The Rock to Present BMF Belt at UFC 244?
Do you smell it?
What originally started as a comment and post-fight callout made by Nate Diaz towards Jorge Masvidal at UFC 241 has turned into the UFC 244 main event. And what has started with a Twitter exchange may also be turning into a reality.
Per an interview by TMZ Sports with UFC President Dana White, actor and WWE legend Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson is scheduled to present the winner of the Diaz vs. Masvidal fight with the BMF [“Baddest [expletive] in the Game”) title.
After Diaz defeated Anthony Pettis at UFC 241, his first fight in the Octagon in three years, he proclaimed that he had successfully defended the title and would like to defend it against Masvidal. After the rise of the fight through the fans and media, as well as the planned UFC 244 main event between Kamaru Usman and Colby Covington falling through, the fight was made for the UFC 244 headliner, and an actual BMF title will be made for the occasion.
Earlier this month, Masvidal tweeted at The Rock, with “Gambred” stating he wanted him to strap the belt around his waist with a victory. The multiple-time former WWE champion responded positively, adding he was doing all he could to make the fight.
Doing all I can to make this fight. If I can and you win, I’ll put the belt around your waist at MSG – consider it done. Already shaping up to be one of the biggest and most electrifying fights in @ufc history. Can’t wait. @GamebredFighter @NateDiaz209 #respect #BMF #UFC244 ⚡️ https://t.co/nVTIeBtkgv
— Dwayne Johnson (@TheRock) September 9, 2019
Now, it appears he’ll not only be there, he’ll be the belt presenter regardless of who wins.
“He’s taking my job,” White said. “Listen, if The Rock wants to do it, The Rock gets what The Rock wants.”
The Rock, who is a fan of the UFC, has been present for events that include fellow WWE star Brock Lesnar’s time as UFC heavyweight champion, as well as congratulating Jon Jones following his light heavyweight title win at UFC 214 (before it was overturned to a No Contest).
Masvidal has even teased that he wouldn’t mind heading over to WWE to defend the BMF title.