Michael Johnson Says Move to Featherweight Has Been Life-Changing

Michael Johnson discussed his move to featherweight and more in a new interview with MMAjunkie ahead of his bout with Darren ELkins at UFC Fight Night 124. Highlights are below:

On his move to featherweight: “People are like, ‘Oh my God, you lost to Justin (Gaethje), and you’re running to featherweight.’ You guys sound like some clowns. It’s the quickest way to a title shot for me. There’s so much going on at the top of the lightweight division. Conor (McGregor) is holding it up; Tony (Ferguson) and Khabib (Nurmagomedov) are going back and forth; so you never know. Even if I knock out a couple wins, I still could not be next in line for a title shot. Nate (Diaz) could come back in. It’s a popularity contest rather than somebody who actually deserves it. Me going down to featherweight, I get two solid wins, and I’m next in line, especially with my resume at 155.”

On the process of the weight move: “It’s extremely life-changing. I haven’t had a piece of bread in like two months. I’m dreading this cut. But it’s re-motivated me. It’s given me a new spark of life. I’m definitely rededicated to the sport, my training is going a lot harder, a lot tougher, and I don’t have that little time to slack off. I can’t afford a cheat meal here and there, I can’t afford to sneak a cookie or something or some candy. I’ve got a strict diet, with everything timed and eating right. It’s going good. I’m happy.”

On possibly heading back to lightweight: “This is my future. I definitely think I’m going to go down here and get this title. That’s what I’m here to do. But I’m definitely not completely done with the lightweight division. I have a plan of going back up there. There’s still a few guys I’ve got some unfinished business with that I want some fights back. Who knows, I get that title around my waist at 145, then I get to call some shots at 155.”

On who he wants to fight: “I want the best guy possible; I want the toughest guy available. Who are they? Sign them up. Sure enough, Darren Elkins said yes, and I’m blessed. He’s a great fighter, tough and durable, and I’m excited to go in there and have another ‘Fight of the Year’ performance.”