"We are obviously disappointed in the UFC's decision to cancel its commitment with Carlos Condit to give another fighter an opportunity at the Welterweight title based on emotional reactions from UFC 137. Contrary to what has been stated, Carlos did not step aside to allow this to happen, and would not just hand over an opportunity for him to achieve his greatest career goal, one that he has earned through his strong performances in the Octagon. No option was given to him.
For the second time in less than two weeks, Carlos has had an opportunity swept out from beneath his feet. He has shown nothing but pure class in his drive to the title, and will continue to do so. Carlos does not need motivation to fight for the title, he already has it.
This situation will only motivate Carlos more. He will move forward and continue to train at the level that has made him the legitimate number one contender for the UFC Welterweight championship, and he is looking forward to the opportunity to earn that title."
This decision has split the MMA community. Bloody Elbow's own Josh Nason made the case that Carlos Condit earned his title shot and taking it away is bad for business while MMA Nation's Jonathan Snowden says that Diaz is the rightful challenge to St. Pierre's belt. For the second time in less than two weeks, Carlos has had an opportunity swept out from beneath his feet. He has shown nothing but pure class in his drive to the title, and will continue to do so. Carlos does not need motivation to fight for the title, he already has it.
This situation will only motivate Carlos more. He will move forward and continue to train at the level that has made him the legitimate number one contender for the UFC Welterweight championship, and he is looking forward to the opportunity to earn that title."
If Kawa is being honest with the way that the decision was made, I do feel for Condit. It's got to be rough to have a fight cancelled last minute and then the title shot that you've been awarded snatched away, especially if there wasn't a discussion and more of a ultimatum.
To his credit, Carlos Condit has handled this well, at least publicly. He hasn't complained about the UFC nor has he complained about St. Pierre's injury. This is in contrast to Diaz who wasn't excited or happy at the post-fight press conference when he was told that he would get his title shot after all. These are things that Zuffa management will remember when Condit's time finally comes.