Aleksandar Rakic has some things he wants to accomplish at light heavyweight first, but recently the contender relayed that he intends to move up to heavyweight at some juncture, just like Jon Jones. Not only that, but the Austrian fighter also floated the possibility of fighting “Bones”.

Rakic plans to fight at heavyweight

These are especially, interesting times in the UFC’s light heavyweight division, on account of the fact Jones recently vacated the LHW title, in advance of a run at heavyweight. Jan Blachowicz and Dominick Reyes are fighting for the vacant belt at UFC 253, September 26th.

Well, in another, pivotal light heavyweight clash, Rakick (12-2) will battle Anthony Smith (33-15) in the main event of UFC Vegas 8. When you consider Rakic is ranked #8 in the division and Smith is #5, the winner could advance to a title shot eliminator.

Recently Rakick spoke with the media ahead of his bout this Saturday with Smith, and not surprisingly, he was asked to comment on Jones’s move to heavyweight (quotes via MMA Junkie).

“The time to the title is event shorter now, to get the title,” Rakic said. “But I understand Jon. He wants a new challenge.

He’s been in the light heavyweight division his whole career. He was champion at 24. He wants new challenges.

Maybe he wants more money in the heavyweight division. But maybe I’m going to face Jon Jones in the heavyweight division in the future.

You never know. My plans are also to go to the heavyweight division when I finish my business in the light heavyweight division.”

So, Rakic’s comments here about his plan to move up are interesting. The 28-year-old is 6’4 tall. So, you can understand why he or his team think it’s doable.

Respects Smith

And what’s his take on Smith? Who fought Jones last March and lost via decision?

“I respect Anthony,” Rakic said. “He’s a true warrior. He’s a very experienced guy. He has many main events.

He fought for the title. He’s a really tough guy and a tough challenge, but man, I’m damn ready for this.

I’ve been through hell in the last two months for my camp, and I’m ready to put on a hell of a fight, and my performance and my shape is very good, and I cannot wait on Saturday to show the world what I was doing the last two months.”

On paper, Smith – Rakic has the makings of an outstanding fight. Which one will return to the win column? Rakic is coming off a split decision loss to Volklan Oezdemir while Smith was stopped by Glover Teixeira in his last outing.

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