Make no bones about it: UFC light heavyweight Anthony Johnson wants fight with Ryan Bader

Anthony Johnson

Anthony Johnson wants to fight Ryan Bader, and it seems he isn’t going to let up until that happens.

Johnson (20-5 MMA, 11-5 UFC) recently called for a light heavyweight matchup with Bader (20-4 MMA, 13-4 UFC), but “Darth” expressed little interest in the bout, citing his desire for a title shot instead.

Although Bader, No. 4 in the NOS Energy Drink MMA light heavyweight rankings, owns the second longest winning streak at 205 pounds with five in a row, he’s won all of those contests by decision. No. 3-ranked Johnson believes Bader hasn’t yet done what it takes to earn a crack at UFC gold.

“Rumble” made his feelings on the situation clear with a post on his official Facebook page .

Under ordinary circumstances, Bader would likely be granted a championship fight due to his consistent body of work. Unfortunately, the light heavyweight title picture currently is anything but ordinary.

Champ Daniel Cormier defended his belt for the first time earlier this month with a split-decision victory over Alexander Gustafsson at UFC 192. Cormier and Bader have an unfriendly history and could combine for a sellable bout. However, the looming return of ex-champ Jon Jones overshadows everything.

Jones has been on the sidelines since he was stripped of the title and suspended indefinitely by the UFC following his involvement in an April hit-and-run incident. “Bones” recently struck a plea agreement that cleared the way for a return to the octagon, and Jones seems motivated to make up for lost time.

If and when Jones’ suspension is lifted, UFC President Dana White has already confirmed he’ll be granted an immediate title fight against Cormier, whom he already defeated at UFC 182 in January.

Although Bader hasn’t lost in more than two years, “The Ultimate Fighter 8” winner is a victim of circumstance in the weight class and all indications are he’ll need at least one more victory before a championship fight.

Johnson, who is trying to work toward a second UFC title fight after he came up short against Cormier in May, argues that he’s the most logical candidate for a No. 1 contender matchup with Bader.

For more on the UFC’s upcoming schedule, stay tuned to the UFC Rumors section of the site.