It appears former UFC Lightweight Champion Anthony “Showtime” Pettis has had enough of the division he briefly reigned atop.
On Tuesday, the former lightweight kingpin posted a picture on Instagram with the hashtag #145intheworks at the end of it, implying he was going to drop down to the UFC’s featherweight division.
According to MMA Fighting, Ariel Helwani confirmed with Pettis’ manager, Malki Kawa, that “Showtime” will indeed be fighting in the featherweight division from now on. Pettis is hoping to make his 145-pound debut this August.
Dropping down to featherweight makes sense for Anthony Pettis. After his one and only title defense back at UFC 181, the Milwaukee resident and BJJ brown belt has been unable to pull himself out of a three-fight tailspin in the lightweight division. Quitting the 155-pound ranks before any more damage can be done to his career might therefore be in his best interests.
Furthermore, a move to the featherweight division would give Pettis a chance to take on Jose Aldo, a man fans wanted to see him face back when both fighters were champions in their divisions.
But how well will the elder Pettis do against the likes of Aldo, Edgar, and McGregor (assuming McGregor comes back down to featherweight)?
Sound off below, Jiu-Jitsu Times readers! What do you think of Pettis’ drop to featherweight? Does he have a promising future ahead of him?
