Michael Bisping clarifies controversial comments on retired UFC fighter

UFC lightweight Frankie Perez achieved his goal at “UFC Fight Night 74” when he earned his first octagon victory in fantastic fashion. After he knocked Sam Stout out, Perez proceeded to retire during his post-fight interview.

After the first batch of fights concluded and the broadcast was sent to FOX Studios, Michael Bisping was asked about Perez’s decision to retire, Bisping said, “…No offense to Frankie Perez, because I don’t know the guy, and I’m sure he’s a very charming individual and a good person, but if he retired after knocking someone out in his second UFC win, I would say he hasn’t got the cajones to really be in this sport.”

Bisping wanted to clarify his comments, though, as he felt he was misunderstood. “100 percent they misunderstand me,” Bisping said on the MMA Hour. “Listen, I respect everybody that steps into the Octagon because it’s such a hard thing to do for a living. And the world is made up of many different types of people. Not everybody has what it takes to be a UFC fighter. That’s just a fact.”

“If he doesn’t want to do that and he wants to pursue another career, then great for him and I really respect his choice to do so. Of course, that is his decision,” Bisping continued. “My opinion, being a fighter and a competitor, for me, that’s the best living I can give my family. That’s the way it is. For me, I am willing to put myself through that for my family.”

Bisping went on to question whether or not Perez could score a $50,000 bonus check in one night like he did for his performance on Sunday, but he supports the lightweight’s decision nonetheless. “He got a $50,000 bonus last night on top of his wages,” Bisping started. “He probably got $70,000. I don’t know where else he is going to earn that kind of money in one night. It wasn’t an insult. I don’t necessarily agree, but good for him, I’m sure he has a great head on his shoulders and maybe he’s got an illustrious career in something else away from fighting. I wish I had that. And if he has it, God bless him and all the best. I certainly didn’t mean to be insulting.”

Do you think Bisping was misunderstood? Share your thoughts in the comment section below!

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Transcribed by Adam Guillen Jr. of MMA Mania