Whittaker hadn't pulled out of a fight prior to winning the belt

[Octupus Samurai]

Some fighters will pull out just to extend another six months of calling themselves 'champ'. It's good for business, their brand.

Whitakker is no mucnugget, dont come here saying those things about Bobby the guy is a warrior

 

[bambammccoy]

Because they are willing to fight injured before they establish themselves.

This. JDS even said while he was champ that he fought most of his fights in the UFC injured until he got the title then said there is now too much on the line.