Scott Coker watched what Cyborg went through during her time in the UFC and he believes the promotion never intended to properly build a women’s featherweight division.
“I don’t think the UFC ever had an intention to start a 145-pound weight class,” Coker told MMA Junkie. “I think they wanted to be in the Cyborg business. That’s what it was. To build a division around her takes time and effort. You’ve got to go out and sign the people and nurture the fights. I think that was really one of the things that happened. They tied her up. Now, she’s free. Now, she’s here.”
As of this writing, only five fighters are listed in the UFC Women’s Featherweight Division roster on UFC.com and there are no rankings for the division in place.
Cyborg is challenging Budd for the title this weekend and Coker believes that there are some out there who are doubting the champ’s chances against Cyborg.
“We have a lot of girls she can fight and it starts with Julia Budd, who by the way looks like she’s in amazing shape,” Coker said. “She’s going to come and bring it. I tell everyone, ‘Don’t underestimate her. This girl can throw down and she’s dangerous. I’m expecting a great fight on Saturday night.”
Bellator 238 takes place on Saturday, January 25 from The Forum in Inglewood, California with Julia Budd and Cyborg headlining. Fightful is providing live coverage of the event, which streams live on DAZN.
