Lawler

By FCF Staff

Although Robbie Lawler came up short against Johny Hendricks in March, the punishing welterweight could challenge for the title next, as a result of his performance Saturday night.

Lawler scored a third round, stoppage win over the #5 ranked Jake Ellenberger at UFC 173, and is 4-1 in his last five fights. After the event, here is what UFC President Dana White had to say about Lawler’s contender status (quote via MMA Fighting.com):

“How could you deny him the fight,” White said about Lawler, who was ranked #1 heading into Saturday’s card. “The fight with Hendricks was awesome. With his performance before the Hendricks fight, no doubt he’s the number one guy (contender) in the world.”

White also reportedly added that the promotion will wait to see how the June 14th, Tyron Woodley-Rory MacDonald bout unfolds, before awarded the next title shot.

Hendricks is currently recovering from surgery to repair a torn bicep, and the champion is expected to return in the fall or early winter.