• UFC

Jon Jones wants Anderson Silva to mentor his career

ESPN staff
March 10, 2012
Jon Jones intends to move to heavyweight next year © Getty Images
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UFC light-heavyweight champion Jon Jones insists he has no intention of fighting Anderson Silva, saying he looks up to the middleweight champion as a role model.

Unbeaten since 2006, Silva is the longest-reigning champion in the UFC and has dominated the 185-pound division. Since winning the 205lb-crown from Mauricio Rua in March last year, Jones has made two successful defences of his title but is widely expected to dominate the light-heavyweight division.

The pair's dominance in their respective divisions has prompted fans to call for a dream showdown between the pair, but Jones, who intends to move up to heavyweight, wants Silva to be a mentor for his career.

"I respect and look up to him so much," Jones told SenseiSporTV. "For me, the ideal scenario would be having him as my mentor and learn with him after he retires. It would be great for me."

Jones admitted he is likely to move up to heavyweight in 2013, but intends to clear out the light-heavyweight division before switching weights.

"I spoke with Dana White about making a heavyweight fight in 2012 but he said he didn't consider it a good idea right now," Jones said. "But after beating Dan Henderson, Rashad Evans and maybe Alexander Gustafsson in 2012, I don't see what to do in this division, not wanting to disrespect anybody."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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