UFC Copenhagen: Jared Cannonier on Why There’s “no Point” Calling Out Other Contenders

Jared Cannonier halted Jack Hermansson’s title shot run in memorable fashion at UFC Copenhagen, but after the pivotal win, the heavy-handed fighter explained why he won’t be calling out any other top contenders.

Cannonier continues to make waves at 185

Following back-to-back wins over David Branch and Anderson Silva, Cannonier was booked to face fellow, surging middleweight Hermansson at UFC Copenhagen. Cannonier squashed several of the noted grappler’s takedowns in round one, and proceeded to take Hermansson out with a vicious series of punches in round two. Since Hermansson was ranked #5 in the UFC’s 185 division, and Cannonier was #9, the former light-heavyweight and heavyweight is expected to make a nice jump up the ranks.

Cannonier’s next fight

So what’s next for Cannonier? Following his massive win on Saturday? Well, when asked about his plans for his next bout, and who he wants to face, the 35-year-old said this (quotes via MMA Junkie):

“I just believe in myself,” Cannonier said. “On top of that, the training we do at The MMA Lab has exploded my head. I’ve got a big head. I don’t run around talking crap or anything like that, but I have all the confidence in the world in my team and in my training, as well as myself.

“I know I can overcome anything and with the proper training, I can overcome anyone in the octagon.”

“The only two people who aren’t scheduled right now are (Yoel) Romero and (Paulo) Costa, but I’m not going to call them out,” Cannonier said. “I’d rather call out the champion. Ain’t no point in calling anyone else except the one who holds the belt.”

It’s a fair point, in the sense that the championship is the ultimate goal. But, it’s no secret that calling out specific opponents often can get the ball rolling for the desired fight. Case in point, Nate Diaz calling out Jorge Masvidal after UFC 241.

All that aside, it will be really interesting to see who could be next for Cannonier. Costa is almost certainly going to wait for the winner of Robert Whittaker vs. Israel Adesanya at UFC 243, since he’s coming off a win over Romero. But, a fight between Cannonier and Romero sound about right no?