Smith Calls Out Jones for Title Shot
When Jon Jones won back the UFC Light Heavyweight Championship at UFC 232, talk turned to the possibility of a trilogy bout between him and UFC Heavyweight Champion Daniel Cormier, the former light heavyweight champion and Jones’ longtime rival.
But there are others who are trying to position themselves as potential challengers for Jones — the most prominent example being Anthony Smith.
During an interview on the UFC 232 post-fight show on Fox Sports 1, Smith asked Jones of his availability during July’s International Fight Week, seeking a crack at the gold. Jones disregarded Smith’s challenge, and “Lionheart” even earned an earful from former UFC middleweight champion Michael Bisping on trash talk.
Jones’ response about Smith’s callout continued on social media.
This man is trying to wait until July, I got some catching up to do. https://t.co/eUQ68uCMQY
— Jon Bones Jones (@JonnyBones) December 31, 2018
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Smith responded to Jones, claiming he’s ready for a shot anytime and anywhere.
I just thought that sounded fun. I think we can set the games aside, Jon. You and I both know I need a date and location. You name it, I’ll be there. https://t.co/8aO9MiwFtp
— Anthony Smith (@lionheartasmith) December 31, 2018
Smith’s stock has surged in 2018. Following a loss to Thiago Santos in a Fight of the Night bout back in February, Smith stepped up to 205 and racked up quick knockout victories of Rashad Evans and Mauricio “Shogun” Rua before pulling off a come-from-behind, third-round submission of former title challenger Volkan Oezdemir back in October.
Original Story: MMA Mania