Las Vegas, NV — Damien “The Champ” Dibbell has been unstoppable in the heavyweight division, but he’s making headlines lately for more than just knockouts. After his most recent victory, Dibbell has shed the “nice guy” approach and is firing back at critics and rivals alike.
Fed Up With the Doubters
Dibbell admits he’s tired of fighters questioning his wins or blaming coin tosses for their losses. “It’s Power Slap — you’re going to get hit. If you’re afraid of going second, you shouldn’t be in the sport,” Dibbell said.
He was especially disappointed in comments from Wes Minner, who suggested the outcome of their match would have been different if he had slapped first. “How are you going to admit to everybody that you’re a coin toss fighter? That just doesn’t work at the top level.”
The Fallout With Ryan Phillips
Dibbell also addressed his falling out with former friend Ryan Phillips, who accused him of intentional clubbing during their fight. Dibbell was quick to shut down the claims. “That was one of the cleanest fights I’ve ever had. The refs reviewed it. There was no clubbing. Ryan’s just mad he got knocked out.”
What frustrates Dibbell most is the double standard. “He literally hit me in the eye the round before. That’s an accident. But then he screenshots my knockout and calls it intentional? Get out of here.”
Ranking His Rivals
When asked how Minner and Phillips compare, Dibbell didn’t mince words. “Honestly, I’d say Ryan beats Wes just because at least he didn’t say ‘let me go first and I’ll win.’ But at this point, they both suck.”
Eyes on Contenders: Dorian and Zakir
Despite the noise, Dibbell remains focused on real challenges. He’s calling for a rematch with Dorian Perez or a showdown with rising contender Zakir Naimanbayev.
“They’re fighting soon, and that’s the obvious contender fight. Whoever wins, I want them next. If it’s Zakir, he’s got hype, he’s got numbers. If it’s Dorian, that’s the rematch I’ve been asking for.”
Dibbell also sees Pono as a possible opponent down the line, suggesting Pono should face Wes Minner in the meantime.
Coaching, Controversy, and the Future
Fans noticed Dibbell hasn’t been back in a coaching role recently, something he attributes to speaking his mind. “I must have pissed someone off backstage — maybe I complained about flights or something — but hopefully they bring me back soon.”
As for his own career, Dibbell is embracing a sharper edge both inside and outside the cage. “If you want to talk shit, I’ll talk shit right back. And I’ll post your knockout clip everywhere for everyone to see.”
Final Word From the Champ
With a record of dominance, Dibbell isn’t worried about critics. His focus is on defending the heavyweight crown and facing the toughest challengers. Whether it’s Perez, Zakir, or Pono, he’s ready.
“I’m the champ. They line them up, I’ll knock them down. That’s the game.”