Anderson Silva: If I Fight Jon Jones, I Don’t Think I’m Going To Win

It looks like arguably the greatest mixed martial artist of all time is already conceding defeat in the bout that would potentially be the biggest fight ever presented in the UFC Octagon. Earlier today, UFC middleweight champion Anderson Silva spoke at a media luncheon prior to his blockbuster title bout against Chris Weidman, and when the inevitable topic of fighting Jon Jones arose, Silva seemed ready to give Jones the early edge, if the fight ever happens at all:

“”Jon Jones, in his class, is the best. If I fight Jon Jones, I don’t think I’m going to win. Jon Jones is different. He’s large. He’s young. But, in the fight, I see in Jon Jones, I see myself from a long time ago. He’s very smart. In my opinion, Spider has more experience than Jon Jones, but that’s the only advantage.” – Transcribed by MMA Fighting

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Quite the surprising words from the undisputed champion with the record 16-fight winning streak. While many have begun to give a slight edge to Jones after his unmatched run through a murderer’s row at light heavyweight, it is definitely a bit shocking to hear Silva give Jones the edge so easily. It is true that Jones’ excellent wrestling could give even Silva fits, but ‘The Spider’ may be the only man who could even test the young Jones.

 ‘Bones’ has become a popular choice for best pound-for-pound fighter at only 25 years old. Even the great Anderson Silva will readily admit Jones has the advantage in all areas save experience. That’s some incredibly high praise there. The worst part of Silva’s admittance is that it may mean he is not looking for the superfight. Dana White has promised that he will make it happen no matter what, so let’s hope that he can deliver the dream matchup.

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Would Anderson Silva face defeat so easily at the hands of Jon Jones?

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