D. Cormier at a UFC press conference. Photo: Reproduction/YouTube MMAFightingonSBN
In recent days, the topic about the possibility of a fight between Israel adesanya e Jon Jones gained strength behind the scenes in MMA. After the Nigerian victory over Robert whittaker last Saturday (5), which gave him the title of absolute middleweight champion (up to 83,9 kg.), rumors about a meeting in the future increased even more. Aware of the subject, Daniel Cormier, eternal rival of 'Bones', praised Adesanya, but minimized the possibility of the Nigerian's success in a possible duel. The statement was made in an interview with 'ESPN'.
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“He's too small. He's just small for Jones. Jones is a big guy and I think people underestimate how big he is. He's so long he almost hangs himself on you when he suspends you. It's like a towel when you're in a grappling fight and I think Israel could do badly because of its size,” said Cormier.
Daniel, however, did not rule out the possibility that Adesanya could be successful in the super fight. For this, however, the former light heavyweight (up to 93kg) and heavyweight (up to 120,2kg) champion weighed in.
“I wouldn't mind seeing them fight, because if Jones wants to face this guy (Israel), it's because he's good. It’s not difficult to touch Jones, but Israel would need to get a lot bigger if he wants to face this guy”, commented DC.
Even with the premonitions, anyone who thinks that Cormier doesn't believe in Adesanya's potential is very mistaken. In the same interview, the former UFC champion made a point of praising the Nigerian's achievements and affirming all the quality that could be seen in the UFC 243.
"He is fantastic. He does everything right to attract people. He's the guy who makes people come together. Like, 'Hey, come to my house. Israel adesanya is fighting tonight. He's that kind of guy, and when you're that kind of guy, you have this quality about you to bring people together and everyone notices. This night (Saturday the 5th) only helped with that. The performance against Robert whittaker It was out of this world. From the entrance to the fight, to the exit, Israel did everything right”, concluded Daniel.
Even with the intention of testing yourself against Jon Jones, Israel has already admitted the desire to face some athletes from its own division. In line are Jared Cannonier, whom Adesanya has publicly praised, and the Brazilian Paulo borrachinha, who already has the endorsement of the Ultimate board as the next challenger for the belt.
Recently, the Nigerian stated that, if he does, in fact, face Jon, the fight should take place in 2021. Jones, after Adesanya's statement, practically ruled out the possibility of the duel taking place in that year, claiming that he is already playing for the heavy at the time.
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