FightLine.com reporter David Peze sent us these notes of the ongoing conference call with Dana White:
On signing Fedor: - "We tried everything" to get this guy signed. - They are "willing to give up everything except co-promotion". - They "guarantee Fedor won't get a better deal in MMA". - He will not be taking any more Fedor questions.
On Vitor Belfort: - Vitor Belfort was signed because fans were upset about Henderson-Franklin 2. - Belfort will face Franklin at UFC 103 in Dallas. - Henderson is probably #1 in line for Anderson Silva's belt.
On ESPN deal: - UK Deal with ESPN is done for 3 years. - English and Irish fans will get UFC 101 for free. - ESPN is launching in the UK in August and will be available in high-defintion.
Signing Tito Ortiz: - They have signed Tito Ortiz. - Ortiz's back is healed completely. - They have put their differences aside. - Ortiz will retire in the UFC.
Affliction folding: - Affliction fighters signed include Vitor Belfort, Ben Rothwell, Dan Lauzon and Paul Daley. - Others are still a possibility including Gegard Mousassi.
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