Jared Cannonier is eyeing another title opportunity and is prepared to battle anyone necessary to earn it.
Cannonier delivered an impressive performance Saturday night, besting Marvin Vettori via unanimous decision at UFC Vegas 75’s main event. This victory solidifies Cannonier’s standing among the world’s leading middleweights, bringing him back into the title discourse.
“Looking at the immediate future, Robert [Whittaker] is set to fight Dricus [Du Plessis]. Israel [Adesanya] is keen to take on Dricus, but after my recent performance, I think I’ve made a strong case to those who decide these things,” Cannonier commented at the UFC Vegas 75 post-fight press conference. “I won’t dwell on what could be, instead, my focus will be on the upcoming fight. I’ll return to the gym, keep honing my skills, and concentrate on my next battle.”
With Whittaker slated to clash with Du Plessis at UFC 290 in a No. 1 contender’s match, Cannonier’s subsequent opponent is not clear-cut. However, fans are rallying behind one potential contender: Khamzat Chimaev.
Cannonier, though not eager to face Chimaev in a non-title bout, would be willing if it leads to a shot at the title. “Tha Killa Gorilla” is ready.
“When asked about the prospect of fighting Chimaev, Cannonier asked, “Does that fight guarantee a title shot? He isn’t even ranked in the middleweight division, is he? He’s popular, and people are excited to see him compete. If they offered me a contender’s match against Chimaev, I’d accept.
“I’m aiming for the title, not just fighting for entertainment. I understand the appeal. It would be an exciting match. If it paves the way to a title shot, I’m in. I’ve just defeated the third-ranked fighter. My gaze is fixed ahead, not behind. I’m targeting the champion. So, if Dana [White] and Hunter [Campbell] suggest it’s a match between me and the champion, then that’s something to discuss. But if you ask, ‘Would you fight Chimaev to welcome him to the division?’ My counter-question is, ‘Does that lead to a title shot?'”
Chimaev is one of the most promising talents in MMA. Despite not competing in almost a year and a significant miss in weight for his welterweight fight with Nate Diaz at UFC 279, his popularity has endured. Following that incident, Chimaev moved to the middleweight division where his star power could see him close to a title shot after a win or two.
Such a match against Chimaev would place Cannonier in a favorable position for a title shot. Yet, another possibility that Cannonier would willingly consider is stepping in as a backup fighter for Adesanya’s speculated title defense at UFC 293 in Sydney.
“Yeah, these moments are what we’re paid for,” Cannonier mentioned when queried about being a backup. “I’d be more than happy to seize that opportunity, receive payment even if I don’t end up fighting. A little pay is always welcome. Plus, a trip to Sydney sounds exciting. I’ve never visited Australia before, and it’s been on my wishlist.”
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Jared Cannonier
Who did Jared Cannonier recently defeat?
Cannonier recently defeated Marvin Vettori in a unanimous decision at UFC Vegas 75.
Is Jared Cannonier interested in fighting Khamzat Chimaev?
Yes, Jared Cannonier has expressed interest in fighting Khamzat Chimaev, but only if it leads to a title shot.
Who is Jared Cannonier’s next obvious opponent?
Currently, there isn’t an obvious next opponent for Cannonier as Robert Whittaker is set to fight Dricus Du Plessis in a No. 1 contender’s match.
What is Jared Cannonier’s current focus?
Jared Cannonier is currently focusing on his next fight and improving his skills. He is particularly interested in a fight that can lead him to a title shot.
What is Cannonier’s response to possibly serving as a backup for Adesanya’s rumored title defense at UFC 293 in Sydney?
Cannonier expressed that he would be more than happy to step in as a backup for Adesanya’s rumored title defense at UFC 293 in Sydney. He is open to the opportunity and looks forward to the potential trip to Australia.
More about Jared Cannonier
- Jared Cannonier’s Fight Record
- UFC Vegas 75 Results
- Khamzat Chimaev’s Fight Record
- Upcoming UFC 290 Event
- Robert Whittaker’s Fight Record
- Dricus Du Plessis’s Fight Record
7 comments
Man, Cannonier is on fire rn. I’d love to see him n Chimaev in the Octagon, would be a sick fight for sure!
if Cannonier vs Chimaev happens, am all in! but only for a title shot makes sense… otherwise, feels like a waste
dont know if chimaev deserves a shot at cannonier yet… guys he needs to prove himself in middleweight first
Sydney huh? that’d be a neat trip, backin up adesanya. as long as he gets paid tho lol
chimaev… really? idk… sounds like a hype train. He aint even ranked yet!
Cannonier aint looking back, just the kind of focus we need in UFC! Go for the gold man.
Jared’s right, he’s not here to entertain, he’s here to win titles. Respect the mindset.