Robbie Lawler is set to defend his belt against Rory McDonald at UFC 189 in July.
McDonald (18-2) was originally promised a crack at the belt if he defeated Tarec Saffiedine (which he did) only for the UFC to make a U-turn and instead offer the fight to Johny Hendricks. But after Hendricks said he wanted to fight sooner and McDonald’s new opponent, Hector Lombard, tested positive for steroids, the Canadian will now get his opportunity after all.
In what is already shaping up to be a tremendous card, the Welterweight bout will be the co-main event, with Jose Aldo and Conor McGregor tangling for the Featherweight crown at the top of the bill.
The fight will be the first defence for ‘Ruthless,’ and he said he’s determined to keep hold of the title he worked so hard to win:” “I’m making sure the next time I fight I defend the belt and stay champion. Obviously, it’s awesome to win that championship belt, but I was looking forward to defending it for the first time as soon as I got it. That’s what I’m striving for.”
The fight was announced by Dana White during a press conference on Wednesday.
This article was brought to you by Darryl Rigby, follow Darryl on twitter @DarrylVoderman
