By Michael Owens
Georges St-Pierre has announced he is taking an indefinite leave of absence from the sport and vacating his UFC welterweight championship.
Multiple sources announced the news after a conference call with Dana White and GSP earlier today (friday).
The former champion states that he was physically healthy, but needs the break because of mental pressures of being champion. Its report added Dana White said he completely supports GSP’s decision.
GSP broke just about every single record in the welterweight division during a title reign spanning 12 fights. He leaves the Octagon with a 25-2 record, with 20 of those wins coming in the UFC, including 12 consecutive victories.
His last fight was a controversial split-decision win over Johny Hendricks at UFC 167 last month.
With ‘Rush’ gone, Hendricks is set to get another chance to claim the title, this time against Robbie Lawler at UFC 171 in March.
White also announced plans to find Carlos Condit on the card against an opponent to be determined.
After that earth-shattering news, UFC 171 looks set to be an unbelievable night of fights. This is the line-up so far:
UFC welterweight championship – Johny Hendricks vs. Robbie Lawler
Carlos Condit vs. TBA
Hector Lombard vs. Jake Shields
Myles Jury vs. Diego Sanchez
Ovince St. Preux vs. Thiago Silva
Robert McDaniel vs. Tor Troeng
Alex Garcia vs. Sean Spencer
