Prior to UFC on FOX 31 on Saturday, Kevin Lee was looking to “put Al Iaquinta back on the prelims.” The result was the exact opposite, with “Raging’ Al” putting on an impressive performance, leading to a strong statement win via a unanimous decision verdict.
Lightweight champion Khabib Nurmagomedov was apparently watching the action unfold, and had some words for both men.
Congratulations @ALIAQUINTA
I know how strong you are, that’s why I was waiting for your fight. #truetalker— khabib nurmagomedov (@TeamKhabib) December 16, 2018
Stay humble Kevin lee.
Humble is the key.— khabib nurmagomedov (@TeamKhabib) December 16, 2018
Khabib’s words were not very well received by the “Motown Phenom,” who issued an indirect response via Instagram.
I beat racism, the system, poverty, and everybody that wanna see me lose for no reason. F—k being humble
As for how the fight went down, Lee remains steadfast in the belief that he should have been awarded the victory.
“The fight on Saturday, I still feel like we won it,” Lee said in another Instagram video (transcript by MMAjunkie). “I fought a lot off my back foot as a southpaw and against my natural fighting style. My explosiveness and coming forward and being aggressive.
“I tried to show something a little too different. Al showed up, he put on a great performance, landed a great shot in the fourth round. All I can say is: I’m going to be back, I’m still going to be a champ regardless of where it’s at and what it is.”
After Saturday night, Lee dropped to a record of 17-4 (with 10 wins by stoppage).
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