Dana White: Florian ‘More Than Likely’ Next Challenger for Aldo

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Kenny Florian’s cut to 145 pounds might have been worth the trouble.

UFC President Dana White announced Saturday at the post-fight news conference for UFC 131 in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada, that Florian will “more than likely” be the next challenger for UFC champion Jose Aldo’s featherweight strap.

“I’ve got a lot of respect for him,” said White of Florian. “He deserves a shot at the title. No doubt about it.”

While Florian was not asked to respond to White’s statement, the announcement likely came as welcome news, considering the fighter’s expressed desire to challenge for the championship.

A two-time lightweight title challenger, Florian admitted after his fight that the cut to 145 pounds had been a taxing experience, one that granted him a self-described new level of mental toughness. Though Florian came out victorious in his contest, the Massachusetts native admitted that he fell victim to second thoughts during the draining weight cut.

“There were several points when I was thinking that [I made a mistake dropping to featherweight],” admitted Florian. “I think, honestly, the whole weight cut was a true test in discipline. It took me to the next level mentally and [showed me] what I’m capable of doing. After that, I think anything [will be] easy.”

Following the cut, Florian stepped into the Octagon against Diego Nunes, one of the featherweight division’s best. After suffering a knockdown near the end of the first frame, Florian battled back to dominate in the final two rounds, wearing his foe down and earning a unanimous decision.

Though the clear winner, “KenFlo” claimed he still was not totally satisfied with his performance.

“I wanted to do more, man. I’m never satisfied if I don’t get the finish. That’s just my style. I try to [finish] the fight with my own hands,” Florian said. “But he’s top-five for a reason. He's fast, but I felt he was getting tired, and I outlasted him. He showed his toughness.”

After impressing in his featherweight debut, Florian was asked what was next for his career. After the onetime middleweight joked about wanting a shot at the bantamweight division, he produced a predictable but serious response.

“I’m staying at featherweight. I want shot at the belt. I think Jose is one of the best in the game. I have a lot of respect for him, and I’m a big fan,” said Florian. “Every UFC fighter’s dream is to be a champion. I don’t want to look too far ahead, but that’s [my goal].”