Paul Craig: Illegal Move & No Contest Admission
- Paul Craig's recent fight against Bellato concluded in a no contest, a frustrating outcome for Craig, who was looking to rebound from a three-loss streak.
- Craig admitted the situation was "raw" but hesitated to accuse his opponent of intentionally taking a dive.
- He emphasized his improved physical condition and his desire to make a important impact in the division.
Craig-Bellato Bout Ends in No Contest; Craig considers Future Role
Paul Craig’s recent fight against Bellato concluded in a no contest, a frustrating outcome for Craig, who was looking to rebound from a three-loss streak. the fight, also the last of his UFC contract, ended due to an illegal move. Craig expressed disappointment but hopes for a rematch to solidify his role in the light-heavyweight division.
Craig admitted the situation was “raw” but hesitated to accuse his opponent of intentionally taking a dive. He observed Bellato’s disoriented state after the illegal knee. Craig also acknowledged his own part in the incident, stating that blame shouldn’t solely fall on Bellato.
Despite the disappointing end, Craig remains optimistic. He emphasized his improved physical condition and his desire to make a important impact in the division. He believes he was performing well, landing shots effectively before the unfortunate conclusion.
“I don’t want to think any fighter is looking for an easy way out in this sport… But I can see where people are looking at it and think it looks a bit floppish, like he’s maybe taking a dive,” Craig said.
craig views the no contest as preferable to another defeat. He remains focused on a potential rematch with Bellato. If a rematch doesn’t materialize, Craig is open to facing any light-heavyweight opponent the UFC offers. He even expressed confidence in potentially repeating his 2018 victory over current champion Magomed Ankalaev, given the opportunity to showcase his role as a top contender.
What’s next
Craig is focused on securing a rematch with Bellato or facing another top contender in the light-heavyweight division to prove his capabilities and cement his role in the UFC.