Scott Coker Comments on Bellator’s Interest in Chuck Liddell – Tito Ortiz III
By FCF Staff
Both Chuck Liddell and Tito Ortiz have expressed an interest in fighting again, and as a result, there’s been speculation as to whether Bellator might promote the bout. But, Bellator President Scott Coker isn’t sure the company could move forward with the fight, if they decided they wanted to do so.
Recently Coker spoke with MMA Fighting, and while discussing Liddell – Ortiz III, he said this:
“My understanding is that Chuck is still under contract with the UFC,” Coker said. “I’m not sure. I just thought that to be true. I don’t know the details, but when he retired, I think the contract freezes and they maintain some rights.”
“Listen, is it a fight that would be fun to watch? I think if they both pass a physical and Tito was healthy and his neck was healthy and he was able to perform at a high level, and they were fighting, to me is it interesting? I would definitely watch it. But would we promote it? I don’t think we can, because Chuck is still under contract with the UFC.”
Ortiz fought Liddell in 2004 and 2006, and lost both bouts via stoppage. The 43 year-old Ortiz’s last bout took place in January, 2017, when he submitted Chael Sonnen.
The 48 year-old Liddell hasn’t competed since 2010, when he was knocked out by Rich Franklin.