When the UFC finalized its main event for UFC 230 to be a heavyweight title fight between Daniel Cormier and Derrick Lewis, Stipe Miocic was not having it. In his mind, the former champion could definitely win the rematch “9 times out of 10”, which is why he feels he should be fighting for the title instead.

Apparently, Lewis is in agreement with the Ohio native’s sentiments.

“I don’t know why they don’t want to give it to Stipe,” said “The Black Beast” in a recent interview with TMZ Sports. “It would’ve been great for them to give it to Stipe than to me, but I appreciate them giving me the shot. But I believe that Stipe really deserves the shot, since he was the champion for a while, he defended it many times and he was dominant for a while.”

“I don’t know why they didn’t give it to Stipe, unless he wanted some time off.

Lewis scored a last-minute knockout victory over Alexander Volkov on Saturday night at UFC 229, a performance that landed him the title shot. Going against Cormier, he firmly believes he could pull off the upset win.

“I just believe that my heart is the best in the sport,” Lewis said. “And I believe that’s what carried me through my whole career. Not my talent or my power or anything like that. I just believe my heart.”

“I believe it shouldn’t be no problem with me getting my hand raised. I could see that happening, even if it’s in the first round or later. The last few seconds of the fifth round. I believe I could really win this fight.”

UFC 230 will take place on November 3rd at Madison Square Garden in New York City.