Ryan Bader And Anthony Johnson to Battle in January

In the latest episode of “UFC Tonight” on FOX Sports 1, it was reported that Bader and Johnson will battle on January 30th.

Victory in Newark for Bader (21-4), in particular, would likely set him up to be the next contender for the UFC light heavyweight title. After submitting Johnson at UFC 187, Cormier defeated Alexander Gustafsson by a split decision at UFC 192 in October. “Rumble” Johnson (20-5) last fought in September, defeating Jimi Manuwa by knockout after losing a title fight to the current champion, Daniel Cormier, earlier in the year. The Blackzilians product has power that will strike fear into any man with eight of his ten UFC wins coming via knockout.

This matchup seemingly paves the way for Jon Jones to receive an immediate title shot upon his return from suspension.

The UFC is going all in on Cormier vs Jones 2.

It’s baffling how a fighter like Ryan Bader is seemingly overlooked by a sport that pits world-class yappers against topnotch champions.

For me, it looks like I’ve got to beat all these guys in the top five to get a shot. With five straight wins in the UFC Bader had a pretty compelling argument.

It will be interesting to see how this fight plays out. Bader will have to do everything he can to get the fight to the canvas.

“I don’t know why he would say he wants six months off; maybe he wants time to heal, spend more time with his family and train more and just flawless his craft – I don’t know”, Johnson said. His bull-rush style sacrifices cardio.

Had Jones not come back so soon it’s likely Bader would’ve received a title shot but “Bones” will get first crack at the belt he never lost.