Jared Cannonier admits a delicate position after Tko’s victory

Las Vegas – Jared Cannonier is in the right place – but uncertain.

At the UFC Fight Night 251, Cannonier (18-8 MMA, 11-8 UFC) finished Gregory Rodrigues (16-6 MMA, 7-3 UFC) with Tour 4 to break a two-fighting skid. The finishing sequence completed an improbable return after a first rocky round.

The victory noted the official conclusion of a difficult section professionally and personally, admitted Cannonier during a press conference after the fight.

“It’s great, guy,” Cannonier told MMA Junkie and other journalists. “2024 was losses – not only in the octagon, but also in my personal life. 2024, I’m so happy to put it behind me. I am so happy that 2025 leaves on a good note, on a good foot. The camp was great. I learned a lot throughout the camp. The whole process of combat week was great. »»

Cannonier, 40, seemed in peace after the victory in the UFC apex. However, as for the next immediate step, Cannonier is not sure. He wants to fight above him, but the fact that he has been a competitor for so long limits his options.

“If you had to look at the ranking, I would like a classified opponent,” said Cannonier. “I think that suddenly, I’m going to get a classified opponent after this victory. I would like to fight a higher ranking than me. Unfortunately, all the people classified higher than me are online for a title shot or on the way for a title shot, or simply fight. But I’m not going to exclude anything. If they say: “Hey, Jared, we need you to fight Dricus for the belt,” I say to myself: “Hell yes. I’m ready. ‘”

Cannonier expects to take a few months off. An ideal calendar to come back is June. Meanwhile, Cannonier plans to wedge his longtime teammate Eric McConico, who is doing his debut at the UFC Fight Night 252 next Saturday in Seattle.

To find out more about the map, visit the MMA Junkie event center for UFC Fight Night 251.