Jimmie Rivera Thinks UFC Fight Night 131 Win Would Make Him #1 Contender

Jimmie Rivera spoke with MMAjunkie ahead of his fight with Marlon Moraes at UFC Fight Night 131. Highlights are below:

On his fight with Moraes: “You always want to fight the best person who is going to get you closer to the belt. That was the reason behind why I picked Marlon. It’s a main-event fight, so it’s a very good career move for both of us. This was the main option. I figured this was going to be the best move for a No. 1 contender fight.”

On the timing of the fight: “In a way it’s kind of better for me. (Dominick) Cruz is still out hurt and I don’t feel like they push (Raphael) Assuncao a lot. He’s kind of quiet, and he’s been hurt, too, supposedly. So, I think it really comes down to putting on a good show, getting a good win and then I’m definitely No. 1 contender for the best. No questions asked.”

On a possible title shot: “They never guarantee something because at the end of the day it’s business and they’re a business. But it would be only makes sense. Anything can change – look how many times the T.J. vs. ‘DJ’ fight has been on and off, and now I think it’s not happening – so I understand the business. But, this should be for No. 1 contender.”