Dana White denies report of Tim Sylvia vs. Daniel Cormier, says "Tim is not with Zuffa"

By: Jamie Penick, MMATorch Editor-in-Chief

On Friday night, it was reported that former UFC Heavyweight Champion Tim Sylvia had signed on with Strikeforce to take on Heavyweight World Grand Prix winner Daniel Cormier on Sept. 29.

This report contradicted statements from UFC President Dana White earlier in the day, who refuted the simple idea that Sylvia was even being considered for the fight with Cormier. After the report came out, White continued to deny there was any truth to it, again reiterating his earlier stance.

"Long story, but yes, Tim is not with Zuffa," White said in comments made to The Underground Forum, adding, "Never a FACT unless I say it is."

Penick's Analysis: Well, that last line's just not true, and things are often found out before any official announcements are made, thus why they're reported and not announced. And White also has a history of making vehement denials at times only to have things turn out to be accurate. As far as Sylvia is concerned here, it's entirely possible that something was on the table, and that perhaps things were being negotiated only to fall through. At the same time, it could also be possible that Sylvia has indeed signed, without White's knowledge. For now, it's one report against White's denial.

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