Former UFC bantamweight champion T.J.
Dillashaw expects to be in a title fight when he makes his
Octagon return — now it’s just a matter of when that happens.
Dillashaw fought for the first time in more than two years
following a USADA-mandated suspension at UFC on ESPN 27, where he
edged Cory
Sandhagen via split decision this past July. In August, the
35-year-old fighter underwent surgery for a torn PCL and damaged
meniscus.
In an interview with
ESPN, Dillashaw gave an update on his recovery and said he
hopes to fight again in approximately six months.
“It’s on track, I just didn’t realize how much work I would have to
get done,” Dillashaw said. “I didn’t realize how beat up my knee
was. I knew what I tore but once I watched the video of what [the
surgeon] did to me, I messed it up really bad. I almost have a full
range of motion. Strength is there. I’ve just gotta make sure I’m
safe about getting those full motions.
“I wouldn’t say an exact timeframe, but I imagine halfway through
the year. I’m able to hit mitts, strength and conditioning. I
haven’t done any grappling yet. That’s the last thing I’ll feel
comfortable about again. And then I have to start thinking about
getting into a camp.”
When he does come back to active competition, Dillashaw believes he
deserves a title shot. Aljamain
Sterling and Petr Yan are
scheduled to square off in a bantamweight title unification bout at
UFC 273 in April, which could align well with Dillashaw’s recovery
timetable. While the former champion has been a popular callout
target for a number of fighters, he believes a title shot makes the
most sense.
“Let’s be honest, I left as a champion,” Dillashaw said. “I came
back, fought a No. 1 contender after a 2.5-year layoff. I was able
to beat him. What else is there for me? Nothing is going to get me
up and excited except getting my belt back. That’s my goal. There’s
nothing else for me to really set my eyes on.”