do it again,’ especially after he (expletive) decapitated me on the slam, busted up my face. ‘Let’s go it again,’ because I definitely didn’t choke you out. Because I’ve never seen nobody go to sleep like this. That’s the first. But that’s how much of a weasel and coward he is. No, no, I’m gone already. I wouldn’t dare repeat that route again. That just shows you his character. He’s a (expletive).”
UFC Fight Night London takes place on Saturday, March 16 from the 02 Arena in London, England with Darren Till and Jorge Masvidal headlining. Fightful is providing live coverage of the event, which streams live on ESPN+.
