Even Jack Hermansson wants to see Paulo Costa vs. Yoel Romero.
That’s why “The Joker” is being realistic about his next fight, which is no doubt going to come against a top-ranked foe after the surging middleweight disposed of Ronaldo Souza last weekend in Florida to earn himself a spot in the Top 5.
A showdown against No. 4-ranked Kelvin Gastelum sounds about right.
“I’ve been thinking more and more about it and I think the Costa and Romero fight has to happen, so maybe Gastelum would be a good one next,” Hermansson told BJPenn.com. “His grappling is alright but it’s his striking that’s his bread and butter. He’s a really good boxer and that’s his main strength. Of course he has good wrestling as well. I think it’s gonna be challenging to put him on the ground, but I think I’m gonna have a big advantage when I put him [there].
I guess that Chris Weidman contest will have to wait.
Hermansson (20-4) seemingly came out of nowhere, quietly putting together a four-fight winning streak with three decisive finishes. Of course, he had a little help from circumstance, as Romero’s withdrawal from UFC Ft. Lauderdale left “Jacare” without a date to the big dance.
So … Hermansson vs. Gastelum, who takes it?