In a big phase, Glover wants to fight Anthony Smith to get closer to the belt

G. Teixeira weighing in for the UFC. Photo: Reproduction/Facebook UFC

The Brazilian Glover Teixeira He had a magical period in 2019. With three fights and no defeats, the Minas Gerais native resumed the good phase of his career, which was crowned with a challenge made by the former challenger for the light heavyweight title (up to 93kg.), Anthony Smith, currently third in the ranking. Excited about the opportunity to face an opponent from the division's elite, the athlete sees the confrontation as a chance to get closer to a new title fight. In an interview with 'Ag.Fight', Glover spoke about the subject.

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“I see it as a very tough duel and I also have to look at the ranking. He is number three in the world. I want to fight for the belt this year (2020) and it's a great fight for me. I have to go there, win and get on the radar to fight for the title again. He has good gas and jiu-jitsu, he submitted (Alexander) Gustafsson now (June 2019). But I believe that, if I put pressure on him, the fight will be mine”, declared Teixeira.

According to the fighter from Sobrália (MG), there was already an agreement between the fighters for the duel to take place. The impasse, however, is finding a place and date so that the company can confirm the duel. Glover had suggested that they act in UFC Brasilia, which takes place on November 14, however, Smith promptly denied the proposal, stating that a fight in Tupiniquim territory would favor Minas Gerais.

Even with the negative opinion about the fight in Brazil, Teixeira remains excited for the fight to be made official by Ultimate. The desire to face Anthony is greater and regardless of the place.

“From the word go, everything is fine. We both accepted. Now, the UFC just needs to score. I don't know what's left to set the date. Maybe they're looking for a place. I just know that the Anthony Smith wants to fight. We spoke to the 'matchmaker' (responsible for arranging the duels) and everything is fine too. Their response is missing. We are planning for March or April. That's the date that's in my head. But any time, any place, we schedule this fight and we’re going to come out fighting,” concluded the Brazilian.

A victory over Smith could bring Glover closer to a new fight for the division title. The athlete had a chance to become number one in the world in 2014, at UFC 172, when he ended up being surpassed by Jon Jones in the unanimous decision of the judges.

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