J. Jones (left) and A. Johnson (right) simulate a fight and drive Dana White to despair. Photo: Reproduction/Twitter
the return of Anthony Johnson for MMA stirred the imagination of many sports enthusiasts, even more so with the possibility of the North American being among the heavyweights (up to 120,2kg). In recent interviews, the athlete even stated his desire to face the beast, Francis Ngannou. However, in his last statement, the combatant once again demonstrated his willingness to face Jon Jones, former rival and current holder of the light heavyweight title (up to 93kg), his former category. The information was given in an interview with 'Below the Belt'.
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“We'll do it if I can get my weight down enough. We're going to fight at light heavyweight. This was a fight I wanted. I think Jon wanted this fight too, before everything happened”, declared the American.
Johnson refers to the period in which Jones was involved in trouble outside of MMA. The fighter was accused of using cocaine and had problems with violating traffic laws. 'Bones' recklessness ended up resulting in the athlete being stripped of the company's title.
“That situation, which has been resolved, is in the past. When we meet, there is no rivalry. We show affection for each other. But this was a fight. That’s why I moved up to light heavyweight,” said Anthony.
Anthony and Jon were scheduled to fight at UFC 187. After the champion's repeated mistakes, the athlete ended up being removed from the card and given way to Daniel Cormier, who faced Johnson in the fight for the category belt.
Currently, 'Bones' has recovered from the mistakes of the past and has managed to assume the status of one of the most dangerous men in the world. As before, the fighter remains unbeatable and the company is finding it difficult to find fighters who can stand up to the North American's talent. Johnson's return to the sport could, however, do what the company wants, finally editing the never-before-seen fight between the compatriots.
Anthony, however, doesn't want to anticipate things. The athlete, who has been involved since 2017, needs to get in shape and ensure he can reach the light heavyweight limit. Thus, showing the company that it is capable of facing 'Bones'.
“I'm going to wait until I can lose about 4,5kg more, to reach 106kg. I want to see how my body reacts and if it feels good. Then, I'll try to reach 93kg. Why? Because, who is waiting for me at 93kg?”, asked the giant.
In his Ultimate career, Johson had eight light heavyweight fights and was defeated in only two. Both for Daniel Cormier (2015 and 2017).
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