Hermansson (photo via UFC / YouTube)

By FCF Staff

Jack Hermansson is coming off an impressive win over perennial middleweight contender “Jacare” Souza, and has moved into the #5 spot at 185. As a result, some fans and observers were surprised by the news that he’s going to fight the #9 ranked, Jared Cannonier next. Recently the surging fighter explained why he opted to face the heavy handed, Cannonier next.

Recently the UFC announced that Hermansson will fight Cannonier at the promotion’s debut event in Copenhagen, September 28th. The Swedish fighter and Norwegian resident was a guest on a recent episode of the Eurobash podcast. While discussing his decision to battle Cannonier, Hermansson said this (quotes via MMA Fighting):

“At the end of the day, I wanted to stay active and I wanted to headline this card. When they couldn’t get me Gastelum and I knew that Romero was fighting Costa, I was just kind of like, ‘Who is the next one?’ [UFC] told me that I would get Cannonier.”

“He’s a dangerous opponent. A lot of people, especially the fans, are asking me why I’m doing this. Instead of just being like, ‘Yes, this is great! We’re going to have you in Copenhagen,’ instead they’re saying, ‘You shouldn’t take this fight!’”

“We’re definitely in different positions, but I want to show people that I am the best and I can beat anyone; he shouldn’t beat me. If I feel like I’m the best in the world, I’ve got to show people that I can take care of business. Then I think it’s my turn again to get a big [fight].”

Hermansson (20-4) is currently riding a four fight winning streak, while Cannonier (12-4) is coming off consecutive wins over Anderson Silva and David Branch.