Mike Perry reacts to Dillon Danis withdrawing from fight: ‘This was always their plan’

Mike Perry expressed skepticism about Dillon Danis's withdrawal from their scheduled main event at Duel Arena in Orlando on Saturday, suggesting the pullout may have been planned all along. Danis cited an arm injury for his withdrawal just before Thursday's press conference, but Perry questioned the timing and noted that Danis had recently appeared healthy in an interview with Sean O'Malley and Tim Welch. Perry was replaced by UFC veteran Brandon Jenkins on short notice, forcing Perry to accept a significant pay cut despite accepting a late replacement fight—a scenario that typically commands higher compensation. Perry's frustration extended beyond the financial hit; he emphasized that his team had prepared thoroughly for Danis's style and even anticipated a potential no-show, given Danis's history of cancellations. The fighter credited his coaching staff with developing contingency game plans and preparing him to headline against any opponent. Despite the weight-class change from welterweight to middleweight and abbreviated preparation time, Perry remained focused on delivering an entertaining performance in his hometown arena at the Kia Center. He noted that his dietary adjustment was minimal—he weighed only 182 pounds after dinner despite no longer needing to cut weight—and expressed confidence in handling Jenkins while hinting at major future announcements pending a successful performance. Perry emphasized his professionalism and readiness, stating he doesn't