Artem Lobov makes good on promise, returns 20% fine to Michael Johnson

Artem Lobov was originally supposed to fight Zubaira Tukhugov at the UFC’s recent UFC Moncton card. After Tukhugov got involved in the infamous UFC 229 post-fight brawl, however, he was removed from this bout.

After a brief scramble, the UFC was able to find a replacement opponent for Artem Lobov in former UFC lightweight contender Michael Johnson. Unfortunately, however, Johnson was unable to make weight for this fight, and was forced to cough up 20% of his fight purse, which was then paid to Lobov.

Lobov, however, assured that he planned to give this money back to Johnson, as he was grateful that Johnson had agreed to accept the fight on short notice.

While Johnson was initially skeptical that he’d ever see his money again, Artem Lobov has apparently made good on his promise.

https://www.instagram.com/p/Bp7CpBFHUT-/

“In my book respect is always earned, never given,” Johnson said in an Instagram post, announcing that Lobov had delivered on his promise and return the money. Hats off to [Artem Lobov] for not only a tough fight our last outing, but also being a man of your word. Respect was earned, hands down. Appreciate it.”

Lobov responded to Johnson’s post on Twitter. Though he only used emojis, the mutual respect was clear.

https://twitter.com/RusHammerMMA/status/1060571828056477696

With his loss to Michael Johnson, Artem Lobov stumbled onto a three-fight skid, having also recently given up decisions to top-flight foes in Andre Fili and Cub Swanson. While the Conor McGregor training partner’s future in the UFC is not certain, many members of the MMA community, including his coach John Kavanagh, are hoping he sticks around.

This article first appeared on BJPENN.COM on 11/9/2018.