Anderson Silva

By FCF Staff

Following some heated exchanges between Jon Jones and Israel Adesanya, Anderson Silva believes it’s been the latter who crossed the line.

Before Adesanya won the UFC’s interim 185 title this past weekend, by defeating Kelvin Gastelum, the rising star announced he intended to defeat Jones in the future. Adesanya also made reference to his win over Silva in February. Jones responded to the new champ’s comments in a fiery matter, and more recently, Adesanya blasted the light-heavyweight champ.

Silva spoke with the media in advance of his May 10th bout with Jared Cannonier. While doing so, he had this to say about Adesanya’s comments regarding Jones (quotes via MMA Junkie):

“The way I see it, as an athlete, he disrespected Jon Jones,” Silva said. “I think for the business, for (UFC President) Dana (White), it’s great. It’s great business for the UFC. Regardless of whether they fight or not, the UFC wins – and the fans. But there is a lack of respect. I think he crossed the line a bit.”

“With time, he’ll learn how to deal with those things. I think he has to respect everything Jon Jones has done. It’s two great fighters. In the future, who knows – they might fight. But I’m from a time when you have honor. You respect everyone’s space. And that’s my opinion.”

Adesanya is expected to face middleweight champ Robert Whittaker latest this year. Jones, on the other hand, is booked to fight Thiago Santos on July 6th at UFC 239.