Image Credit: Bellator MMA
AJ McKee rooting for Emmanuel Sanchez to beat Patricio Pitbull, plans to become champ-champ in 2021
AJ McKee is anxiously waiting for his next opponent.
After McKee submitted Darrion Caldwell in the first round he advanced to the finals of the featherweight grand prix. The undefeated contender will fight the winner of Patricio Pitbull vs. Emmanuel Sanchez for the belt. Although many believe Bellator wants Pitbull vs. McKee, the 25-year-old is actually rooting for Sanchez to win.
“I actually hope Pitbull loses (laughs). Just because I can then give Emmanuel Sanchez the ass-whooping he deserves,” McKee said to MyMMANews. “He has been talking a lot of smack for quite some time, so it would be fun to beat up him and then get that lightweight title after. I’d fight Pitbull for the lightweight belt anyway.”
If McKee does end up fighting Sanchez and winning he says that would likely be the end of his featherweight career. He believes there would be no other fights for him and is looking to cement his legacy and becoming a champ-champ.
“I just think I should go and be the champ-champ right away, why defend it? I would have walked through 18 opponents at 145 so there is nothing left for me,” McKee explained. “Lightweight will be home after I win this grand prix.”
Once he does that, AJ McKee knows he will be the face of Bellator, especially after he beats Patricio Pitbull for the lightweight belt to become a champ-champ.
Not only does McKee want to be the face of the promotion, but he wants to go down as the best ever.
“I’ve been groomed in Bellator since Day 1. Patricio is a great champ but this is a new era. The sport evolves and nothing against him, and he has done a lot of great things. But, I believe I win this grand prix I am the face of Bellator,” McKee concluded. “And, as far as featherweights go, I don’t think anyone can beat me, UFC or Bellator. I’m just enjoying the show and staying focused.”
