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Dana White says Renan Barao will not get immediate title shot upon return

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TJ Dillashaw vs Renan Barao

Former UFC Bantamweight Champion Renan Barao was one day away from potentially earning back his gold, however his failed weight cut ruined that opportunity.

Just hours before the UFC 177 weigh-ins, Barao fainted and hit his head getting out of his bathtub in his hotel room in Sacramento.

Barao was expected to take on T.J. Dillashaw in the main event at UFC 177 from the Sleep Train Arena in Sacramento, California this Saturday night. The Brazilian earned an immediate rematch against Dillashaw after their UFC 173 title bout.

However after failing to make weight and almost ruining an entire fight card he will have to fight at least one more time to earn another shot at the 135-pound belt. According to the following statement UFC President Dana White made to MMAJunkie.com.

“This was his shot,” White said. “He was getting his rematch. Now Dillashaw is going to fight tomorrow night. If he wins, he moves on to the next guy, and Barao will fight somebody else when he’s ready to come back.”

There is no word as to who Barao will fight upon return, but White has an option if weight is a problem.

“Maybe that’s another option: (Barao) goes to 145,” White said. “And if he doesn’t want to fight Aldo, then Aldo goes to 155 and fights Pettis.”

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Jeremy Brand is an experienced MMA writer and columnist. He is the founder of MMASucka.com, and has represented the company with media credentials at many mixed martial arts fights. Jeremy is also a black belt in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, training in BC, Canada.

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