You're talking about 2 different levels of popularity (based on the totality of their careers). Freddie Roach did an interview where he discussed GSP's most recent contract negotiation with the UFC. In that interview, he mentioned that there was a list of opponents discussed prior to GSP signing on the dotted line. In other words, if GSP wins, they've already decided who's next in line. Obviously, as a fan, I'd prefer that the winner fight Robert Whittaker.I was just tossing out a lazy whataboutism there tbh.
What's makes you think GSP can pick his fights but not Mike?
Almost no one signed to the UFC gets to choose their opponents outright. Just look at the backlash that takes place when a fighter doesn't fall in line, even champions like Mighty Mouse or Jon Jones when he refused to fight Chael.