Corey Anderson Explains Why He Wants to Fight Nikita Krylov

Speaking to reporters in a post-fight media scrum after his win at UFC Fight Night 102 (via MMAjunkie), UFC light heavyweight fighter Corey Anderson discussed his win over Sean O’Connell and what’s next for him. Below are some highlights from the scrum.

His problem with Nikita Krylov in the rankings: “(He) hasn’t beat a ranked opponent. I’ve fought three ranked opponents. After I beat the third ranked person, they put me in the rankings. He beats unranked guys, two guys that just signed that were replacement fighters, and they put him in the rankings. I felt disrespected. I felt they didn’t take me serious. They felt this kid earned his spot? He’s got to beat the top guys like I did. He’s got to beat the top guys like I did. So if he wants to keep that spot, he better beat me for it.”

Anderson on his performance: “It wasn’t against a legend like I wanted, but that was the performance that I wanted. I’ve been saying for the last two, three fights, I’ve got to get back to my finishing ways.”

On wanting to fight Krylov: “Nikita was the last person on (the list) that I’ve not fought, and I want him. He’s been climbing just like me. He’s right in front of me, and I’ve got a take it.”