“I will say with Cormier with these last championship fights, going out there and being tested like that and knowing how it feels to muster up the energy and mentality to get through those fourth and fifth rounds with (Alexander) Gustafsson and all that kind of stuff and having already fought Jones. I think it’s anybody’s fight really. I think DC can win that fight and I obviously know Jones can win that fight. I don’t think it’s a given that Jones just goes out there and beats Cormier again. Cormier is that much more seasoned and been through that much more since that last fought.”
Despite previously sharing unkind words with each other, UFC Light Heavyweight contender Ryan Bader leaves obvious bias aside when asked for his prediction (via FOX Sports) on the future 205-pound title rematch between champion Daniel Cormier and rival Jon Jones.
Bader, who in the past has unsuccessfully campaigned for a title shot, sees “DC’s” tough wins over Anthony Johnson and two-time title challenger Alexander Gustafsson coming into play when the duo eventually do the Octagon tango later in 2016.
However, “Darth” also recognizes what “Bones'” stands to benefit — or lose — from his implementation of a new strength and conditioning program. From the looks of it, what Jones may give up in speed, he would more than make up for in power.
If you ask the Jackson-Wink MMA fighter yourself, he might tell you he lost zilch. No word yet on when Jones and Cormier will have their next war.
You can catch the No. 4-ranked Bader taking on “Rumble” in the UFC on FOX 18 main event this Saturday night (Jan. 30, 2016). For more on that fight card click here and here.