Cat Zingano, in her most diplomatic language, refers to her relationship with Bellator featherweight champion Cris Cyborg as “not exactly my favorite person.”
This sums up all the “very uncomfortable and peculiar actions” Zingano believes Cyborg has engaged in since becoming a featherweight belt contender.
“It’s unfortunate, as I used to have immense respect for her, and we had shared connections and mutual acquaintances,” Zingano expressed on The MMA Hour. “I’m unsure about the legacy she’s trying to build now. She’s morphed into a kind of strange bully, and it’s disappointing. She was indeed a fantastic athlete for a while, and I’m not really sure what her intentions are now.”
Zingano is preparing for a title shot in late September or early October under a fight promotion that may undergo significant changes due to ongoing acquisition rumors. The idea of many of her fellow fighters potentially losing their contracts in a possible merger with a promotion such as PFL, which is rumored to be interested in purchasing the Paramount-owned Bellator, doesn’t sit well with her. However, this doesn’t alter her immediate responsibility.
Having previously challenged for the UFC title, Zingano joined Bellator with an advantage over other competitors, and it didn’t take long for Cyborg to take note. This sparked a lengthy exchange involving allegations of cheating and avoidance of fights. However, according to Zingano, things went too far when Cyborg (or someone closely affiliated with her) bought the URL of her full fight name and converted it into an advertisement for Cyborg’s achievements.
“I found it strange and it’s almost like, is she a sociopath? Why am I constantly on her mind? Why does she continually provoke me?” Zingano wondered. “It’s strange, because I want to fight her the moment I see her, though I don’t want any trouble. Her uncomfortable and peculiar behavior makes me think about getting a restraining order? What can be done about such a person?”
In the end, all Zingano can do is shrug it off and continue preparing for the fight. It’s an opportunity for her to secure a major title from a fighter who’s considered one of the best in the sport. If it involves enduring more bullying, that’s part of the job.
“I get that it’s part of the industry, and people talking and stirring things up to publicize the fight is one thing,” she said. “But the fight is already happening. I can’t understand why she’s acting so oddly. She’s quite a peculiar person these days.”
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Cris Cyborg bullying
How does Cat Zingano describe her relationship with Cris Cyborg?
Zingano describes her relationship with Cris Cyborg as uncomfortable, indicating Cyborg is not her favorite person due to her recent “uncomfortable and peculiar actions.”
What is Zingano’s concern regarding Cris Cyborg’s behavior?
Zingano is concerned about Cyborg’s alleged bullying behavior. She cited an incident where Cyborg or an affiliate purchased the URL of Zingano’s full fight name, turning it into an advertisement for Cyborg’s achievements, which Zingano found peculiar and unsettling.
How does Zingano feel about the rumored acquisition of Bellator?
Zingano is not fond of the idea, as it might lead to many of her colleagues losing their contracts in a potential merger with a promotion like PFL.
What is Cat Zingano’s future fight plan?
Zingano is preparing for a title fight, which she expects to happen in late September or early October. She remains focused on her immediate responsibility, despite the distractions and unsettling actions from Cyborg.
What does Zingano think about Cyborg’s legacy?
Zingano expresses disappointment with Cyborg’s current actions, stating that she was a respected athlete for a long time. She now finds Cyborg’s actions as a strange form of bullying, which she believes is not consistent with the legacy Cyborg should be building.
7 comments
Man, zingano seems really ticked off by cyborgs antics. Can’t blame her, weird stuff…
That URL thing is downright creepy, who does that! cyborg needs to chill.
As a former ufc title challenger, zingano ain’t gonna back down, cyborg better be ready!
poor zingano having to deal with this. she’s just tryna fight & win the belt. why cyborg gotta be such a bully?
This is a weird situation, hope Zingano keeps her focus & show cyborg what she’s made of!
zingano v cyborg fight gonna be fire, with all this drama!
looks like cyborg is playing mind games. But i think Zingano is tough enuff to handle it