Dana White recently expressed his disappointment with Calvin Gastelum after Saudi Arabia Fight Night. White didn’t hold back, saying, “I don’t like Calvin Gastelum right now. This guy lost like three times his weight.” The UFC had to change Gastelum’s fight class from welterweight to middleweight at the last minute. Gastelum spent much of the post-fight interview apologizing to White, but his words seemed inadequate.
Joe Rogan Echoes Dana White’s Sentiments
Joe Rogan, another prominent figure in the UFC, also expressed his disappointment with Gastelum. Speaking with Brian Cullen, Brian Simpson and Brendan Schaub, Rogan Gastelum talked about becoming a 170-pound superhero, a dream still unfulfilled
Gastelum’s Struggle to Make Weight
Gastelum’s Dana White apologized for not weighing in. His team informed his opponent, Daniel Rodriguez, that there was no way Gastelum would reach the welterweight limit. As a result, the fight turned into a middleweight fight in no time.
On his channel, Rogan recounted an eight-year conversation with Gastelum. “Bro, I talked to him maybe 8 years ago. We were coming out and I said, ‘Calvin, if you just stay disciplined and get down to 170, you’re a world champion.’ He said, ‘I know,’” Rogan said. Despite this recognition, Gastelum has struggled to make weight, remaining in the 185-pound class.
Gastelum’s Career and UFC Career
Gastelum won his fight by unanimous decision, but even this victory did not satisfy Dana White. This latest incident marks the fourth time since joining the UFC that with a 19-9 record, Gastelum has struggled to make weight. White spoke of his disappointment in the postgame press conference, saying, “You have guys fighting in a week report, jumping on cards, coming in here and making weight, and Calvin not being heavy is a huge disappointment.”
Gastelum’s UFC Career Highlights
Despite recent setbacks, Gastelum’s UFC career has had outstanding moments. He is one of the most impressive middleweight fighters and recently won UFC Fight Night in Saudi Arabia. Gastelum defeated fighters like Tim Kennedy, scoring TKO victories with brutal punch combinations. He also earned his first career win over Brian Melancon in just two minutes, including victories over Rick Story, Jake Ellenberger and Michael Bisping.
Gastelum’s Style of Fighting and Training
Gastelum’s fighting style includes wrestling, and he holds the 5A Division II title in the AIA. He continued his wrestling career at the College of North Idaho, where he placed first in the NJCAA as a freshman. Gastelum switched to MMA and dedicated his life to the UFC, adding Brazilian Jiu Jitsu skills, earning a black belt in 10th Planet Jiu Jitsu under Brian Beaumont Despite discipline and determination, Gastelum has struggled to cut down to pounds 170. In his last fight, he was too heavy for the welterweight division. The 32-year-old finds it difficult to maintain her weight in the lower categories but in recent interviews she showed good sense and ease of losing weight.
Looking Ahead
As Gastelum continues his work, the recurring theme of weight remains a major challenge. Both Dana White and Joe Rogan have stressed his potential if he can find the discipline necessary to compete in the welterweight division. Gastelum’s path forward will require renewed focus and determination to meet these expectations and fulfill his potential in the UFC.
