Similar to his open workout stint in Denver, Cerrone opted to mingle with fans and take photos in his allotted workout time, content to conserve his energy for the grueling weight cut that fighting at lightweight demands. To watch the hordes delighted to speak with him, nobody was disappointed.
The opening bars of “Can’t Stop” by Red Hot Chili Peppers signaled it was TJ Time; the bantamweight champion DIllashaw has his sights set on becoming just the fourth double champ in UFC history, but the first to accomplish the feat by moving down a weight class.
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Much had been made about the champ’s extra weight cut, and the possible negative consequence it might have on his speed and power. Without hyperbole, Dillashaw laid those narratives to rest with perhaps his most intense open workout ever. Hitting pads with coach Duane Ludwig, Dillashaw had the longest performance, seemingly unaware of the time, awash in intensity and focus.
“I feel good. Energy levels are great,” Dillashaw confirmed. “I’m waking up within striking distance. I could have made weight today…I feel good. I feel really good.”
Be sure to tune in to how it all plays out Saturday at Fight Night Brooklyn, only on ESPN+
Steve Latrell is a writer and producer for UFC.com. Follow him on Twitter @TheUFSteve
