• UFC 133

Ortiz can sense Rashad's wobbly knees

The old Tito Ortiz is back © Getty Images

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Tito Ortiz has revealed he has his eye on UFC light-heavyweight champion Jon Jones, and he warned Rashad Evans that all the pressure will be on him next weekend.

Ortiz and Evans are set to clash at UFC 133, with Suga Rashad almost certain to get the next title shot - after Rampage Jackson - if he wins. Ortiz would also put himself right into that mix if he can upset the favourite on August 6.

Tito ended a five-year wait for a win by defeating Ryan Bader recently, but he remains a huge underdog against fellow former champion Evans. If he wins, it will become one of the great moments in UFC history, and the Huntington Beach Bad Boy told Evans the pressure is all on him.

"It's his time to shine. All the pressure's on him, it's his time to shine," Ortiz taunted. "He's supposed to beat Tito Ortiz. I'm here to show why I am still here, and I've been here since 1997. I ain't going anywhere anytime soon."

Ortiz is recognised as the most dominant 205lb champion in the UFC's history, having made five consecutive successful defences of his title. A potential clash with Jones would have major selling points, not least the old generation taking on the new, and Ortiz is up for the challenge.

"Jon Jones, I think he's an amazing champion," Ortiz said. "I think he's great, I hung out with him once in Vegas at the [UFC fighter] summit and I think he's a cool cat.

"As a competitor, he's fast, punches awkward, great wrestling ability. He's a big threat. That's why he's the world champion, and I have some work cut out for me. I'm very excited and challenged to do that, but before anybody I've got to fight Rashad."

Evans was less forthcoming during Thursday's conference call, but he did remind people of his dislike of the reigning champion, stating: "I don't like Jon Jones. I'll just leave it at that."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.