I don't understand why people are supporting him over the weight thing.
Whether the club gave them the weight limit due to science or vindictiveness isn't the issue, the issue is that he's given them ammunition due to his unprofessionalism. If he was going to take Pardew on then don't give him any excuses to have a go and get the fans behind you, instead - if you believe the vindictive bit - then he's walked into Pardew's trap.