Dana White Says UFC Could Explore Signing Ben Askren, ONE FC Champ Thanks “Master” in Response
By FCF Staff
Following Ben Askren’s championship victory at ONE FC 19, Dana White has said the UFC could explore signing him in the future, and the comment has prompted a fiery return from the wrestler.
Askren hoped to sign with the UFC last year, after his contract with Bellator ran out, where he had been champion. White opted to pass on Askren, however, and argued the undefeated fighter’s record wasn’t good enough for the promotion. Askren didn’t care for White’s comments, and wasn’t shy about expressing his frustration.
Following UFC 177, White was asked about Askren, who scored a quick stoppage win over Nobutatsu Suzuki on Friday to become ONE FC’s welterweight champ.
According to a report from MMA Junkie.com, White relayed that if Askren “keeps winning, he could get a shot over here.” The UFC President also said that he has no personal issues with Askren, which would get in the way of a possible deal.
Well, after White made the comments on Saturday, the following post appeared on Askren’s Twitter feed:
Oh thank you master @danawhite can I please have a shot
— Ben Askren (@Benaskren) August 31, 2014
Askren (14-0) has gone 2-0 with ONE FC thus far, and has stopped four of his last five opponents.