Derrick Lewis: ‘I guess I’ll be ready’ if Francis Ngannou vs. Ciryl Gane replacement needed at UFC 270
LAS VEGAS – Derrick Lewis isn’t wanting to take any more five rounds fights, but if the situation arises where the promotion desperately needs him, then he’ll likely be there.
After stopping Chris Daukaus (12-4 MMA, 4-1 UFC) in the first round of Saturday’s UFC Fight Night 199 main event at the UFC Apex to set the all-time knockout record, Lewis (26-8 MMA, 17-6 UFC) was immediately asked about what would be next in his career.
“The Black Beast” said he’s not particularly interested in headlining more shows because of the grueling nature of training, but the opportunity might be too much to resist.
With COVID-19 outbreaks growing globally and more restrictions being put in place, it’s possible that the UFC 270 headliner on Jan. 22 between heavyweight champion Francis Ngannou (16-3 MMA, 11-2 UFC) and interim champ Ciryl Gane (10-0 MMA, 7-0 UFC) could be in jeopardy. Should the worst happen and Lewis gets the call, then he said he would reluctantly accept.
“If it’s going to be co-main event – we’ll see,” Lewis told MMA Junkie. “I guess. We’ll see, man. I guess man. I just told y’all I don’t any more of those five rounds. I want the money. We’ll see. I guess I’ll be ready. Somewhat.”
UFC president Dana White said it would be a good idea for Lewis to “keep his phone on” in case his services are needed.
It remains to be seen what will happen, but at the moment, Lewis said he’s trying to enjoy his win. If he doesn’t get a call to fight in January, then UFC 271 on Feb. 22 is set for Lewis’ hometown of Houston.
He said he would consider fighting on that card – but it has to be a three-round fight.
“If it’s three rounds, then yeah. But I’m not main eventing it. I don’t give a damn. They can have someone main event in my city. That’s fine.”
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Twitter reacts to Derrick Lewis' record-setting KO of Chris Daukaus at UFC Fight Night 199
