The UFC Won’t Accommodate Georges St-Pierre Superfight Plans

Superfights mean big money in the world of mixed martial arts. MMA pay-per-views do generate significant dollars. Just look at the massive revenues generated by the Ultimate Fighting Championship promotion. Apparently, UFC president Dana White is happy with current revenue levels. White noted he has zero interest in booking a battle between Georges St-Pierre and the winner of the Khabib Nurmagomedov vs. Conor McGregor bout.

Georges St-Pierre remains a legend in the UFC fight ranks. He held titles in two different weight categories. Now, he St-Pierre sees the opportunity to win a championship in the third. Dana White wants nothing to do with such matchmaking. In a recent interview, White said St-Pierre wishes to book himself for superfights instead of defending titles. White noted St-Pierre could make more money fighting as a “special attraction” in unique matches. However, neither White nor the UFC wishes to accommodate St-Pierre’s intentions.

White isn’t thrilled about St-Pierre vacating titles and moving up weight classes without a defense. UFC cards need rearranging when events like these occur. Granted, St-Pierre suffered a severe medical issue that led to a leave of absence.

A hyped super fight does sell tickets, but White likely doesn’t want other champions feeling they aren’t obligated to defend titles. Championships and entire weight divisions would lose credibility if champions consistently vacated titles without consequence. Fighters can make requests for matches or pitch ideas, but the final decision rests with the promoters. Promoters with an eye on long-term success won’t book short-term money-making superfights that eventually harm the promotion.

While St-Pierre’s career and accomplishments make him a natural choice for the UFC Hall of Fame, Dana White must do what is best for the entire company. He cannot give too much preference to one fighter. Fans may be a bit disappointed here. St-Pierre vs. McGregor or Nurmagomedov would be an exciting fight.