STOCKHOLM, SWEDEN - JANUARY 24: Anthony Johnson of the United States reacts after defeating Alexander Gustafsson of Sweden during the UFC Fight Night event at Tele2 Arena on January 24, 2015 in Stockholm, Sweden. (Photo by Michael Campanella/Zuffa LLC/Zuffa LLC via Getty Images)
Ryan Bader wanted a title shot. Instead, he got Anthony "Rumble" Johnson - one of the most dangerous power strikers in all of MMA, who not too long ago had his own crack at UFC gold.
The two light heavyweights will face off this Saturday in New Jersey in the UFC on FOX main event. Johnson surely does want to one day get another chance at holding the world title at 205 pounds, but right now he's focused on spoiling Bader's ascent.
"There's been so much talk about a title shot for Bader, it hasn't crossed my mind what's next for me," he told reporters Thursday at open workouts.
"I'm just here to fight."
Johnson certainly believes he's in for a real fight against Bader, as well. The Blackzilian always appears confident but he isn't overlooking "Darth" Bader in the least.
"He's on a five-fight win streak. He's legit," he conceded.
"He's nothing to play with. You can't take him for granted."
With that said, Johnson is quite certain that Bader won't want to stand and exchange strikes with him. However, he's prepared mentally for the fight ending up anywhere, including in grappling range.
"I know he's going to try and wrestle with me," Johnson said of his opponent.
"Once again, everybody thinks wrestling is my weakness. If he wants to wrestle, come on."
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