Why did Justin Gaethje accuse Michael Bisping of biased commentary at UFC 286? 'The Count' responds
Former UFC middleweight champion Michael Bisping has responded to accusations of biased commentary by lightweight fighter Justin Gaethje during UFC 286.
'The Count's commentary during the main event bout between Kamaru Usman and Leon Edwards drew criticism from Gaethje. In an interview following the event, 'The Highlight' accused Bisping of being biased, saying:
"Yeah, I mean, I thought [Kamaru Usman] won the fight, but, I’m probably as biased as the judges, certainly not as biased as Michael Bisping, who shouldn’t have been nowhere near a microphone during that fight. It sucks... I just thought it was very unprofessional."
Bisping has now responded to the accusations in a video on his YouTube channel, admitting that Gaethje had not been complimentary about his views on the fight. However, Bisping suggested that Gaethje's comments were inconsistent, saying
"If he's just as biased as the judges, then he thinks Leon won, because the judges think Leon won."
Bisping also said that he had messaged Gaethje directly to address the comments, but that he was not interested in getting into an argument online.
"I'm not trying to have fun at Justin Gaethje, I respect this guy a lot. Congrats on a great win [against Fiziev]."
Check out Michael Bisping addressing Justin Gaethje's comments in the video below:
Bisping's response comes after a controversial UFC 286 event that saw Usman defeat Edwards in a tightly contested bout that went to a unanimous decision. Despite the criticism of Bisping's commentary, the event was widely regarded as a success, with fans and commentators praising the high level of competition on display throughout the night.
Michael Bisping gives his take on a potential fight between Paddy Pimblett and Drew Drober at UFC 288
Michael Bisping has given his expert analysis on a potential showdown between Paddy Pimblett and Drew Dober at UFC 288.
Speaking on his podcast, Bisping expressed his belief that while it would be a difficult fight, Pimblett has a clear "path to victory". He acknowledged the controversial lightweight's striking prowess but emphasized that Pimblett's grappling ability could prove decisive.
Bisping went on to praise Pimblett's inventiveness, explosiveness and excitement, adding that the Liverpudlian has some of the best back takes:
"He's got to look to grapple, he's got to look to take him down and take his back, and that is what Paddy does best. That's why and that's what Paddy 'The Baddy's' going to do coming into this fight."
With both fighters renowned for their striking abilities, a potential Pimblett vs. Dober matchup promises to be a thrilling spectacle. But according to Bisping, it could be Pimblett's grappling skills that prove to be the difference.
Check out Michael Bisping's take on the potential fight below: