James Vick: No One in UFC Lightweight Division Wants to Fight Me

It’s getting more and more difficult to ignore the accomplishments of James Vick.

“The Texecutioner” improved to 9-1 at lightweight with a unanimous decision victory over Francisco Trinaldo at UFC Fight Night 126 in Austin, Texas, on Sunday night. Now, Vick wants the recognition he feels he deserves.

“I’m 6-foot-3 and I’m a finisher, so no one wants to fight me,” Vick said. “I’m better than anyone in every position whether its grappling or striking. My record is undeniable. You probably can’t name many more people in the UFC that have a better record than I have.”

In addition to his victory over Trinaldo, Vick also owns wins over the likes of Joseph Duffy, Abel Trujillo and Jake Matthews in UFC competition. There is still room for improvement for Vick, however. He was unable to deliver the finish he desired against Trinaldo and instead appeared content to cruise to victory down the stretch. Some of that can be attributed to an injury suffered during the fight that may have limited the Texan’s ability to throw punches.

“I dislocated my finger at the end of the second round,” Vick said. “He kicked and I blocked it, but my finger went back. I knew he saw it so I popped it back really quickly and kept fighting.”

Despite the injury, Vick is ready to be on call should misfortune strike the upcoming lightweight title bout between Tony Ferguson and Khabib Nurmagomedov at UFC 223 on April 7.

My finger is dislocated but it’s not broken. I’m ready to fight for the title if anything happens with Khabib and Tony,” Vick said. “I beat guys that they have faced and beat them even easier.”