• UFC 128

Jon Jones ready for Shogun test

ESPN staff
March 8, 2011
Jon Jones proved too dominant for Ryan Bader © Getty Images
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Jon Jones is determined to take advantage of his unexpected title shot at Mauricio 'Shogun' Rua and has dismissed suggestions that he will struggle on account of a lack of preparation.

Jones gets his shot at light-heavyweight champion Rua at UFC 128 on March 19, having stepped in at short notice as the replacement for the injured Rashad Evans. The fight with Rua will come just six weeks after his win over Ryan Bader at UFC 126, but Jones has dismissed suggestions that it will prove an insurmountable obstacle.

"The time hasn't been too much of a problem because I normally only do a six to eight-week training camp anyway," Jones said. "So, with the last fight being so recently, I started with a six-pack and a full tank of gas. That has enabled me to get right into it."

Jones has won six of his seven UFC bouts, but will step into the Octagon as the challenger. The 23-year-old is aware of the size of the test and is ready to take his chance.

"I just can't wait. I'm going for that title, baby," he said. "Let's do it. I never expected my chance to come so quickly, but now that it has, I am determined to take full advantage of it.

"I feel as if it's my time. My confidence is very high. I'm really excited about it. It should be great.

"Yes, it certainly has come very quickly. But I know I am ready for it and have faith in my ability to come out on top."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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