5 fighters who could end 2018 with a UFC title and 5 who won't

Modified Jan 16, 2018 12:18 GMT

UFC 111: Press Conference — Georges St-Pierre won - and relinquished - a UFC title in 2017

Won’t end 2018 with a title: Georges St-Pierre

UFC 217: Bisping v St-Pierre — GSP is currently on the shelf with a serious health issue

Arguably the greatest fighter of all time, GSP claimed UFC gold in his second weight division this past November when he choked out Michael Bisping to win the Middleweight title. His reign was short-lived though as he swiftly vacated the belt citing some serious health issues linked to his move up in weight. When – or indeed, if – he’ll be back is anyone’s guess right now, as even his coaches have said they’re unsure.

Assuming he does return though, I highly doubt he’ll be winning another UFC title. Dana White and the rest of the UFC brass were already burned by his win of the 185lbs belt and subsequent relinquishing, and so it’s doubtful they’d simply hand him another title shot in a different weight class. Tyron Woodley currently holds the Welterweight title, and while GSP could go after him, I don’t think he will.

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If St-Pierre indeed returns then I suspect he’ll have only one fight on his mind – a “money fight” with Conor McGregor. Whether the UFC would actually put that fight together, again, is a question mark, but it’d certainly be a huge drawing card. So the chances of GSP ending 2018 with hold around his waist seem slim.

About the author

Scott is a veteran MMA writer with over two decades of experience, including his ongoing tenure in Sportskeeda, which began seven years ago. He has written over 3000 pieces for the organization, while also covering football. Before joining Sportskeeda, Scott wrote articles for websites like The Oratory and Inside Pulse MMA.

Scott has a degree in history, which drives his research skills and helps him compile accurate information. His long stint in the field helps Scott provide a clear take on important topics, such as the criticism of promotions regarding fighter pay. While he feels fighters deserve a bigger revenue share, he doesn’t want MMA to suffer with purse-split issues.

Scott’s work has been previously reshared by the former UFC middleweight champion Chris Weidman. He uses credible sources, such as the UFC’s official website, during the writing process.

His dedication to MMA writing won him the Feature Writer of the Month award for Sportskeeda in November 2021.

Outside of work, Scott likes to go to the gym, walk his dog, and travel.

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Edited by anirudh.b